Alberta Business Leaders Advocate for Unity Ahead of Secession Referendum

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A coalition of Alberta's business leaders is calling on voters to reject the secession referendum scheduled for October 19, emphasizing the economic risks associated with separation from Canada.

EDMONTON — A coalition of business leaders in Alberta is rallying voters to reject the upcoming secession referendum, emphasizing the significant economic uncertainties that could arise from a potential split from Canada. The Business Council of Alberta, which includes over 130 executives from various sectors such as investment firms, retailers, and construction companies, voiced their concerns at a news conference held virtually from Calgary. Council president Adam Legge highlighted the need for a unified stance among business leaders as they warn against the implications of a vote scheduled for October 19, which will ask Albertans whether they wish to remain a province of Canada or initiate a second, binding referendum on separation. Legge noted that while many member companies support the pro-Canada message, there is a reluctance to speak out individually due to fears of creating divisions among employees and customers, some of whom may favor separation. "They don’t want to upset employees and pit employees against each other or have tension within the workplace — or tension within their customer base," he stated. With just 42 days until the referendum, Legge stressed the importance of the business sector in combating voter apathy and is encouraging the sharing of practical information with voters. Despite a prevailing optimism among business leaders that the separatist movement will not succeed, they acknowledge the unpredictability of voter turnout, which could significantly impact the outcome. Several prominent business organizations, including the Canadian Chamber of Commerce and the Alberta Chambers of Commerce, have publicly aligned themselves against the secessionist agenda. In response to the growing separatist sentiments, Premier Danielle Smith's government has commissioned the University of Calgary’s School of Public Policy to assess the financial implications of Alberta leaving Canada. This report, initiated in June, is anticipated shortly. Smith previously indicated that the costs associated with transitioning to an independent province could reach as high as $400 billion. A recent report from the Canada West Foundation, a Calgary-based think tank, suggested that the initial setup costs for Alberta's separation could be around $200 billion, with ongoing expenses exceeding $50 billion annually. Such financial burdens could have a detrimental effect on Alberta’s economy. Legge, who also contributed to the think tank's report, underscored the necessity for Alberta to continue advocating for equitable treatment from the federal government rather than pursuing separation. He articulated that a vote for independence would relinquish too much control over critical aspects such as market access, cross-border travel, and fiscal policies. "The notion that a separate Alberta would be a master of its own destiny is a fiction," Legge remarked, cautioning that the potential for job losses could be immediate and severe. "There is a potential that your job may not be there the next day."

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