OTTAWA — Federal Energy Minister Tim Hodgson didn’t directly mention the threat of Alberta separation when speaking in Calgary on Friday, but his remarks drew a clear connection between Ottawa-Alberta energy cooperation and keeping the country together. “Ottawa has awoken to something Western Canada has known for a long time: energy and mineral security is also national security,” Hodgson told the downtown Calgary audience. He sat down for a fireside chat with Financial Post Western Bureau Chief Reid Southwick shortly after the remarks concluded. Advertisement AdvertisementAdvertisement AdvertisementVeteran Liberal strategist Sharan Kaur told National Post that ex-oil and gas executive Hodgson is a natural emissary to Alberta on energy issues. “Having worked extensively in the energy sector himself, Hodgson is someone who prioritizes pragmatism over ideology,” said Kaur.

Source: National Post February 13, 2026 19:56 UTC