Premier Smith promises cautious immigration reforms and hints at future referendums

During a call-in radio program, Premier Smith said the province will move forward with immigration reforms only after careful consultation, proposing a grandfather clause for newcomers who arrived under older regulations. She referenced the recent referendum where the immigration question narrowly won, while the citizenship-proof measure secured a stronger majority, and pledged to have related legislation ready for the upcoming election.

Smith defended the government's appeal of a court ruling on Indigenous consultation, arguing that citizen-initiated petitions do not trigger a duty to consult. She also promised a review of the delayed vote-counting process and indicated that issues such as advance directives and the reinstatement of photo radar could be placed on future ballots. Meetings with Edmonton Mayor Andrew Knack and Calgary Mayor Jeromy Farkas are planned to discuss traffic safety measures. Throughout, she emphasized listening to Albertans before taking decisive action.