Several UCP legislators who attended Saturday’s emergency caucus meeting say Premier Danielle Smith appears to have caucus support.
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He said he had nothing to offer at Saturday’s meeting.
The meeting was called after a CBC story in which an employee of Smith’s office emailed crown prosecutors questioning their decisions on certain matters, including the Coutts border blockade.
“What I did is listen and I made sure I was attentive. I didn’t need to be there, but it was a great meeting and I’m glad we had it,” said Jobs, Economy and Northern Development Minister Brian Jean he said.
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Smith said she has not been in contact with crown prosecutors and is not aware of anyone on her staff who has done so.
On Saturday, Smith said the government’s IT department would conduct its own investigation into the emails, involving 34 of its staff members and about 400 Crown prosecutors.
But Lori Williams, associate professor at Mount Royal University, says the only way to solve the case is for an independent investigation by someone who is not part of the government.
“If there has been any misinterpretation or misinformation, that is something an independent investigation can finalize,” Williams said. “It is a bit surprising that they think a day or three of internal investigation will settle this matter.”
He said that the independent investigator must have the reputation, credentials and training to be impartial.
“A sitting judge would be a good choice for that. If they find out there was no interference, that might restore some confidence,” Williams said.
Calgary-Hayes MLA Rick McIver said Premier Smith has the backing of the caucus.
MacIver said, “The caucus is questioning a media outlet that has brought forward something without any evidence.” “If evidence comes to light later, we will have to consider that, but no evidence has been presented at this time.”
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Jean said she believes Smith has the support of UCP legislators.
“I haven’t heard anyone say anything different,” he said. “She has my support. She is the duly elected leader of our party and she is the head of the province, and I think she is doing a very good job.
Williams said UCP members did not have much choice but to show a united front given an election could come soon.
“I think they are putting on a brave front. I think that is to be expected under the circumstances.
Williams said, “But the questions are not going to end simply because people who speak publicly are expressing support for the premier.” “They are not going away based on an internal investigation.”
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