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Swann takes over provincial Liberals
12/24/08
BY MARK WEBER
Red Deer Express
Newly-minted leader of the Alberta Liberals David Swann is determined to attract disenfranchised voters into the Liberal fold.
“We need people to jump onboard with us. People want a party that’s living in the 21st century with a more progressive perspective about energy, handling resources, the environment and creating a savings plan,” said Swann, MLA for Calgary-Mountainview. “There’s been a lot of concern that we haven’t had the leadership we need.
“I am profoundly grateful to my Campaign Team for their dedication both to me and to re-vitalizing democracy in Alberta.”
Swann, a medical doctor, won the leadership bid this month during a Calgary rally.
It was a first ballot victory with 2,468 votes for Swann, 1616 for Dave Taylor and 491 for Mo Elsalhy.
Swann was selected by rank and file members through a mail in ballot after a four-month campaign.
He was first elected to the legislature in 2004 and currently serves as the Liberal critic on the environment, sustainable resource development and aboriginal relations portfolios.
“Now we begin the next chapter of the Alberta Liberal story. I pledge to do my part to make it a bold, innovative and inspiring chapter – one that will give us the new and better government we deserve.”
Swann said it’s vital the Liberals carve out clear, concise policies and identify their goals as a centrist party.
“A lack of vision has alienated people in general and made them feel government is irrelevant. People are really frustrated with old politics. The ‘us versus them’ attitude isn’t helping. Let’s focus on issues and attack them together.”
After graduating from the University of Alberta with a degree in Family Medicine in 1975, he worked in mission hospitals in South Africa for three years where he met his future wife Laureen Ross, also a doctor.
He later specialized in public health at the University of Calgary.
“As a physician and politician, I’ve tried to create the awareness of our need for balance – social well-being, a protected environment and a healthy economy,” he said.
“These are goals that I will continue to strive for in my new role as Leader of Alberta’s Official Opposition. I look forward to working with you as we continue to support one another in realizing a more caring and prosperous Alberta.”
Outgoing leader Kevin Taft was quick to offer best wishes as well.
“I would like to congratulate David and wish him the best in his new role,” he said. “As I pass the torch to David, I know that he will work hard to make sure that we continue to mature and grow under his leadership. The future is bright for our Party.”
Swann will lead a caucus of nine MLAs.
mweber@reddeer.greatwest.ca 309-5459
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