Carney Compares Alberta Independence Vote to Brexit

” Carney, who served as governor of the Bank of England during the 2016 referendum, said he witnessed how voters later sought to reverse decisions they had not fully understood. He noted that Britain remains engaged in efforts to undo aspects of the outcome a decade later.

Background on the referendum Alberta Premier Danielle Smith announced last week that a non-binding vote will be held on October 19 to determine whether the province should begin constitutional steps toward a binding referendum on leaving Canada. Smith has stated she supports Alberta remaining part of Canada.

Carney said the issue was not raised during the most recent provincial election campaign and questioned whether the vote reflected the democratic will of Albertans.

Economic and political context Carney is seeking to advance construction of a new oil pipeline from Alberta to Canada’s Pacific coast. He argued that the referendum debate could complicate efforts to attract investment to the country. Smith responded that Albertans alone should decide the question and pointed to grievances accumulated over the previous decade of federal policies.

She urged focus on addressing those concerns rather than dismissing them. " — Mark Carney, May 25, 2026 (Associated Press) Carney said he plans to make the case for a united Canada over the next 150 days alongside other Albertans and Canadians.