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EDMONTON–Albertans have voted to remain a province in Canada, according to unofficial results. More than 75% of voters chose Option 1 on ballot question 10, which asked whether Alberta should remain in Canada or whether the Alberta government should begin the legal process toward a binding separation referendum.
Unifor, Canada's largest union in the private sector, urged its members and all Albertans to vote for Option 1. Throughout the campaign, Unifor members talked with co-workers, neighbours and family about what the question meant for their jobs, pensions and paycheques.
"Albertans chose a strong Alberta in a united Canada and a strong Alberta needs a provincial government focussed on the real priorities of working families," said Unifor National President Lana Payne. "Now it's time to get back to work on building a better province for all - from education workers to energy workers."
The Alberta government initiated the referendum and set the results as non-binding. Unifor questioned from the start why Albertans were asked to go through a costly and time-consuming process when larger issues, including the U.S. trade war, retirement security and safety at work, affect families every day.
"Our members did this one conversation at a time, on the shop floor and at the door, and they remain prepared to continue mobilizing for an Alberta government that better reflects their priorities," said Unifor Western Regional Director Gavin McGarrigle.
Results are still being tallied on nine other questions voted on by Albertans, many of which were widely construed as anti-immigrant. Unifor recommended a No vote on all nine and encouraged members to vote with their conscience. Unifor will continue standing up for fair treatment, strong public services and respect for every worker in Alberta, no matter where they were born or how long they have lived here.
