Federal minister says not possible to depoliticize Alberta transgender policy debate

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith says she wants to depoliticize the debate around upcoming legislation affecting transgender youth, but a federal minister says that's not possible.

Marci Ien, the federal Liberals' minister for gender equality, says creating the legislation itself is a political act.

«In Canada, the freedom to be who you are isn't about politics — it's a right,» Ien said in a social media post directed at Smith on Tuesday.

«As a lawmaker, you should know that.»

Ien's comment came hours after Smith posted a video online saying those who consider Alberta's new policies harmful are misguided.

The United Conservative Party premier added she wants forthcoming debate on the proposed legislation, which is to be introduced when the house reconvenes later this month, to be mature and compassionate.

Ien extended an offer to meet with Smith to discuss the legislation further and said the sweeping changes being proposed could threaten lives.

In a statement to The Canadian Press, Smith didn't say whether she would meet with Ien but that the new policies are being created to «protect children and ensure any life-altering decisions are being made as an adult.»

«We want to make it clear that we will continue to ensure that every Albertan who identifies as transgender is supported and that their rights are protected,» said Smith.

Carolyn Svonkin, a spokesperson for Ien, said Wednesday that Smith has not replied to the offer to meet.

The proposed legislation, announced online by Smith in January, seeks to prohibit those under 18 from undergoing gender affirmation surgery and those under 16 from accessing puberty blockers and hormone therapy.

Smith has said those 16 and 17 can access puberty blockers and hormone therapy but only after a