Western Standard News Story - March 27, 2025

Alberta independence parties explore unification

'We suggest the local collection of all taxes, to give Alberta leverage in discussions with Ottawa'

James Snell

Published on: 

27 Mar 2025, 3:20 pm

Two of Alberta's prominent independence-focused political parties have announced they are taking steps toward uniting under a single banner, citing growing concerns over Ottawa's policies as an "existential threat" to the province's sovereignty and economic well-being.

In a joint statement released March 25, the Independence Party of Alberta and the Wildrose Independence Party of Alberta revealed plans to begin discussions between their respective boards to advance the movement for Alberta's independence from federal control.

"Our two parties represent Albertans' interest in independence from Ottawa," the statement read. "We believe it is time to consider unifying the main independence parties under a single voice."

The parties pointed to recent developments in Ottawa, including what they describe as troubling parliamentary practices under the current Liberal government and policies they say undermine Alberta's autonomy.

"These represent an existential threat to Alberta," the statement said, emphasizing the need for a unified front to address the province's challenges within Confederation.

The announcement comes amid ongoing debates over Alberta's role in Canada, with both parties expressing support for the province's efforts to protect its jurisdiction over natural resources.

"We recognize the province's efforts to uphold Alberta's autonomy," the statement noted. "For us, this is consistent with our deeply held belief that Alberta's only remedy to the issues that plague us in Confederation is independence."

To bolster Alberta's position, the parties urged the provincial government to follow through on promises made during the leadership campaign and election. They specifically called for the establishment of a provincial police force, withdrawal from the Canada Pension Plan in favour of an Alberta-specific pension plan, and the local collection of all taxes — both federal and provincial.

"We suggest the local collection of all taxes, to give Alberta leverage in discussions with Ottawa and to fulfill the mandate from the province on equalization," the statement said, adding the measures would "position Alberta effectively for future autonomy."

The parties stressed the urgency of acting swiftly.

"It is important to take these measures promptly to ensure that Alberta is prepared to handle any existential pressures from Ottawa or other regions," they wrote.

In a call to action, the Independence Party of Alberta and Wildrose Independence Party of Alberta invited Albertans who share their vision to join the cause.

"We encourage all Albertans of like mind to join us in that endeavour," the statement concluded.

The move signals a potential shift in Alberta's political landscape as independence sentiments gain traction among some residents frustrated with federal policies.

Discussions between the two parties' boards are expected to begin in the coming weeks, though no timeline for unification was confirmed.