Lesser Slave Lake MLA Scott Sinclair is taking aim over a controversial proposal to effectively eliminate his riding, calling the move “an attack on democracy.”
The plan, outlined in the Electoral Boundaries Commission’s interim report, would see the current Lesser Slave Lake constituency dissolved and divided into three separate ridings. Sinclair argues the change would further marginalize Northern Alberta, a region he says already struggles with funding and resource inequities.
“This is a direct blow to Northern Alberta’s voice in the Legislature,” Sinclair said. “Our communities are already fighting for fair access to healthcare, infrastructure, and education. Splitting our region apart only makes that worse.”
Sinclair noted that the 2017 boundary review acknowledged Lesser Slave Lake’s unique geographic and population challenges, and he questioned why that logic no longer applies. He also accused the United Conservative Party government of abandoning long-standing protections for northern representation.
“It feels like the North is being ignored,” Sinclair said. “People here are frustrated. Instead of working together, the government seems intent on dividing us.”
The MLA is calling for open community meetings and demanding a formal explanation from the Ministry responsible for the Electoral Boundaries Commission, particularly regarding the apparent disregard for Section 15(2) of the Electoral Boundaries Commission Act, which allows flexibility for large, sparsely populated regions.
Sinclair vowed to continue fighting the proposed changes, reaffirming his commitment to the people of Northern Alberta.
“I won’t back down,” he said. “Northern Alberta deserves fair, stable representation — not to be carved up for political convenience.”
The Electoral Boundaries Commission is expected to release its final recommendations later this year following public consultations.
