The Conservative MP tasked with leading his party’s efforts to convince Albertans to stay in Canada says he is concerned by reports of separatists going to Washington and offering up fresh water and oil in exchange for American support.
Dane Lloyd says no one has the right to promise away Albertan resources and he will not condone any of the province’s revenues going to a foreign government.
The Globe and Mail also reported over the weekend that Republican political operatives were in Alberta earlier this year to help the separatist cause.
Public Safety Minister Gary Anandasangaree deferred questions about the reporting to CSIS.
The reports of the separatist talk reached the ears of Calgary Mayor Jeromy Farkas, who felt it meant the group was “selling out.”
“MAGA political operatives came to Calgary to help carve up our country. Meanwhile, separatist leaders went to Washington promising our water, our oil, and our land,” Farkas wrote online.
“If you want to live in the United States, move to the United States.”
Smith ‘opposes separation’
In a statement on Monday, the press secretary for Alberta Premier Danielle Smith said she is not affiliated with the separatists behind the claims.
“(She) has no knowledge of these alleged meetings. She also opposes separation or becoming a U.S. state.,” said Sam Blackett, director of media relations.
“In fact, many of these individuals in question have been relentlessly attacking the premier for her support for remaining in Canada.”
Albertans will vote on Oct. 19 on whether to hold a binding referendum on legal separation from Canada.
Smith has said she will vote against separation but has been accused of not doing enough to quell separatist sentiment in the province.
With files from Michael Franklin, CTV News
