Moments that shape a province

By Chantelle de Jonge Chestermere-Strathmore MLA

There are moments that shape a province, not only in headlines, but in the impact it has on people’s lives. Moments when a diagnosis changes everything, when an opportunity opens a new door, or when a simple act of service brings a community closer together. Our government is taking actions in those moments, strengthening health care when it matters most, building global partnerships that create good-paying jobs, and celebrating the people who make Alberta stronger every day. 

Few moments in life are more overwhelming than a cancer diagnosis, and in those moments, what matters most is having options, support, and hope. That’s why our government is strengthening cancer care by expanding breast cancer screening and introducing a new oncofertility program to help patients preserve their ability to build a family after treatment. Earlier screening will allow more than 193,000 additional women to access life-saving detection sooner, when treatment is most effective. At the same time, this new program will ensure that patients do not have to choose between fighting cancer and protecting their future to start a family. It means Albertans can focus on treatment today, while still holding onto the life they have always imagined for tomorrow.

At the same time, our government is building strong relationships beyond our borders to secure long-term opportunity here at home. This week, our government signed a new memorandum of understanding with South Korea’s Hanwha Group, creating a pathway for investment across key sectors like energy, advanced manufacturing, and defence. Building on this momentum, Alberta also secured an agreement to eliminate a three per cent tariff on crude exports to South Korea, improving market access and strengthening demand for Alberta energy. Partnerships like this help position Alberta as a reliable global partner, while supporting good-paying jobs, strengthening supply chains, and opening new markets for Alberta industries. This action is about turning global interest into investment that benefits communities across the province.

We are also taking a forward-looking approach to Alberta’s energy future by releasing the Nuclear Energy Engagement and Advisory Panel’s report, which will help guide next steps for nuclear development in the province. As Chair of the Panel, I heard from thousands of Albertans through in-person engagement sessions, webinars, panel discussions, and surveys. This report reflects our extensive engagement with Albertans, Indigenous communities, municipalities and industry, highlighting strong interest in nuclear energy as a safe, reliable, and emissions-free power source.

As electricity demand continues to grow, nuclear energy presents an opportunity to strengthen grid reliability while attracting investment, creating good-paying jobs, and expanding Alberta’s energy mix. By taking a transparent and informed approach, our government is ensuring that any future development is shaped by Albertans and built on safety, accountability, and long-term economic opportunity.

The strength of Alberta has always come back to its people. In cities, towns, and rural communities alike, volunteers are stepping up every day, supporting neighbours, building connections, and making a lasting difference in the lives of others. That’s why nominations are now open for the 2026 Stars of Alberta Volunteer Awards, recognizing the individuals who go above and beyond to strengthen their communities. With more than 145 million volunteer hours contributed across the province, these everyday acts of service continue to shape a stronger and more connected Alberta.

Building Alberta’s future means showing up in life’s most important moments, with care, with opportunity, and with community. Through these actions, we are delivering meaningful support for Albertans today, while helping build a stronger and more competitive province for the years ahead.

As always, please free to reach out to my office with your feedback and questions (Chestermere.Strathmore@assembly.ab.ca).

(Chantelle de Jonge is the MLA for Chestermere-Strathmore and the Parliamentary Secretary for Affordability and Utilities)