Economic Development Minister tackles numerous topics by rehashing old information

“Last year we saw the largest private sector investment in Lethbridge’s history – the expansion of Cavendish Farms – and there are many more examples to point to.”

On the subject of pipelines, Bilous noted the obvious, that valuable space is being taken on rail lines for oil shipments, which reduces capacity for agricultural products and manufactured goods. He stressed that the pipeline will get world-class prices for world-class energy producers, provide tens of thousands of jobs and billions for Canada’s economy.

Bilous also insisted that support for the Trans Mountain pipeline is growing across Canada, including in certain circles in B.C.

He reiterated that the pipeline will provide a better price for our product.

“A lot of Canadians don’t realize that Canada has lost about $130 Billion, as we have been subsidizing the U.S. They essentially take our oil at a discount, refine it and sell it, and get top dollar – these are billions of dollars that would go to critical infrastructure projects, supporting our businesses, our communities, our hospitals, our schools, our transportation corridors – it is significant.”

Bilous stated that Premier Rachel Notley has been very clear that her government would do whatever it takes to get the Trans Mountain built, including taking an equity stake in the pipeline.

The Minister confirmed the government has been in discussion with the railways regarding an impending strike and the need to “enhance getting products to market.”

However, he diverted the conversation by noting the issue ties back to the Trans Mountain pipeline and the urgency with which it needs to be built, which will free up capacity that is being used by oil products.

While he explained that there was dialogue between governments and industry on numerous topics, there was no indication of impending solutions.

During a meeting with the Chamber executive, the Minister was given a confidential update on potential future investment that may be coming to Lethbridge. Bilous was not surprised by the possibilities.

“There is a recognition, and a growing recognition internationally, of the opportunities in this area, especially in the agriculture and food processing space.”

Bilous also spoke with Economic Development Lethbridge officials about future economic development opportunities, including discussion about the Lethbridge airport, transportation corridors and the impacts that policy decisions and legislation are having on business owners and communities.

As for stabilization dollars continuing to flow from the province, Bilous said the conversations are on-going between communities and Municipal Affairs, as they look at funding agreements outside of just grants.

The topic of cannabis production was also raised with the minister, who spoke on its potential and the significant opportunities with imminent legalization.

“Recently, there was a national conference in Edmonton, held by the Canadian Cannabis Association, and a few weeks ago they were in Calgary and I had an opportunity to meet with a number of CEOs from across Canada, who have said that Alberta is the best jurisdiction for cannabis companies to invest in – and that’s, in part, because of a model our government has chosen with private dispensaries, but they also recognize that our government has favourable regulations and an ease to do business in the province.”

“We have a significant number of advantages here in Alberta.”

by Dori Modney (@Dori_Modney on Twitter)

Economic Development Minister tackles numerous topics by rehashing old information

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