Edmonton : In a bold move, Alberta Premier Danielle Smith announced the creation of the ‘Alberta Next’ panel to shape the province’s future within Canada, alongside a specialized team to negotiate with Ottawa, as a citizen-led independence referendum looms in 2026. The announcement came during an 18-minute online address Monday, set against Alberta and Canada flags, where Smith outlined historical grievances against the federal government.
While emphasizing that her government isn’t directly proposing a separation vote, Smith acknowledged growing support for independence, noting, “A large and growing number of Albertans have lost hope in Alberta having a free and prosperous future as a part of Canada.” She highlighted Bill 54, recently tabled to ease citizen-initiated referendums by lowering signature thresholds and extending collection periods, with a second reading expected soon.
The ‘Alberta Next’ panel, chaired by Smith and comprising top judicial, academic, and economic minds, will host town halls to explore Alberta’s options against Ottawa. Smith indicated that popular proposals from the panel could be put to a provincial referendum in 2026. Details on the panel’s composition and scope are forthcoming.
Smith reiterated demands to Ottawa, including securing tidewater access for energy exports, lifting B.C.’s tanker ban, scrapping emissions caps, clean electricity rules, and the net-zero car mandate. She proposed these form an “Alberta accord” to strengthen both Alberta and Canada, potentially easing separatist sentiments.
The announcement follows the re-election of Prime Minister Mark Carney’s Liberals, who secured just two of Alberta’s 37 seats. Smith described initial talks with Carney as positive but stressed Albertans value actions over words, referencing the 2021 equalization referendum’s limited impact.
Smith will address reporters Tuesday at noon, as Alberta braces for a pivotal year of negotiations and potential referendums.
Interesting move by Premier Danielle Smith with the ‘Alberta Next’ panel. It seems like Alberta is really pushing for more autonomy within Canada. The idea of a citizen-led independence referendum in 2026 is quite bold and shows the growing frustration among Albertans. I wonder how Ottawa will respond to these demands, especially with the proposed “Alberta accord.” Do you think this could lead to a significant shift in Alberta’s relationship with the federal government? It’s also intriguing to see the emphasis on energy exports and environmental policies. How do you see this playing out in the broader context of Canada’s climate goals? Lastly, with the panel comprising top minds, what specific outcomes are you hoping to see from their town halls and discussions?
It’s interesting to see Alberta taking such a proactive stance in shaping its future within Canada. The creation of the ‘Alberta Next’ panel seems like a strategic move to address long-standing grievances with Ottawa. However, I wonder if this approach will truly bridge the gap or further deepen the divide. The emphasis on citizen-led referendums is commendable, but will it lead to meaningful change or just more political tension? The demands to Ottawa, like tidewater access and lifting the tanker ban, are bold, but are they realistic given the current federal stance? I’m curious to see how the panel’s proposals will be received by both Albertans and the federal government. Do you think this initiative will strengthen Alberta’s position or fuel more separatist sentiments? What’s your take on the potential outcomes of these negotiations?
This is an interesting and bold move by Premier Danielle Smith, and it’s clear that Alberta is at a crossroads. The creation of the ‘Alberta Next’ panel seems like a strategic step to address the growing frustrations of Albertans, but is it truly about independence or just a negotiation tactic? The emphasis on historical grievances and the push for more autonomy raises questions about the long-term vision for Alberta within Canada. While the idea of a citizen-led referendum is empowering, I wonder if this will truly unite Albertans or deepen divisions. The focus on energy exports and economic policies is crucial, but how will this align with broader national interests? What do you think—is this the right path for Alberta, or are there better ways to address these challenges? I’d love to hear your thoughts on how this could shape the future of the province and its relationship with the rest of Canada.