Eby Deplores Surge in Separatism as Western Premiers Convene in Yellowknife
YELLOWKNIFE — British Columbia’s Premier David Eby has stated that talks about separation happening in certain regions of the nation are nothing but “a colossal waste of time and effort.” He expressed this opinion while meeting with other leaders from Western Canada in Yellowknife.
Eby states that the western provinces have taken the lead on matters such as eliminating internal trade barriers, and asserts that now is not the moment to be sidetracked by “a minor group of eccentrics.”
The annual two-day conference will also feature appearances from Alberta Premier Danielle Smith, Saskatchewan’s Scott Moe, Manitoba’s Wab Kinew, Nunavut’s P.J. Akeeagok, Yukon’s departing Premier Ranj Pillai, and Northwest Territories Premier R.J. Simpson.
Eby avoids mentioning specific individuals as he expresses his concerns about the separatist movement. However, he finds it difficult to “conceive of a less opportune moment for endorsing voices,” whether subtly or openly, that aim to divide Canada.
The yearly gathering of premiers from Western provinces takes place two weeks prior to when all Canadian premiers will convene with Prime Minister Mark Carney in Saskatoon.
A statement released by Simpson’s office last week mentioned that the Western leaders will convene to address multiple topics such as Arctic sovereignty, energy security, international trade, and emergency readiness.
Housing, economic corridors, and tariffs are also part of the discussion.
Eby stated during a Wednesday interview that Western Canada can seize the chance to boost the nation’s economy and “fortify Canada for the benefit of every Canadian.”
“Let’s collaborate on this task. We shouldn’t let ourselves be sidetracked by a vocal minority of extremists,” he commented regarding the separatist movement, which has primarily focused on Alberta and Saskatchewan.
He emphasized that it’s “vitally essential” for those in leadership roles “to communicate openly and plainly regarding our backing of this nation, and the sovereignty of Canada,” particularly when we’re facing attacks from the U.S. President. He also stressed the importance of showing that “we stand united and are resilient as one.”
In Alberta, Smith has indicated that those discontented with Confederation are not marginal figures but rather friends and neighbors within the province who have grown tired of Ottawa’s actions.
She stated that the gathering of the western premiers was occurring at a “pivotal time” for Alberta following last month’s federal election, and her aim was to push for the development of new pipelines.
“We can’t allow federal intrusion into areas under provincial control to persist, nor can we let harmful federal policies affect the positive growth trends in our economies,” Smith stated on Tuesday.
I’ll be present at the table to champion Alberta’s interests, with a strong focus on the significance of building new pipelines, aiming to restore control over our economic strength into the hands of Western Canadians.
Moe has stated he considers himself a genuine Canadian but would not oppose a public referendum on separation if one were proposed.
A spokesperson for the premier said Moe planned to discuss at the meeting a list of items he recently urged Carney to act on, including strengthening the Criminal Code, giving provinces full responsibility for the industrial carbon levy, repealing clean electricity regulations and expanding pipelines.
Moe stated that he additionally wishes for Carney to promptly initiate discussions with China aimed at eliminating Beijing’s tariffs on Canadian agricultural products.
Akeeagok stated in an email that he aims to advance discussions regarding Arctic security and the necessary infrastructure initiatives to bolster it.
He mentioned that the much-talked-about Grays Bay Road and Port project, aimed at linking Yellowknife with the eastern Arctic coastline via roadway, could facilitate tapping into the significant economic opportunities in the region.
“The Arctic presents immense opportunities, and with targeted investments in essential infrastructure, we can access vital resources such as critical minerals in an accountable manner,” he stated.
Eby stated that the gathering in Yellowknife provides an opportunity for leaders to reach consensus on matters they can subsequently advocate for with their eastern colleagues.
“I am quite optimistic that this gathering of premiers from Western provinces will generate the necessary momentum in our region, which we can then bring forward to the national conference,” he stated.
The report from The Canadian Press was initially released on May 21, 2025.
— By Wolfgang Depner in Victoria and Jack Farrell in Edmonton, with additional reporting by Jeremy Simes in Regina
The Canadian Press