The Alberta NDP is demanding an immediate commitment from Danielle Smith that she will not proceed with plans to mine the Rocky Mountains for coal.
In a release, the NDP points to recent news articles stating coal mine proponents have expressed hope the Premier will reopen mining activity in the Eastern Slopes of the Rocky Mountains. "We're hoping with this little window with Danielle (Smith) that we can crack that open," said Eric Lowther, a southern Alberta resident and president of Citizens Supportive of Crowsnest Coal.
“Albertans have been clear — they want the government to protect their mountains,” said NDP Energy Critic Kathleen Ganley. “Today, the Alberta NDP is calling for a clear commitment from Danielle Smith that there will be no coal mining in the Eastern Slopes.”
Previously, NDP Leader Rachel Notley twice introduced the Eastern Slopes Protection Act in the Legislature to put a halt to all coal mining activity in the region. The legislation came following online consultations convened by the Official Opposition that were attended by thousands of Albertans concerned about the harmful impacts of coal mining. The UCP used various stall tactics to prevent a formal vote on the Act.
“Passing the Eastern Slopes Protection Act is long overdue,” Ganley said. “We will work with the Government if they’re willing but let’s get this bill through the Legislature during the Fall session.”
Environment Critic Marlin Schmidt noted that the water that flows from the Eastern Slopes provides drinking water to Southern Albert residents and for agricultural operations. Coal mining has the potential to create selenium poisoning in water, Schmidt noted.
"This is terrible. It’s terrible for our drinking water and it will destroy one of the most beautiful places on Earth — our Rocky Mountains,” Schmidt said. “If we mine these beautiful areas, we will never get them back.”
Smith's spokeswoman Rebecca Polak said in an email that responsible resource development is a top priority for the government. "Premier Smith will be meeting with her caucus and future cabinet in the coming weeks, including the minister of environment, to discuss this matter further."
