Rona Ambrose says separatist sentiment can fizzle out if Ottawa listens to Alberta grievances

Former federal cabinet minister Rona Ambrose says the secessionist sentiment in Alberta is an unwelcome source of uncertainty for investors — but it can dissipate quickly if Ottawa handles it right.

Ambrose, now deputy chair at TD Securities, made her remarks during a panel discussion at the Global Energy Show.

She says there’s a feeling of resentment in Alberta and neighbouring Saskatchewan that Prime Minister Mark Carney can’t take lightly.

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Economists warn separatism driven uncertainty scaring investment in Alberta 

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But she says outreach and trust-building is paramount and the federal-provincial relationship seems to be improving.

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Cenovus Energy chief executive Jon McKenzie says the separatist movement in Alberta is nothing new.

He says it’s not rooted in anything beyond Western Canadians feeling like their grievances aren’t being heard in Ottawa.