Hon. Daryl Harrison: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. To you and through you and to all members of the Legislative Assembly, I’d like to introduce representatives from the RMs [rural municipality] of Big Stick and Fox Valley in your gallery, Mr. Speaker.

We have reeve of the RM of Big Stick, Quinton Jacksteit, and councillor Tyson Jacksteit. We also have the reeve of the RM of Fox Valley, Kelly Bakanec, and councillor Kalin Deis. I had the opportunity to meet the councillors in Maple Creek earlier this summer, Mr. Speaker, and I want to thank them for their hard work and advocacy. We always appreciate engagement at the local level.

With that, Mr. Speaker, I would ask all members to welcome their representatives to their Legislative Assembly. Thank you.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the member from Regina Mount Royal.

Trent Wotherspoon: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. It’s a pleasure to welcome these agricultural leaders to their Assembly, local leaders to their Assembly here today. They’ve made a long drive in from the RM of Big Stick and Fox Valley here today to their legislature. These guys are standing up for their region, standing up for multi-generation farms in face of a horrible, protracted drought and just insufficient, inadequate inaction from both the provincial and the federal governments on this front.

I’d like to welcome the reeve of the RM of Big Stick, Quinton Jacksteit, who has joined us here today. He’s also a very proud producer, a multi-generational producer. As well Tyson Jacksteit, a councillor with the RM of Big Stick — same deal, multi-generational producer. Awesome guys. They’re joined by their brother Darcy Jacksteit here as well. Darcy’s a landowner in the area as well, but he served with the RCMP [Royal Canadian Mounted Police] for many years very proudly. He’s joined them here today.

And they’re joined as well by the leadership of Fox Valley, two producers as well. Kelly Bakanec, the reeve, thanks so much, Kelly, for being here and for your leadership on behalf of the region and on producers. And Kalin Deis that’s joined us here today, a counsellor with Fox Valley, amazing young producer, an awesome voice and face of this; and I think is on the second-strongest ranked curling team right now out of Fox Valley. Just an awesome curler as well.

These guys aren’t here for good news here today. They’re in face of a dire situation and inaction in face of that, have had inaction by this government. I ask all members to welcome these very fine producers and leaders to their Assembly.

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

James Thorsteinson: — Well thank you, Mr. Speaker. It’s always a great day when I’m able to rise and introduce a couple of constituents from the far Northwest. Abbey and Jim Harty have joined us here today from Edam. Abbey is the 2025 Miss Rodeo Agribition for another few hours, when they will crown the 2026 Miss Rodeo Agribition tonight at the first performance of the rodeo. And she was recently announced as Miss Rodeo Canada 2026 at the CFR [Canadian Finals Rodeo] finals in Edmonton.

I know Abbey has a busy week at Agribition, and I’m very glad she was able to take a little bit of time to get down here today to join us. And I’m going to have a little bit more to say about Abbey coming up in a member’s statement, but I ask all members to introduce Abbey and Jim to this, their Legislative Assembly.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the member from Regina Mount Royal.

Trent Wotherspoon: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. It’s a tremendous honour to welcome Abbey and Jim Harty to their Assembly in Agribition week, the finest beef show on the continent, Mr. Speaker.

And you know, the province is very proud of Abbey. We thank her for her role as an ambassador and as a leader within this province as Miss Rodeo Agribition. A very proud role as well now, Miss Rodeo Canada. We’re all very proud to have you here today. On behalf of a grateful province, thanks for your leadership and your representation.

Can’t wait to get over there to the Maple Leaf pro finals rodeo and see everything in action here with friends and family the rest of the week. We were able to tour yesterday with some of the leadership at Agribition, and this is just an awesome show that means so much to this province and to this country. Thank you to you for your leadership.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of Health.

Hon. Jeremy Cockrill: — Well thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, it’s my understanding that November is CPR Month across our country and in our great province.

And so today we’re joined by Carolyn Cyr from the Heart and Stroke Foundation who’s a regular at this legislature as she advocates for Saskatchewan patients and health care providers. And we always appreciate the conversations that members on both sides of the House get to have with Carolyn on behalf of the patients and constituents that we serve. Carolyn’s joined today by Nikkoli Hubic, who is a paramedic here in the city of Regina and also a CPR [cardiopulmonary resuscitation] instructor.

I know there’s going to be a member’s statement a little bit later on from my colleague from Melville-Saltcoats where he’s going to talk about some of the good work happening in his constituency with the Heart and Stroke Foundation. But I’d ask all members on both sides of the House to welcome Carolyn and Nikkoli to their legislature.

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

Meara Conway: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I just want to join with the minister opposite in welcoming these folks to their legislature. Mr. Hubic, I look forward to that member’s statement coming up here.

And then a warm hello to Carolyn who is a regular around here, as the minister said. A wonderful public health advocate and a fellow mom of three, I believe.

So I just wanted to join with the member opposite and ask all members to join me in welcoming these folks to their legislature.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the member from Yorkton.

David Chan: — I request leave for an extended introduction.

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

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

David Chan: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I am pleased to welcome back to the Chamber Mr. Perry Ostapowich of Yorkton Regional High School. He’s accompanied by fellow teacher Marcy Both and 30 grade 12 students from his history 30 and Indigenous 30 class. If you guys could give us a wave.

Mr. Ostapowich has been bringing students from both Melville and Yorkton to the legislature for over 20 years. Since 2002 he’s arranged for 38 groups and over 1,200 students to tour the Assembly.

Mr. Speaker, I want to give a special shout-out to a few students, and I ask that you guys give us a wave as I call your name. A special shout-out to Tristin Williams. He’s the son of Gary F. Williams.

