Prime Minister Mark Carney and Opposition Leader Pierre Poilievre are set to deliver messages promoting national unity in Alberta, just days before the province’s crucial referendum on separation. Carney will be participating in a rally for the “Forever Canadian” group alongside former Alberta deputy premier Thomas Lukaszuk on Thursday and is expected to attend a similar event in Edmonton on Friday, his hometown, ahead of the upcoming vote.
The referendum, scheduled for October 19, comes after years of discontent in the West and a feeling of detachment from the federal government. It was initiated by separatists following a decision by Alberta Premier Danielle Smith to lower the threshold required to trigger a public referendum. The ballot will feature 10 questions covering immigration and constitutional matters, including one on whether Alberta should remain part of Canada or move forward with a binding referendum on independence.
In a Thanksgiving Day address, Carney emphasized the importance of preserving national unity, stressing that the nation is worth defending and highlighting federal initiatives such as the proposed new pipeline to the West Coast. He underlined the need for solidarity, stating, “You can’t build big things on fault lines.”
A new government campaign launched since October 6 uses a video incorporating iconic Canadian imagery, paired with the recitation of the national anthem, to advocate that a united Canada is a stronger Canada. The campaign, broadcast on television and online in the lead-up to the referendum, is estimated to cost around $250,000, according to the Privy Council Office.
Poilievre is expected to join Smith at the Canada Strong and Free Network conference in Calgary on Friday, where he will address the audience. Last week, the Conservative leader, hailing from Alberta as well, rebuffed tech magnate Elon Musk’s suggestions for Quebec, Alberta, and Saskatchewan to break away from Canada, asserting that Canadians determine their own fate.
Ahead of the closely watched referendum on Monday, thousands of Albertans have already participated in advanced voting.
