Alberta will use today’s prosperity to benefit future generations of Albertans, starting with a $1-billion deposit in the Heritage Fund, Premier Klein announced in his annual televised address.

“We made wise investments in new roads, schools, medical facilities and research, and more spaces at our post-secondary institutions. Now it is critical that we use today’s prosperity to save for the future and invest in areas that will create the kind of province that Albertans imagine for their children and grandchildren,” Klein said in the February 21 address.

The government will also make a significant investment in cancer prevention, research and treatment to help make Alberta a leader in cancer expertise and significantly reduce cancer rates.

Did you know?

Alberta’s coal contains twice the energy of all the province’s other non-renewable energy resources? More on coal.

Supporting the development of clean coal technology is also a high priority. Alberta already uses clean coal to meet more than half of the province’s electricity needs, but more can be done.

Other highlights of the address include:

• A strategy to address labour force shortages.
• Innovative approaches to a more sustainable health care system.
• Improved standards for long-term care for seniors.
• Improved policing.
• Action on threats to Alberta’s youth, such as crystal meth.

The 25-minute program also included Albertans sharing their reflections on Alberta and their hopes for its future.

More information

• Read and watch the Premier’s address
• News release