Poilievre touts ‘restoration’ over separation to address separatist grievances

While campaigning for Canadian unity ahead of Alberta's referendum in Calgary on Monday, federal conservative leader Pierre Poilievre said those favouring separation to send a message to Ottawa should instead focus on "restoration."

The federal opposition leader stopped by an event hosted by the Canada Strong and Free Network at the BMO Centre Monday morning with a message to those thinking about using their vote to "(take) out their frustration on the current federal government.

"Canada is more than a government," Poilievre said. "It is a people, a flag, a land, a history, and a promise."

He went on to say that what those favouring a future separation vote "really want" is to "restore" the Canada they "knew and still love."

"Our real goal should not be separation. It should be restoration," Poilievre said. "It should not be to tear down our country, but to build it up."

The Canada Strong and Free event comes less than three days before Alberta's referendum on Oct. 19, when voters will cast ballots on 10 questions, including one that asks whether they want to remain in Canada, or support the provincial government starting the legal process toward holding a second, binding referendum on separation.

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith is slated to make an appearance at the event later Friday afternoon.

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