Trudeau, Smith Trade Open Letters Over Pitch to Consider Removing Alberta From CPP

While the prime minister says he will ‘do anything possible’ to ensure the CPP remains intact, the Alberta premier says the decision is ‘not his to make.’

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Alberta Premier Danielle Smith meet in Calgary on July 7, 2023. The Canadian Press/Jeff McIntosh

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Alberta Premier Danielle Smith have each issued strongly worded letters on the suggestion that the Prairie province could decide to exit the Canadian Pension Plan (CPP).

“I am deeply concerned that your government has proposed to withdraw Albertans from the Canadian Pension Plan,” states Mr. Trudeau’s letter dated Oct. 18. “Alberta’s withdrawal would weaken the pensions of millions of seniors and hardworking people in Alberta and right across the country. The harm it would cause is undeniable.”