OTTAWA — Prime Minister Mark Carney recently acknowledged the growing separatist sentiment in Alberta, expressing understanding of the frustrations felt by many residents. In an interview with Ryan Jespersen on the online radio show Real Talk, Carney said, "I understand the frustrations … in the development of resources in the province, realizing the full potential of Alberta."

Despite the tensions, Carney urged Albertans to appreciate their situation compared to global standards. He stated, "The world admires and respects our country. We’re not perfect (but) the world wants what we have … We’re stronger together." Carney, who grew up in Edmonton, has rarely commented on the issue of separatism since taking office in March.

In July, during a visit to the Calgary Stampede, he mentioned taking Alberta's grievances seriously. He also addressed the possibility of a referendum on Alberta's independence during a May visit to Washington, D.C. He remarked, "As an Albertan, I firmly believe you can always ask, but I know how I would respond."

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith has indicated that she will include an independence question on next year's referendum ballot if enough grassroots support is demonstrated. A proposed question from the pro-independence Alberta Prosperity Project (APP) is currently facing legal challenges. Recent polls show that support for independence among Albertans ranges from 20 to 30 percent.

Jeff Rath, a lawyer with the APP, criticized Carney's comments as "meaningless platitudes" that overlook Alberta's economic difficulties. He stated, "(Carney) must think we’re pretty stupid if he thinks we don’t notice the correlation between his government’s policies and the fact that Alberta’s unemployment rate is inching up on Newfoundland’s." Alberta's unemployment rate rose to 8.4 percent in August, making it the second highest in Canada, following Newfoundland.

Carney also mentioned having an "open" working relationship with Premier Smith, stating, "We’re open about our perspective and we’re working constructively through them." He is scheduled to meet with Smith later in the day.

Carney did not comment on a report that his upcoming list of major projects will not include any oil and gas pipelines, despite previously suggesting that a pipeline was "highly, highly likely" to be included. Smith has withheld her comments on the matter until the list is made public. Carney indicated that a second wave of major projects would be announced by the time the next Grey Cup takes place on November 16.