I’m an Atlantic Canadian born and bred. And I haven’t usually appreciated some of the disparaging comments and threats that have come from political leaders in Alberta. Talk about separation disappoints me to the point of annoyance. But these days I’m not happy with the way Alberta and Albertans are being treated in this country. Alberta’s petroleum resources -what we used to call the tar sands- have long been a source of prosperity and employment for all Canadians, including legions of Maritimers who went West, many of whom have stayed and made successful lives there. In the rush to cleaner, renewable energy, it’s become popular and politically expedient to knock so-called conventional sources, even as virtually all of us continue to consume them, in cars and trucks or planes or consumer products or every time we turn on a light. We’re damned hypocrites. Alberta’s being treated like the kindly old uncle who gives great gifts but drinks too much at special occasions: with embarrassment and rolled eyes. We don’t mind taking a nice gift from him, but we don’t really want him at the party. It’s not as if the world won’t use what Alberta is producing. Why should they be paid less than a fair price for it? And how can people and provinces that need petroleum refuse Alberta access to the territory needed to move it to market? Yes, there will be conditions imposed - and the views of Indigenous peoples must be considered - but Albertans should not be made to feel like prisoners in their own country. Quebec should be first among the provinces to understand their aspirations and respect Alberta’s economic sovereignty. My Canada has provided accommodations to Quebec. Mark me down as one whose Canada should do the same to assure a prosperous Alberta.
