Hon. Scott Moe: — Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. And thank you to my colleagues for granting that leave for me to introduce three individuals to their Legislative Assembly, Mr. Speaker, and obviously I would do so through you and through all members of this Assembly.

First from Rawlco Radio is Brittany Caffet. Brittany very much is filling a space in the media, Mr. Speaker, where she is doing what I think is a remarkable job of telling stories to Saskatchewan people and more broadly to Canadians, telling stories of individuals’ grit, resilience, love, and compassion, Mr. Speaker. And I want to thank Brittany for the work that she’s doing and the stories that she is telling.

Joining Brittany today, Mr. Speaker, is first Lisa Belkin. Lisa has brought with her, her mom, Klara Belkin, right here on the floor of the Assembly. And Klara most certainly has been able to tell her life story, which is quite a story I must say, Mr. Speaker.

Klara was born on November the 6th of 1929 in Hungary. And from a very young age she was a gifted cellist, Mr. Speaker, starting her musical training at six years old and plays to this very day.

Mr. Speaker, in 1939 when Klara was 10, the horrors of the war and the Nazi persecution interrupted not only her education and her life, but so many. At the age of 14 in 1944, Klara and her family were torn from their home in Szeged, forced into a ghetto, and then deported to the notorious Bergen-Belsen concentration camp. She would spend five long months there before a miraculous moment that came on April the 13th in 1945. And it was on that day as Klara was trapped in a cattle cart bound for death, Mr. Speaker, that Klara was liberated by American soldiers. And just days prior to that, the camp, the Bergen-Belsen camp was liberated by Canadian and British troops as well.

Today, Mr. Speaker, on April the 15th, it’s the 80th anniversary of that liberation, and after the war Klara did return to Hungary where she resumed her musical studies. But when the Hungarian Revolution broke out in 1956, Klara was forced to flee in the middle of the night, carrying only her cello on her back. She sought refuge here in Canada and she settled in Winnipeg where she became the principal cellist for the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra. She shared her passion for music as a professor at the University of Manitoba, inspiring generations of young musicians.

Her journey didn’t stop there. Klara’s music has taken her across the globe teaching master classes in Taiwan and Switzerland. And two years ago Klara made her way to Saskatchewan where she now proudly calls Saskatoon home.

Klara’s story isn’t just one of survival. It’s a testament to the power of the human spirit, to the unbreakable will to rebuild, and to the importance for each of us to never ever forget the past. Today we are honoured to hear her story as a living reminder of the strength, resilience, and hope that can emerge from the darkest times in humanity.

Mr. Speaker, I would ask all members of this House to welcome Brittany, Lisa, and please welcome Klara Belkin to her Legislative Assembly.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Deputy Leader of the Opposition.

Vicki Mowat: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I’d like to join in with the Premier opposite in welcoming these esteemed guests to their Legislative Assembly. In particular, Klara, you have quite the life story that you’ve lived and an incredible amount of resilience you’ve displayed. I want to thank you for sharing your story, allowing your story to be shared in the Legislative Assembly, and also for channelling your story into art and sharing your art as well. And so I know that can be such a meaningful form of expression.

So thank you for your presence in the legislature today, and on behalf of the official opposition I would ask all members to join me in welcoming you to your Assembly.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of Trade and Export.

Hon. Warren Kaeding: — I’d like to ask leave for an extended introduction.

Speaker Goudy: — The minister has requested leave for an extended introduction. Is leave granted?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Hon. Warren Kaeding: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. In your gallery I would like to introduce members from the Embassy Connections Canada delegation. His Excellency Mohammed Jauhar, the High Commissioner of Sri Lanka to Canada, based in Ottawa. He has served in this role since July of 2024. Joining him is His Excellency Esteban Crespo Polo, the ambassador of the Republic of Ecuador to Canada. He has also served in that role since July of 2024. His Excellency Muhammad Saleem, High Commissioner of Pakistan to Canada, based in Ottawa. He has been newly appointed to this role, serving since January of 2025. And lastly, accompanying these dignitaries, I would like to introduce Mr. Jerry Sherman, president of Embassy Connections Canada.

Embassy Connections Canada aims to provide programming for ambassadors and business representatives in various provinces across Canada. I was pleased to meet with this delegation, along with the Ag minister, to discuss the very important relationships that our respective jurisdictions share. Sri Lanka, Pakistan, and Ecuador are all valued customers of Saskatchewan’s world-class agri-food products, with Sri Lanka’s top exports from the province consisting of non-durum wheat, lentils, and oats; Pakistan’s top exports from the province consisting of lentils, chickpeas, and peas; and Ecuador’s top exports from the province including non-durum wheat, lentils, and potash.

As the world’s leading exporter of peas, lentils, durum wheat, oats, canary seed, and canola products and the world’s largest potash producer, accounting for roughly 35 per cent of global production, Saskatchewan truly has what the world needs. But we also talked about the opportunities that these countries have in supplying Saskatchewan, whether it was fresh produce, critical minerals, or education-sharing opportunities. Unfortunately we quickly ran out of time exploring all of the possibilities that we can share between our great countries.

And I hope this delegation will get to see the many highlights that our province has to offer during their visit, as they engage with more ministries and business leaders. Mr. Sherman has attended this House before so I welcome him back, but I would really like to extend a warm welcome to all three dignitaries. As I understand, this is their first visit to our province. I’d ask all members to please join me in welcoming them, this delegation to this legislature.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Deputy Leader of the Opposition.

Vicki Mowat: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. It’s my pleasure to join in with the minister opposite in welcoming this delegation to our fine province today. Welcome back to Jerry Sherman, and I would like to provide a warm welcome on behalf of the official opposition to His Excellency Mohammed Jauhar, His Excellency Esteban Crespo Polo, and His Excellency Muhammad Saleem.

Thank you for all of your work in fostering strong international partnerships, your representation of your countries. And I understand you had meetings on everything from, you know, education, agriculture, trade — all of the important ways that our countries need to work together. Thank you for providing that leadership in what are trying times right now. And welcome to Saskatchewan on behalf of the official opposition.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of Health.

Hon. Jeremy Cockrill: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I’ll just join with the Premier and the member opposite in welcoming the Belkins to their legislature. I’m going to have more to say about Klara’s story later on in a member statement.

I do just want to highlight quickly though that Brittany Caffet is joining them. I’ve gotten the chance to get to know Brittany in her capacity as board Chair at the Ability in Me organization in Saskatoon, you know, an important organization that provides therapy and programming to kids with Down syndrome and their families right across our province.

I’d remind all members in the House that Ability in Me is actually going to be back here in the legislature in a couple weeks for an MLA [Member of the Legislative Assembly] reception. So I would encourage all members of the House to attend that reception, and just ask all members to welcome these guests to this their legislature. Thank you.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the member from Regina Coronation Park.

Noor Burki: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. To you and through you, I will join the minister and my colleague to welcome these incredible guests in your gallery, incredible ambassadors, to our province. I will say to you pakheyr to welcome to our Legislative Assembly. And with that I will give a special shout-out to the ambassador of Pakistan, Muhammad Saleem, Your Excellency.

So I will just go briefly with that. Mr. Saleem has been serving with the foreign office in Pakistan since 1995, being 30 years of his career he’s been working in and out in all the country and he’s been doing, at the various areas that he’s been working in, an incredible job for the country of Pakistan. And I will say with that that he’s one of the most senior ambassadors in Pakistan, which is very proud for me. Mr. Speaker, I will say with that to request all members of this House to join me to give them a warm welcome to the Legislative Assembly of Saskatchewan.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the member from Cut Knife-Turtleford.

James Thorsteinson: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. It is a pleasure to be on my feet today to introduce to you, sitting in the west gallery, 41 grade 9 to 12 students here from Kindersley high school. They are accompanied by their teachers Mr. Reece, Mrs. Padberg, and Mrs. Coles, and their parent chaperones Robin Herner, Ashley Dies, Bev MacDougall, and Jenn Peardon.

I am looking forward to filling the role for their MLA for Kindersley-Biggar after question period and answering their questions. He’s going to owe me a steak dinner, I understand is what’s coming my way, and some ice cream is coming your way once you do get to connect with him. So on behalf of the entire Legislative Assembly, I would hope all members welcome these students and teachers to their Legislative Assembly.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the member from Saskatoon Stonebridge.

Darcy Warrington: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Request for an extended introduction, please.

Speaker Goudy: — Member has requested leave for an extended introduction. Is leave granted?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Darcy Warrington: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. It’s a pleasure, to you and through you, to be on my feet to recognize Michael Reece. Michael Reece grew up near where I was from as well. I often tell people I’m from Kindersley though I’m from Marengo because most people don’t know where that is. But he has replaced me on several occasions when I used to be a band teacher in Saskatoon at Sylvia Fedoruk School. It’s so difficult to find good people to remain as guest teachers. As soon as people recognize their skills, they’re snapped up into a position like he has now, and I can’t imagine that his students would be able to disagree with the great musician that he is and the great teacher that he is.

And a little shout-out to his band, The Radiant. He has sort of an alternative rock group that’s prominent throughout Western Canada. I think maybe they’ve even been up for some Saskatchewan Music Awards. Formerly known as Soft Cotton for those of you that maybe followed them when that was their name. But regardless, thank you for all you do, Mike Reece. Everybody in the province appreciates anyone that’s bringing music to the masses, so thank you.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the member from White City-Qu’Appelle.

