December 17, 2025 – The Alberta Prosperity Project (APP) is making steady progress in giving Albertans a direct voice on the province’s future. In a recent interview on Bridge City News, APP CEO Mitch Sylvestre outlined the revised referendum question on separation, its alignment with the Clarity Act, the economic advantages of independence, and the clear steps ahead.
Watch the full interview below:
The Revised Referendum Question
The Alberta Prosperity Project has submitted a carefully revised question to comply fully with federal law: “Do you agree that the province of Alberta should cease to be a part of Canada to become an independent state?”
This wording draws directly from the Clarity Act, which forms part of the Canadian Constitution and provides the legal framework for provincial secession. The change ensures the question is unambiguous and resistant to federal challenges, distinguishing it from earlier versions that faced political and legal hurdles under amendments to Bill 14 (the Citizens Initiative Act).
As Mitch explained, a clear “yes” majority in a referendum would trigger constitutional negotiations with Ottawa, following the same process used in Quebec’s past referendums.
Why Independence Makes Economic Sense for Alberta
Alberta sends billions more to Ottawa than it receives in return. Independence would allow the province to retain its full wealth and eliminate federal overreach:
- Albertans could save up to 25% on taxes by removing federal income taxes, GST, excise taxes, and hidden burdens.
- The province overcontributes $25–35 billion annually to federal coffers, while keeping only half of its own oil royalties.
- An Alberta Pension Plan would keep contributions at home, potentially generating $40 billion in annual returns and enabling significant increases to seniors’ benefits without touching the principal.
- Greater control over pipelines, resources, and trade could position Alberta as one of the wealthiest independent nations in the world.
These are not just aspirations—they are realistic outcomes of self-governance, free from federal regulations that have repeatedly blocked Alberta’s prosperity.
The Path to a Referendum
The next step is straightforward:
- Collect at least 177,000 valid signatures from Albertans (10% of voters in the last election, spread across the province).
- Submit the petition for government approval.
- Hold a province-wide referendum.
With over 240,000 Albertans already pledged to sign, momentum is strong. This citizen-led initiative puts the power directly in the hands of the people—not politicians.
Overcoming Challenges
Mitch addressed concerns head-on, noting that past delays stemmed from political interference rather than legal flaws. The new question eliminates those vulnerabilities. While polls currently show separation support below 30%, a fair and open debate—backed by the facts of Alberta’s contributions and Ottawa’s neglect—can shift public opinion, just as it has in other jurisdictions.
Time to Act
Alberta has carried Canada economically for decades. It’s time for Albertans to decide if we continue subsidising a system that holds us back—or chart our own prosperous future.
Join the movement today. Visit www.albertaprosperity.com to learn more, pledge your support, and help collect signatures for the referendum petition.
Together, we can build a stronger, freer Alberta.
For more on our vision and policies, see our full platform here.