Alberta’s Referendum, Ottawa’s sovereignty stress, rising beef costs, and more

Separation anxiety. Premier Danielle Smith says she is putting the question of separation to Albertans in a fall vote. The measure is drawing criticism from all sides, from the NDP’s Naheed Nenshi, who is the provincial opposition leader, to the leader of Alberta’s independence movement.

Ottawa is also looking West, and keeping a close eye on the situation in Alberta. Prime Minister Mark Carney says the energy-rich province plays a key role in Canada’s future, while the federal Conservative Opposition Leader Pierre Poilievre promises his party will campaign for a united country over the coming months.

And: High ‘steaks.’ Why the price of beef is getting harder to swallow, just in time for the summer grilling season.

Plus: Health Canada addresses Ebola concerns, Kitchener, Ontario encampment battle, Canadian Gaza flotilla activists start to return home, and more.