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Photo by Terry Bridge/Sarnia Observer/Postmedia Network

This is not a practical goal for every country, some of which have too few people or insufficient natural resources. Indeed, it would not be possible for Canada to be completely self-sufficient. But there are areas where we could do better than we are now — and the next time a major crisis hits, we will be better for the effort.

Consider, for instance, the decision by the Alberta government to take an ownership stake in the Keystone XL (KXL) pipeline, which will transport Canadian oil (via American pipelines) to ports on the Gulf of Mexico. KXL will not, itself, of course, make Canadians more self-sufficient. It relies on American pipelines, American ports and American political goodwill; the Trans Mountain and Energy East pipelines have the advantage of transiting Canadian territory. But KXL does, at least, address the problem of Alberta’s oil, a vital natural resource, being essentially landlocked. Premier Jason Kenney would not normally be the type to spend public money on a stake in a private project. His decision reflects the grim reality that asserting at least some control over our national destiny won’t be free, easy or politically comfortable.

Photo by Todd Korol/Reuters

In the days and weeks ahead, the National Post will explore this complicated issue in a series of articles examining the limits and possibilities of a renewed focus on ensuring a Canadian supply of essential products and materials. How much of our own energy needs can we meet? What about essential petrochemicals? What would be on the plates of Canadians if they could only eat food grown or raised in our own farms and pastures? Could we produce sufficient fertilizers and insecticides at home to sustain our own agricultural sector? What essential pharmaceuticals and vital medical supplies can we produce domestically? And, critically, in each of these areas (and no doubt more), can we access the raw materials needed to produce the final products in Canada?