Notley spars with opponents over layoffs; says no ‘magic wand’ to fix it

EDMONTON — Alberta Premier Rachel Notley is firing back at critics of her job creation and diversification plan.

Notley told the house during a heated question period on Tuesday afternoon that there is no “magic wand” to replace the thousands of layoffs in the oil and gas sector.

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Notley said her government is sticking with its plan to offer hiring incentives and diversify the economy for the long term.

READ MORE: Alberta Premier Notley creates advisory panel to improve, diversify economy

Wildrose Leader Brian Jean said in the meantime investors are fleeing, businesses are closing and families are feeling the pinch.

Notley responded by saying Jean’s comments only make things worse by sowing fear.

Critics have been going after Notley’s NDP for a budget that keeps building infrastructure and retains public service jobs but at a cost of $47 billion in debt by the end of the decade.