A shout-out to Gabriel Rosas, son of Jonathan and Maria Rosas. I’ll just say about Gabriel, he helped me during my campaign, and he’s the kind of guy that’s always there for his friends. He’s involved in his youth group, and I hear he’s pretty good out on the court as well.

A special shout-out to Amer Thomas from Jamaica who tells me that he really likes Cinnamon Toast Crunch.

And lastly, she didn’t ask for it, but a shout-out to Mary Keshane. You may recall her from her visit from last year. I’d like to report here today, Mr. Speaker, that she continues in her cheeky ways. In spite of that, I wish her all the best in this year of her school.

I ask all members to join me in welcoming Mr. Ostapowich and these students to their Legislative Assembly.

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

Matt Love: — I request leave for an extended introduction.

Speaker Goudy: — The member’s requested leave for an extended introduction. Is leave granted?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Matt Love: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. To you and through you, I’d like to welcome to their Assembly a fine group of young men seated in the east gallery. We’re joined here today by the Hilltops division Kinsmen Football League champion Tinkler Raiders football team.

Now, Mr. Speaker, unlike the last championship team that came to this Assembly, I can guarantee that these boys will keep their shirts on today and that no one will try to steal your hat. But I do, in all honesty, I would like to just recognize these incredible young men who are with us today and their families as well. I’d like to thank Bentley, Declan, Reid, Bennett, Everett, Griffin, James, Jack, Tom, Maddyx, Kaynin, Eric, Axel, and Holden for coming to their Assembly today.

This is just a part of the team that I was honoured to coach this past season. I worked with the offensive line on days when I was home and able to be there. And I’ll tell you, these young men are something else. And I’ll have more to say about them in an upcoming member’s statement, but for now I ask all members to join me in welcoming these young leaders and their parents and grandparents and supporters to their Assembly here today.

And while I’m on my feet, with them, Mr. Speaker, are some people who are very important to me. My wife, Emma, is here today along with our youngest son, Myles. And I already mentioned our middle child, Tom, who is part of the team.

You know, like all of us here, none of us serve alone. These are my people. And I want to thank those two boys that when Dad is here, I know it’s tough. I know that they sacrifice lots in their lives by supporting me and allowing me to do this work.

And also to my wife, Emma, who is just the best person I know, I want to thank her for her ongoing love and support and also inspiration. She’s somebody who really has a passion for justice and a passion to see people’s lives in our province improve. And she inspires me to do this work.

So I ask all members to join me in welcoming my family — Emma, Tom, and Myles — to their Assembly.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the member from Lumsden-Morse.

Blaine McLeod: — Mr. Speaker, it is a great pleasure to introduce a group of high school students seated in the west gallery. Travelled the long distance from Lumsden. A short half-hour trip, but any time a trip on the bus, that can be fun together. So grade 12 students — just over 30 — and their teachers: Ms. Paula Dvernichuk, Ms. Kelsey Gottfried. And driving the bus today, doing double duty, is their principal, Mr. Wade McAmmond. Well done, sir.

So, Mr. Speaker, there’s something happening in Lumsden; and clearly there must be something in the water, I think, is what’s going on here. So we have here with us members of the Lumsden Angels 2025 volleyball 4A champs. We also have the Lumsden High School who successfully defended their cross-country team gold for 2025. And also we have members of the 2025 9‑man championship team which I spoke about a couple of weeks ago.

Mr. Speaker, I know — and I know this — that the Lumsden High School provides an equally strong scholastic foundation, which makes a very solid, well-rounded education for their students. I’m really delighted to welcome these great students, and I do look forward to the questions that we are going to have together and meeting with you after question period. And I hope there’s lots of questions. And just so you know, there will be ice cream, as true to my roots.

Mr. Speaker, I would invite all members to join me in giving a warm welcome to the students of Lumsden High School.

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

Jacqueline Roy: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I just wanted to join with the member opposite in wishing a warm welcome and to just point out in particular Ms. Paula Dvernichuk who is up there today. I first want to start by apologizing, as she did have the member from Saskatoon Stonebridge as a student in the past. I assure you that he’s very eloquent in the House today thanks to you.

But more importantly, Mr. Speaker, Paula and her wife, Jeff Perry, have been pillars for quality public education in this province. They are two people who stand among a very small list of people who have made gigantic contributions in this province to prioritizing education. And for that, I am truly grateful to them.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the member from Kelvington-Wadena.

Chris Beaudry: — To you and through you, Mr. Speaker, I’d like to invite four guests today that I’ve known for quite a while I believe. One is my wife of almost 20 years, who I would have to say has probably the strongest constitution in the building here after dealing with me for almost 20 years.

[13:45]

I also have my oldest, Emily, who is probably the best baker in the family. I have my middle daughter, Sophie, who has pretty high aspirations. She is hoping when she’s older, or depending on the health of the Dalai Lama, she would like to be the next one in line to take on that role. And then we have my youngest, Lilly, who today is a pretty big day for her. It’s her seventh birthday.

So I would like everyone to invite the entire Beaudry clan. Thank you.

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

Carla Beck: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. It’s an honour to rise today and to welcome back a couple of members, former members, who are seated behind the bar today who have joined us. I want to say welcome to former Speaker of the House Randy Weekes, someone who served as an MLA [Member of the Legislative Assembly] in this Assembly for over — or about — a quarter century, and also of course served as Speaker in this House.

I want to say that his commitment to democracy has not waned, even though he’s no longer serving here. He started up a Parliamentary Democracy Legacy Fund to encourage participation in our democratic institutions by young people and by under-represented groups. So I invite all members to join me in welcoming him and thanking him for his service to the people of this province.

