Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney recently likened Alberta’s upcoming vote on independence to Brexit, characterizing it as a potential “dangerous bluff.” Alberta’s Premier, Danielle Smith, announced that a vote scheduled for October 19 would consider whether the province should remain part of Canada or take legal steps to hold a referendum on secession. Smith’s party did not champion this issue during the last provincial election.
Carney drew parallels to his own experience with Brexit while serving as the governor of the Bank of England during the United Kingdom’s decision to leave the European Union. He noted the long-term consequences of such decisions, highlighting that the UK still grapples with the aftermath of the Brexit vote after almost a decade.
“Is it the democratic will of Albertans? Did they vote for this in the last provincial election? No, they didn’t. It wasn’t on the ballot paper,” Carney stated, questioning the democratic legitimacy of the move.
Carney expressed concerns that the vote could deter investment in Canada. He is focused on advancing the construction of a new oil pipeline from Alberta to Canada’s Pacific coast to expand market access for Alberta’s significant oil reserves, a longstanding issue among Albertans. Many residents feel that Ottawa has not adequately supported efforts to tap into Asian markets.
“We have to be very careful about this. There’s a very strong positive case for Canada, a strong Alberta in a united Canada,” said Carney, emphasizing the benefits of national unity.
In response, Smith argued that the decision regarding Alberta’s separation rests with its residents alone. She attributed local frustrations to the policies of former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, emphasizing the need to address Albertans’ grievances and restore faith in the country’s governance.