I want to start by thanking each and every one of you attended my 4th Annual “Session is Back” Office Pizza Party on October 19. Not only is this a great chance for us all to enjoy some terrific pizza from Mojo’s right here in Calgary-Currie, but it also provides me with another opportunity to hear from you about work your government is doing to make lives better across our riding and province. So, thank you sharing your time with me, I am honoured to be your representative in the legislature.
As Minister of Service Alberta, I was pleased to join Minister Mason to announce changes to Alberta’s driver testing program that will improve transparency and safety, while maintaining services for Albertans in their communities. Effective March 1, 2019, all driver examinations will be conducted by Government of Alberta employees. Fees for road tests for all classes of driver’s licences will be standardized and services will be accessible at registry agent locations across the province.
Next week I will take part in numerous Remembrance Day ceremonies at schools and in communities across our riding and Calgary honouring the sacrifices made by our men and women in military uniform. Let us take this opportunity to not only remember our history of conflict and the brave Canadians who have served, but also commit to work for a future of peace.
Just a reminder that on November 13 the City of Calgary is holding its plebiscite on the 2026 Winter Olympics. Earlier this year the provincial and federal governments announced that $20.5 million would be put toward the creation of an Olympic bid committee, with Alberta’s $10 million supported tied to this plebiscite gauging support for the bid. There is no blank cheque for a Calgary Olympics, despite our government’s support for a plebiscite on hosting the 2026 Winter Games, but I hope that every single Calgarian takes this opportunity and casts a ballot.
And remember, to get your flu shot now! Two weeks ago now, flu vaccines were made available, free of charge, to Albertans six months of age and older at locations around the province. For more information on Alberta’s influenza immunization program, including local clinic schedules, visit www.ahs.ca/influenza or call Health Link at 811.
~ Brian