And quickly while I’m on my feet, I see another familiar face across the aisle there, Mr. Greg Brkich, someone who has served in this Assembly for many, many years. I know that though there may have been points of disagreement between him and our House Leader occasionally, they found a way to really get along. And I know that she really enjoyed the relationship that they had when they were serving as House leaders at the same time.

One thing, you know, I suspect that Greg and I don’t agree on everything, but the Habs are having a great year and I think we can both be pretty happy about that. Mr. Speaker, with that I’d like to invite all members to join me in welcoming these former members to their Legislative Assembly.

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

Hon. Terry Jenson: — Well thank you, Mr. Speaker. To you and through you this afternoon, a late addition to the guest list, as you would say, Mr. Speaker. Joining us this afternoon — and she’s taken a few minutes from Agribition where she’s very busy — but in the west gallery I’d like to introduce to the House a friend of ours, Jaime Holowaty, who has been a long-time resident of Warman.

She’s currently with Barga auctions, as I said at Agribition, you know, stirring up a lot of business and talking to a lot of individuals. Prior to that Jaime was in the telecommunications business, Mr. Speaker. She’s very active in the community. She’s been involved heavily with the Prairie Sky Chamber of Commerce. She is also a member of The Royal Canadian Legion and does a lot of other volunteer work around the community.

And, Mr. Speaker, she is very good with a pitching wedge. Anything inside 60 yards, she is bang on on the golf course. She’s an absolute treat to have with you at a golf tournament. So with that, I’d like the entire Assembly to join me in welcoming Jaime Holowaty to her Saskatchewan legislature.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the member from Athabasca.

Leroy Laliberte: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. To you and through you, I would like to acknowledge and make welcome to a couple of friends of mine that travelled from the farthest northwest that you can drive right now. I have both council member from Birch Narrows Trevor Moberly and council member from Clearwater Dene Nation Sean Cheecham Jr., that are here visiting today, Mr. Speaker. Both very strong leaders in their communities and also powerful advocates, not only for their communities but for northwestern Saskatchewan.

I’d invite all members to please join me in welcoming these two fine gentlemen to their Assembly. Thank you.

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

Barret Kropf: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I’ve got a couple of introductions. The first one is up in your gallery over here, just fresh back from a trip to Ottawa where he was representing the Saskatchewan tourism council at the national awards. Josh Turner, his wife, Jane, are leaders in our provincial parks.

They are successful business people that continue to lead the way. They’ve got the Blackstrap Glamping facilities, the tiki bar. Any of the clothing that you’re buying across the province, the Saskamper brand is continuing to see their leadership splashed across and setting trends all over the place.

And so I just want to welcome Josh to the building today. And had a chance to hang out with you and really appreciate all the work that you’re doing across our province for tourism. And so I’d ask everyone to join me in welcoming Josh to his Legislative Assembly.

And then, last but not least, seated behind me behind the bar is Mr. Greg Brkich. Greg was first elected in 1999 in Arm River constituency — and it was Arm River-Watrous and back to Arm River — but until 2020 he served in this building the people of the region of Dakota-Arm River it is now. But great leadership that he has been able to provide. And so I just want to welcome Greg back to his Legislative Assembly.

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

Darcy Warrington: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I’d just like to join with the member opposite in welcoming Josh Turner. I’ve had a chance to tour the provincial parks, many of them, over the course of the summer, and I certainly came across the glamping facilities in Blackstrap. It’s definitely a place I need to experience sometime in the near future. And while I was there I even bought some T-shirts that I think are really fashionable, and all members in this Assembly should be considering them for their next camping excursion.

So with that, I would just like to thank you for the work that you’ve done for tourism in the province of Saskatchewan, and ask all members to join me in introducing him to his Legislative Assembly.

And while I’m on my feet, Mr. Speaker, to you and through you, I would also like to introduce Laurel Lindgren. It’s a pleasure to run into so many former colleagues from my years of teaching, or being taught. And Laurel and I worked together at École College Park School in the mid‑2010s. She let me guide her grade 4 and 5 students in phys ed class, so I hope that when I brought them back to you they were ready to learn and not running around making life difficult for you. But they were truly a great class, and it certainly highlighted what a fantastic teacher she is.

She’s now the principal of the school and she was very close to convincing me and my wife to send our kid there, but Chief Whitecap School was just too close. Otherwise he was going to be learning French, as he should as a good Habs fan. That being said, please help me in welcoming Laurel Lindgren to this, her Legislative Assembly.

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

April ChiefCalf: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. To you and through you, I would like to introduce some special guests in the legislature today. I would like to welcome, on the main floor, Joanne Hubick and her friend, and up in the gallery, Maurice King and Janet McKay. These folks reside in Sacred Heart Manor here in Regina in Queenston Heights, and they’re here today to speak to our bill on rent control as well as to speak to some personal circumstances where rent hikes have impacted them quite dramatically.

I ask that all members of the legislature welcome Joanne, Janet, and Maurice to their legislature. Thank you.

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

Meara Conway: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I’d just like to join with my colleague, the shadow minister for housing, in welcoming these three folks who I’m lucky to represent in the legislature, Joanne and Janet.

They’re actually neighbours of our constituency office over there in Sacred Heart Manor. It’s a wonderful — up to this point been an affordable — place for seniors to live. And they have contributed a lot to the North Central community. I want to say a special shout-out to Joanne, who I’ve known for many years now and is one of the most resilient and engaged people I know.

But I want to welcome all three of them. Democracy is not a spectator sport, and we do welcome you to this legislature and appreciate your presence here. So I’d ask all members to join me in welcoming these three folks.

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

Don McBean: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Through you and to you, I would like to introduce or repeat the introduction. The member from Saskatoon Stonebridge kind of scooped me on Laurel Lindgren. I walked in and saw her immediately. She was the vice-principal with me when we were at Henry Kelsey School together.

