Prime Minister Mark Carney emphasized on Thursday that Alberta’s rightful place is within Canada, highlighting efforts by the government to mend relations with the province following years of strained ties over stalled energy projects.
During a press briefing, Carney unveiled a set of new strategies aimed at accelerating the advancement of Canada’s power grid, which includes the increased deployment of natural gas-powered turbines to meet the nation’s energy demands.
This revised policy diverges from the previous government’s climate plan, which emphasized reducing emissions by decarbonizing the grid despite strong opposition from Alberta and Saskatchewan, where fossil fuel resources are abundant.
An announcement is anticipated with Alberta Premier Danielle Smith, confirming an agreement on an industrial carbon pricing system for the province, potentially opening doors for a new oil pipeline to the Pacific.
Carney positioned these initiatives as essential for maintaining national unity and quelling regional tensions, particularly with the looming possibility of a separatist referendum in Alberta.
Expressing his Alberta roots, Carney stressed the importance of unity, stating, “The best place for Alberta is in Canada, a unified and prosperous Canada that we strive to achieve. Progress is being made for the benefit of all Albertans, strengthening our entire nation.”
The call for national cohesion follows a recent court ruling in Alberta dismissing a petition for a separation referendum due to procedural flaws and lack of consultation with Indigenous groups, as mandated by constitutional requirements.
While advocating for Alberta’s continued inclusion in Canada, Premier Smith criticized the court’s decision as undemocratic and plans to appeal for the referendum question to be included on the ballot.
Carney affirmed that provinces have the right to hold referendums but must adhere to federal laws, including the Clarity Act enacted post the 1995 Quebec independence vote, which sets stringent guidelines for referendum questions.
According to the Clarity Act, the House of Commons determines the clarity of referendum questions before they are presented to voters, ensuring a “clear majority” in favor of secession based on the final vote count, a provision introduced after a close outcome in the Quebec referendum.