Alberta Liberal Leader David Swann has announced he’s stepping down following the spring sitting at the legislature.

“Upon careful consideration and consultation with my family and friends, I have made the decision to step down as leader of the Alberta Liberal Party,” he said.

“I believe that we, the Alberta Liberal Party and our caucus, have achieved a great many things together over the past two years. Our party is now on a solid financial footing and ready to tackle the next provincial election, and our caucus has continued to hold this government to account on the issues that matter to Albertans.”

Harry Chase, the Liberals’ caucus whip, echoed Swann’s sentiments.

“On behalf of the Alberta Liberal Caucus, I would like to extend my sincere appreciation to David for his contributions to our party and to our province,” said Chase.

“Under David’s leadership, we have been able to engage and energize a new generation of Liberals and we were able to put forward clear policy alternatives in health care, the environment and energy that will move our province forward.”

Swann said he will remain the MLA for Calgary-Mountain View and focus his energy on the key issue affecting Albertans today – fixing the healthcare system.

In a statement, Alberta Liberal Party President Erick Ambtman said that under Swann’s leadership, “The Alberta Liberal Party has secured its financial future, modernized operations, and adapted a forward-thinking attitude.

“David’s work in caucus and in the legislature has provided us with exceptional policies on everything from clean government to the oil and gas sector,” he said.

“He has also held the government to account, and he has championed a culture of change in the Alberta Liberal Party. His efforts will continue to pay dividends long after his tenure as our leader. He has been – and will no doubt continue to be – a model of selfless civil service.”

The Alberta Liberal Party Executive will be meeting with Swann in the coming days to determine the next steps in this leadership transition.

Swann was first elected MLA in 2004, and re-elected in 2008 for a second term.

Shortly after, he was elected leader of the Alberta Liberal Party.

Swann’s announcement comes on the heels of two other major provincial political shifts recently. Last week, Premier Ed Stelmach said he won’t be seeking another term as Conservative leader.

An exact date when he will leave hasn’t been released yet.

Ted Morton also announced last week that he was stepping down as the Tory’s finance minister, indicating he will be seeking leadership of the party.

mweber@reddeerexpress.com