Alberta NDP Calls for RCMP Inquiry into Alleged Government Corruption in Health Contracts
Former Alberta Health Services CEO alleges interference in private surgical contracts, implicating Premier Danielle Smith and Health Minister Adriana LaGrange.
- Athana Mentzelopoulos, the former AHS CEO, claims she was fired while investigating irregularities in private surgical facility contracts, including inflated costs and potential conflicts of interest.
- The Alberta NDP has demanded a full public inquiry, RCMP investigation, and legislative recall, citing concerns of potential criminality and government secrecy.
- Premier Danielle Smith has stated she first learned of the allegations through media reports but faces scrutiny over conflicting timelines regarding her awareness of the issues.
- Health Minister Adriana LaGrange allegedly directed AHS to expedite contract approvals despite ongoing internal investigations, according to Mentzelopoulos's claims.
- The Alberta government has paused some contract negotiations and initiated internal reviews, but critics argue these measures are insufficient given the gravity of the allegations.