Stop talking coal, protect Rockies with legislation, Alta. opposition tells premier

Kathleen Ganley speaks during a news conference in Vancouver on Friday, Sept. 15, 2017. Energy critic Ganley spoke out Saturday about the upcoming provincial budget, criticizing the UCP for suggestions that it may de-index payments for AISH and other social benefits.(THE CANADIAN PRESS/Darryl Dyck)

Alberta's Opposition New Democrats want the provincial government to end any uncertainty about the future of the province's Rocky Mountains by legislating that no new coal mines will be permitted there.

Energy critic Kathleen Ganley says Premier Danielle Smith's recent suggestion that she might reopen discussions on a mine already denied federal and provincial permits just roils the waters on an idea Albertans have already said they don't support.

Smith reportedly told people in Crowsnest Pass, an area of southwestern Alberta, she would consider supporting the Grassy Mountain mine if enough local people showed they were behind it, perhaps through a local referendum.

But Ganley says Albertans have already been surveyed on coal mining in the Rockies and have responded decisively they don't want it.

She says suggesting things could be different just adds uncertainty for both local people and businesses considering investing in Alberta.

Ganley says Smith's musings show the current ministerial order protecting Alberta's summits and foothills isn't enough and that legislation is needed. 

"The (governing United Conservative Party's) own actions have demonstrated incredibly clearly why legislation is needed," she said. 

"I don't think we need a referendum. Albertans have spoken loud and clear."

Ganley said instead of talking about coal mines, Smith should be working on economic development options for Alberta's coal towns.

"We do need a plan for good-paying jobs," she said. 

Smith's office did not immediately respond to a request for comment. 

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Oct. 20, 2022.