The Globe and Mail reports in its Wednesday edition that Cenovus Energy's head urges the federal government to address long-standing issues between Alberta and Ottawa to quell separatist sentiments. The Globe's Emma Graney writes that following the recent federal Liberal victory, interest in a sovereignty referendum has surged, with many Western Canadians registering with the Alberta Prosperity Project. Alberta Premier Danielle Smith has expressed support for any citizen-led petition that meets the signature requirement for a plebiscite. Jon McKenzie, chief executive officer of Calgary's Cenovus Energy, stated at the Global Energy Show that he believes the secessionist movement stems from real grievances that have long frustrated Western Canadians. While Mr. McKenzie does not think threatening to leave Canada is the most constructive way to solve Alberta's anger at Ottawa, he said the issues nonetheless need to be addressed. At the heart of the separatist movement is a deep-seated feeling that Ottawa has stymied the growth of the province's all-important oil and gas sector. Frustration about equalization payments also bubbles throughout the discussion, along with a feeling of being misunderstood by Eastern Canadians.