Questionable party donation investigation results to be released

Elections Alberta is naming names Thursday morning.

Through its website, Alberta’s Chief Electoral Officer will release the results of an investigation under the Election Finances and Contributions Disclosure Act.

At the heart of the investigation is Edmonton Oilers owner Daryl Katz’s $430,000 donation to the PC party during the election campaign.

The maximum that can be donated by one person is $30,000; some say the Katz donation was made on behalf of a number of people in the form of one contribution.

This comes just hours after Premier Alison Redford announced a provincial appointment to the person who likely brokered that deal.

Barry Heck has been named as the Chair of Alberta’s Economic Development Authority.

He was the PC party fundraiser who, according to several sources, brokered the Katz donation.

According to the Globe and Mail the two met in law school in the 1980’s.

Redford praised Heck saying he is one of the province’s “most prominent executives and entrepreneurs,” going on to say he is “an incredible man” who has volunteered with the party for years.

“For nearly twenty years AEDA has worked with industry and government to help establish Alberta as a global leader with a strong, sustainable, and diversified economy,” said Premier Redford. “Barry brings tremendous amount of private sector and entrepreneurial experience to this role that will help guide AEDA as we work together to secure Alberta’s economic future.”

She called the allegations about the donation unfounded, and said her party is not going to stop the business of government because of the Elections Alberta Investigation.

When 660News called Mr. Heck he said he had no comment, but in a news release said he is looking forward to the new position.

“I look forward to reinvigorating the relationship that AEDA has with government,” said Heck. “The new role of the organization, reflecting the priorities of Premier Redford, will focus on market access, prospering in a global economy and the Alberta of tomorrow. AEDA will continue to work with industry and government to provide an independent voice on economic issues that matter to Albertans.”

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