Key facts
- Albertans are voting on whether to remain in Canada or hold a second independence referendum.
- Premier Danielle Smith estimated separation costs at C$400 billion for transition and $25 billion-$50 billion annually.
- The University of Calgary's school of public policy estimated separation costs could reach $170 billion over five years.
- Former premiers Jason Kenney and Rachel Notley have united to campaign for a united Canada.
- Mark Carney, former Bank of England governor, is campaigning for a united Canada.
- The referendum includes nine other measures unrelated to separation.
Albertans are heading to the polls for a referendum that has highlighted deep divisions within the province, particularly concerning its relationship with Canada and the separatist movement. Voters will decide whether Alberta should remain in Canada or proceed with a second binding independence referendum.
While a minority have long advocated for separation due to perceived financial disadvantages and restrictions on fossil fuel exploitation, the issue has not strictly followed partisan lines. Former premiers Jason Kenney and Rachel Notley have appeared together to support a united Canada. Mark Carney, former governor of the Bank of England, has also been actively campaigning for unity, emphasizing the economic risks and uncertainty of separation.
Premier Danielle Smith, who called the referendum under pressure, has expressed caution about the costs of independence, estimated by her office at C$400 billion for transition and an additional $25 billion-$50 billion annually. Opponents, citing a University of Calgary report, suggest costs could reach $170 billion over five years. Within the separatist movement itself, figures like Keith Wilson have published transition plans, while others, such as Bill Jones of the Wildrose Independence party, warn of potential state failure and long-term suffering.
The referendum also includes nine other measures unrelated to separation, with some separatists urging a 'decline the 9' campaign in protest against Smith's approach.