Smith issues new mandates to prioritize affordability, efficiency in Alberta government
Premier Danielle Smith has issued new mandate letters to her cabinet, emphasizing affordability, disciplined spending and streamlined government services.
The letters, delivered Wednesday, outline priorities for ministers responsible for finance, utilities, technology and innovation, and service Alberta and red tape reduction. The government says the goal is to ensure taxpayer dollars are invested wisely while delivering “lasting results Albertans can count on.”
President of Treasury Board and Minister of Finance Nate Horner is tasked with maintaining disciplined spending, growing the Alberta Heritage Savings Trust Fund to $35 billion by 2027, and keeping Alberta’s net-debt-to-GDP ratio the lowest in Canada. He will also oversee completion of the Automobile Insurance Act regulatory framework and launch the Care-First insurance model by 2027.
“Every taxpayer dollar is spent well. Our goal is to strengthen Alberta’s finances and keep the province well-positioned for long-term growth and opportunity,” Horner said.
Minister of Affordability and Utilities Nathan Neudorf will focus on reliable, affordable electricity, including fighting the federal government’s Clean Electricity Regulation, addressing regional rate disparities, and advancing a nuclear energy roadmap. He will also work with the minister of technology to fast-track AI data centre projects with self-generated power.
“Albertans deserve affordable, reliable power,” Neudorf said. “We’re working toward an energy future that’s brighter, stronger and more affordable for all Albertans.”
Minister of Technology and Innovation Nate Glubish is charged with implementing an AI data centre attraction strategy, launching the province’s digital strategy, developing intellectual property frameworks, and expanding access to high-speed internet.
“By attracting world-class AI data centres and unlocking Alberta-made technology, we’re building a future where innovation drives better services, stronger communities and new opportunities,” Glubish said.
Minister of Service Alberta and Red Tape Reduction Dale Nally will continue efforts to reduce administrative barriers, improve permitting through an “Automatic Yes” policy, and enhance identification security, including incorporating personal health numbers and Canadian citizenship identifiers onto driver’s licences and provincial ID cards.
“Under Premier Smith’s leadership, we are building on our progress to save Albertans and businesses time and money, all while keeping Alberta strong and free,” Nally said.
The government says the mandate letters reflect its focus on results, not bureaucracy, and aim to protect essential services, grow prosperity, and improve operational efficiency.