Your View

Why the devil doesn't the cbc, ctv, etc, allow the greens to participate in the debates? the wildrose party is just a fringe party for the more right wing, ignorant conservatives.

Alberta elections are frustrating to watch thanks to the Gerrymandering that allows the PC to have a majority government while having 50% of the popular vote.

First past the finish line has provided an effective tyranny of the majority - a risk in democratic systems.

University funding, pace of development of the oil sands, and the environmental disaster around the oil sands are serious issues that need to be addressed.

Posted March 2, 2008 10:04 PM

David from 23 Feb -- you've really gone and drunk the Kool-aid haven't you?

Posted February 28, 2008 10:23 AM

When it comes down to it Albertans will do what they always do. And thats because they seem to think they owe the "Progressive" Conservatives something. But whats owed I couldn't tell you, the Alberta PC government spends 30% more then BC(Liberal) and 20% more then Ontario(Liberal) per person, for what? Considerably less then the rest of Canada gets from their Government. Give me completely free health care, affordable housing and quality education we can all afford and access, perhaps then I'll give you my vote Ed, but until then I'll weigh my other options. As far as I can see the "straight talking Conservative" is just an excuse for avoiding the facts, and doing the familiar thing.

Posted February 27, 2008 03:36 PM

And if everyone stayed home there would be an even bigger problem with worker shortage

Posted February 26, 2008 04:02 PM

A lot of people seem to be misunderstanding the Wildrose Alliance stance regarding daycare. They did not say they disagree with daycare, they simply said they want to support those people who would prefer to stay home with their kids as opposed to solving the problem by providing additional child care. If all the people who wanted to stay home could stay home, think how many spaces that would open up for those who want or need to work. It would likely fix the crisis.

Posted February 26, 2008 10:23 AM

Taft clearly did the best job.
I am guessing the Liberals will win again with Bridget Pastoor and that is good.
We have a little ankle biter with some Jason thing and a so called Health Region Board member calling the shots and putting ads out with her name as Health Region Board Director and PC logo, but Bridget will win.
So are health regions part of the PC government or what? Seems like it.

A

Posted February 26, 2008 01:27 AM

For once in this election, I am undecided as a conservative who to vote for but will probably vote tactfully for the first time.

Aa a guest at a church in Central Alberta this weekend, the 'praise sheets' were endorsing a certain PC candidate.

I feel in Alberta that really smacks of an indignity to people of all creeds. Its unfair and tarnishes the whole political process and gives critics of theology an even greater axe to grind. What does that say about other candidates running in that riding, they are less then'God like'?

Should we be quiet of this?

This church could possibly improve upon itself in the humility stakes. As for candidates wanting to use the free church hall to run/appear 'eternal and divine', go rent the community hall and earn your place to the voter and the community!

Its up to the PC party to distance themselves from these endorsements and be honourable with their intentions.

After health care cuts, Heritage Fund losses unaccountable, selling of Alberta House London to no public outrage and a lack of purpose with ideas, I am tired of our Alberta PCs.

Unfortunately, its a case of better the devil you know then the one you don't as Liberals/NDP have a tax and spend focus and WAP is trying to establish themselves.

Don't blame others Alberta PCs(Feds, Liberals, Trudeau, Chretien, NEP, the East etc.)with populist rhetorical banter.

A good minority government on Monday may unite urban and rural voters to remind politicans they serve our interests, not theirs whatever stripe. Please vote tactfully on Monday.

Posted February 25, 2008 01:45 PM

The debate was a contest of dullness. From the contenders, to the panel (except Graham Thomson, The Edmonton Journal; looks like he was the only one on stage that took the debate seriously), the debate structure and even the stage decor; It was the dullest debate I ever watched. The leaders represented 4 different views with only three different policy platforms: The Alberta Liberal leader Kevin Taft represented the real progressive conservative platform but calling it Liberal, The PC Alberta Leader Ed Stelmach is talking about PC agenda while his party policies are the same as the Wildrose Alliance without the rhetoric; the only two who represented what they are really about, are Brian Mason with the usual NDP policies, and Paul Hinman with his one solution fits all; the expansion of George Bush’s “No Child Left Behind” to “No Albertan Left Behind.

Posted February 24, 2008 10:03 PM

David from Calgary - Feb 23 post;

David I want you to look up the meaning of "democracy" then look up the meaning of "autocracy". You seem to be of the opinion that Stelmach "got stuck with the thankless job, house cleaning and fixing Ralph's mess who clearly was lazy in the last few years" as though Alberta's current condition is the fault of Klein. People voted for PC's in 83 ridings - Klein resides in only one of them- who just happens to be the party leader - the person who appointments the cabinet and speaks publicly for the party. If you think all the readers on this thread are idiots - try again. Ed didn't pick up Ralph's mess, Ed is merely trying desperately to clean up the mess to which he contributed. We do live in a democracy David - this is not a dictatorship - know the difference.

Posted February 24, 2008 06:17 PM

DEBATE...

Quite boring to watch and to hear.

Poorly set up.

Candidates were not given enough time to express their platforms.

There was "no real winner" just "repetitious jargon" from the main parties.

My choice is the Wildrose Alliance Party because their platform is more like the old Conservatives under Former Premier Mr Peter Loughheed.
I will always be a Conservative that talks straight common sense.

Other political parties have swayed somewhere else and even the Conservatives are implementing carbon credits.

How are carbon credits going save the world's
environment?
Alberta and Canada alone will not ruin the world's atmosphere but we could take a closer look at China and India.

Posted February 24, 2008 03:54 PM

"Why change something that overall has worked so well"...if anyone thinks that the PC's have worked so well over the past 15 years they need their heads examined. This government has become so detached from and unaccountable to the people that they believe they are above the law. Any government could have ridden record oil prices to a successful economy, and the debt that Ralph got rid of was created by the PC's in the first place. There are so many pressing issues in Alberta today that are either being ignored by the PC's or else were created by them in the first place. The current healthcare crisis can be attributed in large part to the PC cuts in the 1990s. The current PC environment plan won't see any change until 2050. The current PC government has severely mishandled the oil boom, and as a result many educated and uneducated people are suffering the consequences. The Alberta Liberals have no ties to the federal Liberals, and even if they did, that doesn't mean much considering Harper is currently in power in Ottawa. The NEP will not rise again under a Kevin Taft government. Not all governments have to last for 37 consecutive years, and I hardly see the problem with voting in a new one for four years. Considering that the federal Liberals became corrupt within 13 years, I shudder to think what has happened behind closed doors in the last 37. Once Albertans embrace a change perhaps they will like it. If not, go back to the PCs in four years. What is there to lose?

Posted February 24, 2008 02:43 PM

Alberta's where it is today because of the PC's? Please. Alberta's where it is today despite them.

Think for a moment, our government has the highest per-capita spending in the nation. That's higher than Saskatchewan's old NDP government. Higher than those "liberals" in Quebec even, you know the ones, with the lowest tuition in Canada and highest social services? We're spending more per head than they do, but I sure don't see evidence of it when I have to go to the doctor's office or pay for my kid's college.

What the heck is that about? If they're going to blow through my money that way, I deserve to have services better than what you'd get in PEI for goodness sakes. They say we're the have province. What we really are is the "have" government. They take our taxes and royalties and laugh at how all they need to do is bring up the NEP boogey-man to make us sit down and shut up. In case folks haven't noticed, oil's over $100/barrel and Trudeau is DEAD. There's no chance of NEP coming back again, so grab a set and turf these guys, I don't care who gets in, but we need someone in who doesn't think they can just siphon off what God's blessed us with in resources.

Posted February 24, 2008 12:29 PM

I think all the candidates are of good quality but we need solutions to problems not magic acts.

For instance there is a huge breakdown of discipline in the public school system. Time out is not working. It was a good idea whose time has past. Bring back corporal punishment and the discipline will come back. Time out was introduced by people who eat a lot of zucchini and the like.

Our youth needs to be educated about the great things Canadians have done in spite of bad politicians. The Avro arrow, 60% of the scientists at NASA, breaking a German line in WW2 which could not be broken by other armies,et al. Let's teach them to be proud of this great country we have instead of longing,wannabees of the U.S.

John

Posted February 23, 2008 02:12 PM

Kevin Taft had my vote until this debate. When he said that my issue with living on the edge is a result of being uneducated I realized that he's just as out of touch with people's circumstances as the Tories are.

Thanks for the education on what you really think, Mr. Taft.

Posted February 23, 2008 12:45 PM

How can anyone be in impressed with stelmach after over 30 yrears in power heand his party have done nothing about high rents, horrible laonor standards, very high user fees. Are Albertain that blind and stupid not to ask Stelmach who is getting all the money in rich Alberta. Are you !!!!!!!!!!!! I sure am not Wake up and smell the Tory stink!!!!

Posted February 23, 2008 09:23 AM

I posted a note that didn't get on--I wanted to say that I think we have to just get on with voting for the party most able to defeat the Conservatives. No matter what party, nearly four decades is too long to hold the reigns of pwoer.

Posted February 23, 2008 02:39 AM

Kevin Taft is NO Peter Lougheed, suggestions to remove the PC party from power are ridiculous. Personally I am not impressed by Stelmach but he got stuck with the thankless job, house cleaning and fixing Ralph's mess who clearly was lazy in the last few years.

There is a reason why no Albertan will vote Liberal and you should listen to what Ed said in the debate. Federal Liberals are once again licking their chops and looking our way. They care nothing for Alberta, never have, never will, until we have 75 Federal seats like Quebec. We are nothing more then their field slaves to send them big money each year..

Get a grip Calgary, you don't like Ed well that can change but seriously, Calgary voting Liberal, it will tell the tale of how many have moved here I guess. You think the Royalty Review from our Provincial Govt was bad - just you wait, we have seen it all before, tired of hearing about the National Energy Program, watch the food get taken off your table and your real estate drop 30% as all these newcomers pack up and head back East as quick as they came here. They are here to make a quick buck, not to raise a family and build a life.

Vote Liberal, give me a break, you have 9 other provinces to live the Liberal Lie, vote PC, we have what have to a degree because of them and there is no perfect Government but only in politics does there appear to be a need to change something that has worked overall, VERY WELL for Albertans, to the point where we are the envy of the nation. Why change something that overall has worked so well. Or at the very least move to Edmonton if you want to vote Liberal...

Posted February 22, 2008 10:26 PM

I watched the entire debate and it was very good, though a bit brief. All of the leaders obviously knew what they were talking about. I loved Kevin Taft's way of speaking, the Wild Rose Alliance's ideas, and the NDP's approach to the people. Steady Eddie does live up to his name- but honestly, he's just listing out funding and stuff, I don't really think he talks to the people as much as the NDP. He was more calm though, not all worked up and yelling at each other.

Posted February 22, 2008 09:05 PM

What we need here is a solution. Not who is the fairest debater in the land. A solution for the following:
1.Afordable housing (lower residential taxes).
What has happened to the cities GST rebate monies?
2.Health care for those that need it.(A points system would weed out the abusers and bring accountability along with efficiency, so that those areas most needing attention would recieve it.)
3.Put service back in public service.(Ban voice mail for all public servants and crown corps.
4.Bring back death penalty for heinous crimes. DNA proof required. ie.(Cop killers,sexual incarrigables and other universal misfits.)
5.Make better use of our senior population, thereby reducing health costs.(example China.)
6.Produce our resources here instead of just being a feeedstock.
7.Education. (Channel those suited for what they like and can do at a much earlier age.)
8.Military.(Add tours of duty for Artic sovereinty and fresh water protection.)This will provide varity for those serving in our military, by rotating the various tours.
9. Reduce heinous residential property tax.(Oh did I mention that one already. I like that one.)

John in Grande Praire

Posted February 22, 2008 05:16 PM

This is going to be the first time I vote for the Liberals because they are the Only ones that got a realistic shot at beating the gov't which has had a good kick at the can. We got to all just do this so we can get these guys out. I'm starrting to get embarassed by my government.