[13:45]

Brad Crassweller: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. To you and through you, and seated in the west gallery, I would like to introduce to us all from the Muscowpetung Education Centre from Pasqua Muscowpetung First Nation in Fort Qu’Appelle, our group of 19 grade 9 to 12 students.

And their teachers are seated with them as well. I want to welcome Kelsey Moore, Samantha Gold, Samantha Perry, and Lawrence Troanca. And I look forward to getting together with them after question period to have some questions. And I did bring ice cream, so we’ll be enjoying it right away. So I just ask everyone to join me in welcoming them to their Legislative Assembly.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the member from Regina Rochdale.

Joan Pratchler: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to, through you, introduce some child care providers here from Regina. They’re from the Play & Discover Early Learning Centre. And we have two educators. We have Caitlyn here and we also have Hazel Lee here as well. And with them we have two people that are doing their practicum in child care provision, Hayle Simpson and Henry Jiang.

Please join with me in welcoming these providers who have been around for over 40 years in their organization giving wonderful child care provision to the children and families of our province.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of Education.

Hon. Everett Hindley: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would just like to join in with the member opposite in welcoming the child care providers here, seated in your gallery, Mr. Speaker.

I thank them for being here and thank them for the work that they do in amongst here, the city of Regina and surrounding area, and all child care workers across this province for the very, very important work that you do for families and how you support communities and our economy as well.

So on behalf of the provincial government, Mr. Speaker, I would welcome these child care workers to this their Legislative Assembly. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the member from Dakota-Arm River.

Barret Kropf: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to reintroduce an individual to you — he was here in the fall session — no stranger to politics in Canada, Mr. Harold Cooper, whose son is the Speaker in Alberta. And in the fall when Harold was here visiting us, I made the comment that our Legislative Assembly was the best in the country. And obviously you agree with this because you’re back again joining us here, Harold. So I really want to welcome you to this, your favourite Legislative Assembly.

Speaker Goudy: — And I just wanted to make a comment for the delegation of three that, you know, when I would see Canadians sent out, chosen, selected specifically and sent out to represent our nation, I would hope we’d have the same quality of the three men that I met this morning. And I just want to say thank you for taking time to meet with me, and we really appreciate the relationship between our province and your country. So welcome to the Saskatchewan Legislative Assembly. Thank you.

PRESENTING PETITIONS

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the member from Regina Rochdale.

Joan Pratchler: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise today to present our petition calling to fix the crisis in our classrooms.

The undersigned residents would like to bring to our attention the following: that Saskatchewan is one of two provinces to experience a decline in per-student funding in our public schools, a loss of 10 per cent since 2012; and that per-student funding over the same time period has only increased by 8.3 per cent at the national level; and also that the international studies show that Saskatchewan students are drastically falling behind in reading, math, and science, with Saskatchewan ranking second-worst in math scores and third-worst in reading amongst the provinces.

I’ll read the prayer:

We, in the prayer that reads as follows, respectfully request that the Legislative Assembly of Saskatchewan call on the Government of Saskatchewan to immediately provide adequate funding to public, Catholic, and francophone schools in Saskatchewan and fix the crisis in our classrooms.

Mr. Speaker, this petition has been signed from citizens from Prince Albert. I do so present.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the member from Saskatoon University-Sutherland.

Tajinder Grewal: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise to present a petition to pass The Sikh Heritage Month Act.

So the undersigned residents of the province of Saskatchewan wish to bring to your attention the following: that Sikhism is the fourth-largest religious group in Canada, making up to 2 per cent of the country’s population; that Sikh people have lived in Saskatchewan since 1957; that Sikh people across the province contribute to Saskatchewan’s culture, economy, and prosperity; that April is the month of the Sikh festival of Vaisakhi and commonly recognized as Sikh Heritage Month; that the Sikh community must currently reapply every year to have April recognized as Sikh Heritage Month.

Mr. Speaker, I will say:

The prayer that read as follows, respectfully request the Legislative Assembly of Saskatchewan call on the Government of Saskatchewan to immediately pass The Sikh Heritage Month Act.

The petition has been signed by the citizens of Saskatoon. I do so present.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the member from Regina Douglas Park.

Nicole Sarauer: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise today to present a petition calling on the government to reverse the ban on third-party educators from our schools. Those who’ve signed this petition wish to bring to our attention the following: that on August 22nd, 2023 the Saskatchewan government banned all third-party educators from publicly funded schools. Those who were banned included organizations like the Regina Sexual Assault Centre, the North East Outreach and Support Services, the Prince Albert Sexual Assault Centre, and the West Central Crisis & Family Support Centre, though the topics that these organizations teach include consent, healthy relationships, and child sexual abuse prevention. Mr. Speaker, the decision to ban these educators will make Saskatchewan’s rate of intimate partner violence, sexual violence, and childhood sexual abuse worse, not better.

I’d like to read the prayer:

We, in the prayer that reads as follows, respectfully request that the Legislative Assembly of Saskatchewan call on the Government of Saskatchewan to immediately reverse its decision to ban third-party educators in Saskatchewan schools and consult with experts in developing a comprehensive curriculum for all Saskatchewan students.

Those who’ve signed this petition come from Muskoday First Nation and Melfort. I do so present.

Speaker Goudy: — Could I request leave for another introduction as well in the Assembly?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

INTRODUCTION OF GUESTS

Speaker Goudy: — I would be remiss if I didn’t mention a man that must have raised a son awfully well. So, Mr. Cooper, there’s a proverb that says, wisdom is justified by her children, and so I think you’ve done a great job. Your son is highly respected as a Speaker in the country.

The first multi-gathering of the Speakers for the country I was at, your son didn’t happen to be there, so they were able to speak about him behind his back. And you can always tell a lot about an individual when they’re not in the room. And I can say concerning your son, he’s highly respected. And a great job raising Nathan Cooper, and thank you for being here today.

Reading and receiving . . . Oh, another petition?

PRESENTING PETITIONS

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the member from Saskatoon Stonebridge.

Darcy Warrington: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. It’s a pleasure to be on my feet. I rise today to present our petition to address the housing crisis in Saskatchewan calling for more affordable homes and tenant protections.

The undersigned residents would like to bring to our attention the following. The cost of housing in Saskatchewan has skyrocketed, making it increasingly difficult for many individuals and families in securing a stable and affordable house. Over the past decade homelessness has surged, pushing people onto the streets; meanwhile the government has made drastic cuts to the housing programs.

The Government of Saskatchewan has wasted $596 million on vacant housing units. Some of these remain uninhabitable because of cuts to maintenance and renovation budgets. Monthly rent prices in Saskatchewan have significantly increased while the wages for Saskatchewan families have remained stagnant.

We, in the prayer that reads as follows, respectfully request that the Legislative Assembly of Saskatchewan calls on the Government of Saskatchewan to immediately implement a comprehensive affordable housing strategy aimed at helping individuals and families in securing stable and affordable housing.

We also urge the government to enforce rental protections for tenants and allocate resources towards development of second-stage housing and crisis shelter.

Mr. Speaker, the signatures today reside in Saskatoon. I do so present.

STATEMENTS BY MEMBERS

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the member from Canora-Pelly.

New Family-Owned Business Provides Hydraulic Services

Sean Wilson: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to take this opportunity to recognize Keith and Tricia Strutynski, along with their three teenagers Kenley, Ty, and Turner, of Stornoway, who have recently launched Roadside Hydraulics.

Roadside Hydraulics is a proud new addition to our constituency. It’s a family-owned and -operated business led by Keith and Tricia. The business is conveniently located seven miles north of Wroxton on Highway 8. Turning a farm into a business hub is no small feat. Your commitment and hard work in establishing this business in our constituency is truly inspiring.

Alvin Harambura, who has owned and operated Prairie Manure & Feed from a shop in Runnymede for over 40 years closed the business at the beginning of March as Keith opened Roadside Hydraulics on March 1st in a large shop on his farm. Alvin has been a valued resource to Keith while the new shop got under way.

The Strutynski family is committed to providing high-quality hydraulic services and support to the farming communities of the Canora-Pelly constituency and beyond. Their dedication, expertise, and family values make them an invaluable asset to our region, and they look forward to serving the hard-working individuals who keep our agricultural industry thriving.

Here’s to many successful repairs and a booming business. Wishing Keith, Trish, and their family great success and many prosperous years ahead. Thank you.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the member from Regina Pasqua.

Cultivator Community Night Showcases Tech Start-Ups

Bhajan Brar: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, on February 1st the member for Regina University and I attended the Cultivator Community Night at Darke Hall in Regina. This event showcased Saskatchewan tech start-ups and awarded the winners of the 24‑Hour Startup challenge.

Participants were challenged with launching a new start-up business in 24 hours. Seeing the innovative solutions that these talented founders came up with in a short time frame was inspiring.

Cultivator is a tech start-up incubator, supporting local start-ups here in Regina. Since 2019 they have supported over 100 start-ups. It was great to hear from Cultivator director Laura Mock about the many made-in-Saskatchewan businesses that Cultivator has helped grow into internationally recognized companies.

I ask all members of this Legislative Assembly to join me in congratulating the participants of the 24‑Hour Startup challenge and everyone at Cultivator who put on a successful event. Thank you.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the member from Batoche.

