Politicians and business leaders in British Columbia say talk of separation in Alberta is an opening for better co-operation between Ottawa and Western provinces, but dividing the country is a step to

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith said she’s appointing a group to negotiate with the Canadian government on removing laws that restrict energy production, adding that a referendum on the province separating from Canada may be on the ballot as soon as next year.

Premier Danielle Smith says her government is pursuing a stronger role for Alberta within Confederation and launching negotiations with Ottawa on a new “Alberta Accord” — while defending recent changes that would make it easier for citizens to trigger a referendum,