Posted February 22, 2008 04:08 PM

I listened and watched the debate last evening and found that the Liberal candidate did not have a fair chance to speak whenit was his turn he got interrupted and I think in my opinion he impressed me the most the others just liked hearing themselves talk he ( Kevin Taft made a lot of sense)The others just tried to talk over him.

Posted February 22, 2008 04:03 PM

As a supporter and friend of Mr. Hinman I want to comment on the day care issue. It is tough to get your whole point across in 30 - 45 seconds, and I believe what Mr. Hinman was trying to say is that, as an alternative, IF women want to make the choice to stay home with their children, the province needs to find ways to better support this. Who can argue with that logic? He also commented on the fact that in this province, if a family decides they want a grandmother or sister or other relative to watch their children the current government does not support that, unless that relative is willing to jump through the same hoops as the professionals do. Commenters below stating that this approach is misogynistic need to look up the meaning of the word. The Wildrose Alliance is in favor of supporting a women's right to choose to stay home and look after their kids, nothing else.

Posted February 22, 2008 02:44 PM

I think first of all this debate was a farce.30 Second answers will not get us the feel for what each candidate answers.Reality wise the best candidate in my mind is Kevin Taft.He seems to be the only one with a plan!The rest are not forward thinking .The comentator got it right when he said something to the effect of that Stelmach "made it through the debate".That in my mind does not sound like preimier material.My vote is going to the one with a solid plan-I am voting for Kevin Taft!

Posted February 22, 2008 02:42 PM

Ed Stelmach impressed me the most...he has a calm approach to things,it reveals a thinker, aponderer.
I would like to have seen less interupption durning the debates. Perhaps in the future candidates should just stick to "what there solutions are" to remedy problems, rather than engage the public into there "blameing".
I think that would get the candidates focused on the solutions more than the problems.

Posted February 22, 2008 01:57 PM

Sure glad I didn't watch the debate. Nothing but rigged propogada. The pc's are old and stale -promise everything, sell everything give nothing back. The Wild rose is just Bush want abes club - Time to get your guns out,paw.they're the Republicians in disguise!
NDP - People's choice with no weight. But where is the Green Party - Environment choice - that's why they were not invited to the debate because they are scared that the truth will come out. Don't let the fear mongering scare you. Vote for Alberta, Vote Green. Free Alberta.

Posted February 22, 2008 01:57 PM

In my opinion Hinman isn't a, "conservative alternative," he's the only conservative. Increasing royalties and throwing money at problems is definitely not consistent with conservative values.

Unfortunately, I think Hinman doesn't quite understand the healthcare system or failed to clearly explain his plan for healthcare. I think he'll still get my vote though.

Posted February 22, 2008 01:16 PM

I wish you did not have analysis of the debate while it was taking place. Whether it is intended or not, the comments made and especially the poll results tend to influence the audience. Next time, just show the debate and let people draw their own conclusions.

Posted February 22, 2008 12:17 PM

Taft must have done something right last night because our candidates website in Calgary got more requests than ever for lawn signs following the debate.

Posted February 22, 2008 10:32 AM

The only clear choice is Kevin Taft. Alberta Liberals have been telling everyone for years that things in this province can be better.

Thankfully, during an election the media has the ethical responsibility to ensure that this gets heard. Too bad it doesn't happen during the time in between elections. There is life after PCs and it will be a good one!!

Posted February 22, 2008 10:12 AM

If the NDP polls less than the Greens,,,again why were the Greens not represented?

Posted February 22, 2008 09:52 AM

Paul Hinman impressed me, solely with his closing statement. He said the Wildrose Alliance was a "Conservative alternative." Genius! Alberta is not going to turn around and vote in a Liberal government (although I'd love them to) - let's be realistic. But some people are unhappy with the PCs. So offering an alternative that's not Lib or NDP is a good way to present yourself. I won't vote for him but I think a lot of people will.

Posted February 22, 2008 09:47 AM

Thank goodness the NDP polls less than the greeens in Alberta. When one out of every six people work in the oil industry decimating it because you don't like big business is ludicrous. When Mason refers to "big oil" whom exactly is he refering? Encana? Talisman? PennWest? CNRL? Suncor? Syncrude? These companies are Canadian. These companies are Albertan; these companies employ thousands and thousands of Albertans. Paul Hinman and the WRA will get my vote.

Posted February 22, 2008 09:30 AM

I could not believe that Premier Stelmach admitted that his government could not see that there would be a big influx of workers required when the megaprojects in the tar sands were approved. When a project like CNRL goes in, there is a huge demand for jobs. When his government approves several of these projects in a short period of time, the demand for jobs is, shall we say, an other order of magnitude. The Conservatives have basically admitted their incompetence or dare I say stupidity when it comes to planning for the needs of Albertans. When Stelmach turned the infrastructure question around and asked why the oposition did not raise the issue of increased demands for roads, hospitals, and schools at the time (early 2000s), it was a golden opportunity to point out his governments incompetence. Taft and Mason missed a golden opportunity to point out the shortcomings of the Tories. Too bad. The PCs won't get my vote though. They have clearly demonstrated, at best, their incompetence.

Posted February 22, 2008 08:55 AM

The Winner!! Kevin Taft.

He has poise confidence and real spirit.

Brian Mason attempt to imitate Pam Barrett - pathetic. Let the dead stay dead.

PAul Hinman - Wrong country PAul - Your repeating of the George Bush Jr. State of the address speak does not fool anyone.

Ed Stelmach - bumbled, stuttered and look uncomfortable being there.

As for the debate, commercial breaks? That about wrecking a format! 9 more days to go!

Posted February 22, 2008 08:48 AM

It's time for Albertans to decide in what direction and how they want to province forward. Albertans deserve a government that is forward thinking and not stuck in the past, hungry to maintain their power. The only clear choice is the Alberta Liberal Party. Albertans need a leader like Kevin Taft.

Posted February 22, 2008 08:31 AM

It's time to send the tories to the back benches to rediscover themselves. The premier trotted out the same old tired ideas and outright refusal to plan Alberta's out of control oil sands development. They have chosen to not take up their responsibilities and plan Alberta's future development so it is time they were removed from control of the province. Of the other parties only the liberals under Kevin Taft seem to have the common sense and the nerve to actually govern and strike a balance between economic development and caring for people and the environment. The liberal position of easing off royalties for natural gas and increasing the heavy oil royalty was the first intellegent thinking about the royalty situation put forward by any party. I would have loved to hear what the Green Party had to say. I thought the biggest mistake was make by the Wildrose Alliance. To suggest that women who want child care should just stay home and raise their own kids shows how out of touch with the economic reality of living in Alberta these folks are. About 37 years out of date, exactly the same time as when the Socreds were ran out of office. Good to see their policies have not changed in all that time.

Posted February 22, 2008 07:40 AM

JT, the cuts in 1993 were not a plan. They were an oversimplified reaction.

1. cutting people's salaries is not a plan
2. cutting everything in the exact same way is not a plan i.e. 20%
3. cutting in hard times, means that overspending happened in the good times - again not a plan
4. stability in Alberta political regime should easily smooth out such bumps, but it has not - so consistency sure didn't help in 1993.
5. be consistently bad is a plan, just not a good one.

Posted February 22, 2008 07:37 AM

Something must have triggered last night as nearly one dozen sign requests came through our Calgary-based candidate's website last night. I can only speculate that all these folks made up their mind last night.

Posted February 22, 2008 07:30 AM

They were like Kids fighting over toys in the Sandbox. They all talked about how bad the other ones are. Nobody came up with real new ideas. If they all really want chnage there should be some new faces on the political stage. There are over and over the same faces with the same program, the same accusations for the opponent. Stelmach mentioned about the world class Doctors etc. they attract to the province, but how good are they, if they have to drive a Taxi or work at fast food chains, because their degrees are not recognized by the political system in a province who's apprenticeship and training system is so behind in times and standard.

Posted February 22, 2008 06:54 AM

I am very dissappointed in the media and how they set up the rules of this debate--surely a combined effort of CBC, CTV, and Global could have insisted on a debate without frequent interruptions. The most disturbing feature of the debate was the rule that the leaders could only have 45 seconds to present followed by only a 30 second rebuttal. That is absolutely ridiculous!!! One cannot make a detailed coherent presentation in this time frame, hence the whole debate was a farce and reduced to trivial pursuit because of the media's rules. Each leader should have been given at least 3 minutes to present with at least a 1.5 minute time frame for rebuttal. I am also dissappointed in the rule that the Green Party leader was unable to participate because Greens do not hold a seat in the legislature--that is discrimination and places a muzzle on the democratic process. Shame on the media--Albertans deserve better!

Posted February 22, 2008 06:35 AM

Promises Promises: I was very glad to here Mr. Stelmach's commitment to public libraries on the CBC TV News a few days ago.
Now for the follow through.

Posted February 22, 2008 06:29 AM

Isn't it a spirit of hard work and innovation that has gotten this province to the place where it is today? Albertans deserve a government that reflects that spirit, a government that is effective and trasparent. We need only look at the NDP rule in Sask. to see that we definately do not want them in power. The Liberals failed to provide any reasonable strategy on how they intend to fulfil all of their promises. When Paul Hinman expressed a desire to keep families together rather than create another fund he gained my respect. Though the Wildrose Alliance is new I will give them my support. And I believe if albertans do their research they will feel the same.

Posted February 22, 2008 02:20 AM

Stelmach, the Transportation Minister who proposed reversing the slow and fast lanes on the highway now wants to dazzle us with a 20 year infrastructure plan that it's only taken 37 years for the PC's to come up with. I'd say that it was surprising how he completely ignored the question of where he gets the 300,000 unemployed number from, but he's been ignoring Albertan's needs for so long already, I expect it's second nature now.

Sadly, the people who I thought had the best presentation and delivery were the people who's politics I least agree with. Hinman put up the best showing, but arguing that we should give my wife more incentive to stay home with the kids rather than make it easier for us to get proper day-care is not only misogynistic, but dumb. If we want a productive Alberta, we want an Alberta where both parents can work while ensuring their child gets solid care.

Mason had a great delivery of dumb ideas. You don't get more housing by telling landlords they can't charge enough to put together the capital to build more. Rent controls mean landlords find other ways to make profits -- such as letting buildings turn to slums and fire traps.

That leaves creepy Taft. I'm sorry, but I'm not stopping on the street to talk to a guy that leers at me like that. Taft was the only one that made a mention of general education. How, in a province with a labor shortage so acute that even the local Subway can't stay open all day, do the rest of these guys think we're going to handle our skills shortage without educating our youth I haven't a clue.

Still, all around, they're all losers. I wish CBC didn't have such an anti-green agenda that they kept George Read out. Don't give me this crap about the Greens not having a seat. That didn't stop the CBC from putting the NDP in a debate in 1997 when they didn't have a seat, and the Greens are polling higher than the NDP or the WRA right now.

Posted February 22, 2008 02:12 AM

i think kevin taft is the only leader that seems to understand and speak passionately enough about how serious the difficulties are that people are having . . and as for stelmach how can a cabinet minister known for his deep cuts possibly have the compassion he needs to cure the disasters his cuts caused. . . what a phony

Posted February 22, 2008 01:09 AM

Bernie wrote that the NDP are the reason the Conservatives are in power which seems highly unlikely as the Conservatives had over 60 seats and the ND had only 4 before the election was called. 4 seats are like peanuts to the Conservative Party in Alberta!