Cudworth Hosts Annual Fish Fry

Darlene Rowden: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise today to recognize a truly special community event, the annual wildlife fish fry in Cudworth. This much-anticipated gathering brings together over 250 people of all ages, united by their love for great food and an even greater cause.

The delicious fish fry supper never disappoints — perfectly prepared, hearty, and shared with friends and neighbours. But what makes this event shine is the spirit of giving that surrounds it. With both silent and live auctions featuring an impressive array of items, the generosity of attendees is both inspiring and impactful.

Proceeds from the evening go toward wildlife educational initiatives and other important wildlife-related efforts in the region. It’s a testament to the commitment the people of Cudworth have, not only to community but also to conservation.

Mr. Speaker, events like the Cudworth wildlife fish fry remind us of the strength found in small communities and the big hearts that live there. I want to extend my sincere thanks to the organizers, volunteers, and everyone who took part in making this year’s fish fry another memorable success. Thank you.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the member from Regina South Albert.

Students Gain Valuable Experience at Business Case Competition

Aleana Young: — Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. On March 7th I had the privilege of serving as a judge on the entrepreneurship panel at the Campbell Collegiate business case competition. With 101 students, 27 judges, 6 teachers, and 7 volunteers, it was an inspiring experience — inspiring to witness the innovation and passion of the talented students competing in both the entrepreneurship and the finance cases.

Students learned about target markets, decision criteria, budgeting, but also life lessons of critical thinking, collaboration, time management, and taking constructive criticism. Student feedback noted, “I learned the different investment options from the seniors in my group. I learned about TFSAs, ETFs, and index funds.”

[14:00]

Another noted:

The one thing I learned today is how teamwork and problem-solving skills are really essential when doing a case competition. There were times where my group were struggling with things, but we used our teamwork and problem-solving skills to give our 100 per cent.

Valuable life lessons, Mr. Speaker, and great advice for all members of this Assembly as well.

I also want to recognize the invaluable support and mentorship from the teachers who have fostered such a dynamic learning environment. It’s evident that entrepreneurship thrives in our community and this competition is a testament to the spirit of growth, collaboration, and change.

I ask all members to join me in celebrating the participants, the volunteers, judges, and teachers who put on the Campbell business case competition.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the member from Cut Knife-Turtleford.

Juno Award Winner Earning Accolades in Country Music Industry

James Thorsteinson: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I’m honoured to rise today to speak about a constituent who is making big strides in the music industry. Jake Vaadeland is a country singer originally from a farm near Big River, now residing in Cut Knife, and just recently won one of the most prestigious awards for a Canadian musician — a Juno Award.

Jake specifically won the Juno for the best Traditional Roots Album and is now in contention to be named Canada’s Top of the Country 2025, which is an award facilitated by SiriusXM and the Canadian Country Music Association.

As part of the competition, Vaadeland was back in Canada for only a day — while touring in Europe with his band, The Sturgeon River Boys — to record a new song and music video courtesy of SiriusXM. Eight singers made it initially to the Top of the Country category, and now Jake has made it to the final three after a public vote. And these final three will now battle it out in the country music award fest in Kelowna, which takes place from June 5th though 8th.

At just 21 years of age, Jake recently made history by becoming the youngest artist to receive the Road Gold certification by selling over 25,000 tickets across Canada in 12 months.

I invite all members to join me in congratulating Jake on his many achievements so far and wish him luck in winning Canada’s Top of the Country 2025. Thank you.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the member from Regina Douglas Park.

Community Jingle Ball Event Helps Families Experience Christmas

Nicole Sarauer: — Mr. Speaker, I rise today to highlight Al Ritchie’s annual Jingle Ball Christmas event, hosted by the Al Ritchie Community Association. I had the opportunity to take my two kids, who had an absolute blast.

The Jingle Ball event is hosted every year in the Core Ritchie neighbourhood with the goal of helping families who may be going through financial hardships to experience Christmas. The Jingle Ball had many activities for families, such as bouncy castles, face painting, free books, custom balloon art, free crafts, and the kids even got to meet Santa. Mr. Speaker, every child who met Santa left with a gift.

The Jingle Ball typically gets 400 families attending every year. Executive director Denis Simard said:

We still put on these free events because we think it’s important for Christmas. These types of key moments in one’s life for a child should be lived no matter what your economic status.

Mr. Speaker, I ask all members to join me in thanking the Al Ritchie Community Association, the board — Angela Ell, Lord Ugwu, Lauren Dahnke, Brittney Musleh, Belinda Wrobel, Loanne Myrah, and Karen House — as well as the volunteers for hosting yet another amazing Jingle Ball. Thank you.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the member from The Battlefords.

Holocaust Survivor Shares Story of Resilience and Perseverance

Hon. Jeremy Cockrill: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. When it comes to the Holocaust, we must all remember and commit to never again. Today, April 15th, is the 80th anniversary of the liberation of the Bergen-Belsen concentration camp, and today we are joined by Klara Belkin from Saskatoon, who experienced this camp first-hand.

At age 14 Klara and her family were torn from their home in Hungary, forced into a ghetto, and then sent to Bergen-Belsen. She would spend five long months there, witnessing terrible atrocities before being loaded on a crowded train destined for death.

Luckily Klara and others were liberated by American soldiers who intercepted the train before its final destination. Klara returned to Hungary to study music but was forced to flee during the Hungarian Revolution in the 1950s and sought refuge here in Canada. She settled in Winnipeg, raised a family, and became the principal cellist for the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra.

Part of Klara’s story is being retold on the latest podcast series from CKOM titled The Remarkable Klara Belkin. I would encourage everyone to listen. It is a truly moving story. To hear the story of this woman’s resilience and perseverance, it is an impactful story. And I think about the moments in the story — the Russian prisoners, to the story about the blue velvet dress, to the day they were finally liberated and set free.

On behalf of the Government of Saskatchewan, I want to thank Klara Belkin for sharing her story and helping us remember that we must never allow these atrocities to occur. Thank you.

QUESTION PERIOD

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Deputy Leader of the Opposition.

Capacity in Neonatal Intensive Care Unit

Vicki Mowat: — Mr. Speaker, it’s devastating to learn more about just how bad conditions are at the neonatal intensive care unit at Regina General Hospital.

Yesterday the Minister of Health was asked about a complaint made public by one of the desperate front-line workers at Regina General NICU [neonatal intensive care unit]. Rather than offering support or providing clear measures about what was being done to fix the crisis, he chose to downplay the concerns and deny the reality of what they face. Now we’ve learned there are 44 complaints from workers in that unit just this year, and they’ve been coming in for months.

To the Premier: why have these concerns gone unanswered for months?

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of Health.

Hon. Jeremy Cockrill: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. There’s no downplaying on this side of the House, Mr. Speaker. We understand recent capacity challenges at the NICU at the Regina General Hospital, Mr. Speaker, over the last several weeks.

As I said yesterday, we’ve had a significant number of babies born. You know, there are capacity challenges currently at the NICU at RGH [Regina General Hospital]. This is why our teams provincially meet every morning to understand where we have capacity within the system, Mr. Speaker, and where we need to move patients within the province if needed, Mr. Speaker.

Mr. Speaker, again, we understand these challenges. We’re working with the Saskatchewan Health Authority to address those challenges and make sure that children and families have access to the right care that they need close to home. Thank you.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Deputy Leader of the Opposition.

Vicki Mowat: — Let’s talk about that capacity, Mr. Speaker. The NICU in Saskatoon — full. The NICU in Regina — full. Mr. Speaker, we’re talking about sick newborns fighting for their lives, and we have a minister that’s more focused on running damage control than providing leadership. It’s shameful.

For the record, how long have the Premier and the Minister of Health been aware of this crisis and the clear lack of proper health care being provided to these critically ill babies?

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of Health.

Hon. Jeremy Cockrill: — Mr. Speaker, I’ll maybe just correct the member opposite first. The NICU at the Regina General, it’s full as of this morning. We do have surge capacity there for another four beds if needed, Mr. Speaker, but we do have capacity currently in both Saskatoon and Prince Albert.

This is exactly why the provincial children’s teams with the Saskatchewan Health Authority meet every morning to discuss the challenges they’re seeing and where capacity is around the province, Mr. Speaker.

I had the opportunity to meet with the Saskatchewan Health Authority leadership this morning. I directed them to increase the baseline staffing levels at the NICU at Regina General Hospital. They’re now working on that and moving towards ensuring that this unit can be supported so that all the families in southern Saskatchewan can be supported as well. Thank you.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Deputy Leader of the Opposition.

Vicki Mowat: — Mr. Speaker, the minister doesn’t have to take my word for it. These numbers are reported in real time on the website.

Mr. Speaker, the Sask Party is doing nothing to address this urgent crisis. These are very sick babies. They can’t advocate for themselves. Won’t someone, anyone on that side of the House, stand and take responsibility for this mess and pledge to immediately do whatever it takes to end the crisis at the Regina NICU?

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of Health.

Hon. Jeremy Cockrill: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. You know, to the member’s opposite question, I just answered her and said I directed the Saskatchewan Health Authority to increase the baseline staffing levels of the NICU at the Regina General Hospital. That will ensure that there will be additional staff capacity available to serve the children and families on that unit, Mr. Speaker.

