Alberta separatists announced on Monday that they have formally submitted almost 302,000 signatures in an effort to trigger a referendum on the province seceding from Canada. The group, Stay Free Alberta, needed 178,000 signatures to compel the province to consider such a vote.
Referendum Prospects
Premier Danielle Smith has stated that if the petition is verified, a referendum will be held. However, she has personally expressed opposition to the oil-rich province leaving Canada. Mitch Sylvestre, leader of Stay Free Alberta, arrived at the Elections Alberta office in Edmonton leading a convoy of seven trucks carrying the names.
“We're happy with the number,” Sylvestre said, noting that most papers were handled five times to verify the signatures. Over 300 supporters gathered, waving the provincial flag and chanting “Alberta strong.”
Legal Challenges
The petition may face a significant hurdle this week, as an Edmonton judge is expected to rule on a court challenge launched by a group of Alberta First Nations. They argue that Alberta separation would violate treaty rights.
Premier Smith has criticised previous federal Liberal governments for introducing legislation that she claims hampers Alberta’s ability to produce and export oil, costing the province billions of dollars. She also emphasised her desire to prevent federal interference in provincial matters.
Prime Minister Mark Carney's federal government has not yet responded to the development.
