Since the May 2023 provincial election, the UCP government has arguably embarked on an ambitious, rapid and multi-faceted policy agenda. The pace and breadth of these changes appears to create a sense of chaos. This chaos may not be a byproduct of their aggressive agenda, but one of its central goals. The rapid-fire announcements, overhaul of key government functions, pursuit of unpopular positions and provocative talk from the Premier can work together to sow a sense of chaos and create cover for a longer term agenda.
In this talk, the speaker will argue that the UCP is embarking on a project to reduce the effectiveness of institutions serving Albertans, undermine Albertans’ trust in those institutions, and centralize power in the hands of the provincial government. The purpose of this project is to advance a coherent agenda of small government, privatization and the destruction of public institutions that would not be politically feasible in normal circumstances. He will discuss how this project is taking shape and what Albertans can do in response.
Speaker: Jason Foster, Director Parkland Institute
Jason Foster is Director of Parkland Institute at the University of Alberta and Professor of Human Resources and Labour Relations at Athabasca University. Jason is the author of Gigs, Hustles, & Temps (2023) and Defying Expectations: The Case of UFCW Local 401 (2018), as well as co-author of The Practice of Human Resource Management in Canada (2024) and Health and Safety in Canadian Workplaces (2016). His research interests include workplace injury, union renewal, labour and employment policy, and migrant workers in Canada. He is committed to sharing research to as broad an audience as possible, so that it might contribute to policy change and making people’s lives better.
Date/Time: Thursday, Oct 24, 2024. The session begins at 12 noon and concludes at 1 pm.
Cost is free, donations however, are gratefully accepted.
Location: Lethbridge Senior Citizens Organization (LSCO), Atrium Dining Room, 500 -11 Street S, Lethbridge
Lunch and Refreshments: Please arrive early to patronize the LSCO cafeteria and enjoy their excellent variety of good value food options. The Atrium Dining Room will be available by 11:15 am.