Today, the Pembina Institute released the results of an all-candidate survey about oilsands development. Conducted from February 15 to 21, 2008, by McAllister Opinion Research, the survey compares these results with the views of a public opinion poll of Albertans that asked the same questions. Candidates running in all 83 ridings in the 2008 Alberta election were invited to share their views on oilsands development with Albertans.
"Albertans have been consulted by the government and polled repeatedly, and their message is clear: yesterday's approach - developing fast, rather than developing responsibly - isn't good enough anymore," says Dan Woynillowicz, a Senior Policy Analyst with the Pembina Institute. "Now Albertans can consider their candidates' views on this critical issue when deciding who to support with their vote."
In total, 192 candidates responded to the survey, including at least one candidate from 81 of Alberta's 83 ridings. Participants included candidates representing each of the Progressive Conservative, Alberta Liberal, NDP, Green and Wildrose Alliance parties. The survey asked questions about the pace of oilsands development, the role of government in oilsands development, the management of greenhouse gas pollution, and the reclamation of oilsands projects.
"The high candidate response rate demonstrates that many candidates see oilsands development as a significant issue and they feel compelled to share their views with the voters they are seeking to represent," notes Simon Dyer, Oilsands Program Director. "In April 2007 we polled 500 Albertans and asked the same questions. The results of the all-candidate survey will allow Albertans to see how closely aligned candidates are with their own views on oilsands development."
The public opinion poll conducted in 2007 found that 74% of Albertans believed the Government of Alberta should manage the rate of oilsands development in order to meet the best long-term interests of Albertans. In addition, 71% supported suspending new oilsands approvals until infrastructure and environmental management issues are addressed in the oilsands region.
"The pace of oilsands development lies at the root of many of the issues being discussed this election - from shortages in health care and a lack of affordable housing to the need for action on global warming," says Woynillowicz. "Whether and how the next government decides to address the pace of oilsands development will impact Albertans' economy, environment and communities for years to come."
View the survey results.
As a non-partisan organization, the Pembina Institute is not endorsing any candidate or party.
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For more information contact:
Dan Woynillowicz
Cell: 403-888-6272
Simon Dyer
Cell: 403-322-3937