We’re now just under four weeks away from a historic Alberta referendum, but before that — perhaps within the next 10 days — we’re anticipating a fairly consequential announcement from Ottawa.

The official designation that the proposed new West Coast oil pipeline is a project of national interest is expected by Oct. 1. Ahead of that, we’ve had some other important and encouraging policy announcements.

Surely the Alberta government must be pleased. But it does raise the question of why we’re passively waiting around for better federal policy instead of acting with the same sort of urgency.

Alberta is among the more attractive Canadian investment destinations, but we’re not perfect, and we’re not helpless, either. The “strong and sovereign Alberta” the government so frequently touts means there’s much we can do ourselves to strengthen Alberta’s hand. For now, though, Ottawa’s taking the lead.

Your weekday lunchtime roundup of curated links, news highlights, analysis and features.

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Earlier this month, Ottawa moved to streamline assessments by exempting pipelines and other energy projects from the Impact Assessment Act. That means eliminating what was........

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