STATEMENT: Separatism referendum question is an expensive distraction

Irfan Sabir, Alberta New Democrat Shadow Minister for Justice, issued the following statement in response to the Court of King’s bench ruling on the Chief Electoral Officer’s reference regarding the proposed Alberta separation referendum question:

“Separating Alberta from our beloved country has always been an expensive distraction, and Danielle Smith’s UCP government have only themselves to blame for fueling it.

“This UCP government has encouraged a separatist referendum that would devastate our province’s economy, hurt investment and make life more expensive. They’ve completely ignored Indigenous peoples, their rights, and their concerns about separatism. Further, the Premier and the Minister of Justice inappropriately interfered with the Chief Electoral Officer’s work, pressuring them to withdraw its Court reference and allow this pro-separatism referendum question to proceed.

“The Premier and this UCP government need to stop pandering to these extremist groups, especially those led by her own party members who want to destroy our country, and let the Chief Electoral Officer and courts do their job without any political interference.

“Albertans priorities are clear: they want a thriving economy, a more affordable cost of living, quality health care and a better education system, not separation.

“Alberta’s New Democrat Caucus is listening to Albertans about their priorities. We know we are better together. We welcome all Albertans to visit BetterTogetherSummer.ca to find upcoming events.”