Premier Danielle Smith’s Alberta Next Panel concluded its province-wide tour in Calgary on Monday evening amidst a charged atmosphere where local residents voiced concerns towards Ottawa and the provincial government. The event, held at a south Calgary venue usually used for equestrian activities, attracted 1,100 attendees eager to share their views directly with the panel before final decisions are made.
Smith mentioned that certain issues seem to be aligning for potential advancement, while others may be discarded, and some will require public input, echoing sentiments expressed at a recent town hall in Grande Prairie. The panel was established following Prime Minister Mark Carney’s election victory earlier this year, with the aim to reassess Alberta’s relationship with the federal government. The proposals discussed include increased control over immigration, exiting the Canada Pension Plan in favor of an Alberta-managed plan, and establishing a provincial police force.
Despite occasional disagreements from individuals, the panel received a warm reception from the audience, who overwhelmingly supported all six government proposals. Similar positive feedback was noted at previous town halls. The province is currently conducting surveys, the outcomes of which have not been disclosed publicly.
Following a telephone town hall scheduled for Wednesday, the panel will deliberate on which proposals will proceed to a referendum or be implemented without a vote. Emotions ran high at the event, with instances of tension among attendees. During a contentious moment, a high school student criticized the government over a teacher’s union decision, leading to his microphone being cut off. The incident sparked further reactions from the audience towards the moderator’s response.
Audience members engaged in heated discussions both during and after the event, with visible disagreements among attendees. The night saw passionate exchanges and even a rendition of the national anthem in response to remarks about Alberta separatism, which garnered mixed reactions from the crowd.
Panel member Stephen Buffalo, CEO of Indian Resource Council, emphasized that the proposed changes are not geared towards separatism but rather toward constructive dialogue and leadership. He discouraged notions of Alberta pursuing separation, likening it to a futile endeavor.
The event in Calgary marked a significant moment in the Alberta Next Panel’s journey, setting the stage for critical decisions ahead.