StettlerLocal.com Julu 26, 2021 @ 7:15 pm
Drumheller - Stettler MLA, and Associate Minister of Rural Economic Development, Nate Horner, spoke with StettlerLocal.com today on his way to Edmonton for a series of meetings.
Of his new appointment as associate minister, Horner says it’s been a bit of a blur lately as he adjusts to the new position, but it’s been rewarding for him, and he looks forward to what’s on the horizon.
StettlerLocal.com: Small businesses in our area are struggling to find employees to fully reopen. What is being done to help transition people back to work?
Horner says that the provincial government is dealing with the evolving situation of employment in Alberta. People who have been living on assistance programs are trying to find their way back into a job market that was drastically changing even before the pandemic. One of the biggest challenges is helping people transition from one career to another as the jobs that are now available are changing. Immigration into the province has also had an effect on filling vacant positions. The job market is something the Minister is watching to see how the province can help.
StettlerLocal.com: What’s your view on Alberta’s energy production for oil and gas, and electricity?
Horner stated it’s nice to see the prices in the oil and gas industry recover slightly. He says he sees a ‘bright future’ in the resource sector. It is tricky finding the balance between keeping electricity bills, especially in rural areas, affordable, and not scaring away investors. Alberta is a great place for electricity companies to invest since Alberta doesn’t have as many regulations as other provinces.
StettlerLocal.com: How is the government responding to feedback on the new education curriculum?
Horner says it is important everyone understand that it is still a draft. He notes that in his riding alone, he has seen lots of work done by schools, and school boards, who are sending their recommendations to the education department. He feels the Education Minister is appreciative of the input, and is taking it all into consideration.
StettlerLocal.com: Is the government looking to fund any infrastructure projects in the Stettler area that you would like to highlight?
Horner is excited to see the push for better rural internet connectivity. He feels better internet access across the province will help people be able to work, and live, where they want. This will also help rural communities that would otherwise lose those residents who might have to move away for work. In addition to government funding, Horner notes the importance of making internet infrastructure upgrades viable for investment from the private sector as well.
StettlerLocal.com: Local farmers are frustrated by the growing difference between what they are getting paid for their cattle and the retail cost of beef. Can you explain this spread and what is being done about it?
Horner understands the issue and says this is a topic he was addressing even before getting elected. The packing plants are large organizations that could simply relocate if the situation does not suit them and this would only add to the problem for local farmers. He states competition is the best way to change prices and that smaller, hometown butchers would be a good place to start. He notes that when it comes to food, there are a lot of regulations that need to be followed, and small he knows that operations have a hard time getting started.
Carson Ellis, Reporter
StettlerLocal.com
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