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Alberta’s Smith owes answers before separation vote: former federal minister Dion

On Feb. 5, 2026, Stéphane Dion urged Premier Danielle Smith to clarify if she would lead or join secession negotiations after a referendum, noting urgent procedural questions.
Under the Clarity Act and Supreme Court guidance, Premier Danielle Smith's rule changes aim to clarify the secession process amid procedural uncertainty, requiring a clear question and majority for negotiations.
Key uncertainties include whether Smith would negotiate a secession she opposes and if Alberta's separatist activists trust her, prompting a provincial election proposal to confirm support.
Under the law, negotiations would need to address division of assets and liabilities, borders, Indigenous peoples with territorial claims, and minority protections between the federal government of Canada and provincial governments.
Some separatists claim U.S. recognition, but experts warn such recognition would be extraordinary and could risk Alberta's residents sharing benefits with 348 million Americans.

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Alberta’s Smith owes answers before separation vote: former federal minister Dion

The former federal cabinet minister responsible for the law dictating what happens after a provincial separation vote says Premier Danielle Smith must answer questions before a referendum.

2 days ago·Canada

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