And I was wondering how she got a day off work. And then I heard the member from Eastview listing all the names, and so I would like to particularly welcome Jack here. I’m sure that’s how you got the day off work, Ms. Lindgren. And, Jack, I want you to know that I have a little painted stone on my desk in my home office, and I think of you when I see it. Thank you.

So everyone, Laurel Lindgren, her son Jack, and the whole hockey . . . whole football team, not hockey. Thank you.

Speaker Goudy: — And I would just like to welcome two legislative colleagues from the past in the Chamber. And you know, I must say to both of you, I enjoyed my seat when I had no worry about the rules. It was really nice.

You two had to worry about the rules, one as the Speaker of the House and the other as the Government House Leader. You did a great job. I just appreciate the work that everybody puts in. And you know, the more responsibilities you have, the more you realize it’s tougher than it looks at times — although I make it look difficult, more difficult than maybe it is. I really appreciate what you did for me, both of you men in your past. So Randy Weekes and Greg Brkich, thank you for being here today, and thank you for your service in the past.

With that we’ll move on to presenting petitions.

PRESENTING PETITIONS

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the member from Athabasca.

Leroy Laliberte: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise today to present a petition to the Government of Saskatchewan to step up for Indigenous students in Saskatchewan.

We, the undersigned residents of the province of Saskatchewan, wish to bring to your attention the following. We, the undersigned, call the Saskatchewan government to take immediate action to stand up for Indigenous children and vulnerable students by advocating for full restoration of funding previously supported by Jordan’s principle.

I will read the prayer:

We, in the prayer that reads as follows, respectfully request the Legislative Assembly of Saskatchewan stand up for Saskatchewan and advocate for restoration of federal Jordan’s principle funding and support Indigenous students in schools, commit to sustainable, predictable, and equitable provincial funding for inclusive education across Saskatchewan.

The undersigned signatories are from Moose Jaw. I do so present. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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

Matt Love: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I’m honoured to rise and present a petition to the Legislative Assembly of Saskatchewan to implement rent control now. Those who’ve signed this petition would like us to know that Saskatchewan tenants are currently experiencing the highest level of rent increases in the country. And of course, you know, Mr. Speaker, that we’ve seen rents increase in this province for 40 consecutive months. People are facing very difficult decisions between heating and eating in a province where people already report the highest rates of financial insecurity in the whole country.

Those who signed this petition will remind us that provinces like British Columbia, Manitoba, Ontario, and Prince Edward Island have already implemented rent control measures to protect tenants and to maintain housing affordability.

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 adopt fair and effective rent control legislation that limits annual rent increases, ensures housing stability, and protects tenants from being priced out of their homes.

Those who signed the petition today reside in Regina. I do so present.

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

Vicki Mowat: — Mr. Speaker, I rise today to present a petition that I’ve collected signatures on all summer in Saskatoon Fairview to call on the government to fix empty housing units across Saskatchewan. In my constituency of Saskatoon Fairview we’ve been hit hard by the homelessness crisis. And new numbers this week from the point-in-time count continue to show a disturbing trend. The latest homelessness count in Saskatoon identifies nearly 2,000 people. That number is up nearly 30 per cent from one year ago and is four times higher than 2022. The system isn’t working. We cannot continue to fail people at this rate.

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 renovate all Sask Housing Corporation units that require renovation, make units available and affordable, and ensure that all currently vacant SHC units are made occupied.

This is signed by individuals from Saskatoon Fairview today, Mr. Speaker. I do so present.

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

[14:00]

Don McBean: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise today to present a petition to the Legislative Assembly of Saskatchewan calling for mandatory intimate partner violence education. I would like to acknowledge the genesis of this petition is a constituent of Saskatoon Chief Mistawasis who contacted me immediately following my election to continue the work she had started with the then MLA of the previously named Saskatoon Northwest, Mr. MLA Gord Wyant.

We, the undersigned residents of the province of Saskatchewan wish to bring to your attention the following: Saskatchewan has the highest rate of per capita intimate partner violence, also known as domestic violence in Canada; the economic impact of IPV [intimate partner violence] in Canada is estimated at over $7 billion a year; a large portion of tangible IPV costs are paid by the government for items like criminal and civil justice system and health care; annual estimated loses to employers from IPV are over 77 million in Canada.

Workplace orientation from this petition would include all genders from all walks of life in all areas of the province. Employers and employees need to know the signs of IPV and where to call for help. Education is the key to changing the rates of IPV.

We, in the prayer that reads as follows, respectfully request the Legislative Assembly of Saskatchewan call on the Government of Saskatchewan to immediately mandate education on intimate partner violence that it be included in the orientation process for all new employees across all workplaces in the province.

The undersigned today are from Saskatoon. I do so present.

STATEMENTS BY MEMBERS

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the member from Weyburn-Bengough.

Improving Detection and Treatment for Lung Cancer Patients

Michael Weger: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. This month we are pleased to join other provinces across Canada in recognizing Lung Cancer Awareness Month. Mr. Speaker, lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths for people in Saskatchewan, with death rates higher than breast, colorectal, and prostate cancer combined.

Although anyone can be diagnosed with this disease, Mr. Speaker, lung cancer is considered one of the most stigmatized cancers. Smoking is the highest risk factor leading to lung cancer; however, there are other contributors to developing the disease, including radon, hazardous chemicals, genetic factors, and air pollution.

We believe everyone with cancer deserves care. And our government is proud to support initiatives that improve early detection and treatment outcomes for lung cancer patients. This past July we launched an initial pilot of our lung check program in Swift Current, with plans to expand the program into other areas of the province. This new program provides comprehensive lung cancer screening, assessment, and prevention services to Saskatchewan residents.

