The seperation of Saskatchewan, Alberta, and Manitoba from Canada is an idea that has been growing in support over the last few months. Known as the "Wexit", (Western Exit), the movement is a response to the lack of representation the three provinces recieve in Canadian politics. Recently, the Saskatchewan branch of this group, known as Wexit Saskatchewan, has been touring the province to discuss the posibility of leaving Canada.
The next stop in their "Can Confederacy be Fixed?" tour is at the Legion hall in Kindersley.
The group previously stopped in Estevan, where as many as 40 people turned up. The Saskatchewan tour is being headed by former MLA/MP Allen Kerpan, who is looking for signatures for his petition to make Wexit an official political party.
“They need 2,500 names of residents of Saskatchewan in order to form a political party. That’s the goal of Wexit,” said Kerpan.
This situation can be most easily compared with "Brexit" (British Exit), in which Britain is trying to separate itself from the European Union.
The discussion in Estevan covered many topics. The main concern expressed by many at the meeting was that there are a lot of small political movements in western provinces, which if not united won’t be able to achieve anything. A few attendees suggested that having a movement instead of a party would be a better idea for Wexit. Another major factor for Wexit is the outcome of the upcoming election in October. There are many who feel that the provinces should immediatley separate from Canada if Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is re-elected.
Estevan was the third location for Kerpan to come to after Regina and Saskatoon. They wanted to come to a place where the energy sector is playing one of the dominant roles, and the meeting in Estevan turned out to be the most informed and active, according to the speaker. Wexit Saskatchewan started after billboards were put up in Regina asking the public if Saskatchewan should stay in confederation in early 2019.
The topic of Canadian seperation is a sensitive one, with many people feeling that the government is essentially ignoring them. The outcome of the October election will be instrumental in deciding the actions of those behind the Wexit movement, which could change the country for years to come.
Wed, May 8, 9:00 AM
