The Government of Alberta has appointed an independent panel to examine the province’s savings and investment funds, including the Alberta Heritage Savings Trust Fund.

The five-member Financial Investment and Planning Advisory Commission will review whether the purposes, management and governance of Alberta’s various funds are clear, and that investment policies are consistent with the long-term interests of Albertans. Recommendations will be provided to the Minister of Finance by November 30.

The commission will be chaired by Dr. Jack Mintz, former president and CEO of the C.D. Howe Institute and upcoming chair of the University of Calgary’s new School of Public Policy.

The government said the commission members were chosen for their expertise in long-term financial planning, public policy and economics, accounting and fiscal implications, and understanding of Alberta.

Joining Mintz is Harry Buddle, recently retired president and CEO of Capital City Savings/Servus Credit Union; Daniel Halyk, CEO and founder of Total Energy Services Ltd.; Judith Romanchuk, a veteran investment banker; and, David Weyant, general counsel and corporate secretary for the Calgary Health Region.

“The Alberta government has nearly $40 billion in savings, endowments and investment funds,” said Finance Minister Lyle Oberg. “We want to be sure these dollars are put to the best use not only for current Albertans, but for future generations.”