Thank you to all of the health care teams working closely together to provide life-changing programs in our province and across the country. Together we can do so much more to advance research, screening, and ultimately improve treatment outcomes and survival rates for patients across Canada. Thank you.

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

Tinkler Raiders Win Kinsmen Football League Championship

Matt Love: — Mr. Speaker, it’s been a season to remember for football in Saskatchewan, one that fans in this province will never forget. But what makes football special here in this province is the way that it’s played in communities large and small.

Today it’s my privilege to honour the Tinkler Raiders football team from the Kinsmen Football League in Saskatoon. This is the team that didn’t trail for a single down all year long and capped off a perfect season with a 64‑22 win in the KFL [Kinsmen Football League] championship game.

This group of young men gave everything that they had in pursuit of being their best. In my opinion, the success of this season had little to do with what was on the scoreboard and everything to do with the growth in these young men as exceptional teammates and leaders. Mr. Speaker, I know that our province is in good hands with young citizens like these ready to make their mark.

I want to especially recognize the dedication of head coach Ken Byers, team managers Amanda Slogotski and Laurel Lindgren, as well as everyone at Saskatoon Minor Football for all of the work that goes on behind the scenes in support of these young athletes. To the 2025 Raiders — to the families, the volunteers, the coaches and, most importantly, the players — you mess with one man, you’ve got us all. Raiders on three. Congratulations, boys.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of Trade and Export, the member from Melville-Saltcoats.

Heart and Stroke Foundation Works to Increase Survival Rates

Hon. Warren Kaeding: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. November is CPR Month and a time to raise awareness about the importance of life-saving skills.

Cardiac arrest happens when the heart suddenly and unexpectedly stops beating, and it can strike anyone, anywhere, at any time, and often without warning. In Canada an estimated 60,000 cardiac arrests occur outside of hospitals each year. And I know this all too well, as my family and our business has had personal experience with this.

Tragically, survival rates remain low, with only 1 in 10 people surviving. Immediate action can make all the difference. Performing CPR and using an automated external defibrillator, an AED, can double a person’s chance of survival. And that’s why the Heart and Stroke Foundation is committed to improving cardiac arrest survival rates and outcomes across Canada.

Through our national cardiac arrest strategy and action plan, Heart and Stroke is working to expand access to CPR education and AEDs. Here in Saskatchewan, Heart and Stroke’s goal is to ensure every student can gain the skills, knowledge, and confidence to respond in an emergency and save a life. When it comes to cardiac arrest, every second counts. Having more people who know what to do can make the difference between life and death.

I’d like to acknowledge the incredible work that Carolyn Cyr, the director of health policy and systems for Heart and Stroke Saskatchewan, has done and thank her for her advocacy. I’m also proud to recognize the Good Spirit School Division for leading the way in the province by offering Heart and Stroke’s new cardiac crash program to all of their grade 8 and grade 10 students this year. By empowering youth to act in critical moments, we are creating a new generation of lifesavers and building safer, healthier communities across our province.

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

Small Business Saturday Helps to Support Local Businesses

Aleana Young: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

’Twas the season in Sask, cold, crisp, and bright,

When families and neighbours sought cheer and delight.

The stockings were hung, every storefront aglow,

With treasures from people we all proudly know.

From bakers and makers, to farmers with care,

Our local small businesses bring joy everywhere.

Each purchase a thread in the fabric we weave,

A province made stronger by what we believe.

Now why send your dollars to faraway lands,

When here they build futures with skilled, caring hands?

So let’s fill up our baskets, our hearts, and our carts,

With gifts made in hometowns with pride in their arts.

This Christmas remember, it’s more than the deal —

It’s neighbours and families. Community’s real.

When we shop local first our economy grows,

And the spirit of giving in Saskatchewan glows.

Merry Christmas to all — let the holidays be

A time to shop local for you and for me.

Mr. Speaker, this Saturday is Small Business Saturday here in Saskatchewan and across Canada. Every day is a good day to shop local in Saskatchewan, Mr. Speaker, but I’d encourage everyone to get out there and do what they do so well already, and that’s support our local businesses here in Saskatchewan with their dollars. Thank you. Merry Christmas.

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

New Miss Rodeo Canada Recognized

James Thorsteinson: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise today to recognize Edam, Saskatchewan’s own: Abbey Harty, Miss Rodeo Agribition 2025. Abbey is only the second cowgirl to win the Miss Rodeo Agribition title, and at the 2025 Canadian Finals Rodeo in Edmonton she was crowned the 2026 Miss Rodeo Canada.

This is a historic win. Abbey is the first Miss Rodeo Agribition to win the national title, and only the third Saskatchewan rodeo queen to win the title since the Miss Rodeo Canada program began in 1955. As Miss Rodeo Canada, Abbey will represent Canadian rodeo on the global stage.

Abbey grew up in a rural ranching community and has been involved in rodeo and horsemanship for many years. As a member of the University of Saskatchewan Rodeo Team, she competes in intercollegiate events across Western Canada. And, Mr. Speaker, that is all while pursuing a career in practical nursing and working at a group home for adults with cognitive and physical challenges, providing dignified and compassionate care.

Abbey will be recognized for her accomplishment tonight at the first performance of the Maple Leaf Circuit Finals Rodeo, and the 2026 Miss Rodeo Agribition will be crowned there tonight as well.

Abbey’s reign will officially begin on January 1st, and I ask all members join me in congratulating Abbey and wishing her all the best in this coming year as Miss Rodeo Canada.

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

Investing in the Arts Contributes to Provincial Economy

Kim Breckner: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Today I would like to recognize the value of artists in my constituency and how much they contribute to Saskatchewan’s economy.

