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The phase-out of coal power has been compared to the highs and lows that follow any resource industry, whether it’s oil, mining or forestry. But in none of those cases have the lows been caused by government regulation.

To try to empathize with miners in this way is so disingenuous, it’s silly. To further pin this on the federal government is comical – as we know, Saskatchewan and Nova Scotia were able to receive exceptions to the new regulations, something Alberta may have been eligible for if they had bothered to ask.

Most of this government’s talking points have been about power generation so far, so they are eager to pivot to the plan several power companies have to retrofit to natural gas generation.

Of course, Minister Anderson also reassured listeners that they would ensure the government would press the coal companies to ensure they lived up to their pension obligations, but seemed to miss the fact that it’s not the lost pensions people worry about – it’s the lost pension contributions; that is to say, the loss of potential.

The vague promises of job retraining and grant opportunities underestimates the value this industry has in communities. No subsidy, grant or job retraining program can replace the dignity that comes from having a secure job that allows you to provide for your family and make a meaningful life for yourself. Out of this dignity, comes respect, for yourself, your community and your government.

What is fundamentally not understood by this government is that shutting down the power plants is shutting down the coal mines in these towns.

How’s that for respect?

Robin Campbell is president of the Coal Association of Canada. He is also a former Progressive Conservative environment and finance minister. (Editor’s note: This biographical tagline was edited to include Campbell’s political background.)