Introduction

This Speech from the Throne was given by the Honourable Lois Hole at the opening of the Legislature in the fall of 2001.  Throne Speeches generally follow the same format, so read on to learn more about what they are all about!

FELLOW ALBERTANS, it is my pleasure to welcome you to the First Session of the Twenty-fifth Alberta Legislature. Once again, I have the privilege of delivering the Speech from the Throne.

Today begins a new legislative session with a new group of legislators who have been chosen by Albertans to represent them in this Chamber. Some are returning members, others are new. All have been given a solemn responsibility and a duty to honour the trust that has been placed upon them.

As the business of this Assembly is conducted, I urge all members to respect the charge that has been placed upon them, to conduct themselves in a manner that reflects the importance of their undertaking, and to remember that they are here in service to the people of this province.

It was only two months ago that I laid out the government's vision for Alberta's future. It was a vision of low taxes, no provincial debt, a strong economy, new jobs for our young people, sound infrastructure, good health care and education systems, stable agricultural communities, safe streets, and reliable social programs.

During the course of the provincial election campaign, Albertans learned more about that vision, and the government's plan to achieve it. They talked about it with others. They thought about it. And on March 12, they endorsed it with their votes.

That plan still stands. I'm not going to repeat it today, because Albertans already know what the plan is. It's the plan they voted for. And it's the plan the government will now carry out, aided by a new configuration of ministries to address priority areas.

Today, this Assembly begins the work of making that vision a reality.