Election Day of Action: Call Stelmach and your candidates — No New Approvals for the Tar Sands!

Sierra Club of Canada — Prairie Chapter

On Friday, February 22nd, and Monday, February 25th, Albertans province-wide will be united in spreading word on their expectations for political action in addressing the impacts of the out-of-control pace of development!

Join with us, participate and spread the word to your groups and listserves.

Stelmach, while on his campaign trail, has been consistently confronted and challenged to address the escalating concerns around environmental and social impacts of his government's "growth at all costs" agenda.

Before the election was called, 38 Alberta-based organizations, and over 35 organizations from around the world joined with over 2000 individuals to take the first step and issue no further approvals on tar sands development. Whether it's because of the immense environmental impact, social or infrastructure issues, or growing health issues associated with the development, all these groups agree on one thing: the first step is to not add to the problem. Their call is one echoed by a majority of Albertans: whether in opinion polls or in forums across the province, the majority of Albertans support a slow down on development.

It is now time for Albertan politicians take their lead from the people of our province, and use their political power to help create a clean and safe energy future for all Albertans. Join in the wave of democracy and send a message to your political candidates and to Stelmach that we expect action - we expect no new tar sands approvals!

On Friday Febuary 22nd, the Sierra Club, along with citizens and groups from across Alberta, will be mobilizing a mass call-in day to candidates and party leaders to let them know that it's time to stand up for the environment and that Albertans want real action and change!

Calling your MLA candidates is an important way to let them know your expectations for leadership. They are particularly receptive to your concerns during elections. It is also an important strategy get these important issues into the forefront of debate and to ensure that commitments are made that they can be held accountable on, if elected. Phone calls have more impact than emails or letters, as they are DIRECT personal contact, are thought to represent more urgency and more people, and show an active and engaged voter who is willing to take the time and the courage to hold their politicians accountable!

Join with us today!

  • First, Call Premier Ed Stelmach at 780-998-4456 and Liberal Leader Kevin Taft at 780-483-9107
  • Then, Find YOUR candidates' numbers by viewing the contacts spreadsheet - click here!

Please record your answers and send to [email protected] where they will be tracked on the organizations candidate tracker.

Encourage your friends and neighbours to check the site out and see where your candidates stand on the issues that are important to the province!

Script

"Hi there, my name is (insert name). I would like to speak to Ed Stelmach or someone responsible for his campaign." Once that person is on the phone, "Thank you for taking my call. I have an important question to ask the Premier/Leader/Candidate. I am hoping you can answer for me to inform my voting decisions as a constituent (or Albertan resident for either premier/liberal leader). Given the increasing concerns being voiced throughout the province over the out-of-control pace of tar sands development, would you support in legislature taking the first step by agreeing to issue no further approvals or leases? What steps do you feel are necessary to address the environmental and health concerns associated with increasing oil sands activity?"

After they answer, let them know how you feel about the issue and that you that this is an issue that will influence your vote and what you need them to do about it.

Finally, follow-up with an email.

Remember to Take note of their responses to your question and email [email protected], to let them know what your candidates said! All received responses will be posted at www.conservationvoters.ab.ca, so other people from your riding can make informed decisions on who to vote for!

Calling your MLA candidates and Premier Stelmach takes 5-10 minutes — they hear from corporations all the time, now it's your turn!

Good luck and pass this around far and wide so we can jam the phone lines with the sounds of democracy!

Leila Darwish
Associate Director
Sierra Club of Canada - Prairie Chapter