As Alberta tabled a budget projecting a $9.4-billion deficit Thursday, supporters of provincial separation gathered in southern Alberta, arguing the province’s fiscal outlook underscores their case for independence.
The budget forecasts the multibillion-dollar shortfall, with Premier Danielle Smith blaming federal immigration policies and volatile oil prices.
For some backing a citizen-led petition to trigger a referendum on the province’s independence, the deficit reinforces their belief Alberta would be financially stronger outside Confederation.
Mitch Sylvestre, who is leading the petition drive, said Alberta sends billions of dollars to Ottawa each year and would immediately benefit by keeping more of that revenue.
“So, would we be better off? Absolutely,” Sylvestre said.
He added that “on day one (of independence), we could give everybody a 20 per cent cut in federal aid in their income tax, and we could double all age pension with OAS.”
Supporters gathered at Holy Cross Parish Hall in Fort Macleod to sign the petition. Under Alberta’s Referendum Act, organizers must collect 177,732 valid signatures by May 2 for the question to be verified and potentially brought before the legislature.
Ken Orich said he signed because he has lost faith in federal leadership.
“I don’t have a lot of faith in central Canada, in our political elite,” he said.
Richard Orich said his motivation is future generations.
“I’m doing this for my kids and grandchildren,” he said.
A recent Mainstreet Research poll shows three in 10 Albertans support separation, a figure consistent with several other surveys in recent weeks.
But some supporters dismiss the polling numbers.
“The polls … I don’t trust them,” Richard Orich said.
Inside a Fort Macleod diner, the subject of separation divided residents.
“I believe Canada should be altogether,” said David Kaupp.
Mary Ann Hintz disagreed.
“I am for separation,” she said.
