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The Wildrose party raised objections Friday after the Notley government appointed a veteran Edmonton labour lawyer with strong NDP ties to be Alberta’s first essential services commissioner.

Gwen Gray, who has had a long career in labour relations, employment and human rights law in both Alberta and Saskatchewan, takes over the new position on June 1.

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The commissioner, who also holds the title of vice chair of the Alberta Labour Relations Board, carries broad powers to decide disputes over which government employees should be “essential” personnel who must continue to work during a labour stoppage.

Though the role is described as a neutral adjudicator, the Wildrose said Friday that Gray may not be the most neutral choice for the role considering her strong ties and regular financial support of the NDP.

Elections Alberta records show Gray has given more than $23,500 to the NDP over the past decade, including $5,000 directly to Premier Rachel Notley’s campaign to become party leader in 2014.