Redford resigns amidst spending controversy

Premier Allison Redford stepped down on March 23, turning over the reins of the province to David Hancock. She announced her intention on March 20. Redford was a strong proponent of controversial pipeline projects that were being protested by First Nations and Energy Minister Diana McQueen said the government will continue to back proposals from Enbridge, Kinder Morgan and TransCanada. Redford came under heavy criticism for her $45,000 price tag on her South African trip for President Nelson Mandela’s funeral. Redford, a lawyer, was elected to the Alberta legislature in 2008 and led the PC party to a majority in the April 2012 election. She will remain as the MLA for Calgary-Elbow.