Seventeen UCP MLAs release statement opposing pandemic restrictions

17 UCP MLA's have signed a letter to the government disagreeing with the decision to move back to step 1 of Alberta's path forward. Ashna Bharkhada reports.

CALGARY (660 NEWS) — A group of 17 UCP MLAs is publicly speaking out against the pandemic restrictions being reimposed in Alberta.

The note being tweeted out on Wednesday afternoon by MLA for Cypress-Medicine Hat, Drew Barnes.

The statement takes a look at the province’s plan forward from earlier this year and how they believe the new restrictions move the province backward.

The letter also calls on the government to provide a more transparent path forward.

All of those on the list represent ridings outside Calgary and Edmonton.

This letter is something Premier Jason Kenney was anticipating following Tuesday’s COVID-19 update.

“I fully expect to hear some of those opinions, publicly, in the coming days, and I welcome that, I’ve always welcomed wide-ranging debate on how best to rise to the challenge of this pandemic,” said Kenney.

READ MORE: Mayor of Alberta town frustrated he wasn’t informed of positive COVID case

During the update, all he asked is that any arguments be based on fact.

In the legislature Wednesday afternoon, NDP leader Rachel Notley went after the premier over this breakaway group.

“This premier has been distracted by the so-called free speech within his caucus which is all about rejecting and undermining public health rules,” said Notley. “Albertans deserve a government that respects science and respects the law.”

The letter is also calling on other members of the UCP caucus to join them in opposition to the restrictions.

The list began with just 15 MLAs before the MLA for Vermilion-Lloydminster-Wainwright, Garth Rowswell, and MLA for West Yellowhead, Martin Long, added their names. Bringing the count to 17 late Wednesday.

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