Preston Manning is taking a prominent role in the lead-up to Alberta’s upcoming referendum by headlining a public forum addressing longstanding grievances in Western Canada towards Ottawa. Scheduled for September 19 and 20, the virtual sessions will be co-chaired by Manning, the former leader of the Reform Party, and former B.C. Premier Gordon Campbell.
The forum coincides with Alberta Premier Danielle Smith’s plan to present 10 questions to voters on October 19, including the choice of the province remaining in Canada or proceeding with a second, binding referendum on separation.
Manning emphasized that the purpose of the events is to provide education and engage voters without descending into the usual partisan disputes often seen in public gatherings. He highlighted the distinctiveness of this forum from previous advisory panels, such as the Alberta Next panel and the Fair Deal panel, by aiming for a broader approach.
The forum aims to present various viewpoints without bias towards any particular stance. It will not solely focus on Alberta, as a follow-up session is planned for October to formulate recommendations post the Alberta vote and share them with policymakers across Western Canada.
Manning stressed that concerns about the federal government’s role extend beyond Alberta and that the assembly’s outcomes would be applicable to other provinces. The assembly seeks to demonstrate a democratic process free of partisan arguments and hopes to inspire confidence in democratic institutions, especially among the youth.
Additionally, Manning mentioned the intention to shed light on Smith’s other nine ballot questions, which include proposals related to social services for immigrants, constitutional negotiations on Senate abolition, and provincial appointment of superior court judges as part of a political compromise to address Alberta’s grievances with Ottawa while expressing a commitment to stay within Canada. Manning suggested that a yes vote for these proposals would embolden provinces to explore issues within their shared federal-provincial jurisdiction, such as immigration.