Energy minister says Ottawa needs more 'Prairie pragmatism' on energy

OTTAWA — Federal Energy Minister Tim Hodgson didn’t directly mention the threat of Alberta separation when speaking in Calgary on Friday, but his remarks drew a clear connection between Ottawa-Alberta energy cooperation and keeping the country together.

Hodgson said it was high time for federal policymakers to adopt a mindset of “Prairie pragmatism” when it comes to developing and leveraging Canada’s abundant natural resources.

“Ottawa has awoken to something Western Canada has known for a long time...