I spoke about it yesterday. This is a government that has made significant investments to pediatric services and pediatric programming around the province. Yes, in capital, the Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital, Mr. Speaker. But also in services, in ensuring that the right specialists are in our province, residing here, servicing families within the province, that there’s staff available, there’s equipment available, Mr. Speaker.

This is a government that takes pediatric care seriously and our investments have shown that. Thank you.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the member from Regina Elphinstone-Centre.

Meara Conway: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. A question for the minister: did he take our advice yesterday — or better yet the advice of the Saskatchewan Union of Nurses — lace up his walking shoes, head on over to the Regina General yesterday, speak with the front-line health care workers of the NICU and hear from them directly about what they’re facing? And is his position still the same that he took yesterday, that that front-line NICU nurse who went public, that she was basically lying about the shortage of staff and ventilators in the Regina NICU?

Speaker Goudy: — I’m going to call the member. You were calling our Hon. Minister of Health out that he was saying that one of the staff members at the hospital was basically lying. I will ask you to apologize and withdraw for that statement, and reform the question, please.

Meara Conway: — I apologize and withdraw. I’ll restate the question. Is the Minister of Health’s position still that that front-line health care worker’s information is false?

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of Health.

Hon. Jeremy Cockrill: — Mr. Speaker, I can tell you that I have toured the Regina General Hospital. Mr. Speaker, I wasn’t able to make it there yesterday, but I’ve toured Regina General. I’ve toured our hospitals in Saskatoon, Mr. Speaker, met with front-line health care workers, including in this unit here at the General, Mr. Speaker.

Mr. Speaker, to answer that member’s specific question, we have 16 machines available to serve as ventilators, Mr. Speaker. Again as of this morning, my understanding is eight or nine are in use, which means that we do have extra capacity available for that equipment. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the member from Regina Elphinstone-Centre.

Meara Conway: — Mr. Speaker, it is heartening to hear a change of tone from that minister from yesterday, that he’s going to increase baseline staffing in the NICU. A reminder that we had to find out about this crisis from a leak, Mr. Speaker.

And you know, it’s no secret that I’m due to give birth shortly, and I hope to do so at the Regina General. And you know, Mr. Speaker, my firstborn spent a stint in the NICU. It was thankfully very brief, but I can say that the staff at the mother-baby unit are tremendous, that the nurses in that NICU, they work miracles.

And the members on this side of the Assembly, when we hear from those front-line health care workers about what they are facing in their day-to-day jobs, we believe them. Why doesn’t the minister?

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of Health.

Hon. Jeremy Cockrill: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Here’s something that the member and I do agree on: our front-line health care workers do incredible work. Whether it’s at the General, Mr. Speaker, whether it’s at Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital, or whether it’s at Battlefords Union Hospital where my wife and I . . . where our first son was born a couple years ago, Mr. Speaker, these are people who do incredible work.

My message to the families in southern Saskatchewan, expectant mothers in Regina and surrounding areas, Mr. Speaker: the care is going to be there for you when you need it. Mr. Speaker, we are going to be increasing baseline-level staffing. There’s equipment available, Mr. Speaker.

Again our teams meet provincially every single morning to understand where the capacity pressures are, where we do have extra capacity, Mr. Speaker. So a child that needs a NICU space, we’ll make sure that that child has a space. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the member from Regina Elphinstone-Centre.

Meara Conway: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. As our deputy leader outlined, 44 complaints just from this year, and the accounts from front-line workers at the Regina NICU are almost too much to bear. Not one but multiple accounts of a shortage of ventilators, shortage of staff, Mr. Speaker. In one situation it’s reported there was a dangerous error when mixing milk for a baby because staff are burned out. They’re being asked to do more than is reasonably possible.

This is dangerous and this is putting the lives of our tiniest and most vulnerable patients at risk. After listening to the display from that minister yesterday in this Chamber, he did deny, he did minimize the crisis in the NICU, Mr. Speaker. My question is, what is he going to do to fix it?

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of Health.

Hon. Jeremy Cockrill: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, as I said yesterday and I confirmed again today, there is ventilator capacity at the NICU at Regina General, Mr. Speaker. We’ve just directed the SHA [Saskatchewan Health Authority] as of this morning to increase the baseline-level staffing in that unit, Mr. Speaker.

As I mentioned yesterday as well, in this year’s budget, additional capital dollars to begin planning a high-acuity maternal unit at the General, Mr. Speaker. My message to the women in southern Saskatchewan remains the same, the expectant mothers who are going to be bringing new Saskatchewan residents into our great province, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, we have surge capacity available at the General.

There are going to be qualified and trained health care professionals ready for you, to serve you and your family and your newborn, Mr. Speaker. And if your child does need a NICU bed, we will be working across the province to make sure that a NICU bed is available for you. Thank you.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the member from Saskatoon University-Sutherland.

[14:15]

Actions Taken to Address Member’s Comments

Tajinder Grewal: — Mr. Speaker, the member from Humboldt-Watrous has caused a great deal of hurt and harm in the Sikh community across Saskatchewan. The Premier should have removed her from caucus last week when these comments came to light. But instead of showing leadership, this Premier and entire Sask Party caucus are standing behind her.

Why is this member still part of the government caucus? What does this Premier choose to say about his commitment to our province’s motto, “from many peoples, strength”?

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Premier.

Hon. Scott Moe: — Mr. Speaker, as was discussed last week in the Assembly, and I understand as recently as yesterday as the Deputy Premier was answering some questions with respect to the comments made by the MLA for Humboldt-Watrous, of which were retracted in this Assembly, apologized for, Mr. Speaker, apologized for publicly.

In light of those comments which are entirely inaccurate and very, very inappropriate, Mr. Speaker, there has been a removal of a number of duties of this member. However the member is going to remain in caucus.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the member from Saskatoon University-Sutherland.

Tajinder Grewal: — Mr. Speaker, instead of showing leadership and removing the member from caucus, he gave her a slap on the wrist, removing her from some committee duties but not all her committee duties. She still sits on the Standing Committee on Intergovernmental Affairs and Justice, representing the government. This committee deals with laws that impact minorities, like The Multiculturalism Act.

The Premier said he took her off her committee roles. Why did he leave her on this one?

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Premier.

Hon. Scott Moe: — As I said, Mr. Speaker, these comments that were made on the floor of this Assembly have been retracted and apologized for, Mr. Speaker. And I said, largely the duties of this individual have been removed. And I will reiterate, the individual will be staying in caucus, Mr. Speaker, and will remain certainly on one particular committee.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the member from Regina Northeast.

Jacqueline Roy: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Now, Mr. Speaker, comments that were premeditated by someone who claims on her own website to already have anti-racism and equity training, Mr. Speaker, that member should have been kicked out of caucus long ago. And the Sask Party should never, ever have left her on the standing committee of justice. This committee is responsible for the Sask Human Rights Commission and the Sask human rights code.

I’m sorry, but these are two of our most essential tools here in our province to defend against racism. What does it say about the Sask Party government’s commitment to human rights if they stripped her of all her duties yet they kept her on this one?

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Deputy Premier.

Hon. Jim Reiter: — Mr. Speaker, the Premier’s been very clear on this, Mr. Speaker. The comments were inappropriate and inaccurate. The member has apologized both publicly and on the floor of this Assembly, Mr. Speaker. The Premier spoke to it last week, again today, Mr. Speaker. She’s been removed from most of her duties, Mr. Speaker, but will remain in caucus.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the member from Regina Northeast.

Jacqueline Roy: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Now, Mr. Speaker, that simply wasn’t the question. The question is, why on earth would the Sask Party absolutely decide to keep her on the committee of justice that deals with the Saskatchewan Human Rights Commission and the Sask human rights code and concerns about anti-racism?

Mr. Speaker, the Sask Party records on human rights is deeply concerning, and now they’ve allowed an MLA who made racist comments to sit on the committee that oversees complaints about racism? I’m simply baffled. What does the Sask Party Justice minister then have to say about this? He is, after all, the Government House Leader.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Deputy Premier.

Hon. Jim Reiter: — Look, Mr. Speaker, for clarity, this committee does not oversee the Human Rights Commission, Mr. Speaker. It reviews a variety of legislation across government, Mr. Speaker. Again, the member has apologized both publicly and on the floor of this Assembly. The Premier has addressed this many times, as have I. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the member from Saskatoon Meewasin.

Conditions in Seniors’ Housing Units

Nathaniel Teed: — Mr. Speaker, that statement is simply not good enough. But I’m going to move to another community that this Saskatchewan Party government is failing.

In my constituency of Saskatoon Meewasin, seniors at King Edward Place live in fear for their basic safety. That Sask Party government opened up that building to people of all ages dealing with homelessness and addictions. Now there are human feces on the wall, drugs being dealt in common areas, and people renting out mattresses in the hallway by the hour.

What does this minister have to say to those seniors who are now too scared to step foot outside of their apartments?

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of Social Services.

Hon. Terry Jenson: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. And this issue at King Edward Place is one that my ministry, and the Saskatchewan Housing Corporation with the Saskatoon Housing Authority, we take very seriously.

King Edward Place, for those who don’t know, is a seniors’ social housing building. All tenants are seniors, Mr. Speaker; they are over the age of 55. All tenants are able to live independently, and all tenants must meet the requirements to live there through an application through the Saskatoon Housing Authority, Mr. Speaker.

