NDP cabinet ministers announce riding changes

NDP cabinet ministers took to Twitter on Tuesday to announce plans to run in different ridings ahead of the next provincial election.

Justice Minister Kathleen Ganley tweeted her intent to run in Calgary-Mountain View, the riding currently held by sole Liberal MLA David Swann.

Swann told reporters Tuesday he’s not planning to run for reelection in 2019.

“It’s time to move on, it’s time to let younger energy and more voices be heard in the Liberal caucus,” he said, noting he has 13 grandchildren.

“I’m approaching 70 ... Although this has been an amazing ride, it’s time for someone else to take over.”

Meanwhile, Finance Minister Joe Ceci said he will run in Ganley’s riding, Calgary-Buffalo.

The riding was redrawn to include part of Ceci’s current riding of Calgary-Fort.

“For me, I’ve represented three of the communities for a long time: Inglewood, Ramsay and the East Village,” he said, adding he lives in the riding. “I know the area well.”

Ganley noted she doesn’t currently live in Calgary-Mountain View. “I’m very excited to offer a progressive voice to CalgaryMountain View ... It’s a great place for growing families, so we’re excited.”

Alberta Liberal Party Leader David Khan is considering his options ahead of the election, Swann said.

NO UPDATE ON COMPENSATION FUND

Ganley said Tuesday the government hopes to have a plan for a surplus in the victims of crime compensation fund “in the near future.”

“We won’t move forward without talking to folks on the ground,” she said.

The fund currently holds $65 million; of which $19.4 million is budgeted for victim services and $30 million as a reserve.

The NDP government promised a plan by spring 2018.

The provincial fund — intended to help vulnerable Albertans — comes from a 15 per cent charge on provincial fines and surcharges imposed on selected federal convictions.