Riversdale constituent Tyson McShane and his band, Slow Down Molasses, were recently awarded a grant by Creative Saskatchewan to perform at the renowned North by Northeast Music Festival in Toronto this past June. This prestigious festival was established in 1995 and promotes top and emerging talent.

Through the Creative Saskatchewan grant process, the group was able to travel and showcase their work to industry and new fans. I should note that this band has been active since 2007 and released five full albums. Supporting five albums has meant touring across the province and country, while also embarking on international tours across the US [United States], the EU [European Union], and the UK [United Kingdom].

I’m proud to represent a riding with a vibrant arts community and also to highlight the achievements of Saskatchewan artists, who are the best ambassadors for our cultural industries. The music industry strongly benefits local businesses and the hospitality sector. Investing in the arts is investing in our future prosperity and adds immense value to our communities through creating avenues for shared experiences and deepening our cultural ties. Congratulations, Tyson. Thank you.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the member from Moosomin-Montmartre.

Provincial Government and Trade Relationship with India

Kevin Weedmark: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. There was a great article published in The Globe and Mail yesterday titled “Saskatchewan soft power fuelled the Canada-India reset on trade.” The article says, “The Saskatchewan Premier had a major hand in repairing Canada’s relationship with India because of his government’s behind-the-scenes efforts to strengthen business ties between the two countries.”

It continues: “He has maintained a relentless focus on pursuing new trade opportunities in India. He understood the importance of showing up in person to bolster those commercial ties.” And the article details efforts on potash exports, ag exports, uranium supply, and now the tariff issue.

And also this week, Mr. Speaker, the federal Agriculture minister, Heath MacDonald, said that if Canada can come to an agreement with India on trade, it will have Saskatchewan to thank. He said, and I quote, “I can’t say enough good things about the Minister . . . [of Agriculture] and the Premier and what they’re doing for Saskatchewan.”

And while Saskatchewan provided leadership that is recognized at the national level, the Leader of the Opposition has dismissed those efforts. She stood in this House last year and said, “We have a Premier who is clearly more focused on trips to Dubai or India or Paris.” Well, Mr. Speaker, the Leader of the Opposition may not recognize it, but those trade missions and this government’s and the Premier’s hard work are finding solutions and getting the job done for Saskatchewan and for Canada. Thank you.

QUESTION PERIOD

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

Power Rates, Fiscal Management, and Affordability

Carla Beck: — Mr. Speaker, too many Saskatchewan families are already barely making ends meet — unprecedented financial anxiety; taxes on children’s clothing, on groceries, on tires; and no rent control.

Now we see more concerns as this government has completely run SaskPower into the ground. SaskPower was projected to run a $126 million surplus just months ago. Now it’s barrelling towards a $165 million loss. The fear is that this government will make up the difference by jacking up rates.

Mr. Speaker, is the Premier really going to make families in this province pay more on their power bills to cover up for his government’s incompetence?

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Premier.

Hon. Scott Moe: — Affordability for Saskatchewan families, Mr. Speaker, is very much top of mind for this government, as we campaigned on largely an affordability campaign platform in the most recent election in which we had the honour to form government for the fifth consecutive time.

Mr. Speaker, with respect to our utility rates more broadly, we have one of the lowest if not the lowest utility bundle across the nation of Canada. It’s part of how we are able to rise in this House, Mr. Speaker, and quote article after article of Saskatchewan being the most affordable place to live in Canada.

One of the reasons is because Saskatchewan families don’t pay the carbon tax on their power bill, Mr. Speaker, largely in contrast to the policy of the members opposite who often stand and demand that we put that carbon tax back on those power bills.

But I do want to make . . .

[Interjections]

Speaker Goudy: — Sorry, sorry. We’ll start off right. I think we should be listening when the answers are being given. You get opportunities to give questions.

So, Premier.

[14:15]

Hon. Scott Moe: — As I said, Mr. Speaker, this is a stark contrast between the government who has removed carbon tax off the power bills for all families in the province of Saskatchewan — making our province truly the only carbon tax-free province in the nation of Canada — in contrast to the members opposite who time and time again ask for that carbon tax to be reinstated on families’ power bills.

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

Carla Beck: — Mr. Speaker, what the Premier has said is simply not the case. But here is some reality for him: 4 in 10 people in this province right now are borrowing money or they’re dipping into their savings just to put food on their tables.

Mr. Speaker, people in this province are stacking on debt, that they are eventually going to have to pay interest on, just to feed their families. That’s the reality.

But this Sask Party government — you just heard it here from the Premier — they seem completely content with their record and completely content with the fact that they’ve booked a massive loss at SaskPower and are going to dump those failings onto ratepayers in this province. We continue to see this government, this Premier say, there’s nothing to see here. Most affordable ever.

Mr. Speaker, how much is this Premier going to raise power bills in this province to cover up for their incompetence? Simple question: what’s the number?

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Premier.

Hon. Scott Moe: — Power bills are down in this province, Mr. Speaker, because Saskatchewan families are not paying the carbon tax on their power bills. The only province in the nation of Canada, Mr. Speaker, despite what the policy is of the Leader of the Opposition and the members opposite who have asked and would quickly put that carbon tax back on Saskatchewan families’ power bills.

Speaker Goudy: — Sorry. I’m going to say we can’t say that they would quickly put that back on the power bill.

But my goodness, when the Premier is giving a response, can we listen carefully and quietly please.

Hon. Scott Moe: — Pardon me, Mr. Speaker. Their policy is that they would quickly put that carbon tax back on the bills of Saskatchewan families. Whether it is the lowest utility bundle in the nation, the most affordable province in Canada to live, it’s this province here, Mr. Speaker, much in part due to two and a half billion dollars in each and every budget in affordability measures, measures that we campaigned on.

