The United Conservative Party (UCP) has strongly criticized comments made by Alberta NDP Leader Naheed Nenshi, accusing him of downplaying the severity of the illegal drug crisis and opposing border security measures aimed at protecting Albertans.“It’s shocking to hear the leader of the NDP dismiss the threat posed by illegal drugs like fentanyl and suggest that securing our border is somehow unnecessary. It just goes to show how out of touch he really is on provincial and international matters,” said Chief Government Whip Shane Getson. “Protecting Albertans is not optional. It’s our responsibility, it’s our duty.”The criticism comes after Nenshi reportedly described 44 lbs. of fentanyl — enough to kill thousands — as “not a lot,” a statement the UCP says shows a disregard for the impact of the drug on Alberta communities.“Every ounce of fentanyl seized is a potential life saved,” Getson said. “To imply that this amount is insignificant shows a fundamental misunderstanding of the potency of this drug, and of the crisis we’re facing in our country. It has a devastating toll on families, communities, and our healthcare system.”.The UCP also condemned Nenshi for suggesting Alberta should not advocate for its interests in the face of potential retaliatory measures from Ottawa. The party reiterated its stance that Alberta will not tolerate cuts to oil and gas exports or any retaliatory federal policies.“It is extremely concerning that Naheed Nenshi would choose to support his friend and ally Justin Trudeau at the expense of Albertans by suggesting that a retaliatory approach would serve anyone,” said Getson.The UCP recently announced new measures to strengthen border security and crack down on illegal drug trafficking and migrant activity along Alberta’s border with the United States.“While United Conservatives take bold steps to protect its borders and citizens, Naheed Nenshi, Trudeau’s choice for Alberta, continues to prioritize policies that harm Alberta’s economy and compromise public safety,” a UCP statement said.“Nenshi’s comments align more with Ottawa’s failed policies than with Alberta’s priorities, leaving Albertans questioning whose side he’s on.”
