The fall referendum in Alberta has had another question added to the ballot.
Should Alberta remain a province of Canada, or should the Government of Alberta commence the legal process required under the Canadian Constitution to hold a binding provincial referendum on whether or not Alberta should separate from Canada?
Premier Danielle Smith made the announcement in her televised speech last night.
Smith said a vote in favour of separation doesn’t trigger the process, but will instead allow Alberta to start a legal process required to hold a binding referendum.
The move comes after a court ruling struck down the ‘Stay Free Alberta’ separation petition for failing to consult First Nations, a decision the premier called a misinterpretation of the duty to consult and an infringement on democratic rights.
Since the judge’s ruling prevents Elections Alberta from validating signatures or holding a binding referendum until appeals are resolved, Smith said the new question is the only viable way to let Albertans be heard this year.
Smith stressed she wants Alberta to remain in Canada and would vote that way, adding that is also the position of her United Conservative Party.
She also used her speech to reiterate her party’s longstanding grievances with the federal government and what she said is Ottawa’s interference in areas of provincial jurisdiction.
With a question on staying in Canada now slated for the ballot, Albertans will be voting on 10 immigration and constitution-related questions this fall.
The other nine questions, which ask for a mandate on issues relating to Alberta’s jurisdiction in matters of immigration and the judicial system, were announced earlier this year.
You can watch the video of the speech below.
– Kyle Moore, Trending 55 Newsroom
