Alberta delivered on direct democracy through referendum, says Hunter

By Trevor Busch
Sunny South News
editor@tabertimes.com

Taber-Warner MLA Grant Hunter believes in direct democracy through referendums, and that was a message he wanted all Albertans to understand no matter the outcome of the Oct. 19 vote.

“Direct democracy is what we’re really offering, and that is referendums. People have the opportunity to go in and let the government know what they think on these issues.”

Hunter admitted legitimate grievances with the federal government still exist, but he spoke positively about remaining in Confederation. 

“I believe that we can build a strong Alberta within a United Canada, and I think that the progress we’re seeing being made is indication to me that Confederation can work. It’s not perfect, and it hasn’t been perfect. And in fact, I can see why lots of Albertans lost faith in Canada because of what’s happened over the last 10 years under the Trudeau-Singh government, it was quite hostile towards our interests. But I do believe that we can be better together, and that we can work out a solution for Alberta, so Albertans feel like they are a valued member of Confederation. Albertans, all Albertans, can feel that way.”

Speaking about petitions on either side of the separation issue, Hunter said Albertans themselves had an opportunity to have their say.

“Direct democracy is really what my message is. You have the opportunity now. We’ve given you that opportunity because of the legislation we have, which is the Referendum Act, and 700,000 signatures said we (wanted) to have our say on this.”