EDMONTON – Albertans woke Wednesday morning to discover former premier Alison Redford has quit as MLA for Calgary-Elbow.
In an opinion article published in the Edmonton Journal and Calgary Herald newspapers, Redford said she is stepping down immediately to start the next chapter of her life, which she said will entail “teaching and resuming work in international development and public policy.”
WATCH: Rise and fall of Alison Redford
“I recognize that mistakes were made along the way. In hindsight, there were many things I would have done differently. That said, I accept responsibility for all the decisions I have made,” stated Redford.
In Wednesday’s letter, Redford said she’s spent the past few months working in her constituency, mainly helping families still struggling with the aftermath of the 2013 floods, but felt this was the right time to move forward.
She goes on to say Alberta is her home, and she will continue to live in the province with her family.
Redford added she will not be accepting the transition allowance offered to outgoing Alberta politicians.
“My decision was made a long time ago, when I said I did not agree with it and that I would not be accepting it,” said Redford.
“I made a commitment, and I will keep it.”
READ MORE: Timeline: A look at recent troubles that prompted Alberta Premier Alison Redford to resign
Albertans quickly took to Twitter to express their thoughts on Redford’s resignation.
Redford resigned as the premier of Alberta on March 23 amid caucus complaints about her lavish spending.
She continued to sit in the legislature as the representative for Calgary-Elbow until Wednesday.
A CBC report last week said a leaked review from Alberta auditor general Merwan Saher found that passenger lists on government aircraft were altered so Redford could fly alone.
Global News confirmed the practice took place on government flights.
Redford denied any personal wrong-doing.
It’s expected that Saher’s full report will be released to members of the legislature and the public on Thursday.
With files from the Canadian Press
© Shaw Media, 2014
