Funding for energy efficiency, open farm days and francophone parliament

EDMONTON The Alberta government announced $25 million for housing providers to improve energy efficiency as part of the NDP’s climate leadership plan.

Budget 2018 laid out funds over three years to make buildings more environmentally sustainable with window upgrades, basement insulation and heating systems, said a Friday news release. The funding includes support from the federal government.

“The new Affordable Housing Energy Savings program will lower utility costs as well as the carbon footprint for public housing,” said Seniors and Housing Minister Lori Sigurdson in the release.

FRANCOPHONE YOUTH HOLD PARLIAMENT

Young francophones descended on the Alberta legislature Friday to learn about the ins and outs of federal politics.

More than 125 youth are participating in the 27th parliamentary simulation, a Wednesday news release from the Francophonie Jeunesse de l’Alberta stated.

Edmonton Centre Liberal MP Randy Boissonnault was at the opening ceremony. The weekend program ends Sunday after several faux parliamentary sessions.

OPEN FARM DAYS AHEAD

Applications are available for Alberta Open Farm Days, which give farmers and ranchers the chance to meet with the public.

The sixth annual event will take place Aug. 18-19. Producers and agriculture tourism operators can sign up by May 31.

“It offers Albertans a first-hand look at where and how our food is produced and gives this growing sector an opportunity to showcase the significant contribution it makes to our province,” said Agriculture and Forestry Minister Oneil Carlier in a Wednesday news release.

In 2017, more than 100 farms participated and made $146,000 in on-site sales.

The new Affordable Housing Energy Savings program will lower utility costs as well as the carbon footprint for public housing.