PCAA President Welcomes Review by Elections Alberta

CALGARY, Jan. 4, 2012 /CNW/ - Bill Smith, President of the Progressive Conservative Association of Alberta issued a statement on a review being conducted by Elections Alberta into Constituency donations.

"As a political Party in Alberta we are governed by both strict rules in legislation and our own strict belief that as the Party honored with being elected by Albertans to govern, we must set the highest standard for transparency, " said Smith.

Donations to the PCAA come from two types of activities - those the Association itself runs such as dinners or targeted fundraising AND through local constituency Associations (currently 83).  Ten of the 83 constituencies have been asked by Elections Alberta to review their books based upon a concern being expressed.  The receipting of all donations happens through the PCAA.

"The staff of the PCAA work incredibly hard to ensure any error made by any of our thousands of volunteers is caught before a receipt is issued.  We welcome the Elections Alberta decision to review and ensure the systems are working well," Smith stated.

"Our Leader, Premier Redford & I are in complete agreement that we will fully co-operate as always with this process and ensure that if mistakes were made that we stand up and admit so, create processes to ensure it doesn't happen again, and continue to work to grow the PC brand in Alberta," concluded Smith.

-30-

Dear Presidents, CFOs & MLAs,

As some of you are aware, Elections Alberta has decided to formally investigate 10 Constituency Associations as it relates to "prohibited donations".

The Leader and I understand that 2011 was a long and challenging year for our Constituency Associations and volunteers.  The lengthy Leadership race followed by founding meetings and nominations has been an opportunity for great renewal.  In 2012 we face more nominations, an election and an AGM!

For 10 of you the added questions require your immediate attention as per the letters from the Chief Electoral Office.  I want to assure you that your PCAA will continue to provide support and guidance to you as this process proceeds.  We should welcome this opportunity to ensure that as a Party we are as open and transparent as possible.

I would ask that the remaining 73 Constituency Associations also conduct a review of your last 3 years records and be in a position to assure me that you are confident all donations are appropriate and have been handled correctly.  To you, as well, I offer the assistance of your PCAA to provide guidance where we can.  Please feel free to contact either the Edmonton or Calgary office for guidance.

I appreciate that we are all volunteers and have many commitments in addition to our Party, however this is a serious matter.

Albertans have chosen the PC Party to be their governing Party because of our ideals and principles.  This is our brand - and it's a brand that must be proactive and transparent.

Thank you for your assistance.

Sincere best wishes for 2012.

Bill Smith, President
Progressive Conservative Association of Alberta

Media may contact Bill Smith, PCAA President directly today from noon. to 2:00 pm at [phone]