Alberta’s Independence Vote Sparks Brexit Comparisons

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney on Monday drew parallels between Alberta’s upcoming vote on pursuing independence and the Brexit referendum, labeling it a potentially “dangerous bluff.”

Danielle Smith, the premier of Alberta, announced plans to hold a vote on October 19 to decide if the province should stay in Canada or take steps under the Constitution for a binding referendum on leaving. Carney, who was the Bank of England governor during Britain’s 2016 Brexit decision, shared insights from that experience.

Carney observed, “I saw firsthand what happened in the United Kingdom when the view was, ‘Vote for this, it’ll be soft and then we’ll negotiate.’ They are still working, a decade later, to address outcomes that voters might not have anticipated.”

Smith’s party did not campaign on holding a referendum during the last provincial election. Carney pointed out that such a vote is not conducive to attracting investment to Canada, suggesting it is undemocratic. He remarked, “Is it the democratic will of Albertans? Did they vote for this in the last provincial election? No, it wasn’t on the ballot paper.”

Smith clarified her position of wanting Alberta to remain in Canada. Her stance echoed that of then-Prime Minister David Cameron before the Brexit referendum, who faced internal pressures while opposing the UK’s exit from the EU.

Carney is actively involved in efforts to develop a new oil pipeline connecting Alberta to Canada’s Pacific coast. Alberta has long been critical of Ottawa’s perceived inaction in facilitating access to Asian markets for its significant oil reserves.

Carney emphasized the benefits of a united Canada with Alberta, stating, “There is a compelling case for Canada, a strong Alberta in a united country. I plan to advocate this alongside many Albertans and Canadians in the coming months.”

In response, Smith stated that independence is ultimately a decision for Albertans, highlighting frustrations with Ottawa’s policies under former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. She added, “I would remind Canadians not to dismiss Albertans’ legitimate grievances. Our focus should be on addressing these issues, restoring hope in Canada, and demonstrating our country’s functionality.”