Former Alberta premier Jason Kenney emphasized the importance of federal MPs standing up against those advocating for the division of Canada. Speaking at the University of Calgary alongside Calgary Liberal MP Corey Hogan, Kenney warned of a potential rupture in the country’s economy and society in the near future.
Kenney urged federalists to be more proactive in countering separatist voices that have dominated discussions over the past year. He highlighted the discontent among some Albertans towards Ottawa, leading them to consider separation as a means of expressing their grievances.
Hogan, a former deputy minister in Kenney’s government and the current parliamentary secretary to the federal energy minister, stressed the urgency for the federal government to address the situation promptly. He noted the uncertainty surrounding the potential referendum on Alberta independence, currently tangled in legal proceedings.
With the referendum possibly looming in five months, Hogan called on Alberta MPs to unite and defend the country’s unity. Kenney commended federal Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre for his patriotic stance and expressed confidence in his leadership potential in countering separatism if the need arises.
Kenney reiterated his commitment to opposing separatist movements in Alberta and emphasized the collective effort required to preserve Canada’s unity. He also highlighted ongoing negotiations between Ottawa and Alberta on energy issues, indicating positive developments towards a mutually beneficial agreement.
