HINSHAW REFUSES TO EXONERATE KENNEY AND MINISTERS FOR SKY PALACE PARTY

EDMONTON - Chief Medical Officer of Health Dr. Deena Hinshaw refused to clear Premier Jason Kenney and several members of his Cabinet of any wrongdoing related to their gathering on the rooftop Sky Palace. 

Recently released photos show Premier Kenney, along with ministers Shandro, Nixon, and Toews clearly did not maintain the legally mandated two metres of physical distancing. When asked about the photos at Thursday's COVID update, Dr. Hinshaw said that two metres of distance must be maintained at outdoor social gatherings. 

“There’s no denying that Jason Kenney and his ministers didn’t maintain physical distancing as they partied high up in the Sky Palace,” said NDP Deputy Leader Sarah Hoffman. “It shows a complete lack of leadership and moral judgment. As Alberta families and small businesses continue to struggle and make sacrifices, Jason Kenney and the UCP are openly defying public health orders.”

When asked if the photos make it harder for Hinshaw to deliver her message for Albertans to follow the rules, she said “It’s critical for all of us to follow the requirements and public health measures in place.” She also said it’s important for role models to acknowledge their mistakes. 

When asked in Question Period on Thursday to apologize for the party at the Sky Palace, Premier Kenney repeatedly refused and claimed he did nothing wrong despite photographic evidence to the contrary. 

“We need our elected leaders to lead by example. They need to follow the rules and own up to their mistakes,” said Hoffman. “In this case, Jason Kenney and his ministers have failed on both fronts.”