Prime Minister Mark Carney, during his visit to Calgary, encouraged Albertans to vote against the nine referendum questions concerning immigration and constitutional reform. Addressing the crowd in northeast Calgary, Carney expressed gratitude for their efforts and urged everyone to participate by marking their ballots, specifically rejecting the nine questions. The “No to the Nine” campaign, advocating federalism, emphasized the importance of voting against the questions on October 19 and supporting Canada’s unity.
Carney engaged with volunteers and community members at Bridgeland Riverside Community Association Park in Calgary. He acknowledged the “No on the Nine” campaign and expressed support for its stance. In response to Alberta Premier Danielle Smith’s comments, Carney emphasized the need to understand the implications of open-border policies on Canada’s economy and social services. Smith, while advocating to stay in Canada, encouraged Albertans to vote “yes” on the remaining nine questions.
Regarding the referendum, Carney emphasized the government’s focus on cooperative federalism to address key issues without divisive referendums. He highlighted initiatives like the Pacific Link pipeline and stressed the importance of unity for progress. Carney is set to participate in various rallies and events in Calgary and Edmonton, promoting Canadian unity.
In discussions with media outlets, Carney reiterated the government’s efforts to control immigration effectively without the need for a referendum. He emphasized the collaboration with provinces on immigration selection and expressed confidence in advancing cooperation regardless of the referendum outcome. Liberal MP Corey Hogan voiced his opposition to the referendum process, citing concerns about manipulative questioning and the use of the country as a bargaining tool. Despite his overall dissent, Hogan expressed openness to Question 7, which involves abolishing the federal Senate.
