Informing Alberta’s future

Informing Alberta’s future
Alberta’s government has appointed an independent advisory panel to oversee the development of a report on the potential economic impacts of Alberta leaving Canada.

Alberta has clear citizen-initiated referendum laws that protect democratic participation, and Albertans deserve the opportunity to express their views at the ballot box on Oct. 19. Alberta’s government is committed to ensuring Albertans have access to objective, evidence-based analysis so they can be confident in their decision.

The University of Calgary’s School of Public Policy has been selected to conduct an independent analysis of the potential economic impacts of secession so that Albertans can make an informed decision. The report will give voters a better understanding of the estimated transition costs, economic impacts, potential savings and risks that could result if the province pursued this constitutional change.

“Albertans deserve clear and credible information on the potential impacts of separation. This is a huge decision that will impact our kids and grandkids long into the future, and we cannot approach it lightly.”Jason Nixon, President of Treasury Board and Minister of Finance

“The University of Calgary’s School of Public Policy is pleased to conduct this analysis to provide a better understanding of the estimated transition costs, economic effects, potential benefits and other economic implications of secession that would impact Albertans. We appreciate the independence and control over our work and final report.”Martha Hall Findlay, director, School of Public Policy, and James S. and Barbara A. Palmer Chair in Public Policy, University of Calgary

Alberta’s government has also appointed an expert advisory panel that will provide input and act as a consultative body for both the School of Public Policy and government throughout the process. While the panel will offer input, the school will retain full and independent control over the final report.

Economist Dr. Jack Mintz will lead the panel, joined by Ted Morton, political scientist and former Alberta finance minister; Adam Legge, president of the Business Council of Alberta; Alex Pourbaix, board chair of Cenovus Energy Inc. and Janice MacKinnon, former Saskatchewan finance minister.

“Albertans need to know and understand the potential impacts of separating from Canada. This work is highly complex, carried out by researchers at the School of Public Policy. The advisory council will provide feedback to ensure that the in-depth assessment of economic considerations associated with separation enables Albertans to make an informed decision.”Dr. Jack Mintz, President’s Fellow, University of Calgary

After the report is completed, the advisory panel will review the findings and deliver an independent written assessment. This approach will allow for further and potentially differing views to be shared, ensuring Albertans are equipped with all the facts.

The final report is expected to be released in late summer so Albertans have time to read, discuss and decide for themselves on the Oct. 19 referendum vote.