Alberta Premier Danielle Smith addressed a report suggesting that Infrastructure Minister Peter Guthrie advised reallocating Health Minister Adriana LaGrange to a different portfolio amid ongoing corruption allegations. Guthrie allegedly communicated this through a memo to fellow cabinet members, prompting questions about the stability within Smith's administration. The allegations at the heart of this dispute stem from a wrongful dismissal lawsuit filed by Athana Mentzelopoulos, the former head of Alberta Health Services, who claims LaGrange dismissed her over disagreements on lucrative contracts with private surgery clinics.
The Canadian Press reached out to Premier Smith's office regarding Guthrie's reported memo. While the office did not dispute the existence of the memo, it offered support for LaGrange. Premier Smith emphasized LaGrange's continued importance, particularly over the next six months, as she works on refocusing Alberta's health-care system. Despite being removed from decision-making on the file in question, Smith noted LaGrange's ongoing contributions as "amazing and important."
The allegations have sparked significant debate, with critics, including the Opposition NDP, urging for LaGrange's dismissal. However, Smith has been vocal in her approach, stressing the importance of gathering honest input from all sides.
"If you want to get honest input, you have to be prepared to hear what people have to say," said Danielle Smith.
Smith's administration is conducting an investigation into the allegations, in conjunction with Alberta's auditor general. Depending on the findings, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) may become involved if there are indications of potential criminal conduct. These allegations are part of a statement of claim which demands a financial payout, yet they remain unproven in court.
LaGrange has denied many of the accusations, labeling them as false while acknowledging that some aspects warrant further examination. Meanwhile, Premier Smith highlighted the necessity of caution and clarity in proceeding with such claims.
"You can't make a rash decision until you know if there's any wrongdoing. Right now, we have allegations in a statement of claim asking for a bunch of money for a payout, and we have to put it in that context," Smith stated.
