Mr. Speaker, I wish to congratulate Alberta's New Democrats on their excellent showing in last night's election.
New Democrats placed second in Edmonton, earning over 22% of the total vote. Brian Mason and Rachel Notley are returning to the legislature to continue the principled, progressive opposition on behalf of Albertans. They will be joined by two more Edmontonians, public health advocate David Eggen and education advocate Deron Bilous.
The NDP increased its share of the popular vote and had strong showings in well-known NDP hotbeds like Lethbridge.
The results of the election will disappoint social conservatives, including those across the way who publicly endorsed the Wildrose Party. Albertans roundly rejected the Wildrose climate change deniers who wished to build a firewall around our province.
I am confident that this strengthened New Democratic Party caucus will hold the premier elect accountable to deliver on her promises to improve environmental protection and access to public health care.