Premier Danielle Smith of Alberta concluded the Alberta Next panel’s tour on a tense note in Calgary, with residents expressing grievances towards Ottawa and the provincial government. The event at Spruce Meadows drew around 1,100 attendees, providing them with a final opportunity to address the panel before decisions are made on the way forward.
Smith stated that there is a growing consensus on certain issues that could progress, while others may be rejected or put to a public vote. The panel was established earlier in the year following Prime Minister Mark Carney’s victory, aiming to reassess Alberta’s relationship with Ottawa through proposals such as greater control over immigration, creating an Alberta-run pension plan, and establishing a provincial police force.
Despite occasional dissent, the crowd overwhelmingly supported all six government proposals, mirroring results from previous town halls. The province is currently analyzing survey data, which has not been publicly disclosed. Following a telephone town hall, the panel will decide which proposals will advance to a referendum or be implemented directly.
During the event, tensions rose at times, including a heated exchange involving a high school student criticizing the government. Audience members engaged in passionate discussions, with some expressing support for separation from Canada. Panel member Stephen Buffalo dismissed the idea that seeking constitutional changes aligns with separatist motives, emphasizing the need for strong leadership to navigate the path forward.
As the evening concluded, attendees sang the national anthem following a debate on Alberta separatism, showcasing the diverse opinions expressed throughout the event.