Safety is paramount and we take all complaints seriously, Mr. Speaker. In fact all of these complaints are being investigated as we speak, and to enhance safety of this building the Saskatoon Housing Authority does have contracted security on site, Mr. Speaker. We want to ensure that seniors’ social housing is welcoming, secure, and it’s a space for all seniors who require affordable housing in their communities to be. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the member from Saskatoon Meewasin.

Nathaniel Teed: — Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. The situation at King Edward Place is so bad that the government has lost track of who is actually living in that building. And now he continues to say that they are taking this issue seriously and that they are working on it.

Mr. Speaker, that’s what they told me back in August when I first raised this issue. That was eight months ago, and yet security doors at King Edward Place are still being kept closed with bungee cords, Mr. Speaker. There are still cockroaches in the building, Mr. Speaker. There are still bedbugs infesting every corner of that building, and the minister hasn’t stepped foot inside.

Will the minister finally take me up on my offer and tour King Edward Place and see for himself just how bad those conditions are?

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of Social Services.

Hon. Terry Jenson: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. As I stated prior, all residents in this building are age 55 or older, Mr. Speaker. Now there were some correspondence that came into my office prior to me being minister. Those were investigated and there was, at that time I’m led to believe, that there is nothing to be found from the video surveillance cameras and the security that is on site.

To that, we are looking into this to that end, Mr. Speaker. We have housing officials that are looking into this most recent incident, and we’re doing that right now. And it’s something we take extremely seriously, Mr. Speaker, especially when it comes to keeping the seniors secure and safe in our communities. Thank you.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the member from Saskatoon Churchill-Wildwood.

Keith Jorgenson: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Wow, this government is really delivering for seniors. You know, this isn’t a one-off. We’ve raised similar concerns in similar facilities in my riding at Scott/Forget Towers. These are some quotes from residents: meth is being smoked in the stairwells; weapons have been found in common areas; human feces were smeared on elevator buttons and on doorknobs for more than a week.

The Sask Party has mismanaged yet another housing unit. When will they take action to fix these units?

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of Social Services.

Hon. Terry Jenson: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. And to the member from Churchill-Wildwood, again these are issues that we take extremely seriously, and if there’s correspondence coming into my office regarding these, we will be looking into them immediately.

We have a team of individuals within the Saskatchewan Housing Corporation and the Saskatoon Housing Authority that work extremely hard to ensure that these facilities are safe and secure for our seniors. So with that, this is something that we are looking into and we will get to the bottom of, Mr. Speaker, and ensure that we keep these seniors safe and secure.

And to that I would just add, it seems as though there’s, in the community, a safety issue. This is why in this budget, Mr. Speaker, we’ve increased the amount of funding that goes towards our municipal policing, and this will go a long ways into helping make our communities safer. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the member from Saskatoon Churchill-Wildwood.

Keith Jorgenson: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. A new Act around safety doesn’t replace the bungee cord that’s holding the security door closed. It’s absolutely ridiculous. These are quotes from people living at High Park in Moose Jaw who had a very similar set of problems in 2023:

Unless I have a family member or my friends come with me, that’s the only time I can actually leave my apartment. I know there’s a lot of people that have issues in our building. Mixing elderly people and people with mental health issues and alcoholism simply doesn’t mix.

Mr. Speaker, they’ve done it again. Today, Lynnett at King Edwards asked the media, “Would the minister let his mom or grandmother live in this building?”

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of Social Services.

Hon. Terry Jenson: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and again, when it comes to repair and maintenance of facilities, including seniors’ social housing, Mr. Speaker, we have an $88 million budget for renovations and repair. We also have within that budget, Mr. Speaker, an additional 9.2 million for three major renovation projects with housing.

Mr. Speaker, these individuals with Saskatoon Housing Authority and the housing authorities around the province do terrific work on behalf of our communities, and it’s work that they often don’t get recognized for. So I would just like to recognize those housing authorities, as well as the individuals at the Saskatchewan Housing Corporation, for all the work they do to be able to provide not only affordable housing but also social housing throughout the province. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the member from Regina Douglas Park.

Prevention of Interpersonal Violence

Nicole Sarauer: — Mr. Speaker, Saskatchewan has the highest rates of intimate partner violence in Canada, but these numbers are much more than just statistics. They’re real lives changed forever by intimate partner violence and family violence. Saskatchewan is a rich province. It shouldn’t have to be this way. We shouldn’t be leading the nation in intimate partner violence, and it shouldn’t be increasing by 15 per cent.

Mr. Speaker, how does the Sask Party government justify the fact that women and children in every other province in Canada are safer than women and children living here?

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister for the Status of Women.

Hon. Alana Ross: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Our government takes interpersonal violence and abuse very seriously. We will continue to take action in this province through programs and legislation that addresses all forms of interpersonal violence. Our government is investing $31.7 million in this budget, which has allowed us to fund transition houses and enhanced residential programs; second-stage housing, both capital and operationally; family violence intervention programs; the family intervention rapid support team; public awareness campaigns; victim advocate case reviews; and much more. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the member from Saskatoon Chief Mistawasis.

[14:30]

Overdose Deaths and Treatment for Addictions

Don McBean: — Mr. Speaker, the Saskatchewan Coroners Service reports confirmed and suspected drug toxicity deaths this year to date is 92 persons. The Saskatoon Fire Department has responded to 435 overdose calls between March 1st and 18th. Paramedics and the fire department are still responding to an average of 19 overdoses a day. This far surpasses 2024 and the 291 overdose calls it handled in the entirety of last year. Libraries are shut down due to the crisis.

We know already one death is too many, but we ask when will the Sask Party government take this seriously and deliver meaningful action to address the overdose crisis?

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of Mental Health and Addictions.

Hon. Lori Carr: — I thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, once again, every loss of life due to an overdose is a tragedy, and I extend my condolences to all those that have felt the impacts of it.

Mr. Speaker, I think this really truly does go to highlight what illicit drugs will do to a community. These drugs are not safe. There is no safe use of them whatsoever. We do not know what are in them, and what we see happening in our communities today is exactly that. That is why we are working on enforcement to get those drugs off the street, Mr. Speaker.

And not only that, most importantly is that giving people for an opportunity for recovery, and we are working towards the goal of 500 additional beds throughout the province, spaces for individuals to be able to use, and we will continue on with that goal. We’re at 264 right now, Mr. Speaker, and we will continue to open those spaces moving forward.

PRESENTING REPORTS BY STANDING AND SPECIAL COMMITTEES

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the member from Moose Jaw Wakamow.

Standing Committee on Intergovernmental Affairs and Justice

Megan Patterson: — Mr. Speaker, I’m instructed by the Standing Committee on Intergovernmental Affairs and Justice to report Bill No. 6, The Safe Public Spaces (Street Weapons) Act, with amendment.

Speaker Goudy: — When shall this bill be considered in the Committee of the Whole on Bills? I recognize the Minister of Justice and Attorney General.

Hon. Tim McLeod: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I request leave to waive consideration in Committee of the Whole on this bill and that the bill and its amendment be now read a third time.

Speaker Goudy: — The minister has requested leave to waive consideration in the Committee of the Whole on Bill No. 6, The Safe Public Spaces (Street Weapons) Act, with amendment, and that the bill be now read the third time. Is leave granted?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Speaker Goudy: — When shall the amendment be read a first time?

FIRST AND SECOND READINGS OF AMENDMENTS

Bill No. 6 — The Safe Public Spaces (Street Weapons) Act

Hon. Tim McLeod: — I move that the amendments be now read for a first and second time.

Speaker Goudy: — It has been moved by the minister that the amendments be now read a first and second time. Is it the pleasure of the Assembly to adopt the motion?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Speaker Goudy: — Carried.

Deputy Clerk: — First and second reading of the amendments.

Speaker Goudy: — The minister may proceed to the moving of the third reading.

THIRD READINGS

Bill No. 6 — The Safe Public Spaces (Street Weapons) Act

Hon. Tim McLeod: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I move that the bill be now read a third time and passed under its title.

Speaker Goudy: — It has been moved by the minister that the bill be now read the third time and passed under its title. Is the Assembly ready for the question?

Some Hon. Members: — Question.

Speaker Goudy: — Is it the pleasure of the Assembly to adopt the motion?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Speaker Goudy: — Carried.

Deputy Clerk: — Third reading of this bill.

PRESENTING REPORTS BY STANDING AND SPECIAL COMMITTEES

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the member from Moose Jaw Wakamow.

Standing Committee on Intergovernmental Affairs and Justice

Megan Patterson: — Mr. Speaker, I’m instructed by the Standing Committee on Intergovernmental Affairs and Justice to report Bill No. 10, The Miscellaneous Statutes (Public Registries Enhancement) Amendment Act, 2024, without amendment.

Speaker Goudy: — When shall this bill be considered in Committee of the Whole on Bills? I recognize the Minister of Justice and Attorney General.

Hon. Tim McLeod: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I request leave to waive consideration in Committee of the Whole on this bill and that the bill be now read the third time.

Speaker Goudy: — The minister has requested leave to waive consideration in the Committee of the Whole on Bill No. 10, The Miscellaneous Statutes (Public Registries Enhancement) Amendment Act, 2024 and that the bill be now read the third time. Is leave granted?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Speaker Goudy: — The minister may proceed to move the third reading.

