Alberta Liberals pitch $50 voter tax credit

The Alberta Liberals are floating the idea of a $50 refundable tax credit for all Albertans who vote in the next provincial election.

The idea ispart of a planpitched byleader David Swann Wednesday to clean up government and make itmore accountable and responsive.

Swannalso wants whistleblower protection and an independent commission to set the pay of provincial politicians.

"I'mhearing more and more from Albertans that they have disengaged from politics, that they don't trust anybody, that the political process stinks in Alberta, that they're tired of the culture of cronyism that we've talked about," Swann told CBC News.

"I think it's time to say very clearly where we stand and what we're trying to do to try and improve the credibility and the consistent messages people receive about their government."

Swann said a tax credit for voters in the 2012 election may be needed since a record-low 41 per cent of the province's 2,252,104 eligible voters cast ballots inthe 2008election.

Swann called thatembarrassing and said it shows democracy is failing in Alberta.

The Liberals areholding their annual general meeting May 15 and 16in Edmonton.