Beyond that who's to say what the economy will look like in 5 years. In 2012 no one was predicting such an abrupt end to peak oil. For all we know there will be a major war between SA and Iran next year that will send the price of oil in to the stratosphere for 5 more years.
Alberta is also still leading the country in job creation and GDP growth. Companies are finally taking refinement in alberta seriously and investments are being made in processing in alberta. Yes getting cockblocked by our dumbass neighbors on pipelines (at the bidding of their American funders/overlords) is certainly hampering our economy, but you're not seeing the whole picture. I am truly sorry if you or a loved one was personally affected by the downturn, layoffs are brutal. That being said, new industries are starting to exist. Look at the new weed industry-employing over 5000 albertans already. Who would have guessed that 5 years ago?
Yes, the price differential on oil is bad. Yes, it would be amazing if our ineffectual federal government could do its job and ensure responsible resource development across the country. Yes, it would be amazing if companies like shell weren't selling off their Canadian operations and turfing folks. But alberta still has it comparatively good, and if you dont see that you're probably only getting your news from one source
