Prime Minister Mark Carney is defending national unity after Premier Danielle Smith announced an October referendum on Alberta's future within Canada.The non-binding vote will gauge public support for remaining in the confederation versus initiating steps toward independence amid regional economic dissatisfaction.This initiative has sparked significant controversy, drawing legal challenges from indigenous groups and criticism from federal leaders concerned about the stability of the nation.The vote is scheduled for October 19 and marks the most significant internal challenge to the structure of the country in several decades.