Posted February 21, 2008 11:32 PM

This forum was not necessarily the best way to get to know the party leaders.
I've spent the past few hours perusing all the party websites and I've arrived at the conclusion that the Alberta Liberal Party has the most comprehensively expressed platform. The potential for change, for great things to happen in this wonderful province, is on our doorstep yet I fear that we won't be able to walk through the threshold. I can only hope that Albertans wake up to the reality that if we don't vote in a new government, we're stuck with 'same old' for who knows how long--likely another five years since the PCs will try to stretch out their mandate as much as possible and they are not likely to implement electoral reforms such as fixed election dates and proportional representation. Frankly, I preferred the forum in Canmore last night as voters were the ones who asked questions and the format was more conducive to a fair representation of all the candidates. We have to vote for our local MLAs, the party, the policy platform, and the leader, so these debates should not be the sole determiner of voting preference. I recommend that people take the initiative and inform themselves.

Posted February 21, 2008 11:31 PM

Ed Stelmach mentioned in his closing comments that this campaign comes down to the question of what party Albertans can trust. This is true. Our schools are falling apart, our hospitals (those that haven't been shut down) are overcrowded and short of beds, our water is not all safe to drink anymore, our infrastructure is overwhelmed, and an alarming number of our working class cannot afford to pay the rent. Yet when you look at the big picture, Alberta is the last province where this should be happening.

Will Albertans trust the same party that got them into this mess, to get them out of it?

Posted February 21, 2008 11:09 PM

With no commitment by ANY of the parties to start diversifying the Alberta Economy, my best option is to move to Saskatchewan to find work. Outside of oilsands, the rest of the patch is in standstill, the forest industry is in the middle of collapse and the AG sector is still in dire straits. Where are our elected officials? All of the parties seem to be of the opinion that another $4.2 billion dollar surplus will happen next year with no work or plan.....sad.

Posted February 21, 2008 11:01 PM

How about better interest rates for those struggling,? Instead of making it harder. MEP payments paid directly, consistently, register what? MEP! I am owed arrears of 45,000 for 15 years.
I do not qualify for anything, but a mother I am. I count every squeeze of dish soap.
The THIRD POWER, SOCIAL CONSCIOUSNESS; for too long there has only been two powers, political ethics and corporate ethics
The GOOD comes from those who are doing the good.Communities have been using volunteer vouchers for years to help with children's programs. The goverment and corporations could also join this program expanding it to reach all demographics through tax credits
Canadians are known for their good will.
I hear the calls of my grandfathers pioneer spirit, when people counted on seeing that light shining across the prairies
Canadian Communities need to come together more than ever we need to PARTY! Food, dance, cultural diversity, listen to one another we do have it all! There is enough of everything for everyone, and everyone knows it.
We need to celebrate being the change and the light to the world.
Pass it forward Social Consciousness is being called by our own mother earth.
EARTH should have the royalties on all of her images to help heal.
I hope a synchronicity to Social Consciousness, will form a level of respect and include with all calmness and patience a consensus.
We all need to grow up and ask what can we do for our planet, country, community. ourselves. Healthy choices. responsibility for actions. including being conscious!
It starts with bearing another's burdens.;banning the plastic bag!

Posted February 21, 2008 10:48 PM

In a truly democratic society "Alberta Access to Information" would be just that. It is OUR information, and not the private property of some tin-pot political party or it's leader or it's appointed officials. At the moment we in Alberta have no real access into our own information. That was taken away from us by Klein and his cronies including Stelmach and many of the current Tory caucus. Truthful information is one of the pillars of a democracy. If a political party limits (and in this case severely limits) the ability of it's own citizenry to access that information, that political party simply does not believe in democracy.

Vote ABC - Anybody But a Conservative.

Cheers,
Ian Patton

Posted February 21, 2008 10:42 PM

This debate made it quite clear that Ed Stelmach, while campaigning behind a banner of change, will only continue to uphold the status quo. To me it is clear that under his government, Albertans would continue to be sold short on royalties. Our quality of life will continue to decrease as it has under the conservative government (health care, the environment, infrastructure, education, housing, to name a few). Kevin Taft seems to be the only candidate that recognizes the potential this province has to become an incredible place to live. With the price of oil where it is today, surely any government could made this province debt free. What is disappointing is how much has been squandered by the Tories- how much better this province could be. The Liberals have clear and well thought out policy. It's time Alberta retires this impotent and uninspired government, and cast their ballets for a trustworthy leader. I support Kevin Taft.

Posted February 21, 2008 10:36 PM

I was born, and have lived 51 of my 57 years in Alberta. After years of dedicated service as a medical professional, I found myself on the wrong end of the meat axe. Klein and his cronies including Stelmach and many of the bonehead's still in caucus fired a large group of well-trained, highly-skilled professional health care workers for no good reason, and then called them "Un-Albertan" or "whiners and complainers" when they objected to the treatment.

If you really want to know why our health care system in this province is way back on it's heels you can point to the letting go of thousands of people who were not only highly skilled, hard working contributors to the cause, but also the mentors which the young people coming through the system now, don't have. I've talked with many nurses and technologists over the past few years, and to a person they say the system is badly broken and the culprit is management. Don't believe what the hired spin doctors for at least Capital Health say ... they are nothing but Tory mouthpieces.

Why anyone would consider voting Tory at all after the enormous screw-ups these idiots have brought about is beyond me. This is after all the same useless arrogant gang that was there when Ralph was doing his thing.

How about this time we all vote the ABC strategy ... "Anybody But a Conservative" ... and if you're not into fruitcake, I'd leave the WRA alone as well.

Cheers,
Ian Patton

Posted February 21, 2008 10:22 PM

I missed the debate, but this forum is a good exchange.

Smebody wrote:

"Just to be clear I voted for Ralph back in the days when the PCs had a plan for the province."

Many people will remember the five per cent health and education cuts under Ralph. Turns out they cut, then planned.

(I've voted PC pretty consistently.)

Posted February 21, 2008 10:13 PM

Ed was the only party leader showing real Leadership qualities. Good presentation of common sense policies.

Posted February 21, 2008 10:00 PM

37 years ago the province's electorate screwed up its courage and elected a bright young man named Peter Lougheed to replace a Socred government that had been in for over 35 years, was tired and was out of ideas. Today we have the chance to do the same, to replace a tired government bereft of ideas. The question is, does this generation of Albertans have the grapes that their parents and grandparents did? I sure hope so. My vote's with Taft.

Posted February 21, 2008 09:49 PM

Rent controls. The other side of the coin.

Housing is not being built and it has nothing to do with rents.

Implementing rent control will not affect housing being built. Giving builders decent incentives & tax breaks to build affordable housing will help to remedy that.

If you were getting paid to not do anything - would you take steps to change that.

Landlords do not want to build housing - they are getting record profits from the housing shortage so why change it.

Landlord earn from thier investments. They do not benefit from building more housing in a tight market - it would take their profits away.

Makes me think that the PC candidates are landlords...

Posted February 21, 2008 09:44 PM

Why does Brian Mason keep bashing "Big Oil"?
Who does he think "Big Oil" is? They are the Albertans who have invested their time and money in these companies to make them thrive, provide employment and provide shareholders like me with dividends and distributions to fund my retirement. If Brian Mason had his way I would have to be dependant on his Government and their handouts.

Posted February 21, 2008 09:38 PM

Mr. Hinman has my vote. Very family minded and senior values.

Posted February 21, 2008 09:36 PM

Wildrose Alliance has won my PC membership and donation too! They have my vote in this up coming election.

Posted February 21, 2008 09:33 PM

It was surprising to me and even a little telling that no one really attacked Stelmach. What ever is going on there, it is clear to me that the other 3 either did not want to attack him or just had too much respect to attack him. Stelmach is not a good speaker though but I get a very strong impression that he is highly respected by is foes and likely a politican that gets real work done outside of the media bubble that we all view him through.

I am now thinking about voting PC, there is much more then meets the eye there and I feel for him and the mess Klien left him.

Posted February 21, 2008 09:31 PM

Taft won the debate. He was passionate about his platform. Mr. Mason made it very clear that he wasn't running to form government just for " more ND members", Mr. Stelmach seems to think by parroting lines he memorized Albertans will think he is a leader..Mr. Hindman was verrrrrrrrrrrry right wing. Real change comes with a change in gov't.

Posted February 21, 2008 09:24 PM

Rent controls - Housing is not being built and it has nothing to do with rents.

Implementing rent control will not affect housing being built. Giving builders decent incentives & tax breaks to build affordable housing will help to remedy this problem.

Landlords are enjoying getting thier pockets lined by gouging tenants - record profits from rents with a housing shortage.

Most landlords have nothing to do with building housing. Its too expensive for them to do & providing housing from what exists already is a way a landlord earns from thier investments - they do not benefit from building in a tight market - building more housing would take their profits away.

Flawed logic from Stelmach & the PC party.

Posted February 21, 2008 09:22 PM

The last question re: Auto Insurance was a waste of time and a poor closing question for a "debate".
Due to the falling economy people might be more apt to vote NDP and all I can think of when I think of NDP is Ontario's disaster with Ray...scary.

Posted February 21, 2008 09:19 PM

The PC party is so out of touch with real life in this province that its borders idioticy.

Rents are out of reach for many of the disabled and low income that they are living in shelters and on the streets. Yes there are tools to get people working & off welfare - But there are limits when the social safety net is gone.

The lazy welfare bum stereotype is dead - they have left the province. The remaining 47000 people who are on AISH and on Welfare (not expected to work) that are unemployable due to disabilities are being forced to do without the basic necessities of life.

The disabled of this province who cannot work there is literally nothing for us here. We are expecteed to exist on a pitance. How can 1 person get by on AISH of $1050 a month let alone a family of 2 - 5 people. The tax relief has no effect on the disabled who cannot work.

High rents have put so many disabled and working poor out on the streets that it appauling.

AISH rates have to be raised to the cost of living. Years ago a million dollar study has told the PC gov that that has to be done and still it has not. The MLAs & the Premier got multiple pay raises - AISH got a few crumbs thrown at it.

None of this has been touched on.
Past performance speaks volumes.
Stelmach as usual hasn't a clue.

Posted February 21, 2008 09:17 PM

I thought Mason did well - he called a spade a spade - Alberta has been terribly mismanaged. We have a huge mess going on here and I have no faith in Stelmach et al fixing it. As Mason pointed out, just on the prescription drug issue only, we could have been saving millions over the years to have built new clinics. The PC's are not listeners and why should they be - they have had Albertans in their palms for so long they don't have to listen. However, I can't blame the PC's - people with the same mentality keep voting them in so I guess we got what we deserved. My vote is going to Taft.

Posted February 21, 2008 09:16 PM

Every one of those running to govern this province understand the needs of the people in this province.

I feel what has been done by the PC party in the last decade is commendable. Keep up the good work, even opposition seems to have a good effect. The issues get dealt with and properly enforced - obviously they would perfer sooner than you've been doing it - tongue in cheek to the other parties.

Affordable housing, daycare, education, seniors needs, hospitals, staffing, bed availablity, and law enforcment are the primary concerns, in the overview from my understanding, even though, there were more issues than I kept up with. Mr. Selmach seems to handle each project with realistic goals that had been set and implemented.

Posted February 21, 2008 09:10 PM

I hope with all the "election rage" going on, people will remember their democratic right to vote....Just do it.
If you do what you've done, you will get what you've gotten.

Posted February 21, 2008 09:05 PM

The PC party is so out of touch with real life in this province that its borders idioticy.

Rents are out of reach for many of the disabled and low income that they are living in shelters and on the streets. Yes there are tools to get people working & off welfare - But there are limits when the social safety net is gone.

The lazy welfare bum stereotype is dead - they have left the province. The remaining 47000 people who are on AISH and on Welfare (not expected to work) that are unemployable due to disabilities are being forced to do without the basic necessities of life.

The disabled of this province who cannot work there is literally nothing for us here. We are expecteed to exist on a pitance. How can 1 person get by on AISH of $1050 a month let alone a family of 2 - 5 people. The tax relief has no effect on the disabled who cannot work.

High rents have put so many disabled and working poor out on the streets that it appauling.

AISH rates have to be raised to the cost of living. A million dollar study has told the PC gov that that has to be done and it has not. The MLAs & the Premier got multiple pay raises - AISH got a few crumbs thrown at it.