THIRD READINGS

Bill No. 10 — The Miscellaneous Statutes (Public Registries Enhancement) Amendment Act, 2024

Hon. Tim McLeod: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I move that the bill be now read a third time and passed under its title.

Speaker Goudy: — It has been moved by the minister that the bill be now read the third time and passed under its title. Is the Assembly ready for the question?

Some Hon. Members: — Question.

Speaker Goudy: — Is it the pleasure of the Assembly to adopt the motion?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Speaker Goudy: — Carried.

Deputy Clerk: — Third reading of this bill.

PRESENTING REPORTS BY STANDING AND SPECIAL COMMITTEES

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the member from Moose Jaw Wakamow.

Standing Committee on Intergovernmental Affairs and Justice

Megan Patterson: — I’m instructed by the Standing Committee on Intergovernmental Affairs and Justice to report Bill No. 11, The Miscellaneous Statutes (Public Registries Enhancement) Amendment Act, 2024 (No. 2), a bilingual bill, without amendment.

Speaker Goudy: — When shall this bill be considered in the Committee of the Whole on Bills? I recognize the Minister of Justice and Attorney General.

Hon. Tim McLeod: — Mr. Speaker, I request leave to waive consideration in Committee of the Whole on this bill, and that the bill be now read a third time.

Speaker Goudy: — The minister has requested leave to waive consideration in the Committee of the Whole on Bill No. 11, The Miscellaneous Statutes (Public Registries Enhancement) Amendment Act, 2024 and that the bill be now read the third time. Is leave granted?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Speaker Goudy: — Carried. The minister may proceed to move third reading.

THIRD READINGS

Bill No. 11 — The Miscellaneous Statutes (Public Registries Enhancement) Amendment Act, 2024 (No. 2)/Loi modificative diverse (amélioration des registres publics) de 2024 (n° 2)

Hon. Tim McLeod: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I move that the bill be now read a third time and passed under its title.

Speaker Goudy: — It has been moved by the minister that the bill be now read the third time and passed under its title. Is the Assembly ready for the question?

Some Hon. Members: — Question.

Speaker Goudy: — Is it the pleasure of the Assembly to adopt the motion?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Speaker Goudy: — Carried.

Deputy Clerk: — Third reading of this bill.

PRESENTING REPORTS BY STANDING AND SPECIAL COMMITTEES

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the member from Moose Jaw Wakamow.

Standing Committee on Intergovernmental Affairs and Justice

Megan Patterson: — Mr. Speaker, I’m instructed by the Standing Committee on Intergovernmental Affairs and Justice to report that it has considered certain estimates and to present its first report to the thirtieth legislature, which includes the ’25‑26 estimates and ’24‑25 supplementary estimates no. 2.

I move:

The first report of the Standing Committee on Intergovernmental Affairs and Justice for the thirtieth legislature be now concurred in.

Speaker Goudy: — It has been moved by the member for Moose Jaw Wakamow:

That the first report of the Standing Committee on Intergovernmental Affairs and Justice for the thirtieth legislature be now concurred in.

Is the Assembly ready for the question?

Some Hon. Members: — Question.

Speaker Goudy: — Is it the pleasure of the Assembly to adopt the motion?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Speaker Goudy: — Carried. Sorry, why is the member on her feet?

MOTION UNDER RULE 61

Status of Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at Regina General Hospital

Meara Conway: — Before orders of the day I seek leave to move a motion under rule 61.

Speaker Goudy: — Will the member briefly state the purpose of the motion and read the text of the motion.

Meara Conway: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. This is an important motion I hope we can all be united on regarding the crisis at the NICU here in Regina at the Regina General Hospital. The motion has two elements, an action element and an informational element around reporting back.

If leave is granted, I would move the following motion:

That the Assembly calls upon the government to take urgent emergency action to address the crisis at the neonatal intensive care unit at the Regina General Hospital; and further,

That the Assembly calls upon the Minister of Health to provide daily public updates on the status of the neonatal intensive care unit at the Regina General Hospital until the crisis has passed.

Speaker Goudy: — The member for Regina Elphinstone park has requested to move without notice a motion of urgent and pressing necessity under rule 61. Is leave granted?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Some Hon. Members: — No.

Speaker Goudy: — Leave has not been granted. Next item of business.

ORDERS OF THE DAY

GOVERNMENT ORDERS

ADJOURNED DEBATES

SECOND READINGS

Bill No. 3

[The Assembly resumed the adjourned debate on the proposed motion by the Hon. Tim McLeod that Bill No. 3 — The Safer Communities and Neighbourhoods Amendment Act, 2024 be now read a second time.]

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the member from Regina Douglas Park.

Nicole Sarauer: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. It’s my honour to rise today and enter into the debate on Bill No. 3, The Safer Communities and Neighbourhoods Amendment Act prior to allowing this piece of legislation to move on to its next stage.

Now my colleagues have had the opportunity to speak quite well about this bill, and I’ve had the opportunity to read the minister’s second reading speech about the legislation. Just to provide again a brief overview of what the legislation does, the amendments that are within this will empower the SCAN [safer communities and neighbourhoods] unit to identify and address any nuisance properties that are unfit for human habitation and negatively affect neighbourhoods where those properties are located. And the amendments that are proposed will authorize SCAN to apply to the court for either a rehabilitation order to demolish a nuisance property or a forfeiture order to seize the property prior to demolishing it, Mr. Speaker.

Now speaking on behalf of the constituency that I represent, in particular, there are often a lot of concerns that come in from residents about properties that seem to be abandoned or unfit. Sometimes there are people who are living within them who aren’t supposed to be. And there’s always concerns about safety as well, for those occupants but also for the neighbourhood at large, Mr. Speaker. So this is an issue that is of concern for the folks who live within my constituency. I know that it’s an issue of concern for a lot of constituencies throughout the province.

I look forward to having the opportunity to ask questions of officials at bill committee, Mr. Speaker. I do have some questions about the operations of these amendments. In order to facilitate that work I’m prepared now to allow this bill to move on to its next stage.

Speaker Goudy: — The question before the Assembly is the motion by the minister that Bill No. 3, The Safer Communities and Neighbourhoods Amendment Act, 2024 be now read a second time. Is it the pleasure of the Assembly to adopt the motion?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Speaker Goudy: — Carried.

Deputy Clerk: — Second reading of this bill.

Speaker Goudy: — To which committee shall this bill be committed? I recognize the Minister of Justice.

Hon. Tim McLeod: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. To the Standing Committee on Intergovernmental Affairs and Justice.

Speaker Goudy: — This bill stands committed to the Standing Committee on Intergovernmental Affairs and Justice.

Bill No. 7

[The Assembly resumed the adjourned debate on the proposed motion by the Hon. Tim McLeod that Bill No. 7 — The Court of Appeal (Residency) Amendment Act, 2024/Loi modificative de 2024 sur la Cour d’appel (résidence) be now read a second time.]

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the member from Regina Douglas Park.

Nicole Sarauer: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. It’s my honour to rise yet again this afternoon and enter into the debate on Bill No. 7, The Court of Appeal (Residency) Amendment Act, Mr. Speaker.

Now many of my colleagues have had the opportunity to enter into the debate, and I’ve also had the opportunity to review the remarks from the minister in his second reading speech.

And again, just to paraphrase a little bit about what this piece of legislation is doing, the proposed amendments within this legislation will allow Saskatoon to be considered the residence for a specific number of Court of Appeal judges, Mr. Speaker. I believe that the maximum number allowed to deem Saskatoon as a residency will be set out further in the regulations, Mr. Speaker. I understand that despite the changes in this legislation, Regina will still remain the default location for the Court of Appeal.

Mr. Speaker, I do have some questions for officials. I’m looking forward to the opportunity to ask those at committee. And in order to facilitate that work I am prepared now to move this bill on to its next stage.

Speaker Goudy: — The question before the Assembly is a motion by the minister that Bill No. 7, The Court of Appeal (Residency) Amendment Act, 2024 be now read a second time. Is it the pleasure of the Assembly to adopt the motion?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Speaker Goudy: — Carried.

Deputy Clerk: — Second reading of this bill.

Speaker Goudy: — To which committee shall this bill be committed? I recognize the Minister of Justice.

Hon. Tim McLeod: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. To the Standing Committee on Intergovernmental Affairs and Justice.

Speaker Goudy: — This bill stands committed to the Standing Committee on Intergovernmental Affairs and Justice.

Bill No. 9

[The Assembly resumed the adjourned debate on the proposed motion by the Hon. Jeremy Harrison that Bill No. 9 — The Traffic Safety Amendment Act, 2024 be now read a second time.]

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the member from Regina South Albert.

Aleana Young: — Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. Pleased to enter debate today on Bill No. 9, The Traffic Safety Amendment Act. A number of my colleagues have put some incredibly thoughtful comments on the record so I won’t go on at length.

[14:45]

But recognizing the nature of this bill, adding regulation, making authority to allow for other forms of document delivery other than in person or by mail, the one comment that I wanted to ensure was on the record, as the minister and the committee proceed to contemplate this change, which of course . . . It’s the 21st century, as has been noted by a number of speakers on this legislation. Of course we’re all familiar with products such as Docusign, the ability to execute documents electronically and to receive notices that way as well.

I do just want to comment on one thing with regards to that. In my last term, Mr. Speaker, I had the privilege of serving as the official opposition critic for SaskPower, and at that point some changes were made to how SaskPower communicated scheduled outages and maintenance.

