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This would run into legislation banning some public-sector strikes (and even talking about organizing them). It would make all the conflicts in past years, including the huge demonstrations of the Ralph Klein era, look tame.

Protests are one thing. Kenney even joked about them during his speech Saturday night.

“I’m reminded of what Premier Ralph used to say. If a day goes by and there’s not a protest, I’m wondering what I’m doing wrong.”

A general strike would be no laughing matter. It would provoke immediate government retribution through court action and, certainly, back-to-work legislation.

On Sunday, Kenney said: “I do not think something like a general strike, demanding an eight per cent increase in wages, when we’re in the fifth year of economic decline, will be well received by Albertans who pay the bills.”

He was referring to some unions he said have asked for eight per cent in new negotiations.

McGowan said in an interview the protesters started chanting “general strike, general strike” before he began speaking.

He doesn’t dismiss the idea, however.

“This is not off the table, but it doesn’t have to happen if the UCP abandons this dangerous, damaging course that it’s on.”

McGowan said the UCP is unlike any Canadian government in history, determined to import U.S. Republican ideas.

Kenney repeated that he wants to work with the unions. He suggested that if they’re willing to forsake benefits not common in the private sector, there can be fewer job losses.