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“If he had significant and official dealings with the coal association in the last 12 months while a minister, he would be in breach of the act,” said Kent Ziegler, chief administrative officer for the provincial ethics commissioner. “If he had no dealings with them during that period, he would be free to accept an appointment to their board. He still would not be able to lobby the government for a period of 12 months from the last day he was a minister.”

Campbell, former MLA for West Yellowhead, didn’t respond to a request for an interview.

Coal Association of Canada board chair John Schadan said Campbell understands the challenges and issues facing the coal industry as a former mine worker, union official and cabinet minister with the portfolios of Environment and Sustainable Resource Development.

“His background is extensive and both directly and indirectly related to the coal business in Western Canada,” Schadan said. “We thought he brought a tremendous balance of experience and knowledge that made him an ideal candidate for the position.”

The board chair said he would leave any comment on the conditions set out in the conflict legislation to Campbell.

“It’s a matter that he has looked into and … dealing with,” he said. “That’s in hand and something he can speak to.”

Schadan said Campbell’s involvement in Alberta’s climate change strategy is “part of the balance he brings to the table and moves us forward in a way that benefits everyone.”