As for rent controls - Housing is not being built and it has nothing to do with rents. Landlords are enjoying getting thier pockets lined by gouging tenants - record profits from rents with a housing shortage.

Most landlords have nothing to do with building housing. Its too expensive for them to do & providing housing from what exists already is a way a landlord earns from thier investments - they do not benefit from building in a tight market - building more housing would take their profits away.

I believe some of the PC candidates are landlords. It would explain thier position on rent control.

Implementing rent control will not affect housing being built. Giving builders decent incentives & tax breaks to build affordable housing will help to remedy that.

Posted February 21, 2008 09:03 PM

This province deserves to have a leader like Kevin Taft. Albertans deserves better government and it will only be found in the Alberta Liberals.

Posted February 21, 2008 09:03 PM

I'm tired of the right wing attitude of the PC's and Stelmach tip toed around a lot of issues tonight. He was set off guard a few times from NDP leader Mr. Mason, and I feel that Mr. Mason made quite relevent points, it was Mr. Mason who was the first to bring up the Rent control issue tonight and then, of course, everyone else addressed. Prior to that every other leader seemed to focus on putting down what the other is doing and not doing. Mr. Taft of the Liberals, had nothing to offer because he was taking too long beating around the bush before getting to the route of the questions being asked. Hinman, although inexperienced, did hold his own.

I think it is time for Alberta to take a long hard look at the history of Premiers and realize it eally is time for a change. It is time to become more involved in the issues that present to our lives everyday. These being infrastructure, the environment, healthcare and rent control.

Mr. Mason, way to bring these issues to the surface. You have my vote. I'm tired of Liberals and definately of the Conservatives.

Posted February 21, 2008 09:01 PM

Kevin Taft seemed to me to be the person to get the job done.And at the end of the debate he said 37 years is enough for this conservative group. Its time for a change.. Just like people said before the last federal election. I agree its time for the Liberals in Alberta.

Posted February 21, 2008 08:59 PM

It’s time for all Albertans to now decide what is the best direction for this province. For far too long, (over 36 years) this province has been moving in the wrong direction. Alberta Liberal Party has a strong platform that will make a difference for the BETTER for ALL Albertans.

Posted February 21, 2008 08:59 PM

The electronic forum results were obviously not reliable. For some segments, Stelmach got zero in others, Hinman got zero. Clearly the sample size was far too small, and the voters were unreliable. It is just foolish to report such obviously flawed results on a network with the prestige of the CBC. Shame on the producers for lowering the standards at CBC.

Posted February 21, 2008 08:56 PM

I was impressed with Brian Masons toned down image and he presented alot of facts. The ND unfortunately, without Proportional Representation are the reason conservatives are in power.

Hineman performed well but his true colors of placing women back in the kitchen was evident and shook my world.

Ed Stelmach faired better than I imagined. Nice suit. new glasses. appeared more polished than he spoke. Otherwise, good job of keeping Brian Mason at bay. Stelmach did not mention agriculture, probably believes they have the vote--maybe, rural AB should change to be heard.

Kevin Taft had my vote before the debate and continues after the debate. This is only a leaders debate and I made my choice on party platform long ago.

The Liberals have a 10% rent control until the economy stablizes. I like the fact they are removing health care fees and lowering tuition to post secondary schools.

Regardless of how well the PC's performed, it's time to bring back the government to the people. 37 years of a one party state is not democracy.

Posted February 21, 2008 08:55 PM

Tonight I called the Liberal candidate's office and requested a lawn sign. I will vote for them this time around -- I have subscribed to the groupthink of the benevolence that comes with PC dynastic despotism too many times, but no longer.

Kevin Taft is not making me regret this decision, but Ed Stelmach sure made it easy to do. Paul Hinman-bot 3000 shows his true colours, and Taft sums up Brian Mason the best: "we don't need a louder opposition".

Posted February 21, 2008 08:54 PM

Paul Hinman impressed me the most. He was brave enough to stand up and say-Less Government, let the people chose and if someone wants to stay home to raise their own children, they should be able to afford to do that! Good for you Paul!!!
Though your party hasn't had enough exposure yet, keep on keepin' on, and you may someday give the P.C.'s a run for their money.
-The question regarding Public Insurance time well wasted. CBC may have lost credibility there.
Great discussions and great coverage.
CBC is really starting Modernize. It is about time.

Posted February 21, 2008 08:50 PM

I was very impressed with Brian Mason. He was genuine & professional. He confidently presented well thought out solutions and policy plans with good solid examples. Ed Stemlach did well, considering he was forced to be on the defensive througout much of the debate. Kevin Taft just came off as being whiny & pleading. And Paul Hinman, too conservative for my liking.

Posted February 21, 2008 08:47 PM

All the parties want to spend our money or give it away like the pc gave 2 billion dollars to a special interest group like the teachers, don't here the teachers complaining do you, they were bought off.

Will rose is the only party who what to enable people, allow families to raise their own chidren, what a privledge. The NDP want to credit for everything and be responsible to spend your money. All the parties talked about programs ways to spend your money. None of them talked about ways to give you back more of your money. In a province where we have such great surplus we give almost half of it to the teachers, what a joke. Each and every person should be enititled to the same pension plan as public servants like the teachers enjoy. The oil industry is slowing down and has been hit by 3 changes in tax policy in the last two years, how does that make an enviroment you want to invest in. I been swayed to change my support to the wild rose party from the pc party.

Posted February 21, 2008 08:47 PM

Part 2 of my post

As for rent controls - Housing is not being built and it has nothing to do with rents.
Stelmach's flawed logic.

Landlords are enjoying getting thier pockets lined by gouging tenants - record profits from rents with

a housing shortage.

Most landlords have nothing to do with building housing. Its too expensive for them to do and

providing housing from what exists already is a way a landlord earns from thier investments - they do

not benefit from building in a tight market - building more housing would take their profits away.

One may want to check into things further - I believe some of the PC candidates are landlords. It

would certainly explain thier position on rent controls.

Implementing rent control will not affect housing being built. Giving the builders decent incentives

and tax breaks to build affordable housing will help greatly to remedy that.

Am I not the only one with their eyes wide open seeing what is really happening in this province?

There is more to this than meets the eye. Look further into things.

Posted February 21, 2008 08:46 PM

On CBC coverage:

1. Paul was great because he gave honest, instant analysis. Bring him back.

2. The electronic score card was a disaster. Why continue using it an hour in, when it was clearly not working?

3. Oh, and the production of the commercial segments was so unprofessional. What's up with that???

4. Portia handled all the mistakes with grace.

Posted February 21, 2008 08:45 PM

The PC party candidates are so out of touch with real life in this province that its borders idioticy.

People on AISH and on Welfare are doing without the basic necessities of life because of the PC parties policies.

Rents are out of reach for many of the disabled and low income that they are living in shelters and on the streets.

Yes there are tools to get people working & off welfare - But there are limits when the social safety net is gone.

The lazy welfare bum stereotype is dead and has been dead since the 90s with Klein's cuts. The able bodied but lazy people have left the province.

The remaining 47000 people who are on AISH and those on Welfare (not expected to work class) that are disabled who are unemployable due to no fault of their own - we are being forced to do without the basic necessities of life.

The disabled of this province who cannot work there is literally nothing for us here. We are expecteed to exist on a pitance. How can you expect people to get by on $1050 a month let alone a family of 2 - 5 people.

High rents have put so many disabled on the streets that it appauling - it is also appauling that in a province of plenty that the working poor are going homeless as well.

The tax relief has no effect on the disabled who cannot work. We get nothing except distain and dispair every time the PCs get back in.

AISH rates have to be raised to the cost of living. A million dollar study has told the PC gov that that has to be done and it has not ocurred. The MLAs and the Premier got multiple pay raises - AISH got a few crumbs thrown at it.

Posted February 21, 2008 08:44 PM

Thoughts on the debate:

Taft - yes he was animated and articulate. Yes, he was warm and open. But, where were his ideas? What policies does he have? All I learned is that he wants change and does not agree with the PCs record. He offered very little of his own party, preferring to bash the government and criticize the NDs.

Mason - He has to lose the scowl. Also, he doesn't understand that just because he says something, it doesn't mean it's true. He succeeded in alienating every business owner (large and small) in Alberta. He can go on and on about big, bad corporations owning the province, but until he offers some proof (besides his fuzzy logic) no one should believe him. Likewise, he offers so many programs without revealing how he'll set them up, let alone pay for them. Besides of course, taxing big bad business. Plus, he really needs to take an economics class.

Stelmach - he really improved since the PC leadership debate. But he is still the same old, boring Ed Stelmach. He prefers to give scripted answers rather than properly answering questions. However, he was very adept at defending his record.

Hinman - why do people criticize him? Why isn't he given the attention that he is due. Hinman's performance was a little rocky at first, but after the first 15 minutes he took control. This is what debates are supposed to be about. Taking the government to task and presenting what you would do differently. Hinman was the only leader to offer clear, distinct, logical ideas and present them in a way that is understandable to Albertans.

Good luck Mr. Hinman, you have my vote, and now my membership and donation.

Posted February 21, 2008 08:42 PM

It’s time for all Albertans to now decide what is the best direction for this province. For far too long, (over 36 years) this province has been moving in the wrong direction. Alberta Liberal Party has a strong platform that will make a difference for the BETTER for ALL Albertans. This is the party that deserves to form the next government. This province deserves to have a leader like Kevin Taft. Albertans deserves better government and it will only be found in the Alberta Liberals.

Posted February 21, 2008 08:26 PM

I watched the debate and was disappointed in the following areas:
1 the free for all was a waste of time as no one could be heard over the bickering
2. your scorecard was an absolute bust,
3. the cbc modirator, Ms Clark, was probably the worst person the cbc could have had hosting. Hopefully the cbc has better than her.

Posted February 21, 2008 08:25 PM

I am disappointed that so many voters in this province go to the default that all parties are the same, that the leaders are a sorry bunch, that the debate was a disappointment.
Surely the point of a debate like to-night's is to provide one more opportunity for voters to engage in debate themselves: internally, among their friends, with their local candidates, and with the leaders. All parties provide multiple fora for voters to so just that.
To denigrate candidates, whether these four leaders or anyone else, is the easy way out, and patently unfair. Each individual voter should be actively debating until he or she enters the polling booth on March 3.

Posted February 21, 2008 08:23 PM

The PCs are counting on us to be divided once again so that they can use the inequities built into our current electoral system to once again win a huge number of seats based on the votes of a small number of people---last time, I think 47% of Albertans voted and less than half of those voted for the PCs to send them a huge majority of seats in the legislature. Remember the recommendations for new electoral boundaries? I don't think they were ever implemented because a redrawing of constituencies would reflect the current state of Alberta and it's growing urban population. The PCs are benefitting and all we're doing is letting them get away with it by dividing the alternative vote.
If we really are serious about change we must vote strategically.

Posted February 21, 2008 08:23 PM

Taft is the loser of the debate because he did nothing to indicate that he is "Premier" material. His performance was awful.
Stelmach got better as it went, and he stood his ground well when he had to, so he didn't lose. Hinman did a good job of sharing his conservative values but it won't make a difference...he'll be lucky to hold his seat. Mason showed the ND's are still relevant; even with a lot of their support bleeding to the Greens.

Posted February 21, 2008 08:19 PM

The thing is, we desperately need change here in Alberta. The PCs have been in for 37 years and before that we had a conservative Socred government, I think since 1935. Alberta has changed a lot since then so why not vote for stategically and get a new government?

Posted February 21, 2008 08:15 PM

I think Taft was the most articulate tonight.

