The Alberta Federation of Labour says the RCMP should actively pursue investigations into the "ugly and dangerous rhetoric" that is being directed at women in politics.

In an official statement, the AFL says extremists in the province are directing hate speech at female politicians.

The federation, which represents 29 public and private sector unions, also says political leaders in the province should stand up to the violent fringe elements in their own parties.

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Last week, participants in a golf tournament held by the Big Country Oilmen's Association were criticized by some for having a cutout of Premier Rachel Notley set up as a target so golfers could pelt her face with balls.

The incident came just days after British Labour Party MP Jo Cox was slain in a knife and gun attack that her husband says was motivated by her strong political beliefs, including her support for Syrian refugees and her work to keep Britain in the European Union.

Notley has been the subject of death threats and earlier this year a man was charged after allegedly calling the officer of Environment Minister Shannon Phillips and threatening to shoot people over the carbon tax.