Prime Minister Mark Carney is in Alberta to rally support for Canadian unity ahead of Monday's separation referendum. Speaking at a pro-unity event in Calgary, Carney warned that the stakes are high and urged Albertans to vote decisively against separation. Over 450,000 Albertans have already cast early or mail-in ballots on whether the province should remain in Canada or begin the process of separation.
Polls suggest most Albertans favor staying in Canada, but Carney emphasized that turnout will determine the outcome. He acknowledged Albertans' frustrations but argued that separation could lead to economic uncertainty, job losses, and investment flight. Carney also highlighted recent government support for Alberta's energy sector, including plans to fast-track a new oil pipeline.
The referendum was called by Premier Danielle Smith after a petition gathered around 300,000 signatures. Smith, while advocating for unity, supports the referendum as a way to gauge public opinion. Separation advocates argue that Alberta has been neglected by federal policies favoring environmental regulations over oil and gas development.
Pro-unity rallies continue, with another event scheduled in Edmonton, while separation advocates plan a final rally in Edmonton on Saturday. Early voting figures show higher turnout than in Alberta's last provincial election.