Posted February 21, 2008 08:07 PM

I really Like Paul Hinman, havent voted PC for years alays voted Aliance or SC but I like Paul i really hope the real conservitives move to WR alliance and get alberta back on track

Posted February 21, 2008 08:06 PM

The candidates should be addressing solutions to climate change and Alberta's horrendous carbon footprint from the Oil Sands.
If New Delhi can control pollution by mandating that all its buses and taxis run
on Liqufied natural gas why can't Alberta
do the same for its buses in big cities like Calgary and Edmonton for a start and end the horrible pollution from gasoline ??
The time for the Carbon Tax is Now.

Posted February 21, 2008 08:05 PM

Watching Paul Hinman debate about how "parents" need to stay home and children need to stay home, I can't help thinking as a thirteen year old, my future. I would prefer to be a successful person, and maybe have children, but I do not intend, just because of tax cuts to stay home and be a stay-at-home-mummy. When Hinman says "parents" we all know he means "mothers" and I think that is a wrong perception for the future of Albertan kids. Nellie Mclung won the persons case in Alberta and now we are sitting here, in 2008 listening to Hinman speaking about how parents should stay home.

Posted February 21, 2008 08:03 PM

Mr. Hinman's answer is to let you spend your money. Does anyone have a few million to spare for the new school needed in my town? Perhaps the city of Ft. McMurray could hold bake sales to twin Highway 63. Tax money, when efficiently spent, is the only way to built a functioning society. Low taxes mean nothing when essential infrastructure needs to be repaired or built.

Posted February 21, 2008 08:02 PM

Fortunately, like Ralph Klein said two elections ago, he would leave the province is such a good state that not even the Liberals could ruin it. We as Albertans need to ensure that a leaderless party (Liberals) cannot get control in Edmonton. Taft is incompetent just like his party.

Posted February 21, 2008 07:59 PM

I'm dissapointed that the reporters and the candidates never addressed AISH recipients or seniors. Stelmachs $500.00 bonus to allow people on AISH to work and keep that money doesn't include those of us who are too sick to earn a cent. Why isn't AISH indexed and why is there not more help for people like my 82 yr. old mother to stay in her home?

Posted February 21, 2008 07:58 PM

It's a sad thing if this is the best our political parties have to offer!! I go back to the old maxim, 'Where's the Beef'. The bun is great but there is no meat and little or no condiments.

Posted February 21, 2008 07:57 PM

The present govenment placed royalties on the oil industry. I do not think that they have a "pulse" on what exactly is going on in the oil industry. Companies which set up 20-30 oil rigs last year, are this year setting up 2-3. They are boycotting the royalties and the present govenment does not know, or could not be bothered with the fact. The oil industry is Alberta's major "money machine" for lack of a better term. I fear that with the lack of oil being produced, the effect will be felt by everyone. Our oil industry has a "trickle down effect". My husband works directly in the feild, he is a constuction worker in the north, and it is already being felt by us. As I said before the number of rigs going up has dropped to a point where the leaders should look up and take notice. With out the oil industry where will Alberta be? I really do not want to see the day where we may have to ponder that situation.

Posted February 21, 2008 07:57 PM

First I do not think that Stelmach should have to defend the Klien regime. Secondly I'm pretty sure that if Taft is elected the mice in my school won't just disapear.

Posted February 21, 2008 07:55 PM

It's easy to criticize, it's not easy to come up with new, workable, affordable ideas and put them in place through government action. I would like to see targeted policies, where those with low single or family income benefit....increased basic income tax exemptions and no health care premiums are two that require minimum burocracy to implement. However, I agree that rent controls do not generally work.

Posted February 21, 2008 07:55 PM

This tv debate was a disappointment! No public service. How can we expect responsible democracy when candidates are left out of public scrutiny?

Posted February 21, 2008 07:55 PM

We live in one of richest provinces in Canada. While watching the debate I said to my self - are we really having to choose a leader from this sad bunch to move us forward and to be our voice with the federal government. I love our province, but knowing one of these guys is going to be elected in on March 3rd has opened my eyes to how bad things are going to be in future. This election is what I would call " A NO WIN situation for Albertans no matter who wins.

Posted February 21, 2008 07:54 PM

I wish there was a party that combined the ideas of the different leaders as there are a few goods ideas coming from each of them.

Posted February 21, 2008 07:54 PM

In response to Jill's comment about lack of aborginal policy, I found this on the Wildrose site. (BTW, I am not a member of the WRA (BTW, I am not a member of the WRA party; I work with aboriginal clients)

* A Wildrose Alliance Government will offer to negotiate a delegated municipal style of self-government with any First Nation that wants to move beyond the Indian Act.

* A Wildrose Alliance Government will create a permanent First Nations Forum to provide aboriginal citizens living on and off reserves direct communication with government about their priorities and ideas to materially improve their quality of life.

* A Wildrose Alliance Government will devote special attention to help aboriginal families bridge the "digital divide".

Posted February 21, 2008 07:54 PM

I believe that all the leaders are missing the boat as far as at least one of Alberta's most serious concerns. That is the diversification of our economy. We are far too reliant on the oil industry to provide employment and drive our economy. With conventional oil on the downward slope and the oilsands our only oil ace in the hole, we need some serious consideration for what our economy is going to look like in the future and that consideration and action needs to start now.

Posted February 21, 2008 07:52 PM

"anybody that talks about less spending does not understand business nor economy"

Oh really? It's not less spending, it's smarter, more efficient spending. Throwing money around solves nothing.

Posted February 21, 2008 07:51 PM

I was very sorry to hear Kevin Taft parrot Ed Stelmach's election promise to eliminate the education portion of property taxes for seniors. How can this be justified, except as a blatant vote-buying gambit?

The rationale seems to be that these people no longer have children in the school system, so why should they fund it? The counter-argument is that all of society benefits from a solid education system. Today's schoolchildren are tomorrow's doctors, nurses, home care workers, pension fund managers and providers of other services that seniors want and need for a comfortable retirement. Why shouldn't they pay their share?

I'm a healthy 32-year-old who only visits the doctor once a year. So should the portion of my taxes that pays for the health care of seniors and the chronically ill be cancelled, since I'm not a drain on the health care system? Of course not. Again, all of society benefits from a well funded health care system. I'm willing to pay my share to ensure the continued stability of this system.

I accept that some seniors living on fixed incomes may be adversely affected by property taxes, but if that's the case, then an income-based exemption would be fairer and less discriminatory than an age-based one.

Posted February 21, 2008 07:51 PM

I can't believe that Paul Hinman's answer to child care is that parents stay home and watch their children. That is all well and good unless you take into account the fact people need 2 incomes to be able to afford the high rents which the PC do not want to deal with and the Wildrose wants to ignore. Kevin seems to have the most level headed attitude and ideas. He's won me over...

Posted February 21, 2008 07:50 PM

Mr. Stelmach is wrong, people are leaving child care work, not being attracted. I know many that left in spite of getting an education in the child care field, because they could not live on the wages.

Posted February 21, 2008 07:50 PM

We have heard a lot of talk about Alberta's economy, focused mainly on the oil and gas industry. Why hasn't the issue of Alberta's struggling Agricultural sector been addressed, or does the future of our family farm- and most importantly our food-not matter?

Posted February 21, 2008 07:50 PM

The deal with child and daycare is a critical issue for new families. And Mr. Hinman is proving once again that he is further right on the spectrum than I am comfortable with. Maybe that's my liberalist youth speaking, I don't know. But I do know that the environmental, childcare, and post-secondary education issues are critical and must be recognized as issues that need to be immediately dealt with. The winter this year has been unpredictable. Children are not able to be cared for properly as parents are forced to work, to pay for rent and utilities (other problems that must be addressed in this election and have already been partially debated on). I do agree with Mr. Hinman though that children should be at home with their parents for the crucialness of family bonding.

Posted February 21, 2008 07:49 PM

"Brian Mason, he won this one with me on rent control. We need it."

Look, high rents create incentives for developers to build more units. This increases supply and lowers overall average rents. If a developing company can only charge X for their building, and it costs them Y, they don't build it. No knew homes or apartments.

Rent control is a bad socialist policy. Economics 101.

Posted February 21, 2008 07:49 PM

Taft seems to be winging it, he has no depth. Stelmach is the steadiest participant and is able to articulate his plans in some detail. Hydman has good ideas with trying to put more money in peoples pockets through tax reductions. Mason seems genuine and knowlegable.

Posted February 21, 2008 07:48 PM

my 2 favs are so far
Stelmach, and Mr.Taft or
Brian Mason he has some good ideas
but the guy who thinks that people should take care of their kids is just acting dumb cause what if those parents have 2 work 24/7
and have two send their kids to daycare so that they can make enough money to feed and clothe the family????

Posted February 21, 2008 07:47 PM

I've got to say that TAft look the most comfortable with what he's saying.

Posted February 21, 2008 07:46 PM

I am a Real Estate agent here in Alberta. I see first-hand how many people are moving to Alberta from other parts of Canada. So my question is to Mr. Brian Mason : If RENT is so high,.. then why are so many people deciding to move to Alberta?

Posted February 21, 2008 07:46 PM

My vote is for Mr. Hinman and the Wildrose Alliance. Finally a real conservative alternative.

Posted February 21, 2008 07:45 PM

"Tax reductions across the board, just like Reagan and Bush did. What did the wealthy do with their saved money?"

Uh, I'm sorry, but I'm far from rich and I'd love a tax decrease. I like to spend my money where I want, thank you.

Posted February 21, 2008 07:45 PM

The PCs under Klein left a real legacy of debt - perhaps not in money terms - but certainly in such areas as health care, government services, buildings, roads, and more. Taft and Stelmach are not presenting any real change to the status quo. Mason is presenting a clear alternative to the others. Hinman is coming off as a 'one trick pony' - all he wants to do is make sure that big oil keeps taking resouces (and money) out of Alberta.

Posted February 21, 2008 07:44 PM

mason most honest and best plan

taft & stelmach a distant unrealistic second

hinman the most dishonest hopefully dead last
privatization specialist.

anybody that talks about less spending does not understand business nor economy because both come to a dead halt without affordable housing for the working people, schools for our children, highways for transporting our products to the markets and products to alberta for the constructions of houses,oilsand developments, drilling equipment etc. etc., hospitals for the sick people and the people injured on the jobs.

without fixing our horrendous infrastructure deficit everything will grind to a halt.

Posted February 21, 2008 07:44 PM

Brian Mason, he won this one with me on rent control. We need it. Who doesn't know of someone who had to move because of a greedy landlord/owner raised the rent a few hundred dollars a month, or worse, raised the rent twice in one year!
Taft doesn't care, Stelmach doesn't care, and Hillman is out to lunch.

Posted February 21, 2008 07:44 PM

Have you noticed Mr. Stelmach has not mentioned any of the problems facing Fort McMurray in regards to high rents,homelessness, infrastructure problems,the definite need of twinning Highway 63, hospital staff shortages, emergency department being overloaded, a lack of family physicians, and so on. Are these issues important to this premier? I think not. How can the city of Fort McMurray keep growing at the current rate without any help from this conservative government. I am very disappointed with Mr. Stelmach and his political platform. We need change and we need it now. I have only heard Mr. Stelmach talk about his governments plan for Calgary, Edmonton, and Grande Prairie. There has been no mention of Fort McMurray. Did they forget about us??

Posted February 21, 2008 07:44 PM

Well, more of the same. It seems that all the problems that we have are a direct result of the conservative's plans and actions. Time for them to be sent to the back benches. Maybe people should try the NDP. Even their party couldnt waste all the provincial money in 4 years! We know that the conservatives and liberals are more concerned about keeping the large corporate entities happy, not the average person. We should all just look at past history, provincial and federal, and the records of our 2 major parties.

Posted February 21, 2008 07:43 PM

Income Tax cuts will not pay rent increases of 500 to 100 dollars per month! I agree with NDP that we need rent control.

Since people under poverty line get health insurance free what good will cutting premiums do. Use the premiums to support the system and get better service.

