Alberta legislature adjourns spring sitting amid separatism debate

Alberta MLAs wrapped up the spring sitting of the legislature this week following months of debate that frequently centred on separatist sentiment and political divisions at the legislature.

The sitting included government legislation on issues ranging from public library materials to medical assistance in dying. However, exchanges in question period were often dominated by disagreements over separatism and the role of Premier Danielle Smith’s United Conservative government in responding to the movement.

Government House Leader Joseph Schow said the United Conservative Party focused its legislative agenda on economic issues, affordability and employment during the session.

The Opposition New Democrats accused the government of enabling separatist rhetoric and failing to clearly distance itself from calls for Alberta separation.