- Premier Danielle Smith expressed optimism following a recent meeting with Prime Minister Mark Carney, saying she found more common ground than in any previous meeting with any prime minister. She encouraged Albertans to remain patient and work collaboratively with Ottawa, noting progress on issues that have previously strained relations between Alberta and the federal government. Smith highlighted her ongoing fight for provincial autonomy through initiatives like the Alberta Sovereignty Within a United Canada Act and the Alberta Next panel, which is gathering public input on potential referendums regarding the Canada Pension Plan and RCMP replacement. The Premier pointed to Carney’s announcement of fast-tracked major projects, including a potential Alberta carbon capture initiative, as evidence of a “real shift” in federal focus. She also noted progress on federal laws affecting Alberta’s oil and gas sector, such as emissions caps and clean electricity regulations. Carney also described the meeting as productive and expressed confidence in continued progress.
- The federal government is in talks with Alberta and oil companies over the future of oilsands emissions, with reports suggesting the proposed federal cap on oil and gas emissions may be dropped. Natural Resources Minister Tim Hodgson said the discussions are focusing on reducing the emissions intensity of oilsands operations, though he would not confirm whether the cap itself is on the chopping block. The cap, first announced in 2023, aimed to cut oil and gas sector emissions by 35% below 2019 levels within four years, though final regulations have yet to be released. Premier Danielle Smith has strongly opposed the plan, arguing it would discourage investment in pipelines and energy projects.
- Parti Québécois Leader Paul St-Pierre Plamondon has pledged that, if elected Premier of Quebec, he would recognize Alberta as an independent country should Albertans vote to leave Canada. During a Calgary meeting with leaders of the Alberta Prosperity Project, he also promised that a PQ government would support Alberta in separation talks with Ottawa following a successful referendum. Plamondon argued that both provinces share frustrations over federal overreach and wasteful spending, a sentiment echoed by APP representatives who welcomed his backing. The meeting was described as an important step in building alliances between Alberta and Quebec independence movements, with leaders noting that together they represent over a third of Canada’s population. Plamondon emphasized that Alberta’s future should be decided by Albertans and praised Premier Danielle Smith for defending provincial interests. The PQ is currently leading in the polls ahead of Quebec’s 2026 election, where Plamondon has committed to holding his own sovereignty referendum.
- More than 51,000 Alberta teachers are preparing to strike on October 6th if a new contract agreement is not reached with the Province. The Alberta Teachers’ Association says stalled negotiations, large class sizes, and chronic underfunding have left both teachers and students struggling, despite government claims that progress is being made. The Province has offered a 12% pay raise over four years and agreed to hire 1,000 teachers annually, but cannot afford more without jeopardizing its finances. Teachers argue these measures fall short of addressing years of neglect and record enrollment growth, with over 91,000 new students added since 2020. Both sides say they want to avoid job action, but tension remains high as the deadline approaches.
- CUMIS General Insurance has announced it will exit Alberta’s auto and home insurance market on January 1st, 2026, making it the latest provider to withdraw from the province due to what it calls “ongoing challenges” and rising claim costs. The decision follows similar moves by Zenith, Sonnet, and Aviva subsidiaries in recent years, all citing an environment that limits profitability and growth. Industry representatives point to Alberta’s 3.7% rate cap as a key factor, arguing that it makes operating in the province financially unviable and reduces consumer choice. While the UCP government has capped rate hikes and plans to shift to a no-fault insurance system in 2027, critics warn that reforms may not come quickly enough to stabilize the market. Finance Minister Nate Horner remains confident the changes will control costs, reduce court battles, and eventually lower premiums, though CUMIS’s share of the market is small.