EDMONTON, AB (November 7, 2011): The Alberta Progressive Conservatives should be investigated for soliciting illegal financial contributions the Wildrose Caucus said today, after uncovering even more examples of municipalities donating public dollars to the PC party at the party’s request.

The examples, which date back to 2007, include the town of Whitecourt purchasing tickets to a fundraising dinner held by the local Whitecourt-Ste. Anne PC constituency association in February and the town of Three Hills accepting a similar invitation to a fundraising dinner with the PC party leader that was held in Carstairs in March.

Also, over the weekend, it was reported that a local PC association treasurer – who also serves as his municipality’s chief administrative officer – told elected officials they could still be reimbursed for attending political events by implementing “public relations” honorariums.

According to the Election Finances and Contributions Disclosure Act  Section 35 (1)(2), it is illegal for a political party to knowingly solicit or collect funds, directly or indirectly, from prohibited corporations as defined by Section 1(l)(2).

Today, Wildrose Municipal Affairs Critic Paul Hinman sent a letter to Alberta’s Chief Electoral Officer notifying him of the latest examples and asking for an investigation pursuant to those sections of the Act.

Premier Alison Redford continues to blame municipalities for donating to her party.  In a press conference on Oct. 25 Ms. Redford stated:

“I cannot be responsible for the actions of people that are elected at different levels of government who may decide to make bad choices.”

“This isn’t what true leadership looks like,” Wildrose Leader Danielle Smith said. “Ms. Redford can no longer pass the buck and ask municipalities to take the heat because of her unwillingness to confront what appears to be the illegal practice of her own party.”

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

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BACKGROUNDER

http://www.threehills.ca/images/stories/Council%20Folder/March_14th_2011_-_Minutes.pdf

Premier’s Dinner Invitation

Moved by Councillor Terry Lee that Deputy Mayor Harold Leo and Guest represent the Town of Three Hills at the Premier’s Dinner in Carstairs Alberta on March 31, 2011 and that per diems and expenses to attend be paid as per Council Policy.

CARRIED

http://www.whitecourt.ca/LinkClick.aspx?fileticket=jHVM2i%2b4c48%3d&tabid=277  

PC Alberta 2010 AGM and Convention:

The Chief Administrative Officer stated that the PC Alberta 2010 Annual General Meeting and Convention has been scheduled in Calgary, October 29 and 30, 2010. 10-365 Moved by Councillor Guenette That Council authorize Council Members attendance at the PC Alberta 2010 Annual General Meeting and Convention in Calgary, October 29 and 30, 2010.

CARRIED

http://www.athabascacounty.com/Council/Minutes/2007/June%207%20Minutes.pdf

Resolution 07-413

Ray Danyluk Cormorant Classic (July 6, 2007)

Motion by Councillor Wanchulak that Administration be authorized to register 2 golfers in support of the Ray Danyluk Golf Tournament scheduled for July 6, 2007.

Motion Carried.

http://www.holyspirit.ab.ca/_cabinet/2/59/68/1_-_September_23_Board_Minutes.pdf -

The Southern Premier’s Dinner is scheduled for 5:30 p.m. on October 8, 2009 at the Cypress Centre Auditorium in Medicine Hat, Alberta. Board Chair Nadine King, Trustee Terry O'Donnell, and Superintendent Christopher Smeaton will attend the event on the board’s behalf.

M/C That the Board of Trustees approves the purchase of up to 4 tickets for the Southern Premier’s

Dinner on October 8, 2009.

http://www.whitecourt.ca/LinkClick.aspx?fileticket=xCOs%2B0iOwiw%3D&tabid=277 

The Chief Administrative Officer stated that a letter had been received inviting Council to the Whitecourt Ste. Anne PC Association Premier’s Dinner on Friday, February 25, 2011.

11-021 Moved by Deputy Mayor Schlosser that Council Members and Management be authorized to attend the Whitecourt Ste. Anne PC Association Premier’s Dinner on Friday, February 25, 2011.

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

Evan Menzies

Communications Assistant, Wildrose Caucus

Ph: 780-904-4913