EDMONTON – Premier Danielle Smith has announced a referendum scheduled for October 19, aimed at soliciting opinions from Albertans regarding the province's approach to immigration policies and constitutional matters. This decision is part of a broader initiative to empower provincial governance and redefine immigration management within Alberta.
The referendum will pose a total of nine questions, split into two categories: immigration and the Canadian Constitution. This structured approach is designed to gauge public sentiment on both immigration reforms and significant amendments to the province's relationship with the federal government.
On Immigration
The first set of questions focuses on immigration. The first question proposes whether Albertans support the provincial government taking stronger control over immigration, stating the intent to reduce immigration to sustainable levels. The emphasis will be on economic migration and prioritizing employment opportunities for existing residents.
The second question addresses the eligibility of individuals for provincially funded programs. It asks if citizens support introducing a law that mandates only Canadian citizens, permanent residents, and those with an Alberta-approved immigration status to access services such as healthcare and education.
The third question continues this theme, proposing that individuals with non-permanent legal immigration status must reside in Alberta for at least 12 months before being eligible for any provincially funded social support programs. This indicates a push towards ensuring that social benefits are directed primarily towards long-term residents.
The fourth question introduces the idea of fiscal responsibility concerning healthcare and education. It asks whether Alberta should impose fees or premiums on individuals with non-permanent immigration status for their use of public healthcare and education systems.
The final question in the immigration section seeks opinions on voting eligibility. It suggests that individuals must provide proof of citizenship—such as a passport, birth certificate, or citizenship card—to participate in Alberta's provincial elections. This aims to enhance the integrity of the electoral process.
On the Canadian Constitution
The second section of the referendum revolves around the Canadian Constitution. It consists of questions that address the decentralization of power from the federal government to the provinces. The first constitutional question poses whether provincial governments, rather than the federal government, should choose justices appointed to the provincial King’s Bench and Appeal courts.
The second constitutional question regards the federal Senate, asking whether Albertans support its abolition. This reflects a growing sentiment favoring a more representative parliamentary system that resonates with provincial desires.
The third question asserts whether provinces should have the right to opt out of federal programs that encroach upon provincial jurisdiction, such as those pertaining to healthcare, education, and social services, without risking funding losses. This proposal highlights tensions over jurisdiction between federal and provincial levels of governance.
The last question in this section aims at strengthening provincial rights. It seeks support for a mechanism that would prioritize provincial laws over federal laws in cases of conflict, particularly in shared areas of constitutional jurisdiction. This would mark a significant shift in the power dynamics between federal and provincial authorities.
Premier Smith's announcement signals a robust approach to key issues affecting Alberta's residents, seeking their direct input on matters that could reshape governance and social policy in the province. The outcome of this referendum could have lasting implications for Alberta's future direction and its relationship with the federal government.