Or whether it’s making efforts over the last number of months — again, discussed on the floor of this Assembly — to ensure that families in this province have affordable child care, Mr. Speaker, that I’m happy to say that we have come to agreement with the federal government with. We’ll be renewing that five-year agreement, Mr. Speaker, and we’ll be signing that Friday with the federal government.

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

Carla Beck: — Imagine, Mr. Speaker, that the cupboard is so bare over there that they have to stoop to those tactics just to cover for their own incompetence. But, Mr. Speaker, the reality is this is a government that has failed for 18 years to keep power rates low.

They’ve failed to manage the finances. Just months ago, this Premier told us that we were going to see a $12 million surplus. Well now the numbers are in. It’s nearly a half a billion dollars in debt and another billion . . . on the deficit and a billion dollars in new debt, Mr. Speaker.

Since the Premier seems to not be able to tell us how much power bills are going to go up in this province to cover for their incompetence, can he tell the people of this province how much they can expect to pay for his inability to manage this province’s finances?

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Premier.

Hon. Scott Moe: — In addition, Mr. Speaker, to our province being the most affordable province in the nation of Canada to live, this province, Saskatchewan, has the lowest deficit per capita in Canada. This province has the lowest deficit as a per cent of GDP [gross domestic product] in the nation of Canada. And of course we have the second-lowest debt-to-GDP ratio in the nation of Canada, Mr. Speaker.

This is also the province where families will not pay a carbon tax on their power bill, keeping their utility bundle, Mr. Speaker, one of the most affordable in the nation. Much of this is part of the reason, in addition to the two and a half billion dollars provided each and every year in affordability measures — again, campaigned on; elected on — why Saskatchewan continues to be the most affordable province in the nation to live.

We’re going to add to that affordability by renewing the child care deal with the federal government providing the certainty for those child care operators, the certainty for Saskatchewan families with young children, Mr. Speaker, that that is in agreement. That is a rate that is going to be in place for years to come.

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

Supports for Agricultural Producers

Carla Beck: — Mr. Speaker, the Premier can continue to stand up and say everything is just fine. He can continue to tell people in this province how good they have it. But the reality is that Saskatchewan people know their own lives, Mr. Speaker, folks like those who’ve joined us here today in your gallery.

Joining us today are Reeve Kelly Bakanec, Kalin Deis, and brothers Quinton, Tyson, and Darcy Jacksteit. Mr. Speaker, these are all proud producers and leaders from the Southwest of Saskatchewan, hailing from the RMs of Big Stick and Fox Valley. Mr. Speaker, these RMs have been devasted by years of consecutive drought. And the current crop insurance programs, they simply don’t provide the supports that are needed. I met with them this summer, and they told me then that they needed help. And the help that they need, this Sask Party government has failed to deliver time and time again.

Mr. Speaker, why hasn’t the Premier stepped up with the emergency supports producers in the Southwest need just to stay afloat?

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Premier.

Hon. Scott Moe: — Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. I’d welcome these community leaders to their Legislative Assembly here in our capital city, Mr. Speaker.

When it comes to the business risk management programs that we have in place, whether it be crop insurance, AgriStability, and others, Mr. Speaker, those business management programs are in place. They are being adjusted from time to time through negotiations with the other provinces as well as with our federal government, Mr. Speaker. And they were adjusted to some degree just even this past year.

Mr. Speaker, there’s $12 billion in coverage through the crop insurance program alone across our province of Saskatchewan. And we know that this program does support producers in our province. Over the last four years there’s been about $7 billion that has been paid out to Saskatchewan producers. Of that total, about a billion dollars of that 7 billion, Mr. Speaker, has gone to rural municipalities that have declared states of emergency. About a quarter-billion of that is to the RM of Big Stick.

But as I say, our Minister of Agriculture, the Crop Insurance Corporation, Mr. Speaker, are always open to discussing and having discussions with our ag producers wherever they might be across the province. As we know, we are weather dependent on our production in this province. We’re making investments in business risk management programs as well as innovation, research, and technology, Mr. Speaker. But at the end of the day, we are at the whims of mother nature.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the member from Regina Mount Royal.

Trent Wotherspoon: — Mr. Speaker, these very proud producers from the Southwest aren’t here today because that government’s doing a great job. They’re here because that government, that minister, and that Premier have failed them in face of a dire situation leaving them high and dry.

I’ve been out there. I’ve been on the ground. I’ve witnessed it first-hand. I’ve seen that devastation — crops that have been entirely burnt; parched soil that is cracked from the years of protracted drought; weeds that then took over on the non-existent crops, that then came with all those costs to control them as well.

In face of this, we’ve stood with this region and these very proud producers that’ve been calling for needed actions and measures. That minister went out there and has done nothing but look the other way and fail these producers. It’s not acceptable that the provincial and federal governments have failed to act on these fronts. Where is the emergency supports that those producers and that region so desperately need?

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of Agriculture.

Hon. Daryl Harrison: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. We have been responsive to producers’ challenges this year and every year. This year we extended the AgriStability enrolment deadline, increased the compensation rate and the maximum cap on payment. We implemented the double low yield appraisal. We provided yield cushioning to reduce the impact of consecutive dry years. We implemented the Crown grazing lease reduction program. We have forage rainfall insurance, Mr. Speaker. We’ve been there for producers.

The member from Regina Rosemont, if he had his way, he would’ve drained the Crop Insurance Fund, $2.2 billion, four years ago. And I quote the member from Mount Royal:

We’re in a situation of serious excess. The reserves are about $2.2 billion. There needs to be some serious review as to how we treat these dollars. The province is just cobbing those.

