A government news release on Wednesday confirmed that grocery and convenience stores will not be allowed to sell liquor. There are already more than 1,600 liquor stores in Alberta, selling a total of 36,000 liquor products and the concern is these retail outlets would suffer if grocery and convenience stores were permitted to sell liquor. The Convenience Industry Council of Canada thinks the government buckled under pressure from the owners of the retail outlets. It looks like another decision that goes against the government’s philosophy of a level playing field and freedom of choice making one wonder how principled the UCP really are.
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith blasted the Liberals’ recent Senate appointments, touted her government’s economic recovery from NDP debt, and warned Alberta Health Services to improve or face consequences in a sweeping address on healthcare and leadership.
When I read Lorne Gunter's take on Alberta's 2023-24 fiscal year surplus of $4.3 billion surplus I was reminded of the phrase "Let them eat cake" which is said to have been spoken by Marie Antoinette upon being told that the peasants had no bread.
Much of Albert's $4.3 billion surplus comes from the 13 cents/litre gasoline tax imposed upon the people when they fill up their vehicles. The $4.3 billion surplus belongs to the people (peasants/hoi polloi) who have been eating cake and at the very least would appreciate some ice cream to go with their cake (removal of the gas tax).
Premier Smith - I'd like 2 scoops, 1 pistachio & 1 salted caramel. Thank You.