Posted February 21, 2008 07:43 PM

I think if we vote for The Alberta Liberals we will actually be able to send more accountable members to the Legislative Assembly. If you check out their policy platforms--they have well thought out policies for Health Care, Education, Housing, Day Care, Seniors' Issues, Heritage Fund, and even for electoral reform--A Citizen's Assembly on Electoral Reform is part of their PLAN. I think it's pretty sad that the PCs admitted they had no plan after so many things were neglected.

Posted February 21, 2008 07:43 PM

Kevin Taft- Integrity
Brian Mason-Aggressive
Paul Hinman- Strategic
Ed Stelmach- Ready

Posted February 21, 2008 07:43 PM

Mr. Stelmach has lost touch with the severly normal Albertan. He is intent on creating a toxic waste dump of the province. Thus far his presentation is not leadership. What can we expect from a premier by mistake.

Posted February 21, 2008 07:42 PM

Rent controls? Wow, that's unbelievable. Mason may be the nicest guy on the panel, but he's clueless when it comes to economics. Rent controls will make the problem worse, that's a fact.

Posted February 21, 2008 07:42 PM

I have to wonder if the leader of the Wild Rose Alliance has actually compared the average monthly taxes paid by a low/mid income Albertan renter to the rents they are required to pay across the province (even in rural areas).

Tax cuts are not an appropriate resolution to affordable housing. Low/mid income Albertans could pay absolutely zero in federal and provincial taxes and the increase to their personal finances would not put a dent in the outrageous housing costs across the province.

Posted February 21, 2008 07:42 PM

Ah, the Wildrose Alliance finally comes clean. Tax reductions across the board, just like Reagan and Bush did. What did the wealthy do with their saved money? They built walls around their communities and put guards at the gates. After all, if you can't see the problem, it must not exist.

Posted February 21, 2008 07:41 PM

Given this is a TV debate I'm not shocked that the debate is light on substance. If you really want to see what the parties stand for check out the websites it's all there. The Liberals by far have the best platform, the PCs are mailing it in.

Just to be clear I voted for Ralph back in the days when the PCs had a plan for the province. Now I can't figure out what the PCs want to do other than retain power.

Posted February 21, 2008 07:41 PM

Mr. Hinman has proven to me that is his a very Right-Wing politician, further right-wing than our PC party. If he was any further right I might say that he was bordering on fascism. And Mr. Brian Mason is absolutely right about keeping rents down. The landlords are the people gaining money, and the lower middle-class young families are those who are struggling. Mr. Stelmach's government has done little, no NOTHING, to stop rampant rent increses! Mason and Taft ae winning this debate.

Posted February 21, 2008 07:41 PM

stelmach is impressing me the most. i am offended at the unessasary comments towards edd stelmach because he is making wise comments to help albertas future.

Posted February 21, 2008 07:41 PM

I disagree with those who say that Stelmach needs to be given a chance. This is the PC party who still have many of the same ministers working behind the scenes as during the Ralph dynasty. We are talking about a party who dramatically cut funds to schools and health care during the 90s as they work towards creating a neo-liberal, privatized and unequal Alberta.

Posted February 21, 2008 07:40 PM

I've been shocked as a newcomer to Alberto a year ago, to see the unbelievable raise in rent around the province, including Lethbridge.

Rent controls does not build houses, BUT it brings justice. I am looking for someone who will put a cap on rents, instead of suggesting that the poor should get more money so they can afford to live humanly.

It seems to me that greed is the gorilla in the room nobody wants to acknowledge.

Posted February 21, 2008 07:40 PM

I am truly dissappointed in the CBC polls results...
NDP at 0% ...how is that possible...
I think Ed Stelmach needs to realize it wont matter in 10 years if we cap emmissions ir not...the world will be a very different place if we dont make changes ASAP...in the last 2 years we have seen a dramatic change in weather around the world...
What is with Alberta and not wanting change!

Posted February 21, 2008 07:38 PM

I believe that Albertans who are not voting for the NDP and Brian Mason are either scared because it's not the "norm" or either they are truly closed minded! The NDP have become a mature political party and represent a real, feasible alternative! Young people -- VOTE!

Posted February 21, 2008 07:38 PM

Mason is getting his ideas through, but nothing of substance, and he should lay off the other leaders. Hinman is stating some solid facts and plans, which is good. Stelmach has started twisting his opponents words, not good. Overall, Mason seems to know his points best, but time will tell.

Posted February 21, 2008 07:38 PM

With a large amount of money coming out of the oil sands projects helping out the Alberta econemy, why aren't the parties doing anything to control rent. How do we expect health care workers to come here when they can't even afford the rent in Fort McMurray.
Just a thought,
Jamie

Posted February 21, 2008 07:38 PM

I am very disappointed that some of the integral issues concerning the shortage of workers and funding in the disabilities sector have not been brought to the forefront. There is a 40% vacancy rate, and workers are paid 50% less than their government counterparts. As a sector that can be deemed an essential service, it seems that the current government does not recognize the need for any changes in this area. I am disappointed.

Posted February 21, 2008 07:37 PM

Why isn't anyone talking about the North American Union. Can somebody please ask the candidates their opinion on this.
Thank you!

Posted February 21, 2008 07:37 PM

Kevin Taft is obviously the person who can lead this province. Alberta and Albertans need him. Let's make history.

Posted February 21, 2008 07:37 PM

environment is the key issue, the current developments will leave a toxic legacy for hundreds of generations

no stewardship by the Tories, their efforts are all hopeless boondoggles that are targeted towards special interests

Posted February 21, 2008 07:37 PM

Kevin Taft said it very well--'the voters want the pot-holes fixed, the leaky roofs in schools repaired, the hospitals built, etc. We have the money, now let's get on with the job."
I think Kevin Taft is clearly exhibiting the strongest leadership abilities, the most knowledge, and passion.
M. Lisa Hurst

Posted February 21, 2008 07:37 PM

Taft and the Liberals impress me the most. NDP just does not have a chance. Wildrose wants to pay money back? Ed Stelmach, what can I say? same old cheese in a new wrapper!

Posted February 21, 2008 07:36 PM

Now I know why they call him Steady Eddie. He must have a real nagging wife to be able to keep on course and trying to get his point across while the others are hammering him from every direction! Lots of practice I guess! All Stelmach's answers start the same, "We have done this", "We have done that". He's like a puppet with someone making his jaw move. Taft looks unscripted like he's shooting from the hip. I like that. (BTW I've voted conservative for 37 years). Mason just slams everyone saying all the good policies were his ideas. Hinman was rough at the start, relaxed a little bit and really gave the best answers. But he's green, let him mature a bit. My vote: Taft.

Posted February 21, 2008 07:36 PM

Kevin Taft is the only one who seems to understand the needs of Alberta and able to articulate a practical plan for change.

Posted February 21, 2008 07:34 PM

Ed I won't be threatened by the PC's to vote for you and no one else should. 300,000 jobs if we don't like your plan on the environment? Where did you come up with that # and who really were you directing it... oil field workers who have had to invest half a million dollars into their home... and if they vote against your plan on the environment which is quite frankly a bad plan, your putting it in such a way that you dont really want albertans to vote for the best platform and party that will do what they said they would but the party that will make sure you keep those 300,000 jobs.

To the voters who fear that, if they can't get doctors, nurses, hospitals, schools, firehalls and general community services for all albertans now, how can we trust they will in 10 years. Oil companies don't get big profits by cutting 300,000 jobs, do the math!

Posted February 21, 2008 07:34 PM

Brian Mason has impressed me most. He's well spoken, and is a reasoned debater. Ed Stelmach wants to take credit for our booming economy, when his government has done very little for our economy. The price of oil has bolstered our economy. Not the government or it's policies. Kevin Taft is doing well and is has suggested solutions to Alberta's problems which I haven't heard from Stelmach.

Posted February 21, 2008 07:33 PM

Has anyone else noticed how red Taft is getting? He almost matches his tie! Is this because of global warming?!

Posted February 21, 2008 07:33 PM

So far I think Taft is the one I would vote for out of these four candidates, but I am really disappointed that the Greens are not represented. I'm looking forward to watching Alberta Green leader George Read's responses to these questions on YouTube after this debate.

Posted February 21, 2008 07:32 PM

Stop the scare tactics Ed Stelmach. We are experiencing the "benefits" of living in such a prosperous economy thanks to the lack of planning from the rulihg party. I question the integrity of a government that places more priority on horse racing subsidies than it does in controlling exhorbinant rent increases. This is just a glimpse of some of the problematic issues that our PC government thus far has failed to address.

It is hard to comprehend that a province such as Alberta is so willing to see change in the Canadian political landscape (Conservative Party) yet are willingly to see the same inept management of our province by the same type of "complacent" government

Posted February 21, 2008 07:32 PM

Give Ed a second chance remember he just came in to the government after Ralph Klein and he had lots of work to do. The Conservatives still have more to give.

Posted February 21, 2008 07:30 PM

Stelmach is being very articulate and concise - I can understand what he's saying. I like what I'm hearing. He is standing up to the attack and able to debate with substance in his rebuttals. Taft is using too many "scary" scenarios instead of providing solutions - Stelmach obviously has a plan with resolutions to problems that face the Alberta electorate.

Posted February 21, 2008 07:30 PM

I think Mr. Taft needs to spend a little more time paying attention to Alberta, and a little less time watching Fox News. His following the White House policies over the environment show he has little initiative of his own, and I find his stooping to the campaign tactics employed by the Bush campaign four years ago ("flip flopper") offensive.

Posted February 21, 2008 07:30 PM

I am impress with the oppositons more so Brian and kevin. Ed Stelmach with the concservative had enough time to seriuosly address issues of the Province such as Health care,Infrastructure and outrageous rent increase.

Thank You

Posted February 21, 2008 07:30 PM

Mr Mason seems to be the most consistent in putting forward bold and fresh ideas while identifying with the situations of real Albertans. High rent and poor healthcare means more to me and I think average Albertans than how may new holes have be drilled. We are not all Oilfield millionaires - Mr Mason's ideas strike a chord with me and I've voted Conservative federally and provincially nearly 20 years!

Posted February 21, 2008 07:30 PM

It should be embarrassing to Mr. Stelmach that he keeps bringing up the recent green plan brought in by his government. He is moving forward on the backs of this provinces children who will be well into middle age before we see any decreases in emmisions. As well, based on the Conservatives plan I wonder if they realize the day may come very soon when clean water is worth more than oil.

Posted February 21, 2008 07:30 PM

Taft is nasty, Hinman a pleasant surprise. Stelmach is decorous, but the PCs are out of ideas.

Posted February 21, 2008 07:29 PM

I have never found myself a Progressive Conservative in Alberta, and Ed Stelmach's blustering words of the past and not the immediate or long-term future are not swaying me. An increase in infrastructure in rail would go a long way towards helping our economy and the environment.

Posted February 21, 2008 07:29 PM

Stelmach is terrible, truly. Taft is the only one who seems comfortable in this "Premier" role. He's not reading from a script.

Posted February 21, 2008 07:28 PM

Brian Mason is being deceptive when he says the Liberals voted against absolute emission caps in the Legislature. The NDP moved amendments to a government bill--it wasn't a stand-alone motion to implement hard caps. The Liberals voted against it not because they opposed hard caps but because they thought the government bill itself was weak. So Mason is misrepresenting the Liberal position.

Posted February 21, 2008 07:26 PM

Stelmach is right - this is not Question Period.

If it was, all he would have done so far was evade every question, made sarcastic remarks, and snorted and barked like a seal any time a Minister responded to a question.

Posted February 21, 2008 07:25 PM

Kevin Taft has been working from the same plan and using the same rhetoric for years. I haven't heard anything that innovative or promising.

Brian Mason's ideas are noble... but, I think ideas are all the NDP has. It's great to say more spaces for health care professionals will be provided, but where is the infrastructure going to come? Currently, there is not enough physical space in educational institutions to teach these students. There is little space in hospitals for practicuums and less availability for preceptors/on site teachers. The rent controls he's proposed have not been thought through and may end up harming Albertans. Ideas... ideas... ideas.

