Kevin Laliberte
Editor, Smoky River Express

Peace Country MP Chris Warkentin says he’s extremely pleased to see the government impose stricter substance laws that will prevent motorists from getting behind the wheel while under the influence of drugs. Under the tougher laws those caught impaired by either drugs or alcohol face a maximum life sentence if they cause death while impaired and a maximum of 10 years in jail if they cause bodily harm. Warkentin says imposing tougher laws was long overdue The act also makes it easier for Crown Prosecutors to obtain a dangerous offender designation which is one of the most severe sentences available under Canadian Law. New online survey asks: What will you need as a senior? Albertans are invited to complete an online survey to share their thoughts on what support they anticipate they will need when they become seniors and how these needs should be met. The survey findings will assist the Alberta government as it plans for an increasing population of seniors. “The number of seniors in Alberta is expected to increase by more than 40 per cent in the next decade, to about 550,000 seniors,” said Mary Anne Jablonski, Minister of Seniors and Community Supports. Albertans are encouraged to complete the survey, which in an effort to help shape future directions that will affect all seniors. Albertans of all ages can complete the survey that focuses on baby boomers and those who are almost 65 years-old. The information gathered from the survey will assist the province in the development of an Aging Population Policy Framework that will guide future government decisions on seniors’ programs and policies. The Alberta government established the Demographic Planning Commission in May 2008 to consult with Albertans on how government programs, services and supports for future seniors should be allocated and sustained. The online survey is available until the end of August at www.TomorrowsSeniors.alberta.ca. Albertans without access to the Internet can have a survey mailed to them by calling toll-free 1-800-642-3853. Alberta Health Services (AHS), the new provincial system that has accountability for all health delivery, is continuing forward with its restructuring plan to create one coordinated, unified operation. Ken Hughes, AHS Board Chair, says the purpose of the change is to enhance health care and develop an approach that places the patient first regardless of where they live in Alberta. “The plan is to have one approach to health care that integrates health services across the province and standardizes care so that all patients receive the same quality of care.” In creating the new provincial health system, several top administrators, CEOs in health regions and boards, are leaving their respective organizations. That includes Shawn Terlson, former president and chief executive officer, who was appointed CEO in November 2006. He was PCH’s Chief Information and Finance Officer from 2003 until he took on the new role. Tim Guest, vice-president for Peace Country Health Peace Country Health, says he’s extremely appreciative of Terlson’s contribution to the Region during his tenure as president and CEO. “Shawn really valued the contact he had with staff at all levels and it is always hard to see people you have worked with move on.”

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