GR Update - January 2023
Looking back on 2022, ACCA had an extremely successful year in progressing policies that positively impact co-operatives. Here are some of the highlights from our government relations team from the last year.
Our team met with over 30 MLAs one-on-one to advocate for co-operatives. Many MLAs were not even aware of how many co-operative organizations were in each of their ridings until we met with them. They were all very happy to learn more about co-operatives and the co-operatives they represent. On top of the one-on-one meetings, we also hosted two MLA receptions for our members with over a dozen MLAs at each reception including ministers and the deputy premier.
The meetings bore fruit and were able to progress our policy to reduce regulations surrounding the creation of investment co-operatives. Numerous MLAs advocated for us and we were able to have several successful meetings with the deputy minister and his team responsible for Rural Economic Development. Those meetings have since progressed to working with the Alberta Security Commission to create a test exemption for investment co-operatives to have a reduced regulatory framework. If everything goes smoothly, we could see the test taking place this year!
We followed the example of BCCA and their successful advocacy for a $2 million dollar investment from the government into co-operatives. Our team submitted ACCA’s first provincial budget submission asking for the province to invest $2 million dollars into affordable housing, renewable energy, and local investment co-operatives. Our team is continuing to advocate for this investment in the New Year with an opportunity to present to UCP MLAs in January.
In an effort to raise the awareness of co-operatives, our team was present with a booth at the NDP and UCP annual conferences. Also, ACCA had a booth at the tradeshows of the Federation of Alberta Gas Co-ops, Alberta Municipalities, and Co-operatives and Mutuals Canada. We also sponsored a UCP Leadership debate along with Credit Unions of Alberta which allowed co-operatives to be talked about in front of Albertans by our next premier. Additionally, we acquired a platform that allows co-operative members to easily and efficiently contact their local representatives regarding any policies that are impacting our organizations.
2022 was our first full year with a Manager of Government Relations. We cannot wait to build on the momentum we have created and continue to make Alberta the friendliest place for co-operatives in Canada!