Alberta votes on starting legal process for a future separation referendum
Voters in Canada's Alberta province are taking part in an October 19 referendum that asks whether to remain in Canada or begin the legal process for a separate, binding vote on separation. The current answer to that question is non-binding.
The referendum contains ten questions. The others address issues including immigration, access to social services and the division of powers between provincial and federal authorities. Each question appears on a separate ballot, according to Elections Alberta.
Polling places are open from 9:00 to 20:00 local time. Advance voting ran from October 13 to 17. Ballots will be counted by hand, with the question on preparing a future separation vote counted first.
An Angus Reid poll published on October 16 found 66% of respondents choosing to remain in Canada and 34% supporting the process toward another referendum. Among supporters of the latter option, 60% primarily wanted to send Ottawa a political message, while 37% named independence as their goal.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney and Alberta Premier Danielle Smith oppose separation. Smith nevertheless backed putting the question on the ballot. Disputes over oil and gas resources, climate restrictions and the distribution of federal revenue remain central to the independence campaign.
Independence supporters began collecting signatures for a separate vote in January and finished on May 2. First Nations representatives challenged the procedure over consultation failures and risks to treaty rights. A court overturned approval of the initiative on May 13, before Smith announced on May 21 that the question would be included in October's referendum.
Support for beginning the legal process would still require a subsequent separation vote. A lawful change in provincial status involves negotiations with federal authorities and other provinces, constitutional changes and addressing Indigenous rights.
Elections Alberta expects unofficial results within 48 hours after polling places close. Official results are due on October 29.