Lougheed leaves behind an indelible mark on Alberta
Posted Sep 14, 2012 7:54 am.
This article is more than 5 years old.
For many, when they think of Alberta, their minds automatically turn to Peter Lougheed.
The legacy of Peter Lougheed is being fondly remembered, following the passing of Alberta’s 10th Premier.
Lougheed said he always considered himself a Canadian first, but tried to make sure both the country and the province moved forward together.
The 84-year-old stated he was most proud of the role he played in the patriation of the Canadian Constitution, back in 1982.
During his 14-year rein, Lougheed and his Tory party created the Heritage Savings Trust fund, which is worth $16-billion today.
Lougheed was keen on trying to diversify Alberta’s economy, something he continued to lobby for in his final days, looking for ways to end the province’s reliance on oil and gas revenue.
Back in the 1970’s, Lougheed’s government set up the Alberta Opportunity Company, offering financing to small and medium size business endeavours, thousands of companies and individuals took advantage of the initiative.
Lougheed also helped establish the Alberta Foundation for Medical Research and the Alberta Bill of Rights.
He was a big supporter of the arts, appointing the province’s first Minister of Culture.
Lougheed also helped expand the Alberta parks system, adding Kananaskis Country and Fish Creek to the places people love to visit.
Among the honours he was awarded, the Queen appointed him to the Privy Council of Canada in 1982.
In 1987 he was named a Companion of the Order of Canada and in 1989 he was invested into the Alberta Order of Excellence.
