Change is inevitable, MLA tells Rotary
Airdrie-Chestermere MLA Rob Anderson told the Airdrie Rotary Club that he is more optimistic about politics in the province than he has been since he started his career.
On Feb. 8, Anderson spoke to a room of Rotarians about the approval of new schools in the 2011 provincial budget, controlling government spending, a new PC leader and his crossing the floor to the Wildrose Alliance last year.
“I’m not here to tell you how wonderful the Wildrose Alliance is,” he said.
“Things are changing in the province because for the first time in 40 years, there is a credible opposition party. The policy is changing to more responsible government, more open and transparent democracy. We have created an infusion of debate and competition.”
Although change is coming slower than Anderson would like to see, he said it is inevitable.
“Whether the PCs change their policies with the new leader or the province supports the Wildrose, there will be change. People are telling us they want a new choice – a new voice.”
Anderson said he did his part to instigate change when he crossed the floor in January 2010.
“Most people in the community have been supportive of me, others took some time to come around and still others accuse me of being a traitor, but I refused to lie to my constituents,” he said.
“I could not look you folks in the eyes and tell you things like Bill 50 and the centralization of health care are good for you. I must be loyal to constituents first and foremost. You voted for me to be your voice to the government, not the government’s voice to you.”
Anderson dispelled any rumours about the Wildrose Alliance joining a new PC Party.
“I really don’t think that is going to happen,” he said.
“The goal of the PC Party is clear and I continue to see people sacrifice their principles to further their career. We will not be part of that.”
He said he feels hopeful for the province and the people in it.
“I love the potential the province has, the people and the fact that it has something unique to Canada and the world,” he said.
“When you look at your kids, you know what this province could be if we let people and our province achieve its full potential.”
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