It’s springtime in Alberta! The snow is gone, the geese are back, the days are longer, the NHL playoffs are heating up — and Alberta’s farmers are almost finished seeding.
While American tariffs are not currently impacting Alberta’s agriculture sector, our farmers, ranchers, and food processors are keeping a watchful eye on the global trade situation. Alberta’s government remains vigilant, too, as we continue to advocate for continued protection of our agricultural products.
At the same time, we’re taking action to strengthen support for Alberta’s producers here at home. Alberta’s government has launched a new “Buy Local” advertising campaign to raise awareness about the incredible range of locally made foods and products, to leverage Alberta pride, and to inspire more consumers to choose local whenever they shop or dine out.
Supporting local is about more than pride — it’s about sustaining Alberta jobs, Alberta families, and Alberta communities. Choosing Alberta-made products — from farm-fresh vegetables and potatoes to honey, craft beer, frozen foods and our world-renowned beef — keeps Albertans’ hard-earned dollars right here in our province. It’s never been more important to show support in any way we can.
To help consumers easily identify Alberta and Canadian-made products, the province has launched a new website featuring tools to make buying local easier than ever. The site also offers links to farmers’ markets, events and activities where Albertans can connect directly with the folks who make, bake and grow our food. You can check it out here: alberta.ca/buy-local-alberta.
While we’re working hard to support local producers here at home, we’re also standing up for them abroad. On March 20, China imposed new tariffs on Canadian agricultural and food products — a disappointing move that poses a real threat to Alberta’s farmers, ranchers, and food processors. Alberta’s government is actively working with international partners to defend our agriculture sector, protect market access, and expand opportunities around the world. Our producers are known globally for consistent, high-quality products, and we’ll continue doing everything we can to support them through this challenging time.
This summer, there will be more than 150 farmers markets open across Alberta. It’s a perfect opportunity to support local vendors, discover homegrown products, and meet the hardworking people who are feeding Alberta, Canada, and the world.
When you shop local, you’re not just buying food — you’re investing in Alberta’s future. So, the next time you’re picking up groceries, grabbing a meal with family, or getting together with friends, show your Alberta side. Buy local!
On May 5, Premier Smith addressed Albertans with an update on the steps our government is taking to determine a path forward for the province following the election of a new Prime Minister. This government recognizes the importance of forging a productive, positive relationship with the federal government, and wholeheartedly supports a strong Alberta within a united Canada that respects our constitutional rights, facilitates our resource development, and treats us as an equal partner. If you haven’t already, I encourage you to watch Premier Smith’s entire speech so that the context of her words remains intact. It is available at alberta.ca/article-alberta-next-albertans-to-decide-path-forward-for-the-province.
The Legislative Assembly has a new Speaker! The Speaker is the person who maintains orderly debate in the chamber and ensures the members conduct their business according to parliamentary rules. Like all other members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs), the Speaker is an elected official who represents one of Alberta’s 87 constituencies. Usually, MLAs elect the Speaker from among themselves by secret ballot following a provincial election. The Hon. Nathan Cooper, MLA for Olds-Didsbury-Three Hills, held the position of Speaker from May 21, 2019, to May 7, 2025, when he accepted an appointment by the premier as Alberta’s new senior representative to the United States. We are all delighted by the premier’s choice and quite happy knowing that our highly respected colleague will represent Alberta’s interests well in Washington.
Of course, the resulting vacancy required the election of a new Speaker. On May 13, 2025, Hon. Ric McIver, MLA for Calgary-Hays, was elected by the Members of the Legislative Assembly as the 15th Speaker of the House.
Most recently, Speaker McIver served as Minister of Municipal Affairs. He has a long history in public service, having served as Minister of Transportation, Minister of Infrastructure, and Minister of Jobs, Skills, Training and Labour. Before turning to provincial leadership, he served on Calgary city council for three terms. It is my pleasure to congratulate my friend and colleague on his new role!
If you are interested in learning more about the roles of the Speaker and Presiding Officers of the Legislative Assembly, there is plenty of information available online.
By the time this article is published, we will have wrapped up the First Session of the 31st Legislature. Information is available assembly.ab.ca about the progress of bills through the Legislature this session.
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Hon. Rick Wilson is the Member of the Legislative Assembly for Maskwacis-Wetaskiwin. His constituency office can be reached by email at Maskwacis.wetaskiwin@assembly.ab.ca, or by phone at 780-360-8003.
