Albertans have voted overwhelmingly to remain part of Canada, rejecting a proposal that would have started the process toward the province’s separation.
Unofficial results from Monday’s referendum show approximately 76 per cent of voters supported remaining in Canada, while about 23 per cent favoured beginning the legal process toward a future vote on independence.
Prime Minister Mark Carney welcomed the outcome in a statement released early Tuesday morning.
“On October 19, Albertans made a clear choice. They chose unity, to build together, and to take care of each other,” Carney said.
“Above all, Albertans chose Canada.”
The referendum did not ask voters to approve immediate independence. Instead, Albertans were asked whether the province should remain in Canada or begin the constitutional process required to hold a binding referendum on separation.
Carney said the results provide an opportunity for Canadians to move forward together, pointing to his government’s efforts to expand international trade and accelerate major infrastructure and energy projects.
He also emphasized Alberta’s importance to the country’s economic future, describing the province as central to Canada’s ambitions of becoming a global energy superpower.
“Canada is so much greater than the sum of its parts,” Carney said.
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith, whose government called the referendum, also welcomed the outcome. Smith had publicly opposed separation while maintaining that Alberta needed greater control over its own affairs.
The referendum followed growing support for separatism among some Albertans, driven in part by longstanding disagreements with Ottawa over energy policy, federal spending and provincial jurisdiction.
Supporters of independence have argued Alberta would benefit from greater autonomy, while opponents raised concerns about the economic and constitutional consequences of leaving Canada.
Despite Monday’s result, separatist leaders have indicated they intend to continue advocating for independence.
Albertans also voted on nine other non-binding questions, including proposals involving immigration, provincial powers and constitutional changes. Counting on those questions was continuing following Monday’s vote.
Elections Alberta is scheduled to release official results on October 29.
