Incoming Alberta premier appoints long-time NDP member as house leader

EDMONTON — Incoming Alberta Premier Rachel Notley has appointed long-time NDP MLA Brian Mason as the new government house leader.

Notley says Mason will provide wisdom, leadership and guidance in the assembly.

She says Mason will reach out to opposition caucus house leaders in the coming days to talk about the upcoming session.

Mason says he’s honoured to receive the appointment and looks forward to working with all members of the legislature.

“I’m very honoured to have received this appointment from our incoming Premier,” said Mason. “I look forward to working together with our new caucus.

“I’m also looking forward to working with opposition members of the Legislature in the days ahead, demonstrating that we can disagree without being disagreeable.”

He was first elected to the legislature in Edmonton Highlands-Norwood in a 2000 by-election.

Notley said the legislature will be recalled on June 11 to elect a Speaker, and the speech from the throne to be delivered on June 15.