Brian Crombie Radio Hour - Epi 1732 - Alberta Chose Canada — Stéphane Dion on Separatism, Quebec & the Future of National Unity

What does Alberta's referendum mean for the future of Canada? Could Quebec's separatist movement reignite the national unity debate? And what will it take to keep Confederation together?On this special two-part episode of The Brian Crombie Hour, host Brian Crombie welcomes the Honourable Stéphane Dion, former federal Liberal leader, cabinet minister and architect of Canada's Clarity Act, for an in-depth discussion about Alberta, Quebec, separatism and the future of Canadian unity.Part One: Stéphane Dion on Alberta, Quebec & the Clarity ActBrian and Stéphane examine Alberta's referendum, including the reported rejection of another separation referendum process, Premier Danielle Smith's political strategy and the economic and constitutional consequences of potential separation.Drawing on his experience during Quebec's historic 1995 referendum, Dion discusses the Supreme Court's ruling on secession, the Clarity Act, Indigenous rights and the importance of a clear majority on a clear question.The conversation also explores Quebec's sovereignty movement, Alberta's oil and gas industry, pipelines, equalization, climate change and Prime Minister Mark Carney's approach to balancing economic development with environmental responsibility.Part Two: Alberta Chose Canada — Now Canada Must Choose AlbertaIn his closing commentary, Brian reflects on his personal connections to both Quebec and Alberta, having grown up in Montreal and spent much of his business career investing and developing properties in Calgary and Edmonton.He examines the frustrations many Albertans feel toward Ottawa and argues that addressing regional concerns through constructive federal-provincial cooperation is essential to strengthening national unity.Rediscovering Canada's National AmbitionBrian calls for a renewed commitment to nation-building projects, including energy corridors, high-speed rail, nuclear power, Arctic sovereignty and major infrastructure development.He reflects on Canada's historic accomplishments and introduces his philosophy of "The Power of Co" — the belief that Canadians can accomplish more through cooperation, collaboration and shared national purpose.From Alberta's referendum and Quebec separatism to the Clarity Act, economic development and Canadian identity, this episode explores the challenges and opportunities facing Confederation.Can Canada move beyond regional divisions and rediscover the shared ambition that built the country?