Alberta Premier Danielle Smith has suggested that holding a sovereignty referend

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith has suggested that holding a sovereignty referendum could serve as an "outlet" to address the grievances of Albertans and prevent the creation of a new separatist political party. In an interview with CTV News Channel, Smith acknowledged that she does not support separating from Canada but is seeking concessions from Liberal Prime Minister Mark Carney. She referenced the popularity of the sovereigntist Parti Québécois in Quebec and expressed concern over a similar situation arising in Alberta. 
Smith's comments come as her government has introduced a bill that would make it easier to trigger such referendums, following Carney's re-election victory.

The bill has led to renewed calls for secession from some quarters in the province. However, her approach has drawn criticism from opposition NDP health critic Sarah Hoffman, who described it as "selfish and dangerous." Moreover, First Nations Chiefs across Alberta have condemned the legislation, emphasizing that their treaties with the federal government predate provincial borders and that Alberta lacks the authority to undermine these agreements.

Smith's strategy includes sending a negotiating team to Ottawa and hosting town halls to gather public input on how to achieve a better deal for the province. She is particularly focused on securing guaranteed oil and gas pipeline access to tidewater and reducing federal regulations that she believes are hindering Alberta's economy. After meeting with Carney and other provincial leaders, Smith expressed optimism for a consensus on the need to eliminate barriers to "nation-building projects" and investment. However, the potential for a referendum remains a contentious issue, with significant implications for Canada's national unity and the future of the country.