Mayor Farkas condemns separatists for offering Alberta resources to Americans
Jeromy Farkas recorded statement criticizes groups discussing handing water, oil royalties to U.S. in exchange for independence support.
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Mayor Jeromy Farkas posted a recorded statement Monday morning condemning Alberta separatists for discussing the sale of provincial resources to American interest parties in exchange for support for independence.
"You sure as hell don't defend Alberta by discussing what parts of us you'll carve up for the Americans," Farkas said. "That's not taking back Alberta. That's selling Alberta out. If you want to live in the United States, go move to the United States."
Farkas's response follows a Globe and Mail report detailing meetings between separatist leaders and American interest parties. According to the report, separatists suggested access to Alberta assets including fresh water and oil royalties in exchange for help transitioning to independence. At least one meeting took place at the U.S. State Department last year, and a January meeting occurred in Calgary between Republican operatives and the Alberta Prosperity Project, where methods of influencing an Alberta referendum campaign and specialized voter targeting technology were reportedly discussed.
Three meetings were arranged by lawyer and separatist leader Jeff Rath. Rath disputed the characterization on social media Monday, saying no "negotiating" took place. "We were simply sharing the aspirations of hundreds of thousands of Albertans for a lawful process leading to an independent country," Rath posted.
Farkas acknowledged frustration with the federal government is justified but said Calgary's economy depends on market access across Canada and globally. "Tell that to the Calgary workers and businesses whose livelihoods they are gambling with," the mayor said. "We're Canada's energy governor. We're a headquarters city. We're a city of newcomers. Our jobs and businesses depend on access to markets across Canada and around the world."
City council has been divided on how to respond to Alberta separation efforts. As of September, Farkas wanted council to endorse Alberta staying in Canada, while other councillors objected.
Which specific American parties and officials were involved in the meetings?
What is the exact date of the US State Department meeting?
Have other Calgary city council members responded to Farkas's position?
We'll update this story as answers emerge.
The facts
What resources did separatists discuss offering to Americans?
According to reports, separatist leaders suggested access to Alberta's fresh water and oil royalties in exchange for American support for independence.
Who is Jeff Rath?
Jeff Rath is a lawyer and separatist leader who arranged three meetings between separatist groups and American interest parties.
Where did one of the separatist meetings take place?
At least one meeting took place at the U.S. State Department, and another occurred in Calgary between Republican operatives and the Alberta Prosperity Project in January.
