Delegates at the United Conservative Party convention have voted in favour of a controversial school “voucher system.”.The system would ensure that equal per-student funding follows a child regardless of their school of choice – public, private, Catholic, charter or home..Delegates voted 307-267 in favour of the system..“We have some schools where children leave thinking Lenin is a good guy,” said one delegate in support of the voucher system.Government officials said there was little chance of the motion would be adopted by the government..As policy was discussed inside, outside more than 600 protesters marched against Premier Jason Kenney and government cuts. A brief scuffle saw one reporter assaulted by a protester.. IMG_0599Protesters outside the UCP’s convention in Calgary on Nov. 30, 2019. Photo by Derek Fildebrandt, Western Standard .Government letters released Friday by the Alberta Union of Provincial Employees show the government plans to lay off more than 6,400 workers..During the day on Saturday the delegates had two dozen policy motions for their consideration..Here’s what they voted on:.Delegates passed a motion to hold a referendum in the province on Alberta fighting to change the Constitution to allow the province to freely export its resources, products and services across Canada and internationally.They voted to demand a fairer system of federal transfers.Delegates voted that interest groups who get foreign funds will not be recognized as a stakeholder.They voted to make financial literacy part of school curriculumDelegates voted down a motion that any changes to the health care system comply with principles of the Canada Health Act.They voted down a motion to ensure a timely delivery of surgeries performed in a given time period.Delegates passed a motion recognizing parents and guardians are the major stakeholders in education.Delegates voted to repeal Bill 30, protecting health and well-being of workers. Bill 30 was brought in by the previous NDP government.They voted to advocate for Senate reform.Delegates voted funding should follow the patient when they try and get medically necessary services.Delegates voted that funding would follow the patient when they try and get medically necessary services.They voted down a motion to return Alberta to a 10% flat tax and increase the basic tax exemption to $25,000. Motion was against several items in October’s UCP budget.Delegates passed a motion that the provincial government fight any federal law that contravenes the constitutionally protected rights and freedoms of Albertans.They passed a motion to ensure there is an adequate supply of affordable housing for seniors.Delegates voted to have a robust voter ID process, similar to the federal government.They voted to pass a motion that the government fund actual school transportation costs in rural areasDelegates voted down a proposal to develop a non-partisan list, in which schools to be built are prioritized.Delegates voted down a proposal to create a Education Quality Control Council similar to one in the health system #AbLeg#abpoli.The government is not bound by any of the resolutions..Meanwhile, delegates voted to change the name of the party to the United Conservative Party of Alberta..For the United Conservative Party it’s a move to try and differentiate itself and avoid confusion with the federal Tory party..“Alberta is the leading province and driving force of Canada, and as such, deserves to be proudly included in our Party’s name,” the motion read..Saturday was the second day of the UCP convention at the Westin Airport Calgary..The convention concludes Sunday afternoon with a bear pit session with delegates asking questions to Premier Jason Kenney..— more to come.dnaylor@westernstandardonline.com
