Canada PM Carney warns 'stakes are high' as Alberta separation vote nears
Prime Minister Mark Carney has urged Albertans to vote to remain in Canada ahead of an independence referendum on Monday, warning that the "stakes are high".
TL;DR
- Prime Minister Mark Carney is visiting Alberta to campaign for unity ahead of a separation referendum.
- Carney warned that the "stakes are high" and urged Albertans to vote to remain in Canada.
- The referendum question asks if the province wishes to remain part of Canada or begin the process of separation.
- Polls suggest most Albertans support remaining in Canada, but turnout is considered crucial.
- Premier Danielle Smith called the referendum after a grassroots petition for a binding vote on separation.
- Separation supporters argue Alberta has been overlooked by federal politicians and environmental policies hinder its oil and gas sector.
- Opponents of separation warn of billions in debt and job losses.
- Carney has compared the referendum to "Brexit" and announced plans to fast-track an oil pipeline project.
- Both Premier Smith and opposition leader Pierre Poilievre are set to attend pro-unity events.
- Early figures indicate a high voter turnout.