This session has proven that the Official Opposition has an important role to play in defending democratic rights, exposing bad decision-making and corruption, and protecting the vulnerable.

The Stelmach administration’s attempt to muzzle the Public Accounts Committee, chaired by Finance critic Hugh MacDonald, exploded in their faces. They didn’t realize that Albertans still respect democracy and the need for checks and balances. Our efforts to publicize the scandal paid off, and the Tories were forced to back down. I’d like to thank the journalists, columnists and bloggers who kept this issue alive. You helped defend a vitally important democratic tradition.

The public accounts crisis wasn’t the only way the Official Opposition made its mark.

Last week the Tories made a big deal about their upcoming distracted driving legislation. You know who’s been pushing for this legislation all session long? Darshan Kang, Alberta Liberal MLA for Calgary-McCall.

Remember Motion 501, which passed unanimously in the Legislature, urging the government to establish an independent body to review MLA pay and benefits? That Alberta Liberal motion came from our own Bridget Pastoor, MLA for Lethbridge East.

Kent Hehr refused to allow vulnerable Albertans with developmental disabilities to be further victimized by cruel budget cuts. Ultimately, many of those cuts were reversed, thanks in great part to the pressure brought to bear by Kent.

Liberal stalwart Laurie Blakeman fought and won the battle to stop the practice of shady heat metering in apartments, saving thousands of Alberta renters hundreds of dollars.

Kevin Taft exposed the Stelmach administration’s continued disregard for taxpayer money by showing that huge bonuses haven’t gone away despite the Premier’s promises – they continue to be handed out to top executives at Alberta Health Services, while frontline care continues to wither.

Hugh MacDonald blew the whistle on the Olympic train, which ultimately turned into a private luxury for Tory elites and their families.

Harry Chase, the man with the biggest heart in the Legislature, continued to speak out for students and children – from young adults facing massive tuition increases to vulnerable children in foster care.

And as for me? I refuse to meekly accept the picture that some disgruntled people are trying to paint. Dave Taylor may try to take all the credit for our very well-received oil and gas policy, but the truth is I had to push him to complete it. I took the lead on the consultations with oil and gas industry leaders, and it was our caucus staff that put together the policy. Yes, Dave did good work on this policy, and despite everything I’m glad he had a hand in it. But he was far from the only person involved, and it would never have seen the light of day without my leadership and my initiative.
Every leader faces challenges. The Premier himself has experienced twice the number of defections I have, and it’s still two years until the next election – unless of course he calls one early to cut his losses.

You know what? I’ve faced bigger challenges. Do you really think that some harsh language is going to deter me from serving the people of Alberta to the best of my ability?

Not a chance.

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