Prime Minister Mark Carney and Premier Danielle Smith announced the West Coast Pipeline Project in Calgary on July 2, delivering a significant blow to Alberta's separatist movement. According to a Leger survey released last week by the Association for Canadian Studies, 88 per cent of Albertans identified as proud Canadians, higher than Ontario, Atlantic Canada, and Quebec, and only slightly lower than British Columbia at 91 per cent.
Pipeline Announcement Undermines Separatist Hopes
Separatists had hoped the pipeline deal would collapse, but the joint announcement demonstrated productive federal-provincial cooperation. Rob Breakenridge, writing for the Calgary Herald, noted that the push for leaving Canada was already facing an uphill battle, and a productive partnership between governments will only make the case that much more difficult.
The political effect of last week was less about Canada Day parades on July 1 and more about the podium and speakers in Calgary on July 2. The announcement ended the oil and gas emissions cap, allowing the pipeline to move forward, and eased Clean Electricity Regulations, paving the way for a major natural gas project to power a new data centre near Edmonton.
Economic and National Benefits
Breakenridge argued that Alberta's wishes and aspirations bestow a national benefit. The economic effect of the pipeline, related investments, and increased production are considerable, even though some questions remain. He noted that pipeline opponents elsewhere in Canada, including some in the Liberal caucus, may feel the prime minister has caved to separatist blackmail. However, he suggested that if Albertans were less ornery, the announcement might not have happened.
While the case for remaining in Canada should not rest on one project, the partnership between governments strengthens the case for unity. Breakenridge concluded that as seen on July 1 and in recent polls, Albertans remain proud and patriotic Canadians.
