Alberta Separatism at Odds with Canadian Values, Tomlinson Argues

Brad Tomlinson, involved in the Forever Canadian movement, is opposed to Alberta separation and argues that separatist values conflict with Canadian ideals. He questions why Albertans would want to leave Canada, citing systemic grievances about federalism and complaints about the equalization formula.

Tomlinson posits that what kind of country Albertans want in the future is a matter of value. He believes that separatist values would lead to a society prioritizing individual interests over collective well-being. Citing examples such as mask-wearing during COVID, Tomlinson suggests that these hyper-individualist ideas are not reflective of Canadian values.

Tomlinson emphasizes the importance of concern for one another, peace, order, and the common good in shaping Canada's society. He argues that Canadians value compromise, equality, social cohesion, and collective responsibility, which separatism seems to contradict.

Tomlinson also criticizes the narrative that Albertans are poor country cousins of Confederation, abused by Ottawa. Instead, he suggests that Albertans have chosen a value set where profits are privatized and costs are socialized. He points out that Norway's wealth fund, which was established in 1990 and has saved $1.25 trillion US, is an example of prioritizing collective responsibility.

Tomlinson highlights the difference between Alberta's oil royalties, which were $4.38 per barrel in 2013, and Norway's $87.69. During a recent oil boom, big four oil companies made $131.6 billion in privatized profits while the Alberta government received $60 billion in bitumen royalties.

The article also mentions that oil companies owe millions of dollars in unpaid municipal taxes and rent to landowners. Tomlinson concludes that Albertans have chosen to socialize costs, which is a values choice that prioritizes individual interests over collective well-being.