The Province remains skeptical of the federal pharmacare program, which now covers diabetes medication and birth control under Bill C-64. Alberta Health Minister Adriana LaGrange expressed concern about the lack of a long-term vision and financial support for national pharmacare, emphasizing Alberta's preference for its existing drug coverage programs. She stressed the need for meaningful collaboration with the federal government to avoid duplicating services or creating unnecessary administrative burdens. The federal government aims to reach pharmacare agreements with provinces by spring 2025, but Alberta continues to advocate for predictable and sustainable health funding.
Alberta nurses are considering a mediator-recommended settlement. The proposed deal includes pay increases ranging from 12% to 22% over four years, along with significant raises for some pay premiums. The United Nurses of Alberta had initially sought a 30% raise over two years, while the government offered 7.5% over four years. The union, representing over 30,000 nurses, had been considering a strike vote before this settlement recommendation. A ratification vote takes place on October 30th.
Starting October 20th, homebuyers in Alberta will see an increase in fees for land transfers and mortgage registrations. The land transfer fee will rise from $2 to $5 per $5,000 of the purchase price, while the mortgage registration fee will increase from $1.50 to $5 per $5,000 of the mortgage amount. According to the Alberta Real Estate Association, the tax really shouldn't be there in the first place.
