Alberta Separation Referendum Question Faces Court Scrutiny

A judge is deciding whether to review a proposed Alberta separation referendum question. The question asks if Alberta should become a sovereign country. The chief electoral officer referred the question to court, seeking a determination on its constitutionality. The Alberta Prosperity Project, which proposed the question, wants the referral dismissed, arguing judicial review is premature. Their lawyer says simply asking the question doesn't violate the Constitution.

The judge questioned whether Albertans should have more information about the consequences of their vote. The judge also questioned the chief electoral officer's actions. Premier Smith and Amery support approving the question. The chief electoral officer says he was following procedure. If the review proceeds, the judge aims to decide by year-end. Several groups plan to intervene.

A competing question, seeking Alberta to remain in Canada, was also approved. The former deputy premier proposed this question. He is also seeking to make submissions in the court review.