Calgary Chamber warns of economic fallout of Alberta split

Calgary Chamber warns of economic fallout of Alberta split

Several business CEOs signal they're in the 'stay' camp

A report commissioned by the Calgary Chamber of Commerce warns of dire economic consequences if Alberta were to separate from Canada.

The study by University of Calgary economist Trevor Tombe estimates trade costs would rise by five to eight per cent, the range the United Kingdom has seen since its withdrawal from the European Union.

It says Alberta is the most trade-exposed jurisdiction in the country, so those higher costs would translate to between 44,000 and 69,000 fewer jobs in Calgary than if it were to remain in Canada.

The report was released three weeks before Albertans vote on 10 referendum questions, including one on whether the province should remain in Canada or begin the process of holding another referendum on separation.

The Chamber has also released an open letter from business leaders urging Alberta to "remain at the table" within Confederation.

Among the signatories are the heads of AltaGas, ATCO, AltaLink, Capital Power and Keyera.