The province of Alberta, historically conservative, is experiencing growing frustration following Carney's electoral victory. The province's premier, Danielle Smith, has expressed that a considerable number of Albertans have lost hope for a prosperous future as part of Canada. Smith has emphasized the pursuit of greater autonomy for Alberta in relation to Ottawa.
In a recent announcement, Smith reported the creation of a group dedicated to negotiating with the Canadian government for the removal of laws that restrict energy production in Alberta. Additionally, she proposed the possibility of including a referendum on the province's separation from Canada in next year's elections. Alberta aims to secure energy transport corridors to various coasts to reach global markets.
Smith has proposed a law that would allow citizens to request a provincial vote on separation if at least 10 percent of voters sign a petition to that effect. The Alberta leader has highlighted the divisions within Canada following the return to power of Carney's Liberal Party, despite the majority preferences in Alberta for the Conservative Party.
In an attempt to protect the interests of the province from harmful federal policies, the Alberta government will form a panel to discuss possible measures. Recommendations from this group are expected to be put to a vote in a provincial referendum next year. Despite this, Alberta will not propose its own referendum question regarding separation from Canada.
The conflict between Alberta and the federal government in Ottawa has been marked by disagreements over measures affecting the provincial oil industry. Alberta seeks greater access to Asian markets for its Western Canadian gas producers. Smith urges the repeal of laws regulating industrial emissions and calls for gradually adopting a net-zero emissions electrical grid.
Politically, Smith has considered measures such as withdrawing Alberta from the national pension plan, creating a state-owned utility, and establishing a new provincial police force. The Conservative Party, backed by Smith, achieved a significant victory in Alberta in the recent elections, winning the majority of the popular votes and seats in the province.
The dialogue between Smith and Carney has been a fundamental part of this process, with Smith presenting a list of demands to the new prime minister. Both leaders have sought common ground to address challenges such as pipeline development and carbon and oil policies. The meeting between Smith and Carney after the recent elections reflected a positive tone and the exploration of potential common solutions.
