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Smith Confronted at Boisterous Town Hall Over Alberta Coal Policy

She defended lifting the coal moratorium despite a new study warning that expanded mining could collapse fish populations.

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Alberta Premier Danielle Smith speaks during a press conference in Edmonton, Tuesday, May 6, 2025. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Jason Franson
Premier Danielle Smith speaks to media prior to a town hall meeting on coal Wednesday evening at the Fort Macleod and District Community Hall. HERALD PHOTO BY ALEXANDRA NOAD
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith is challenged by protesters while speaking to reporters before a town hall on coal exploration in the eastern slopes of the Rocky Mountains, held in Fort MacLeod, Alta., on June 11, 2025.

Overview

  • An estimated 500 residents packed a Fort Macleod community hall on June 11 to press Premier Smith and her ministers on the recent end to the eastern slopes coal moratorium.
  • The Alberta Energy Regulator approved Northback Holdings Corp.’s Grassy Mountain exploration in May after its initial 2021 rejection over environmental concerns.
  • Government researchers released a preliminary study warning that old mines are poisoning fish and that further coal development could trigger population collapse.
  • Smith and cabinet ministers urged a “responsible development” approach, citing a looming $15 billion lawsuit from five coal companies over lost revenues.
  • Polling in Crowsnest Pass showed 70 per cent support for nearby coal projects even as critics demand stronger environmental safeguards.