Albertans of all political stripes shared condolences following the death of former premier and former Edmonton Eskimo quarterback Don Getty last week.
Getty became premier in Nov. 1, 1985 at a time when the province was facing what was then a record $3.3 billion deficit, with a global oil price glut seeing prices plunge by 60 per cent.
While Alberta is once again in the bleak position of low oil prices and seeing a deficit potentially as high as $10 billion, following Getty’s passing, former energy minister Rick Orman noted the economic situation in the mid-80s was even worse, with an 11 per cent employment rate and $9 to $10 per barrel oil. Getty responded with direct intervention, pumping billions into oil and forestry initiatives, new pulp mills and incentives to encourage drilling.
While Getty’s political tenure wasn’t as heralded as his predecessor Peter Lougheed or his successor, Ralph Klein, he was recognized last week for some of his more noteworthy political efforts, such as making progress on aboriginal land claims and seeing self-government granted to eight Metis settlements; championing for senate reform, fighting for the Meech Lake and Charlottetown accords; and backing a proposed free-trade deal with the United States.
“But his greatest legacy was his support of families and the introduction of Family Day — a holiday where Alberta families could spend time together, strengthen bonds and reconnect,” said Premier Rachel Notley in her tribute to Getty, noting Saskatchewan, British Columbia and Ontario have since adopted Family Day.
For most people, political involvement is confined to complaining and periodic voting. It takes a certain bravery to step into the political foray and be a leader, particularly in tough economic times. While his political life may have been rocky at times, Getty reaped rewards in retirement, including being named to the Edmonton Eskimos’ Wall of Honour and as an officer to the Order of Canada, recognizing the efforts of someone who said he always strived to do “everything possible to make Alberta a great place in the future.” It’s an effort which we could all strive to emulate.
