Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew urged Alberta Premier Danielle Smith to pause Alberta’s proposed separation referendum, saying Canada needs unity and stability to move forward with major projects such as pipelines and energy infrastructure. Speaking at the western and northern premiers’ meeting in Kananaskis, Alberta, Kinew said now is the time for provinces to work together instead of creating uncertainty.
Smith recently announced that Albertans will vote on Oct. 19 on whether to begin the process toward a binding referendum on leaving Canada. While she maintains she wants Alberta to remain in Canada, she says many residents are frustrated with Ottawa and deserve a chance to express their views.
The two premiers also disagreed over a court ruling related to consultations with Indigenous communities on the referendum petition. Kinew defended the ruling, while Smith said the matter should be settled through the courts. Despite sharp exchanges, premiers agreed that national unity and economic cooperation are essential for advancing major infrastructure and trade projects across Canada.
Smith recently announced that Albertans will vote on Oct. 19 on whether to begin the process toward a binding referendum on leaving Canada. While she maintains she wants Alberta to remain in Canada, she says many residents are frustrated with Ottawa and deserve a chance to express their views.
The two premiers also disagreed over a court ruling related to consultations with Indigenous communities on the referendum petition. Kinew defended the ruling, while Smith said the matter should be settled through the courts. Despite sharp exchanges, premiers agreed that national unity and economic cooperation are essential for advancing major infrastructure and trade projects across Canada.
