Alberta minister skirts questions about separation vote, says it's an important topic

  • Canadian Press

Alberta Transportation Minister Devin Dreeshen arrives at the United Conservative caucus to determine next steps after leader Jason Kenney announced he is stepping down as in Calgary, Thursday, May 19, 2022.THE CANADIAN PRESS/Jeff McIntosh

EDMONTON -- A senior member of Premier Danielle Smith's government is again skirting questions about how he'll vote in Alberta's upcoming referendum on whether the province should remain in Canada.

Transportation Minister Devin Dreeshen was asked repeatedly Tuesday whether he'd vote for Alberta to stay or vote to hold a second referendum on quitting Canada.

He responded by saying that it's an important topic and that Albertans should have their voices heard.

Dreeshen has previously declined to say how he will cast his vote in the Oct. 19 referendum.

The premier and many members of her cabinet have publicly endorsed staying in Canada.

Smith has said she doesn't police personal views but that the official position of her United Conservative government and party is that Alberta should remain in Confederation.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published July 21, 2026.