Ed Stelmach is trying to band aid many of the problems that currently exist and he hasn't put a long term, sustainable plan in place for any of hot button issues.

I have no idea where my vote will go.

Posted February 21, 2008 07:24 PM

Mr. Taft and Mr. Mason are both lighting a fire underneath Mr. Stelmach in the environmental debate. Oil companies don't really have another place to go. They won't pull out because of hard caps on emmissions. Mr. Taft right now is being very persuasive. Our Conservative Government is not doing anywhere near enough. Bringing rapid change onto the... now Taft and Mason are bickering like school children! Where was I? New environmentally friendly industries will thrive when caps are placed on, and people will rise to the challenge. Historically economies have bettered through challenging times, and forcing our economy to drop oil will find better, environmentally friendly and cost-effective ways to do so.

Posted February 21, 2008 07:24 PM

Ed has lost my vote. Too many years of being taken for granted. I am switching to the Liberals this election. In order for democracy to function, we need a viable, effective opposition.

Good bye Ed!

Posted February 21, 2008 07:24 PM

Hinman seems to be the only person who understands basic ecnomomics. Want to get oil companies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions? Give them incenvtive. Want hospitals to reduce wait times? Give them incentives.

I'm sick of politicians saying things like, "Oh, we have a plan to put hard caps AND save jobs and investment." Love to see how that will work.

Hinman has definitely impressed me the most.

Posted February 21, 2008 07:24 PM

Why isn't alberta a leader on the environmental issues? how selfish can we be? the environment is going to come back and bite us hard.

Posted February 21, 2008 07:24 PM

It astounds me the royalty regime is not pegged down. Stelmach is saying what a big increase he has put in where in reality he has dropped the royalty rate from 25% down to 19%

The minister of Energy answered my letter with garbage saying it was for the betterment of Alberta. etc.

Posted February 21, 2008 07:23 PM

B.C. just instituted a carbon tax that represents a real move to finally start doing something about the biggest problem the world faces. Will our party leaders commit to following suit?
Kevin Taft so far has been the strongest on climate change, followed by Brian Mason.
Mr. Stelmach's plan is not a plan at all but merely a continuation of the status quo — he repeats the oil companies' party line — do it our way or we'll leave and you'll all lose your jobs. Give us a break!

Posted February 21, 2008 07:23 PM

I've been impressed with Ed Stelmach in this debate.

Posted February 21, 2008 07:23 PM

Since these leaders enjoy fighting amonst each other, lets put them in a ring, and box!
Make the one still standing the Premier!

Posted February 21, 2008 07:23 PM

hardest choice ever as not one of these have won me over

Posted February 21, 2008 07:23 PM

current tory government is run by bureaucrats instead of politicians.

need a new government to show that the voters are actually in charge instead of the bureaucrats

widespread conflict of interest problems over environmental issues

Posted February 21, 2008 07:22 PM

It appears that Wildrose Alliance is the only party really putting brand new ideas out there for debate.

Posted February 21, 2008 07:22 PM

How long before someone pulls a Barrack Obama and talks about red and blue states, enough about change!! Talk about the issues!!

Posted February 21, 2008 07:22 PM

Ed Stelmach lost me in his opening statement when he said that they've "dealt with" the environment.

Yeah, thanks for that.

Haven't decided how I'm going to vote yet, but it sure won't be PC.

Posted February 21, 2008 07:22 PM

Stelmach didn't answer the question. He heard the word "environment" and delivered a pre-packaged answer.

Posted February 21, 2008 07:21 PM

Hinnman should run for the Republicans! He is even meaner-spirited than the Conservatives.

Posted February 21, 2008 07:21 PM

Facebook? I support NDP through that as well!

Posted February 21, 2008 07:21 PM

How tiring it is to see the ghosts of the NEP resurrected in a weak attempt to connect the Alberta Liberals with the federal Liberal Party. They are separate, just as Stelmach's PC's have nothing to do with the federal Conservatives. We are smarter than that, Mr.Stelmach.

Posted February 21, 2008 07:21 PM

I fully agree with Jill! There are hundreds if not thousands of students who get turned away from medical school in Calgary and Edmonton every year. The problem is NOT a lack of interest in health care professions but rather a lack of TRAINING SPOTS! I therefore do not understand why Mr. Stelmach proposes this high school will fix anything at all. It just seems to be an attempt to propose something "innovative" to list as a PC "idea" to fix the health care shortcomings.

Posted February 21, 2008 07:21 PM

I wonder if anyone will address Aboriginal issues in Alberta? The liberals have clearly laid out their ideas and such on their website. The PC party website does not clearly lay out the platform and I could not find any information regarding Aboriginal issues in Alberta.

Posted February 21, 2008 07:21 PM

This is a real debate! All the leaders are surprising me with their eloquence. It is fantastic that we finally have an election with parties who are actually competing for our votes!

Posted February 21, 2008 07:20 PM

It astounds me why the leaders will not tie down the Royalty rates!.

We had a royalty regime of 25% on completed producing projects in the tar sands. Mr. Stelmach announced increases to this in a very odd ball presentation. Then, promptly reduced the royalties on these same projects to 19% when the Canadian Dollar went up against the US.
The royalty regime was pegged at US Sweet Crude prices at New York in US dollars.

Posted February 21, 2008 07:20 PM

Kevin Taft and the Lberal Party have my vote, hands down.

Posted February 21, 2008 07:20 PM

Stelmach, which is more important, a environment to live in, or a few extra dollars. As a minor, I can't vote, but I believe that Stelmachs values are not in the right place. I've been a tory for many years, but you've lost my vote most likely, If i'd had one

Posted February 21, 2008 07:19 PM

The question about Leadership was poorly answered by all. The one that shows the most leadership is Taft....he is someone that can get your attention and connect more with the voter. He can speak off the cuff whereas Stelmac cannot. Stelmac is NOT a leader. He has visibly rehersed material and keeps repeating himself. He has no passion and vision...as someone already mentioned, he comes across very stiff and cardboard-like.

Posted February 21, 2008 07:19 PM

Taft has been the most postive and focused.

Time and time again, I find he says what I am thinking.

Mason has been an annoying barking dog. He attacks anyone and everyone and then beats his chest on issues he claims are NDP issues. GIVE ME A BREAK. Saskatchewan NDP closed hospitals!!!!!

Posted February 21, 2008 07:19 PM

Right on Jill. Unbelievable that the Government, with access to all its high priced civil servants could allow such patently absurb policy (high school medical stream) into its platform

Posted February 21, 2008 07:19 PM

Stelmach shows how clueless he is to people leaving Alberta... True people are still comming to the province but look at how many are packing up and leaving this province for Saskatchewan, Ontario, East coast, anywhere but here.. Why? Because his government has trashed this provinces health care system, hes allowed Landlords to gouge renters so people cant afford to live here and if your not making $20+/hr you cant afford anything here... Time to dump the government & its clueless leader and start repairing the severe damage they've done!

Posted February 21, 2008 07:19 PM

Ed is clearly the most knowledgeable, diplomatic and respectful.

The tactics of the opposition leaders are not going to gain any voters.

Posted February 21, 2008 07:19 PM

Ed says doing nothing on the environment is achievable - I guess it is

Posted February 21, 2008 07:18 PM

I am actually very surprised with Brian Mason. He appears to be the most poised. Stelmach seems to have a tough time doing much more than regurgitating what he's been told to say. Taft is flailing at every issue rather than trying to be the well poised figure the Premier is not. Hinman is doing a good job and holding his own.

Posted February 21, 2008 07:18 PM

The Green Party is not part of the debate because they do not have a seat. Look for the Green Party responses on YouTube after the debate!

Posted February 21, 2008 07:18 PM

The Alberta tar sands are a toxic legacy for our children. They are the leading cause of greenhouse gas emission growth in canada and could destroy an area the size of Florida. Stelmach needs to start standing up to big oil and listening to the people of this province who are saying NO TO THE TAR SANDS

Posted February 21, 2008 07:18 PM

That intro music to the debate after each break is pretty sucky too. I wonder why they don't use questions from peoples e-mails as well, they do that in the USA president debates as far as I have seen.

Posted February 21, 2008 07:17 PM

Brian Mason has impressed..he's passionate and articulate. Ed Stelmach has no environmental plan and is directed by big business...his environmental plan does not put forth a leadership role...BC has the leadership role.

Posted February 21, 2008 07:17 PM

Mr. Ed Stelmach saying that he always puts people first is absolute rubbish! The fact that they continually call upon the per capital income, does not take into account the average middle-class citizen. Many people are not seeing wage increases except those in certain areas of infrastructure. Do teachers, doctors, veterinarians, and people who work in the service industry recieve more pay? No, only those who have any connection to the Oil Industry are gaining money. But their increased wages do not take into account the rampant inflation rising in this country.

Posted February 21, 2008 07:17 PM

Why no green party?

Posted February 21, 2008 07:16 PM

Wow I really like how Brian Mason told Ed Stelmach that not everyone is enjoying the prosperity in this province. Stick up for the small guy!

I can't believe Hinman is actually not trying to cover up the fact that his interests are with the oil companies.

Posted February 21, 2008 07:16 PM

Hinnman has too, I would say.

Posted February 21, 2008 07:15 PM

Mason impressed me about the people, why are they paying a rent increase of $1000.
Stelmach doesn't care what the average citizen paying high rent, can't put food on the table.
Stelmach shows me that if I were an oil company, then hes my leader
If I were a voter, it wouldn't be him.

Posted February 21, 2008 07:15 PM

Kevin Taft has a facebook account. Ed Stelmach does not. This shows that Taft is reaching out to the youth of ALBERTA (the next generation) Taft is really impressing me.

Posted February 21, 2008 07:14 PM

What about Hinman vs Stelmach? Who are these Wildrose guys? Hinman is a bit robotic, but at least shows signs of life. Stelmach?

Posted February 21, 2008 07:13 PM

I am worried that Albertans are going to be making their decisions based on appearances and "talking points".

So far only Paul Hinman is presenting a real plan and a real strategy by no one is giving him any credit.

Everyone else is simply reading scripted answers and trying to bash the others.

Posted February 21, 2008 07:13 PM

I am a 17 year old high school student and I haven't really understood what has been since the vote period until today that I started watching this debate.
I can't believe that every other party particularly the NDP Party keeps dropping bombs on Ed Stelmach instead of focusing on the main issue. It seems what they just want is to get Ed out of the way instead of focusing on Alberta. Ed is doing a great job fending them off.

Posted February 21, 2008 07:12 PM

I don't understand Mr. Stelmach's proposal to introduce a medicine focused high school to increase the number of health care professionals. As far as I know, the problem is NOT finding people interested in health care, but to be able to train enough MDs and nurses. Each year hundreds or even thousands of students are turned down from entering medical school because we only train X number of people each year, which means there is not a lack of interest in health care professions, but rather training positions!

Posted February 21, 2008 07:11 PM

I am a fourth generation Albertan. I am happy to see that the leaders of other parties are finally seeing the mistakes of the Conservatives. Taft seems to have the best solutions at this time

Posted February 21, 2008 07:11 PM

I'm disappointed not to be hearing from the Green Party - were they not invited?

Posted February 21, 2008 07:11 PM

Kevin Taft constantly talks about a plan, and yet he has never laid out a plan of his own. The only plan that has been laid out is through the PC's.

Posted February 21, 2008 07:11 PM

We need creative and innovative solutions from our government. With the affluence that we enjoy, there should be no reason for failing infrastructure, second class health care, over crowded and leaky schools and universities. The conservatives have had almost 40 years to manage our resources. They have failed us.

