In a recent interview on Hub Dialogues, Alberta Premier Danielle Smith shared her insights on a range of pressing issues, from Canada-U.S. relations and federal-provincial dynamics to internal trade barriers and health-care reform. The conversation, hosted by The Hub’s publisher Rudyard Griffiths, explored the challenges and opportunities facing Alberta and Canada as a whole, particularly in the context of a rapidly changing global landscape.
Here are the three major takeaways from the interview:
- Alberta’s energy resources and Canada-U.S. relations: Smith emphasized the importance of Alberta’s energy sector in North American energy security and criticized past federal policies that have hindered pipeline development. She argued that Alberta’s energy resources should not be used as a bargaining chip in trade disputes with the United States.
- Internal trade barriers and provincial cooperation: Smith expressed strong support for reducing internal trade barriers between Canadian provinces, advocating for a comprehensive mutual recognition agreement to streamline the movement of goods, services, and people across provincial lines.
- Federal overreach and provincial autonomy: Smith criticized the federal government for encroaching on provincial jurisdictions, particularly in areas like energy regulation and healthcare. She called for a renewed focus on federal responsibilities such as national defence and Arctic security.
Canada-U.S. relations and the Trump administration
Premier Smith reflected on her interactions with the Trump administration, noting the importance of separating “the signal from the noise” when dealing with President Trump. She highlighted the need for Canada to address U.S. concerns seriously, particularly on issues like border security and fentanyl trafficking, to avoid escalating trade tensions. Smith also expressed concern over the rhetoric from the U.S. president, including references to Canada as the “51st state,” which she believes undermines the historical relationship between the two nations.
Smith stressed the importance of maintaining a strong trade relationship with the U.S., pointing out that Canada is the largest buyer of American goods and services. She argued that Canada’s energy resources, critical minerals, and agricultural products are vital to the U.S.’ economic interests and that these mutual benefits are good examples of why Canada’s bilateral relationship with the U.S. should be positive.
Federal-provincial relations and energy policy
The conversation turned to the delicate balance of federal-provincial relations, particularly in the context of energy policy. “Tariffs hurt both of us,” Smith said as she commented on the recent tariff threats, when federal ministers floated the idea of using Alberta’s energy resources as a retaliatory measure against the U.S. She firmly rejected this approach, calling it “unfair” and “disrespectful” to Alberta, especially after years of federal policies that she says have hindered the province’s energy sector.
Smith also highlighted the importance of the 1977 Pipelines Treaty, which requires binding arbitration between the two nations if negotiations fail. She warned against playing into the hands of U.S. politicians like Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer, who has sought to shut down the Line 5 pipeline, a critical energy artery for Ontario and Quebec.
Internal trade barriers and provincial leadership
On the topic of internal trade, Smith expressed optimism about the potential for a comprehensive mutual recognition agreement between provinces. She pointed out that Alberta already has the fewest exemptions to internal trade barriers and is eager to work with other provinces to reduce obstacles to the free movement of goods, services, and people. Smith identified inconsistent regulations, such as differing weight restrictions for trucks and varying professional certification requirements as key areas for reform.
Smith criticized the federal government for overstepping its constitutional boundaries by involving itself in areas traditionally under provincial jurisdiction, such as childcare and pharmaceuticals. She argued that the federal government should instead focus on its core responsibilities, including national defence, Arctic security, and trade relations. Smith called for increased investment in NORAD, icebreakers, and critical mineral extraction to bolster Canada’s position on the global stage.
Finally, Smith addressed allegations of corruption within Alberta Health Services’ procurement processes. She outlined steps her government has taken to address these issues, including the appointment of an external reviewer and the involvement of the auditor general. Smith emphasized the importance of ensuring transparency and value in health-care contracts, particularly as the province expands its use of independent surgical centers to clear backlogs.
Generative AI assisted in the production of this story. If you are quoting from or referencing this episode, please refer to the audio to verify.
