Alberta separatists are under scrutiny for reportedly offering U.S. access to the province’s natural resources in return for support for independence. The Globe and Mail has revealed allegations that members of the Alberta Prosperity Project (APP) engaged with U.S. State Department officials. They purportedly offered oil royalty payments, fresh water supplies, and land access for a railway to Alaska.
APP co-founder Dennis Modry claimed a document was shared with U.S. officials highlighting potential benefits of Alberta’s sovereignty. However, APP’s lawyer Jeff Rath countered this, dismissing Modry’s claims as “delusional.”
Canadian MPs are expressing concern, with one calling for an emergency debate on the matter. The referendum on independence, set for October 19, has heightened attention on these allegations.
Public Interest Alberta is advocating an inquiry into possible foreign interference, pointing to alleged collaboration with American operatives. The Globe’s report doesn’t confirm any agreements reached between the separatists and U.S. officials. Newsweek’s January report noted that the White House had met with civil society groups but gave no support or commitments.
APP campaigners met with U.S. State Department officials thrice last year, facilitated by Rath. Modry indicated they proposed U.S. assistance for transitioning Alberta to an independent country. Repayment options included rights to build a railway line to Alaska and offering access to Alberta’s resources.
Rath strongly refuted Modry’s account, stating that none of these supposed discussions occurred, labeling them “ludicrous.” He maintained conversations were about Albertans’ independence aspirations.
Canadian MPs are reacting strongly. Dane Lloyd, Conservative Alberta MP, emphasized the importance of retaining Alberta’s birthright. Heather McPherson, NDP MP, called for an emergency debate, which was denied.
The Alberta referendum will ask whether to start the legal process for a binding referendum on secession. Premier Danielle Smith announced this in May, drawing critiques from separatist leaders for timeline manipulations.
Smith, favoring remaining in Canada, aims not to suppress many Albertans’ voices. Dissatisfaction with Ottawa’s treatment and environmental regulations partially drive separatist sentiments.
Smith is collaborating with Ottawa to build an oil pipeline to the Pacific, aiming to appease Albertans. Carney’s Liberal government supports this, designating it as a national interest, showing cooperative federalism.
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