Mark Carney Opens Door to Constitutional Reform Before Alberta Referendum

Prime Minister Mark Carney stated he is open to amending the Canadian constitution to address structural changes, provided a strong national consensus exists. Carney acknowledged that the constitution is not unamendable, though he urged voters to reject independence and other proposals in a high-stakes referendum scheduled for Monday in Alberta.

The referendum asks voters to decide on 10 questions regarding Alberta's relationship with the federal government, including demands for increased control over judicial appointments and immigration, and the abolition of the unelected Senate. Alberta Premier Danielle Smith believes the threshold for these constitutional changes can now be met, citing conservative-leaning governments in eight provinces.

Opposing views persist within the province. Former Progressive Conservative deputy premier Thomas Lukaszuk campaigned against independence, calling for a decisive vote to signal national unity. Conversely, separatist leaders and lawyer Keith Wilson argued that Carney's approach relies on temporary gestures rather than the structural reforms required to protect the provincial economy.