Of course we can understand, you know, unscheduled power outages happen when they occur, but for the very specific scheduled maintenance and scheduled outages I believe the Crown moved to electronic notification for that, informing citizens of this largely through social media, if my shaky memory serves me correctly.

Social media of course is prevalent, but a number of people in Saskatchewan — hopefully the majority — don’t use services such as Twitter. And in particular for seniors this led to some consternation for those individuals in the community who didn’t use social media, and thus had no ability unless they were informed by their neighbours to be aware of when these scheduled outages or routine maintenance events occurred.

I had a constituent myself, Mr. Speaker, who ended up trapped in their garage because the door would not open when this occurred.

So I just wanted to make sure that this was being considered by the minister as some of these changes are made. Just making sure that they’re . . . And I should note for the record, Mr. Speaker, SaskPower since moved back from that. They do provide traditional notification now to communities who are going to be impacted by those scheduled outages, which I think is a good accessible move.

But while these changes are being proposed, I hope that’s something that the minister, their officials, and the committee consider as they look to move these notifications electronically. Of course there are going to be a number of individuals in the province who choose not to communicate by that means, and we’d just hope that that consideration is given.

But with that, Mr. Speaker, as I said, a number of thoughtful comments have been put on the record. And I have no doubt that the critic as well as the minister and other committee members will do great work in evaluating this proposed amendment to The Traffic Safety Act. And with that I am prepared to allow this bill to move to its next stages. Thank you.

Speaker Goudy: — The question before the Assembly is the motion by the minister that Bill No. 9, The Traffic Safety Amendment Act, 2024 be now read a second time. Is it the pleasure of the Assembly to adopt the motion?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Speaker Goudy: — Carried.

Deputy Clerk: — Second reading of this bill.

Speaker Goudy: — To which committee shall this bill be committed? I recognize the Minister of Justice.

Hon. Tim McLeod: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. To the Standing Committee on Crown and Central Agencies.

Speaker Goudy: — This bill stands committed to the Standing Committee on Crown and Central Agencies.

Bill No. 4

[The Assembly resumed the adjourned debate on the proposed motion by the Hon. Jim Reiter that Bill No. 4 — The Workers’ Compensation Amendment Act, 2024 be now read a second time.]

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the member from Regina University.

Sally Housser: — Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. Pleased to rise today to enter some comments on The Workers’ Compensation Amendment Act, 2024.

You know, many of my colleagues have spoken to this already, but one of the main effects here is ensuring that compensation coverage is extended to wildland firefighters. And you know, I think that that is so incredibly important. We’re going to see wildfires becoming more and more common. I mean it’s happening across North America, but here in Saskatchewan as well. 2023 was one of the worst years on record for wildfires in Saskatchewan, with nearly 500 fires destroying nearly 2 million hectares of space in Saskatchewan.

You know, I would like to really thank the Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency, along with the Saskatchewan Volunteer Fire Fighters Association and the Saskatchewan First Nations Emergency Management. All three groups provide such key services in terms of fighting these wildfires, so actually going out there and doing the work, both volunteers and people who are doing it professionally, but also for the training that they provide to these firefighters, providing such a critical and very dangerous service, training, and for their advocacy on this issue as well.

Obviously we want to see all workers’ safety increase so that we . . . You know, a Workers’ Compensation Board payment is always something that should be easy for somebody to access, but ultimately we like to see people not get hurt on the job. Unfortunately wildfire fighting is not considered one of the safest professions out there, Mr. Speaker. So naturally being able to ensure that people that are injured in very heroic situations in the line of duty of helping, keeping our lands and certainly our people safe are accurately compensated when they are injured on the job. And with that, Mr. Speaker, I would move to adjourn debate.

Speaker Goudy: — The member has moved to adjourn debate. Is it the pleasure of the Assembly to adopt the motion?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Speaker Goudy: — Carried.

Bill No. 5

[The Assembly resumed the adjourned debate on the proposed motion by the Hon. Jim Reiter that Bill No. 5 — The Saskatchewan Employment Amendment Act, 2024 be now read a second time.]

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the member from Saskatoon Eastview.

Matt Love: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I’m pleased to enter into my first adjourned debate of this spring sitting. I don’t know why Madam Whip continued to leave me off the list every day. It’s like I’m being silenced over here. Maybe she’s taking some requests from members opposite who don’t want to hear the member from Eastview talk too much in the Assembly. Either way I’ve got some enemies somewhere in this Assembly, on one side or the other, unless it’s coming from the Speaker’s Chair. I sure hope not, Mr. Speaker.

But regardless, I’m here today to talk about the Bill No. 5, The Saskatchewan Employment Amendment Act of 2024. And you know, Mr. Speaker, there are some things in here that I think I’m happy to see, and I’ve taken some time to review the comments from my colleagues from this side as well as from the minister opposite.

And there’s a lot here that I think it’s fair to say is overdue, including some changes to requirements for things like ensuring that employees get the tips that are paid to them. You know, and I think when I visit an establishment . . . Folks on this side are very familiar with this — hopefully maybe some of my newer colleagues might not know this — I love coffee. I love a good coffee. When I get a good coffee and great service, I’ve got some . . . I’ll mention here some of my favourite places to go, like Museo Coffee on Broadway in Saskatoon. Fantastic coffee. Pause Coffee here in Regina.

I like to leave a good tip. I like to recognize good service. And I would say, I’m pleased to know that moving forward, that those employees will have some guarantees that they’ll be receiving those tips. When good service is rewarded, we want to make sure that that is getting to the folks that it’s intended for. And so I think that’s positive.

Also I think long overdue is the change to sick notes. Mr. Speaker, we know that many people in Saskatchewan don’t have access to a family doctor, to a family physician, and that getting a sick note can be a barrier. But we learned lots during the COVID‑19 pandemic about how important it is, when we’re not feeling well, to not be in a position where we’re forced or feel forced that we need to go to work into an environment where we may get others sick.

And we know that people bring all sorts of vulnerabilities into the workplace, as far as maybe they live with a family member who’s immunocompromised or maybe they’re recovering from a surgery or an operation, and that when people are going into places and they’re not well but they weren’t able to get a sick note, then we’re really making people who are already vulnerable in a very tough . . . We’re putting them in a tough position. And certainly, you know, we learned a lot through COVID and through other, you know, transmittable viruses in this province. When we see the pressures in our health care system, the lack of folks with a family doctor, this just makes sense although I think it perhaps doesn’t go far enough.

You know, looking at some of the things included in this bill, like that if somebody is sick for two or more consecutive days at least twice in a year, that they would need a sick note, I’m not sure why we would burden our health care system. Doctors, I read recently, across Canada signed 12 million or more than 12 million sick notes last year. I think that that’s largely unnecessary and that perhaps, you know, it’s good to see some measures in here, but I think that more can be done, Mr. Speaker.

Some other positives. I see changes to bereavement leave as well as maternity leave due to pregnancy loss. I think these are positive as far as employment standards and legislation goes, so that’s good to see.

A little bit concerned, Mr. Speaker, about this change of written notice when a business engages in mass firings or layoffs, changing the threshold from 10 to 25. Certainly, you know, I’m very curious about the consultation that went into arriving at that number of 25 when it used to be 10, as well as some of the changes to things like defining the workday.

These are certainly questions that I know our shadow minister and my senior colleagues will have when this eventually gets to committee. I know that there will be more opportunity for questions at that time as well as some of the other changes in this bill. But you know, I think I’ve said enough on this one today, Mr. Speaker, and I’ve got a few more coming so I’ll save my voice for those. And at this time I’ll move that we adjourn debate on Bill 5, The Saskatchewan Employment Amendment Act. Thank you.

Speaker Goudy: — The member has moved to adjourn debate. Is it the pleasure of the Assembly to adopt the motion?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Speaker Goudy: — Carried.

Bill No. 14

[The Assembly resumed the adjourned debate on the proposed motion by the Hon. Jeremy Harrison that Bill No. 14 — The Power Corporation Amendment Act, 2025 be now read a second time.]

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the member from Saskatoon Eastview.

Matt Love: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I’m pleased to put a few comments on the record about Bill No. 14, The Power Corporation Amendment Act of 2025.

This one’s pretty straightforward. I’ve seen in the legislation and the changes here that it’s increasing SaskPower’s borrowing limit from 10 billion to 14 billion, and that it’s also stating some things that we already knew that were already — I don’t want to say — assumed but making them explicit in the legislation, things around SaskPower and its subsidiaries as agents of the Crown, and that their profits are property of the Crown and changes such as these.

And I’ll take a moment, Mr. Speaker, just to mention the value that we have in our Crown corporations that we certainly appreciate on this side of the Assembly greatly, Mr. Speaker, and the importance that they have in our province in providing great value for the people of Saskatchewan, great jobs to the people of Saskatchewan, and a great return for the people of Saskatchewan.

And, Mr. Speaker, I think that it’s all the more important now as we look at this looming trade war, the impact of existing and potential tariffs, and this wax-on, wax-off tariff situation that we have found ourselves in with our neighbours to the South. I think it’s all the more important that we build up and strengthen our Crowns, and I’m hoping that that can take place through the changes in this legislation today.

I will take a minute, Mr. Speaker, just to say thank you to all the good folks at SaskPower, whether they work in an office here in Regina or whether they work on the front lines in our province. We know that they do important work and deliver valuable service to the people of Saskatchewan. I want to say thank you to them while I’m on my feet.

