Kenney to abstain on safe-zone vote

Alberta United Conservative Leader Jason Kenney says proposed legislation creating safe zones around abortion clinics is political gameplaying by the NDP government.

He said Monday he will abstain when the bill comes to a vote. His caucus members will be allowed to vote freely.

Kenney said Premier Rachel Notley’s government has never proposed or discussed such legislation before. He said they are doing so now to distract from a budget that promises an $8.8-billion deficit this year and more longterm debt.

“This is so obviously a transparent effort by the NDP to distract attention from its failed economic record,” said Kenney. “We’re not going to play games with divisive social issues. We’re here to focus on job creation and economic growth, (and) market access for energy products.

“I will be abstaining from the vote, as will most of our caucus.”

Kenney has been clear in the past he is against abortion, but has said he would never legislate on the issue.

The proposed legislation would create 50metre buffer zones around abortion clinics to keep protesters away and would also forbid them from taking video or pictures of those going in or out under penalty of fines or jail terms.

Health Minister Sarah Hoffman said the government began looking at legislation last year, and said Kenney’s non-stance speaks volumes.

“The fact that Mr. Kenney refuses to stand up for women is disappointing. It’s not surprising, but it’s disappointing,” said Hoffman.