EDMONTON, AB (November 2, 2011): Premier Alison Redford continues to be missing in action on the Keystone XL pipeline, even as President Barack Obama yesterday signaled his reluctance to approve the critical pipeline, the Wildrose said today.

In an interview yesterday with a Nebraska television station, Obama said the final decision on Keystone will be his, not the U.S. State Department’s, and then listed several concerns he has about approving it.

“Given the President’s comments yesterday, we need leadership on Keystone XL from our government now more than ever,” Wildrose Leader Danielle Smith said. “This pipeline is crucial for Alberta’s future economic growth and Ms. Redford continues to avoid confronting it head on. It’s time for her to step up and clearly state Alberta’s case on this. This needs to get done.”

Shortly after becoming Premier, Redford refused to travel to Washington for State Department hearings on Keystone, saying she didn’t want to add “tension” to the issue. She continues to give confusing and indecisive responses when talking about Keystone.

“Ms. Redford is letting Alberta down with her continued non-leadership on this important file,” Wildrose Energy Critic Paul Hinman said. “We recognize there are issues that need to be addressed, but the overwhelming truth is that Keystone is a win-win. Alberta’s energy products are the safest, most reliable and most ethical in the world. For the United States, by far our most significant trading partner, the choice should be clear.”

The Wildrose Caucus stands for free enterprise, less government, increased personal freedom and democracy.

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For further information or to arrange an interview, media are invited to contact:

Evan Menzies

Communications Assistant, Wildrose Caucus

Ph: 780-904-4913