A Nanos poll commissioned by CTV News found that half of Canadians are either concerned or somewhat concerned about western separatism.
Among those surveyed, 20% say they were “concerned” about rising separatist sentiments in the west, while another 30% say they were “somewhat concerned.”
On the other hand, only 15% report that they were not concerned, while another 31% say they are “somewhat not concerned.”
Overall, Canadians express more worry over the prospect of western separation than separatism from Quebec. With regards to Quebec, 60% of Canadians state they are not concerned or only somewhat not concerned about separatist sentiments in the province.
Since the re-election of Justin Trudeau, western separatism has reared its head in the national debate. In November, approximately 600 people attended an event hosted by Wexit Alberta in Red Deer to discuss separation.
According to movement leader Peter Downing, the group has registered as a federal party with Elections Canada and its application is currently under review.
The group has several future events planned in the near future, including a December 15 rally in Grande Prairie and a referendum rally outside Alberta’s legislature on January 11.
Opponents of Trudeau have accused the prime minister of ignoring western concerns and threatening national unity.
During the French Leaders Debate prior to the election, Trudeau told the audience that he would stand up to Alberta Premier Jason Kenney and the oil industry which supports him.
In response to the federal government’s throne speech, Conservative Party leader Andrew Scheer warned the government to pay attention to western alienation.
“As a proud MP from Saskatchewan, I would caution all of our colleagues from across Canada to not underestimate the deep alienation and anger of the people of my province along with our neighbours in Alberta, currently feel about their deal in confederation,” said Scheer.
