NDP leader Nenshi takes aim at Smith over separation vote
At a Calgary Chamber of Commerce event, Nenshi said the referendum creates economic uncertainty at a time when Canada faces external threats.
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Alberta's official opposition leader criticized Premier Danielle Smith Monday for fueling economic uncertainty through focus on the province's separatist movement, while outlining his party's vision for the economy.
During a speech at the Hyatt Regency in downtown Calgary, NDP leader Naheed Nenshi told the Calgary Chamber of Commerce that the upcoming separation referendum is creating instability for Alberta's economy and business environment.
"There's no greater instability than this referendum right now," Nenshi said. "People are deeply worried that 130 days from now, we could lose our country. We've got to strengthen our great nation, and instead we're weakening it from within with this talk of separation. It leaves us prey to all kinds of challenges … not having unity and strength in such a dangerous geopolitical time."
Nenshi described what he called a "structural shift" in Alberta's economy over the past seven years under UCP leadership, marked by affordability challenges, growing food insecurity, rising unemployment, and lower wages compared to other Canadian provinces. He framed this all within what he characterized as a "profoundly unstable" business environment.
The NDP leader focused his remarks on what he sees as opportunities for the energy sector, job creation, and increased fiscal responsibility — positioning the opposition as an alternative to current provincial direction.