Canada's Harper praises Alberta premier Redford

Alison Redford, outgoing premier for Alberta and an advocate for energy, was a "strong steward" for the economy, Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper said.

Dave Hancock was sworn in Sunday as Alberta premier following the resignation of Redford. Hancock served as Redford's deputy.

Harper issued a statement from the sidelines of an economic summit in the Netherlands praising Redford for her leadership.

"Redford was a strong steward of the Alberta economy, " he said Sunday.

Redford last year accompanied the prime minister on a visit to the United States to make the case for the passage of the Keystone XL oil pipeline from Alberta. Harper's administration has touted the pipeline as a way to ensure North American energy security.

Canadian pipeline company TransCanada needs a permit from the U.S. federal government to build the cross-border pipeline. Opponents say the heavier grade of crude oil found in Alberta is a greater threat to the environment than conventional oil.

Redford announced her resignation last week amid a row over travel expenses. She said last week she had "profound optimism" for Alberta's future.

[Edomonton Sun]