Share this Story : National Post Copy Link Email X Reddit Pinterest LinkedIn Tumblr

Rob Breakenridge: Rejecting Alberta separatism today is only the first step

Unless the movement is thoroughly repudiated, the referendum could be just the end of the beginning

Monday is an opportunity for Alberta to close the book on the disruptive and divisive debate about breaking up the country. It’s unfortunate that this book was even opened in the first place.

Enjoy the latest local, national and international news.

Exclusive articles by Conrad Black, Barbara Kay and others. Plus, special edition NP Platformed and First Reading newsletters and virtual events.

Unlimited online access to National Post.

National Post ePaper, an electronic replica of the print edition to view on any device, share and comment on.

Daily puzzles including the New York Times Crossword.

Support local journalism.

Enjoy the latest local, national and international news.

Exclusive articles by Conrad Black, Barbara Kay and others. Plus, special edition NP Platformed and First Reading newsletters and virtual events.

Unlimited online access to National Post.

National Post ePaper, an electronic replica of the print edition to view on any device, share and comment on.

Daily puzzles including the New York Times Crossword.

Support local journalism.

Create an account or sign in to continue with your reading experience.

Access articles from across Canada with one account.

Share your thoughts and join the conversation in the comments.

Enjoy additional articles per month.

Get email updates from your favourite authors.

Create an account or sign in to continue with your reading experience.

Access articles from across Canada with one account

Share your thoughts and join the conversation in the comments

Enjoy additional articles per month

Get email updates from your favourite authors

Sign In or Create an Account

But while it should mark the end of that debate, it may prove to be just the end of the beginning. A Pandora’s Box has been opened, one that isn’t likely to be closed any time soon.

Rob Breakenridge: Rejecting Alberta separatism today is only the first step Back to video

It never made sense to embark down this road, and having now done so, it’s difficult to see the exit ramp. One can only hope that Monday’s referendum on whether to pursue a true independence vote, offers enough of a rebuke of this fantastical idea and its devoted adherents that restoring their influence will be a longer-term reconstruction project.

Columnist Jesse Kline keeps you up to date with what’s happening in Israel and the effects of antisemitism on life here in Canada. Friday mornings.

There was an error, please provide a valid email address.

By signing up you consent to receive the above newsletter from Postmedia Network Inc.

A welcome email is on its way. If you don't see it, please check your junk folder.

The next issue of Channel Israel will soon be in your inbox.

We encountered an issue signing you up. Please try again

Interested in more newsletters? Browse here.

Premier Danielle Smith didn’t invent Alberta separatism or dupe anyone into supporting the cause. In fact, the Alberta premier has come out strongly........

© National Post