The premier of Alberta says she will hold a referendum next year on the energy rich province separating from Canada if citizens gather the required number of signatures on a petition.

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith said she and Prime Minister Mark Carney had a constructive phone call, but “until I see tangible proof of real change, Alberta will be taking steps to better protect ourselves from Ottawa.

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith said she’s appointing a group to negotiate with the Canadian government on removing laws that restrict energy production, adding that a referendum on the province separating from Canada may be on the ballot as soon as next year.