May 25: A new Angus Reid poll suggests 60% of Albertans would vote to remain in Canada and 35% would vote in favour of the provincial government beginning a process that would lead to a separation referendum. The majority of respondents (56%) say premier Danielle Smith has “handled the issue poorly.”
Read more: Is a Referendum a Good Way to Make a Decision?
May 25: In an interview with CBC Calgary’s Eyeopener, UCP president Rob Smith suggests a majority of his party’s members will vote for separating from Canada, but that the party will remain neutral.
Read more: The Case for Sticking Around
Tuesday, May 26: At the Western Premiers’ Meeting press conference, premier Danielle Smith says the court ruling that struck down a citizen-led Alberta separation referendum petition for failing to consult First Nations was “anti-democratic” and the court “erred in judgment.” Manitoba premier Wab Kinew challenges Smith publicly, saying the duty to consult is clear and the Alberta government must fulfill it.
Wednesday, May 27: In an interview with CHQR Calgary and 880 CHED, premier Danielle Smith contradicts claims UCP president Rob Smith’s made earlier in the week, saying: “Our party had as its founding principles that we support autonomy for Alberta within a united Canada.”
Read more: The Minister Who Quit
Thursday, May 28: The UCP government makes its referendum question on separation official, emphasizing that the results are non-binding. Voters will pick one of two options: “Alberta should remain a province of Canada” or “The Government of Alberta should commence the legal process required under the Canadian Constitution to hold a binding provincial referendum on whether or not Alberta should separate from Canada.”
Read more: Should Alberta Separate?
Friday, May 29: The Alberta Federation of Labour hosts a province-wide day of action called “The Fight Back Now campaign,” which sees 20 events in 15 communities across Alberta. The day of action pushes back against the UCP’s use of the notwithstanding clause as well as its policies on separation, two-tier healthcare, coal mining and underfunding of public education.
Read more: Smith Vs Smith
The Week in Alberta is updated weekdays by 4:30pm MT.
