Carney, Poilievre bring federalist push to Alberta ahead of referendum vote | CBC News
Alberta vote approaches
Albertans vote on Oct. 19 on whether to trigger a binding referendum on separation. Separatists brought the vote forward after Premier Danielle Smith lowered the threshold for prompting a public referendum.
Carney makes unity appeal
Carney centered his Thanksgiving Day message on the coming vote, saying Canada is “worth fighting for.” He pointed to projects backed by Ottawa, including a proposed pipeline to the West Coast. Since Oct. 6, the federal government has also used a video promoting the message that “a united Canada is a stronger Canada.” It pairs images including outdoor hockey, mountains and a hospital gurney with a reading of the national anthem.
Poilievre rejects separation calls
Poilievre, who is also from Alberta, dismissed Elon Musk’s calls for Quebec, Alberta and Saskatchewan to separate. He said, “Canadians control their own destiny.” On Friday, Poilievre is expected to speak in Calgary at the Canada Strong and Free Network conference, where he will join Smith.
Key points
- Albertans vote Oct. 19 on whether to trigger a binding separation referendum.
- Carney says Canada is “worth fighting for” and cited a proposed West Coast pipeline.
- Poilievre rejected Elon Musk’s calls for three provinces to separate.
- Poilievre is expected to appear with Danielle Smith at a Calgary conference Friday.