After Nancy Southern announced a massive $14.3-billion deal on Tuesday involving ATCO, I asked the company’s CEO about the upcoming separatism vote and what it could mean for Alberta businesses and the economy.

The issue is on the minds of many Albertans as they prepare to cast a ballot in the Oct. 19 referendum.

Varcoe: As vote on separation approaches, Alberta business leaders tout 'what a unified Canada can still do' Back to video

Southern is one of the most prominent corporate leaders who has talked openly about the merits of staying in Canada, while also warning about the potential economic consequences of separation.

This week’s deal saw Calgary-based ATCO agree to merge its Canadian Utilities (CU) business — ATCO owns a majority stake in the company — with Nova Scotia-based Emera Inc.

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With a combined enterprise value of $72 billion, the merged company will become a “true Canadian champion,” she said, while a new ATCO will emerge with its housing, defence, ports and retail energy businesses poised for growth.

“The (separation) conversation, in my opinion, deserves no oxygen. But here we are. Here we are. But this merge between Emera from Nova Scotia and CU here in Alberta, I think signifies unity. And it is about making Canada strong,” Southern said in an interview.

“I was fortunate enough to have a conversation with the prime minister, and he feels that this type of transaction is really good for Canada. I........

© Calgary Herald