MLAs pass bill to bring awareness about radon

Legislation that requires the government to develop educational materials and a public awareness campaign on the dangers of radon gas passed Monday.

Bill 209, a private member’s bill dubbed the Radon Awareness and Testing Act, was introduced in mid-November by NDP CalgaryEast MLA Robyn Luff.

Radon is the second highest cause of lung cancer in Canada — exposure is responsible for the deaths of about 3,200 people a year.

Radon, a naturally occurring element produced by the radioactive decay of uranium in rocks and soil, is odourless, colourless and tasteless.

$25-A-DAY DAYCARE

Children’s Services Minister Danielle Larivee reiterated the NDP’s plan to roll out $25-a-day daycare across the province.

“Twenty-five dollars a day is coming,” she told reporters Tuesday, adding she plans to announce more details soon.

In April, Premier Rachel Notley launched a $10-million pilot project at 22 daycare centres. It created about 1,300 daycare spots in Alberta, with 250 those in Edmonton.

HAPPY HANUKKAH

Tuesday marked the first night of Hanukkah, the Jewish festival of lights celebrated worldwide.

“The candles of the menorah are a source of light for worship and glow as a symbol of knowledge, enlightenment and faith,” said Premier Rachel Notley.

For eight days, families will light their menorahs to commemorate the miracle in Judaism when a oneday supply of oil lasted for eight days.