But that’s about all that I’ll have to say today, Mr. Speaker. I think again these changes are really kind of making some things explicit in legislation that maybe needed to be more clear, bring some clarity. But otherwise these changes are small amendments, and so there’s not a whole lot for me to say.

So at this time I’ll move that we adjourn debate on Bill 14, The Power Corporation Amendment Act. Thank you.

Speaker Goudy: — The member has moved to adjourn debate. Is it the pleasure of the Assembly to adopt the motion?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Speaker Goudy: — Carried.

Bill No. 15

[The Assembly resumed the adjourned debate on the proposed motion by the Hon. Alana Ross that Bill No. 15 — The Alcohol and Gaming Regulation Amendment Act, 2025/Loi modificative de 2025 sur la réglementation des boissons alcoolisées et des jeux de hasard be now read a second time.]

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the member from Saskatoon Eastview.

Matt Love: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Easy to recognize as I’ve been on my feet for a few minutes here. And this will be the last of three in a row. But I’m pleased to put a few comments on the record for Bill No. 15, The Alcohol and Gaming Regulation Amendment Act of 2025.

[15:00]

You know, Mr. Speaker, I just mentioned this but again I want to reiterate the valuable jobs, the valuable contributions, the valuable work that our Crowns do for our province, the good mortgage-paying jobs that they provide for. And we know that this needs to be protected. And so I see some changes coming forward in this legislation here when it comes to Sask Liquor and Gaming, you know, trying to protect against late payments and also to recoup some funds when those are owed.

So for example, I see that this legislation has increased the penalty from 10,000 to 25,000 if on-reserve gaming employees, regulation suppliers, directors don’t obey the terms of their agreements and regulations and registrations. So you know, when I look at this legislation, Mr. Speaker, it kind of reads as though trying to help liquor sellers and gaming entities recoup funds that are owed to them or when infractions are owed. And hopefully that’s all being done in the spirit of strengthening their bottom lines as they provide good return and valuable investment for the things that we all need in this province.

You know, I think it’s important to note that we want to make sure that the First Nations and Métis partners, when it comes to gaming and liquor in Saskatchewan, are being respected, that those partnerships are being enhanced, and that they’re seeing good return on the services that they provide as well in this province. I think that that’s important and hope that that’s going to continue here in the province. But again I think that these are fairly straightforward changes to alcohol and gaming regulation in Saskatchewan.

I know that our lead shadow minister will have more questions on this when it gets to committee. And I know that he’ll bring questions around this process and the consultation that took place just to make sure that we get it right so that we don’t need to come back and amend this again in the near future.

But at this time, Mr. Speaker, I’ll move that we adjourn debate on Bill 15, The Alcohol and Gaming Regulation Amendment Act. Thank you.

Speaker Goudy: — The member has moved to adjourn debate. Is it the pleasure of the Assembly to adopt the motion?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Speaker Goudy: — Carried.

Bill No. 18

[The Assembly resumed the adjourned debate on the proposed motion by the Hon. Jeremy Cockrill that Bill No. 18 — The Regulated Health Professions Act be now read a second time.]

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the member from Saskatoon Silverspring.

Hugh Gordon: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise today to make some comments with respect to the ongoing debate of Bill 18.

Clearly this is a very difficult time, Mr. Speaker, for all health care workers in this province, and it’s our responsibility to help them with good functioning and governance. Clearly anything we can do to support our front-line health care workers is of benefit to the people of the province. That’s why we’ve been talking to all of the stakeholders about this and the work that we can do to help achieve that.

We would of course like to advocate for improving retention of these workers, hiring more specialists, striking up a task force to communicate directly with the people on the front lines. We’re very proud of our health care workers.

We’re also proud of our current health colleges. And so this bill seeks to, I guess, improve the way in which colleges function in this province over the many disciplines that they oversee. And on the face of it, this bill seeks to expand the ways in which they function to be more inclusive and to bring them in line — my understanding is — with other jurisdictions in the country, with how colleges function and how they are governed. It’ll be of interest to us.

I’m certain that the lead critic on this during committee to ask more questions about that and how Bill 18 will serve to further that impact that they have on our health care professionals. So with that, I will move to adjourn debate on Bill 18. Thank you.

Speaker Goudy: — The member has moved to adjourn debate. Is it the pleasure of the Assembly to adopt the motion?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Speaker Goudy: — Carried.

Bill No. 19

[The Assembly resumed the adjourned debate on the proposed motion by the Hon. Jeremy Cockrill that Bill No. 19 — The Regulated Health Professions Consequential Amendments Act, 2025/Loi de 2025 corrélative de la loi intitulée The Regulated Health Professions Act be now read a second time.]

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the member from Saskatoon Silverspring.

Hugh Gordon: — Again I rise in the Assembly today to speak to Bill 19 which was a consequential amendments Act, 2025, regulated health professions. This bill, Bill 19, seeks to change the definition of qualified medical practitioner and physician.

Again I look forward to my colleague asking several questions during committee with respect to what exactly that change means in that definition, what the potential impacts are to the different regulated professions — in particular qualified medical practitioners, physicians — to ensure that we continue to show support and that we are not going to impede their ability to do their jobs well and/or provide the services that are desperately needed in this province certainly by our qualified medical practitioners and doctors, etc.

So with that, Mr. Speaker, I move to adjourn debate on Bill 19.

Speaker Goudy: — The member has moved to adjourn debate. Is it the pleasure of the Assembly to adopt the motion?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Speaker Goudy: — Carried.

Bill No. 21

[The Assembly resumed the adjourned debate on the proposed motion by the Hon. Eric Schmalz that Bill No. 21 — The Construction Codes (Derelict Buildings) Amendment Act, 2025 be now read a second time.]

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the member from Saskatoon Eastview.

Matt Love: — Thanks, Mr. Speaker. Pleased to put some comments on the record here with respect to Bill 21, The Construction Codes (Derelict Buildings) Amendment Act, 2025. Now I know that my colleague here put a lot of comments . . .

An Hon. Member: — Too many.

Matt Love: — Too many . . . too many comments on the record just last week. I won’t go as long as she did, although it was an impressive display to say the least, Mr. Speaker. But I will say a few things that have come to my attention as far as the amendments in this Act go.

First of all, I’ll put on the record that we agree with SUMA [Saskatchewan Urban Municipalities Association] and SARM [Saskatchewan Association of Rural Municipalities], such important organizations. I was at SUMA yesterday in Saskatoon connecting with a lot of those fantastic municipal leaders that we have in this province, a number of mayors and councillors and administrators, and that was a great day really as always. Enjoyed being there, Mr. Speaker.

And we agree with SUMA and SARM in their advocacy here that something needs to be done, that derelict buildings are certainly a problem in this province, and that we need . . . You know, they pose all sorts of threats in our province and challenges when it comes to public safety.

But we also know there’s other options than the ones that are explicitly laid out in these amendments, Mr. Speaker, in particular concerned that the only demolition construction standards that don’t apply to any derelict buildings would be if you demolish it by fire. And of course that brings up a whole other set of concerns when it comes to safety of our first responders, our fire departments, and how they respond and support these demolitions by fire when they take place.

You know, I remember not long ago, Mr. Speaker, in this Assembly talking about the protections for presumptive cancers for firefighters and first responders, changes to legislation that we supported on both sides of this Assembly. And we know the threats to our firefighters go far beyond the threats they face when they’re rushing into a burning building or addressing a demolition like this and the immediate acute sense of those concerns, but the health concerns that often show up weeks, months, or years later.

And I know that, from many of the firefighters that I’ve had the honour of sitting around tables with and hearing about their concerns, they are very real. And when those brave folks go to work, you know, they know that they’re going to face exposure to toxic chemicals, that they engage in incredible protocols to ensure their own safety as best they can. But they are never completely safe. They have incredible protocols for, you know, donning and doffing their equipment, for keeping themselves as safe as they can, but they are never free of risk.

And so I’m concerned that these changes may increase the risk. And that’s a concern that I have that I know we’ll need to continue to listen and consult with to make sure that our first responders and in particular firefighters are not put at greater risk as a result of these changes — things like toxic chemicals, you know, in insulation and flooring and adhesives — all that kind of stuff that can pose a risk, especially when it’s burned.

So, Mr. Speaker, those are some of my concerns but again, you know, certainly know that there is a problem here that needs a solution. We just want to make sure that we get it right. So I’ll continue to listen to my colleagues in opposition when this eventually gets to committee. I know that our lead shadow minister will have more questions at that time.

But for today, Mr. Speaker, I’m going to move that we adjourn debate on Bill 21, The Construction Codes (Derelict Buildings) Amendment Act, 2025. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Speaker Goudy: — It has been moved by the member to adjourn debate. Is it the pleasure of the Assembly to adopt the motion?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Deputy Government House Leader.

Hon. Lori Carr: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. To facilitate the work of committees, I move that this House do now adjourn.

Speaker Goudy: — It’s been moved that this House do now adjourn. Is it the pleasure of the Assembly to adopt the motion?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Speaker Goudy: — Carried. This House will reconvene tomorrow at 1:30. Please travel safe and have a good evening.

[The Assembly adjourned at 15:12.]

Published under the authority of the Hon. Todd Goudy, Speaker

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