The argument over Alberta's future took to the legislature grounds on the last Saturday before the vote. Independence supporters rallied outside Alberta's legislature on October 17, CBC reported, as both sides made their final pitches ahead of Monday's referendum.
The ballot is non-binding and asks, in its final question, whether Alberta should remain a province of Canada or begin the legal process required for a binding separation referendum. The other questions cover immigration, provincial services and voter identification.
More than one million Albertans have already cast advance ballots, a surge pollsters say may favour the 'remain' side. Polls have consistently put support for staying in Canada at around 70 per cent, with roughly a quarter backing an independent Alberta.
Premier Danielle Smith, who announced the separation question after months of separatist campaigning, has said she voted to keep Alberta in Canada in advance polling and would respect a vote to leave. Prime Minister Mark Carney campaigned in Calgary this week for the 'Forever Canadian' side, warning that outside forces are working to break the country up.
Polls close at 8 p.m. Monday. Elections Alberta will hand-count the separation question first, with unofficial results expected within 48 hours, and full referendum results to be announced on October 29.
