Key facts
- Prime Minister Mark Carney urged Albertans to remain in Canada ahead of a referendum vote on the province's future.
- Carney warned that a vote to hold a separation referendum would begin a "long and uncertain process."
- The referendum is scheduled for October 19, with advance voting opening Tuesday.
- Carney filmed a video statement from his alma mater, St. Francis Xavier High School in Edmonton.
- Alberta Premier Danielle Smith supports Alberta remaining in Canada and pursuing constitutional reforms.
- The referendum includes a question on whether Alberta should hold a second, binding referendum on separating from Canada.
Prime Minister Mark Carney on Monday urged Albertans to remain part of Canada, warning that a vote next week on whether to hold a referendum on leaving the country would begin a “long and uncertain process” at a dangerous time for Canada.
In a video posted online on Thanksgiving Monday, filmed at his alma mater, St. Francis Xavier High School in Edmonton, Mr. Carney said Albertans helped build Canada and that the country is facing threats to its economy, security, and way of life. He emphasized that Canada cannot build big things if it is divided, stating, “We are stronger together. Generations of Albertans helped build this country. It’s yours. It’s ours. And it’s worth fighting for.”