Alberta, Canada's oil-rich province, has voted to remain part of the country, with a significant majority of 76% of voters in favor.
What happened
The province held a referendum on Monday, which included nine questions, mostly related to immigration. The results showed that Albertans want to enhance immigration laws, limit provincial-funded programs to citizens, and implement a 12-month residency requirement for non-permanent residents to receive social benefits.
Additionally, voters supported providing proof of citizenship in provincial elections, fees for healthcare and education for non-permanent residents, abolishing the Senate, and prioritizing local provincial laws over federal laws.
Prime Minister Mark Carney welcomed the results, stating that Albertans 'chose unity to build together and to take care of each other.' He emphasized that Canada is working to become 'a global energy superpower with Alberta at its core.'
Despite the failed separatist movement, leaders of the movement have noted that the results demonstrate the discontent many Albertans feel towards the federal government. They have argued that Alberta is not prioritized for its oil resources and have demanded reforms to address these concerns.
