The general perception of the recent referendum on equalization is that it was all about Alberta and its resentment over contributing more to the program than it receives in return. But what it was really about was Quebec.
Equalization
John Robson: If you want to destroy Canada, ignore the results of the Alberta referendum
If the final tally shows Albertans want to end equalization, and the feds ignore that, the province’s next vote will be on separation.
Alberta’s equalization referendum delivers clear message it ‘won’t be taken advantage of anymore’
With Albertans apparently voting “yes” in a referendum on the elimination of Canada’s equalization program, advocates hope the federal government will enter into negotiations that could see the scheme reformed.
Majority of Ontarians believe equalization payments are unfair: poll
Equalization payments aren’t just a problem for western Canadians, a new poll suggests, with a majority of Ontario residents finding the federal government’s redistribution of provincial wealth to be unfair.
De-Alienating the West
The Andrew Lawton Show is taking an in-depth look at western alienation and the growing push for independence in Alberta. Andrew sits down with Alberta activist Danny Hozak, People’s Party of Canada leader Maxime Bernier and Wildrose Independence Party interim leader Paul Hinman to talk about Alberta’s upcoming referendum, the state of the province, and what independence might look like.
Is Equalization Still Essential for Canada?
Canada’s equalization program has been in place for six decades, yet few people understand how it works. To discuss “the glue that keeps Canada together,” we welcome journalist Mary Janigan; Massey College principal Nathalie Des Rosiers; and University of Calgary economics professor Trevor Tombe.