Calgary Mayor Jeromy Farkas has strongly criticized the Alberta government's decision to hold a referendum on whether the province should pursue secession from Canada, calling it a "ridiculous lack of leadership" that could harm Calgary's economy.
Farkas Speaks Out Against Referendum Question
During a news conference at Calgary city hall, Farkas expressed his disappointment with Premier Danielle Smith's government for including a referendum question in October that asks Albertans whether the province should remain part of Canada or begin legal steps toward a binding vote on independence. He argued that this move undermines investor confidence in Alberta's largest city.
"Even just having a vote on whether to have a vote is a ridiculous lack of leadership being demonstrated by the provincial government," Farkas said, standing in front of three Canadian flags. He emphasized that the process of multiple votes on separation sends a negative message to the rest of the world and the country, suggesting that Alberta is not serious about its place in Canada.
Impact on Calgary's Economy
Farkas warned that the separatist debate could stifle Calgary's economic growth, drawing parallels to Montreal's experience following Quebec's secession referendums in 1980 and 1995. He noted that political uncertainty drove businesses away from Montreal, citing the relocation of the Bank of Montreal's headquarters as an example.
"Simply opening up this debate around separation means Calgary is going to get hit the hardest, and it's going to be hit first when it comes to the lack of employment and jobs," Farkas said. "As mayor of Calgary, one of my central responsibilities is around economic development."
Collaboration vs. Separation
While Farkas commended Premier Smith and Prime Minister Mark Carney for their recent collaboration on a plan for a new oil export pipeline to the British Columbia coast, he argued that this project could be jeopardized if Alberta pursues secession. He called the referendum a "sideshow" that distracts from pressing issues in Calgary, such as housing, public safety, and infrastructure.
"There are so many other bigger priorities than reopening a divisive debate, but given the provincial government is going to bring us down this road, there's no choice but to participate and do so in a way that makes the case that Calgary is stronger as part of our country," Farkas stated. He pledged to make a loud and proud case for Canada and Calgary's role within it, emphasizing his commitment to fighting for the city's future and protecting confidence in its economy.
Premier Defends Referendum Question
At her own news conference on Friday, Premier Danielle Smith defended the wording of the referendum question, arguing that a more binary question would likely be struck down by the courts. She also justified the decision to hold the referendum, noting that over 700,000 Albertans had signed petitions related to the issue, including those launched by former deputy premier Thomas Lukaszuk and Alberta separatists.
Farkas, however, remained unconvinced. He urged Calgarians to participate in the democratic process and make the case that the city is stable, ambitious, and open for business within Canada. "My job is to fight for the city's future, protect confidence in our economy and make the case that Calgary is stable, ambitious and open for business," he concluded.
