Hard work is paying off
By Chantelle de Jonge Chestermere-Strathmore MLA
The Legislative Assembly adjourned earlier this month and as we approach the end of the year, I look back proudly at the work we started in 2023 and am excited for what is to come next year.
This week, the Alberta government announced that it is increasing financial benefits for vulnerable Albertans to keep pace with inflation. Thousands of Albertans who rely on social benefits are feeling the increased cost of living acutely. Our government is indexing financial benefits for those who depend on the Assured Income for the Severely Handicapped, Income Support, and the Alberta Seniors Benefit. Albertans receiving these benefits will see their rates increase by 4.25 per cent, effective Jan. 1.
As we continue to reduce red tape in Alberta, starting Jan. 1, drivers will not have to report property damage from a collision to law enforcement unless the cost of the damage is more than $5,000. The threshold has been increased from $2,000 to $5,000 saving drivers and law enforcement time. The new $5,000 threshold was a carefully chosen figure to reduce reporting minor collisions, while also making it difficult for fraudulent resales of damaged vehicles.
Starting in January, health care workers and Albertans are invited to join in-person engagement sessions to give their input into the refocusing of Alberta’s health care system. Alberta’s government has committed to engage with the health care workforce and all Albertans in a thoughtful and thorough manner. There will be up to 30 in-person engagement sessions hosted around the province beginning in January. These sessions will allow Alberta’s government to gather further insights into the successes, challenges, and strengths of the current health care system, which will help shape the future of health care.
Albertans are proud of what they grow, produce, and process. The province’s agriculture industry faced significant challenges this year, but our farmers and ranchers are resilient as they continue to put food on tables around the world. This holiday season, I encourage you to show your support for our farmers, ranchers, producers, and processors by shopping local and buying products with the Made in Alberta label. A complete list of companies and products with this label and more info on how to participate can be found at madeinalberta.co. There is something for everyone on your list!
With 2023 coming to a close, I truly believe it was this kind of community support, resiliency, and advocacy that has allowed our entire province to thrive. Alberta is the best place in the world to live, work, and raise and family, and I am confident that our province’s best days are still ahead. As we gather with friends and family to celebrate the Christmas season, let’s cherish the achievements of the past year, celebrate the strength of our province, and look forward to the promising future ahead filled with continued growth and prosperity.
I wish you all the best during the holiday season and look forward to continue serving as your MLA for Chestermere-Strathmore.
(Chantelle de Jonge is the MLA for Chestermere-Strathmore and the Parliamentary Secretary for Affordability and Utilities)