Prime Minister Mark Carney has urged Albertans to vote to remain in Canada ahead of an independence referendum on Monday 19 October, warning that the "stakes are high".
Speaking to a crowd of more than 7,000 at a pro-unity rally in Calgary, Carney said the vote was taking place "at the worst possible time" and called for a decisive result against separation. He said polling alone should not be trusted, adding that "turnout will determine the outcome".
More than 450,000 Albertans have already voted early or by mail. The referendum was called by Premier Danielle Smith after a grassroots group gathered around 300,000 petition signatures. Polls indicate most Albertans support staying in Canada, although supporters of separation say the oil-rich province has been overlooked by federal politicians.
Source: BBC News, 16 October 2026