Albertans will likely vote on a pro-Canada question on Oct. 19, referendum day in Alberta, according to Premier Danielle Smith. Speaking at a news conference Thursday, Smith indicated that a legislative committee is considering including Thomas Lukaszuk's Forever Canadian question: "Do you agree that Alberta should remain in Canada?"
The premier noted that 450,000 Albertans signed a petition supporting this question, expecting a referendum. Although Lukaszuk later changed his mind and preferred a legislature vote, Smith emphasized the legal process initiated with precise language. She stated, "We're just trying to get some direction from the committee on that."
The UCP-dominated committee is expected to approve Lukaszuk's question. Until now, it seemed unlikely to be on the ballot, with most attention on a separatist question now mired in a legal challenge. Lukaszuk had requested a legislature vote, not a provincewide one, but upon hearing Smith's comments, he expressed delight if his question is used.
The separatist question reads: "Do you agree that the Province of Alberta should cease to be part of Canada to become an independent state?" Smith had earlier suggested it would be on the ballot if it passed regulatory hurdles. However, a First Nations challenge has tied it up in court. On April 10, a judge issued a one-month stay on Elections Alberta receiving and certifying signatures, meaning nothing can be counted until after the May 2 deadline. The judge cast doubt on the petition drive, citing evidence of harm from lack of consultation and harm to treaty relationships.
If the judge rules the question unconstitutional, Smith will face a difficult situation. She previously pulled a separatist question from court when a judge said it violated the Constitution, then rewrote legislation to allow it and put it back on the signature market.