The natural resources that we have in this province belong to us, the people. We expect our government to manage these resources on our behalf. Don't let the Oil and Gas industry to manage us. We own the oil and gas resources. How can we believe the cry of the oil and gas industry about the $1.2B in increased royalties while they are cheering multi-billion dollar profits in the era of over $100 a barrel?

I am still waiting to hear something new from these leaders. Not fear mongering on what a former Liberal PM might have said. Yes, Alberta is still part of Canada and will remain one.

Posted February 21, 2008 07:10 PM

I cannot believe that people can support someone who finds the solution to the healthcare shortage by creating a health care directed high school. Not every student knows in gr.10 that they want to be in the medical field. This will further divide and stream our high school students which is not proven to be beneficial. I attend the U of A and I know that hundreds of student are completely driven towards going to medical school. The libraries are packed full of students pouring over textbooks. There are students who WANT to be in medical school but the SPACES are not there!

Posted February 21, 2008 07:09 PM

Being only seventeen, and inelligble to vote, I don't legally count. However that does not mean that I don't have an opinion. At this stage of the debate, I am growing quite impressed with Mr. Brian Mason of the NDP. He is being very charismatic and quite lively in pointing out the flaws of the current and past Alberta Governments. As is Mr. Taft of the Liberals. We need the change in Health Care, we need the additional doctors and nurses. Mr. Stelmach is floundering in my opinion and avoiding the issues while still trying to gloss over the flaws of his government. I recall in his opening statement that "...we've dealt with the environment...". The environment has NOT been dealt with yet. Mr. Stelmach has been continually calling on the past fourteen months of his legislation, reminding Albertans what he has accomplished. And I am forced to ask, what has he truly accomplished? What plan does he have to address the critical issues on the environment, on the royalties, on even something as basic and socialist, which does not mean it's evil by labeling something as socialist, as public health care? We need REAL change to address REAL problems of today!

Posted February 21, 2008 07:09 PM

Did anyone else notice that Ed Stelmach looks like a wind up muppet?

Posted February 21, 2008 07:09 PM

Unfortunately, long on rhetoric & short on specifics.
Mr Mason strike me a evasive, Taft is negative and Mr Stelmach is a bit uncertain.

More specifics please

(maybe moderators can ask yes/no question to pin down some specifics?)

Please manage the debate so we can hear responses...
(Although Mr Stelmach seems the most polite ...)

Posted February 21, 2008 07:09 PM

I swear, if Alberta votes in Taft as our leader, i would consider moving from this province.

Posted February 21, 2008 07:08 PM

It seems that for those putting the questions forward in this debate, the clarity is being lost. The leaders have only said they agree that public health care is the solution. Where is the Premiere on his promise to eliminate health care premiums 14 months ago?
Now apparently another 4 years with his government.

We still have no solutions for housing that is affordable for ALL Albertans, no plans going forward to including all albertans in the process of making government policies that address the majorities. Most incredible is no one is putting these leaders positions on the record and where that position is transparent enough that every voter can identify and is able to trust and believe in their individual vote based on those clear and transparent positions. He said, he said is no way to run a government which is suppose to represent ALL ALBERTANS. WE WANT EVERY ISSUE AND THE LEADERS AND PARTIES POSITION ON THE RECORD!

Posted February 21, 2008 07:08 PM

The Premier made a comment about making Alberta a better place for all. I guess this does not include renters. What will he do for renters to protect them from becoming homeless and/or having to move away from Alberta?

Posted February 21, 2008 07:07 PM

Brian Mason has the best message.

Posted February 21, 2008 07:07 PM

The town hall vote should be open to everyone.

Posted February 21, 2008 07:06 PM

Stelmach-Leadership DOES NOT trump issues

Posted February 21, 2008 07:06 PM

Mason is absolutely terrible. Way to split that vote Brian. I sometimes think he's a closet tory who just wants to ensure a pc government

Posted February 21, 2008 07:06 PM

two things: no one is rebutting the fact that the liberals and the tories both are funded by corporations and when elected have masters to pay! why don't they? because they can't defend themselves.

for example, salaried doctors -- an NDP idea -- brings healthcare to where people live daily rather than allows healthcare to be an opportunity for capitalist enterprise

Posted February 21, 2008 07:05 PM

My heart is just going in my shoe - lots of childish babbling, argument, and running around the issues. I wonder if rent controls will be brought up - not affordable housing - that doesn't help the thousands of people that cannot afford to live in their places they have lived for 15 years. Not just the poor or on fixed incomes, lots of working people I know - cannot afford the disgusting raises in rent. But this issue will be ignored.

Posted February 21, 2008 07:05 PM

Kevin Taft is demonstrating strong leadership - he has a clear vision for the future of Alberta, he has charted a course for the future, he looks like a leader

Posted February 21, 2008 07:05 PM

Taft by far has the best "TV" personality, but I'm not sure how much substance there is to what he is saying. I feel that Mason has the most "realness" to him, he isn't a stuffy cardboard cut-out like Stelmach or a too-smooth salesman like Taft.

Posted February 21, 2008 07:04 PM

Brian Mason made a comment that his party was at the forefront when the PC's wanted to bring in public health care. I don't remember hearing about any public forums held by the NDP.

I do remember attending one held by the Liberals here in Calgary, where people were given an opportunity to air their concerns and ask questions. It was one of three.

I think that Brian Mason's memory may have been a little off.

Posted February 21, 2008 07:04 PM

Taft just has more polish as a speaker. Look at what the party really stands for and don't be swayed by sweet talk.

Posted February 21, 2008 07:04 PM

Stelmach is the only one who seems to have an idea of what needs to be done for ALL Albertans.

Posted February 21, 2008 07:04 PM

Stelmach is showing he is far from capable of turning around the devastated health care system of our Province; created by Klein. It looks like Taft is the only one showing real leadership and ideas.

Posted February 21, 2008 07:04 PM

Brian Mason has a lot of strong policies and seems the most trustworthy on Health Care

Posted February 21, 2008 07:04 PM

"Taft is creaming the lot of them so far (and that's coming from a non-liberal)."

Agree completely. Stelmach is sounding a lot like Harper.. sounds like he is using his techniques.. to even how he is moving his hands..and he is fumbling to find answers to novels points during the open debate.. and using rehearsed material.

disappointing

Posted February 21, 2008 07:03 PM

NOt Ed Stalmach! He has lost my vote when he stated he has presented his environmental plan! If he considers that an environmental plan, if he gets reelected, we will be lost!
I'm not too impressed with Mr Taft thinking enough is being spent currently on health care. You can't have a growing population without somewhere for them to live, preferably afforable, or an increase in education and health care costs! More people mean more expense and more housing! It's not hard to calculate that equation!

Posted February 21, 2008 07:02 PM

I find this debate useless. Each candidate pukes general and vague statistics and ideals about 'change', 'innovation', etc; it's all he said/she said. We need an independent moderator that has the generally recognised statistics on hand to validate or discount what is being said. If candidates can lie/bend the truth, then things just come down to a word fight...

Posted February 21, 2008 07:02 PM

Brian Mason has real issues and knows how badly the PC's have let the province down for too long. Mason is leading the way here, but basically everyone is doing way better than Stelmach.

Posted February 21, 2008 07:01 PM

Taft is making major policy points, making a clear contrast with the Stelmach's babbling about all of his non-initiative initiatives.

Posted February 21, 2008 07:00 PM

Health care,
its a shambles, long waits at medical clinics, hospitals, overworked staff, lack of staff.. the list goes on.
Clearly the current govt doesn't care, time for change,
right now its Taft

Posted February 21, 2008 06:59 PM

I think that Taft is taking the easy route by pointing out the flaws of the previous government without providing much rebuttle. It seems that Ed has some of the most pointed, thought out plans...beside the "bulk drug buying" idea. I hope someone lets a real strategic plan slip out.

Posted February 21, 2008 06:58 PM

A free debate? A childish shouting match. Where is the moderator in this? This is a nonsensical insult to intelligence. When you can find a moderator and a debate that follows some semblance of order, then advertise this as a debate. I will not allow my children to watch such a rude exchange. There is nothing to be gained when no-one can hear. This is an exercise in observing fools who are bereft of courtesy and most likely intelligence as well.

Posted February 21, 2008 06:58 PM

It's cynical and disingenuous to suggest that the Liberals' and Conservatives' positions are the same. Clearly, Mr. Taft is the best-informed of the debaters tonight, and his party is the only realistic, practical alternative to a rudderless and tired Tory party.

Posted February 21, 2008 06:56 PM

Taft is creaming the lot of them so far (and that's coming from a non-liberal).

Posted February 21, 2008 06:55 PM

Only Stelmach is stating ideas, the others especially Mason are just yapping about the leader. Such dialog only bores the audience and causes a channel change. V.Brigs.

Posted February 21, 2008 06:54 PM

Stelmach represents 37 years of mismanagement. Did I just hear Stelmach agree with NDP -- the "70s socialist" -- on the drugs?

Kevin Taft is right. It was the PCs who blew up the General Hospital in Calgary, closed down Holy Cross, Colonel Belcher, Grace Women's!!! And now we are short of beds! No wonder.

Considering the wealth of this province, I am appalled at the mismanagement by this government.

Citizen's apathy is largely responsible. We get the government we deserve. And apparently, we deserve the conservatives!

Posted February 21, 2008 06:54 PM

I just turned 18 and I am a new voter in Alberta. I have always leaned left of center but the person who is impressing me the most is Taft. He is a person who knows how to talk and knows how to get your attention. Stelmac is a sinking farther into a quicksand pit of poor communication and debating skills which will seal his coffin in this debate. He looks more like a Funeral house employie than a strong political leader. As far as I have seen, though he hasn't talked much, Taft is leading this debate in style and strength.

Posted February 21, 2008 06:54 PM

The debate times of 45 seconds to answer a question and 30 seconds for rebuttals is not enough. The question on Health Care asked what was wrong and what would you do to improve it.....one cannot possibly answer that effectively in 45 secs. There is not enought time for candidates to get down to some of the details to differentiate their policies. They should have 2 mins. to answer a question and then 45 secs. for rebuttal. Also, the free for all is a disaster. They are just talking over each other and the viewer cannot get any clear idea of what each is saying. A poor strategy by CBC in my opinion.

Posted February 21, 2008 06:53 PM

No wonder people see politics as a waste. Who can get anything out of a free for all of people talking over people!!!

Posted February 21, 2008 06:52 PM

I want a new government! Mason and the NDP are passionate but I don't want a louder opposition, I want a new government. Fact is Taft and the Alberta Liberals are the only ones who can do it and they've got my vote.

Posted February 21, 2008 06:51 PM

Choosing between Taft and Stelmach is like choosing between Pepsi and Coke. The only real choice is Mason who knows what it's like to be an average working person like me.

Posted February 21, 2008 06:50 PM

stelmach is impressing me the most. I hear the ndp complaining but devoid of good suggestions, and I hear the same from Mr. Taft. He basically says the opposite of the conservatives - this is not leadership.

Posted February 21, 2008 06:48 PM

Please manage the open debate to stop participants overtalking who ever has the floor.

Thanks

Posted February 21, 2008 06:48 PM

right now its Taft, Liberal Leader

Posted February 21, 2008 06:47 PM

Wow I am shocked at how Kevin Taft went over Brian Mason - shouldn't they both be going after the Premier? I don't think the free debate form worked. I am glad to see the question coming out now.

Posted February 21, 2008 06:46 PM

What was CBC, CTV, and Global thinking picking this format? The free debate is going to be a waste of time as you'll never hear what the leaders are saying. It is possible to get a mulligan here.

Posted February 21, 2008 06:46 PM

As a 26-year-old, who feels that the needs and desires of his generation have not been addressed by the Liberals or Conservatives, the NDP and Brian Mason have impressed me most. I believe in socialistic values, sustainability, and accountability. Our current government bows to big business and private interests and does not address its citizens real concerns! I want an improvement on social programs, taxes and environmental policies. We need REAL change!

Posted February 21, 2008 06:44 PM