Alberta Premier Danielle Smith announced that proposed changes to the provincial Bill of Rights are still open for feedback to allow for further modifications. Speaking at the UCP annual general meeting on Nov. 1, Smith highlighted that the amendments to the bill were in response to requests from the membership at last year’s convention. She emphasized that additional changes could be made based on discussions at this year’s convention.
The amendments to the bill include entrenching rights for firearms owners, ensuring just compensation for property rights violations, and guaranteeing that individuals cannot be compelled to take vaccines. Smith expressed openness to feedback during the ongoing debates.
On Nov. 2, during the second day of the convention, Smith will face a leadership vote, and party members will vote on adopting policy resolutions. Although these resolutions are not binding for the government, they reflect the desires of the party members.
The provincial Bill of Rights, initially introduced in 1972 by then-Premier Peter Lougheed, has not undergone significant updates since its inception. The recent amendments tabled by Smith’s government on Oct. 28 aim to protect gun rights, make expropriation of government property more challenging, and expand the scope of freedom of expression beyond written and spoken language to encompass other forms of expression.
It is important to note that the bill applies to laws and actions of the provincial government and does not extend to federal laws or actions by the federal government. The interpretation of certain terms, such as “coerced,” will be left to the courts.
Critics have raised concerns about certain language in the proposed bill, particularly regarding the limitations on freedoms prescribed by law. Some argue that these limitations could potentially allow for violations of fundamental rights and freedoms.
During the convention, with a record attendance of around 6,000 individuals, various party executives and MLAs delivered speeches. Cabinet ministers outlined their major focus areas, including budget planning, public safety, environmental policies, and legal battles with the federal government. Updates on the Bill of Rights amendment, standing up to Ottawa, and banning gender transition for minors received significant applause from the crowd.
The day concluded with party members reviewing and voting on governance resolutions, with a focus on ensuring the protection of rights and freedoms for all Albertans.
Carolina Avendano contributed to this report.
