George Groeneveld

George Groeneveld
MLA for Highwood
In office
2004–2012
Preceded by Don Tannas
Succeeded by Danielle Smith
Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Alberta government
In office
December 15, 2006  January 15, 2010
Preceded by Doug Horner
Succeeded by Jack Hayden
Personal details
Born 1940/1941 (age 74–75)[1]
Blackie, Alberta, Alberta
Political party Progressive Conservative
Spouse(s) Judith
Occupation farmer
Religion United

George Groeneveld (born 1940 or 1941) is a Canadian politician and was a Member of the Legislative Assembly of Alberta representing the constituency of Highwood as a Progressive Conservative.

Early life

Groeneveld was born in Blackie, Alberta. Agriculture has long been an important part of his life, both personally and professionally. In addition to owning and operating a family farm, Groeneveld served as regional director of the Alberta Wheat Pool. In this role, he attended the Canadian International Grains Institute, expanding his knowledge of the handling, marketing, and commercial applications for a variety of crops. Groeneveld also holds the distinction of being Agricore United's first vice-president.

Political career

Groeneveld first sought public office in the 2004 provincial election in the constituency of Highwood. In that election, he received 64% of the vote. In 2006, following the leadership race for the Progressive Conservative Association of Alberta, newly elected Premier Ed Stelmach appointed Groeneveld as Minister of Agriculture and Food. In the 2008 provincial election that followed, Groeneveld secured his position as MLA for Highwood with 65% of the vote. In March 2008, he was reappointed as Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development.

Personal life

Groeneveld is married to Judith. The couple has four children together. In his free time, he enjoys golfing and attending his grandchildren's hockey games. Groeneveld also ensures that he remains true to his roots, making time to assist his son with the cattle at the family farm. He is an active member of his community and Gladys United Church.[2]

Election results

Alberta general election, 2004: Highwood
Party Candidate Votes%∆%
Progressive ConservativeGeorge Groeneveld 6,737 63.59% -16.30%
LiberalLori Czerwinski 1,846 17.43% 5.44%
AllianceBrian Wickhorst 731 6.90%
GreensSheelagh Matthews 547 5.16% 1.68%
New DemocraticCatherine Costen 433 4.09% -0.55%
SeparationCory Morgan 300 2.83%
Total 10,594
Rejected, Spoiled and Declined 81
Eligible Electors / Turnout 23,51945.39%
Progressive Conservative hold Swing -10.87%
Source: "Highwood Statement of Official Results 2004 Alberta general election" (PDF). Elections Alberta. Retrieved March 30, 2010.
2008 Alberta general election results ( Highwood ) Turnout 42.7%
Affiliation Candidate Votes %
     Progressive Conservative George Groeneveld 7,716 65%
     Liberal Stan Shedd 1,647 14%
GreensJohn Barrett 690 6%
     NDP Carolyn Boulton 392 3%
     Wildrose Alliance Daniel W. Doherty 1,405 12%

References