Alberta separatists are under scrutiny for alleged discussions with the United States, offering access to Alberta’s natural resources in exchange for support. The Globe and Mail’s investigation suggests the Alberta Prosperity Project (APP) met U.S. State Department officials last year, proposing oil royalty payments, water supplies, and land access for an Alaska railway.

Dennis Modry, an APP co-founder, claimed the group delivered a document highlighting potential benefits of Alberta’s sovereignty for both Alberta and the U.S. However, group lawyer Jeff Rath called Modry’s statements “delusional.” Canadian MPs have criticized the act as risking national sovereignty, with one calling for an urgent debate.

“Nobody has the right to promise away Alberta’s birthright,” said Conservative MP Dane Lloyd.

Less than two weeks before Alberta’s independence referendum, advocacy group Public Interest Alberta demands an investigation into potential foreign interference. The referendum will not automatically result in secession but asks whether to proceed with a binding vote.

Newsweek’s earlier report on U.S. separatist meetings saw the White House deny any support or commitments. The Globe’s report also did not confirm any agreements between the separatists and U.S. officials.

Meetings and Allegations

Reports suggest APP met U.S. officials three times in 2022, proposing American financial aid for Alberta’s transition to independence, possibly repaid through resource access. Modry mentioned ideas like railway construction and switching to the U.S. dollar, denying advocacy for Alberta becoming a U.S. state.

Contradicting this, Rath dismissed the claims as false and absurd, insisting discussions only covered Albertans’ aspirations for independence.

“The U.S. is extremely enthusiastic about a free and independent Alberta,” Rath mentioned in January.

Canadian Reaction

Canadian MPs reacted strongly to the allegations. Heather McPherson of the NDP sought a debate, highlighting the sovereignty threat posed. The request was declined.

“Canadian sovereignty is at stake,” McPherson stated in the House of Commons.

Prime Minister’s office reiterated its stance on respecting Canadian sovereignty amidst the Alberta referendum.

The Upcoming Referendum

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith announced an independence referendum for October, adding a question to a mixed-issue ballot. It asks whether Alberta should begin legal steps for a binding separation vote.

Some separatists, like Cameron Davies, criticized Smith’s move as a tactic to extend political timelines.

“We’re going to have a referendum to have a referendum,” Rath noted, emphasizing complications in the independence campaign.

Smith favored Alberta remaining in Canada but aims to acknowledge the voices supporting independence.

Reasons for Independence

Alberta feels unfairly treated by Ottawa, despite its significant economic contribution via oil and gas. Dissatisfaction stems from perceived underrepresentation and unfavorable environmental regulations on the resource sector.

Davies expressed the need for Alberta to follow its own course, mentioning the province’s resource richness and untapped potential.

Efforts like building an oil pipeline to the Pacific, supported by Smith and Liberal government, aim to alleviate Alberta’s grievances. Mark Carney, aiming for a streamlined federal review, highlighted cooperation across provinces as a means to strengthen Canada.