Mr. Speaker, we’ve been there for producers all along and we will continue to be there for producers.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the member from Regina Mount Royal.

Trent Wotherspoon: — So a little financial memo to the Ag minister: that term means that your government was holding those two and a half billion dollars and ripping off producers of the returns that they deserve . . .

Speaker Goudy: — I’ll ask the member to apologize and withdraw “ripping off producers.” Is that parliamentary language? I would ask the member to apologize and withdraw the statement.

Trent Wotherspoon: — Well I’d apologize and withdraw that statement. The term that he’s referring to means that they were shorting producers of the return they deserved on those dollars. They were borrowing them at the lowest rate possible instead of getting them the return they deserved.

But the point here: that minister has looked away from the devastation these producers are facing. He talked about all these programs he’s announced. None of those have hit the mark for those producers that have been hardest hit, facing nine years of drought. That minister should know this. He was on the ground. Those producers have been making very clear calls for action. So has SARM [Saskatchewan Association of Rural Municipalities]. It’s all been ignored by that minister and that Sask Party government.

These are producers that are in a devastating situation that’s dire. We need to step up with emergency support for these producers. We need to fix crop insurance and business risk management programs to ensure these producers, as they head into a growing season facing nine years of drought, have the backstop they deserve. Very proud, very proud multi-generational farms that are at risk. This can’t wait.

When will that government stop ignoring this desperate situation and these producers and step up with the emergency supports and actions that they deserve?

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of Agriculture.

Hon. Daryl Harrison: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Our government has always fully funded our business risk management programs, unlike when they were last had the opportunity to govern this province, they ripped up the gross revenue insurance program . . .

[Interjections]

Speaker Goudy: — Okay. I am going to ask . . . I don’t mean to compare, but there is more noise coming from my left than my right. And you know, I would ask that we keep our comments to ourselves and listen to the answers.

Minister of Agriculture.

Hon. Daryl Harrison: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. As I’ve said, we have always fully supported our business risk management programs, and we will continue to do so. We will be there to support our producers here in the province, across this entire province, Mr. Speaker.

But we do know when the opportunity the opposition had to govern this province, they ripped up the gross revenue insurance program, left producers high and dry from border to border in this province. Mr. Speaker, we won’t go back there.

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

Saskatchewan Steel and Major Infrastructure Projects

Sally Housser: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Canadians will be watching the Prime Minister’s announcement tomorrow on a new pipeline to the West Coast. In Saskatchewan, people will be watching too.

This project matters so much for our province. It means orders for pipe made by the women and men of United Steelworkers 5890 here in Regina, or at least it should. Last time we saw an MOU [memorandum of understanding] on pipelines, Doug Ford said it would be built with steel from Ontario. The Premier was okay with this. He was even quoted in the press release.

What is the Sask Party’s plan to ensure a new pipeline to the West Coast gets built with Saskatchewan steel?

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

Hon. Warren Kaeding: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Of course we support all of the sectors that are operating in our province. I mean they are so important to our economy. We need to ensure that they are given every opportunity to succeed.

And how they do that, Mr. Speaker, is by policy, by good policy, by good policy that allows investment in this province by the private sector. That’s what we’ve seen for a number of years here. Obviously we have good policy as we’ve been continuing to see a rise in capital investment in this province, Mr. Speaker. That’s what we’re going to continue to be doing, is providing good policy to ensure that our private sector has every opportunity to succeed.

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

[14:30]

Sally Housser: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Saskatchewan steelworkers make the best pipe in the world. And that pipe is exactly what should be going into every new pipeline built in Canada. That’s what the Premier should have been advocating for in the pipeline negotiations he said he was at. Unfortunately the Prime Minister’s Office said he wasn’t at the table at all.

Why should steelworkers believe that the Premier will stand up for them when he’s already sold their jobs to Ontario, and has already been caught out saying things that don’t hold water about the pipeline negotiations?

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

Hon. Warren Kaeding: — Well, Mr. Speaker, we certainly know who was not at the table.

Mr. Speaker, our Premier has advocated for national infrastructure to be implemented from coast to coast, East to West, North to South, recognizing that transportation, all types of infrastructure that is responding to our ability to get our products to market, whether they’re East, West, North, or South, Mr. Speaker, is very important to us.

We recognize that we have over 70 per cent of the products we produce here need to get to an export position, Mr. Speaker. We certainly recognize it. And again our Premier has indicated all throughout all the times he’s had discussions with our Prime Minister, with his fellow colleagues, with other provincial leaders, that we need to ensure that our federal government is continuing to support that national infrastructure to help get our products to market.

We are so supportive of our steel sector here in this province, Mr. Speaker. We remember during the tariff implications, we advanced an order through SaskPower to support our pipe making . . .

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

Rent Control Measures

April ChiefCalf: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. We continue to hear from residents in Saskatchewan who want to see rent control. We are joined today by renters facing an unrealistic hike. Joanne Hubick is facing a 42 per cent increase in 2026. Mr. Speaker, that’s her rent from $777 a month to $1,100 a month. Seniors on a fixed income cannot be expected to bear the brunt of these hikes. Joanne says she will have to use the food bank.

When will this government get serious about the rent crisis in this province and pass my rent control bill?

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of Finance.

Hon. Jim Reiter: — Mr. Speaker, we’re certainly concerned about increasing rent. We’re concerned about increasing prices. The . . .

[Interjections]

Speaker Goudy: — I just, I don’t know what to say. Member from Saskatoon Silverspring, member from Regina South Albert, like, some of you. Please. I don’t know what it takes to not make comments out loud. But please, listen to the answers.

Minister of Finance.

Hon. Jim Reiter: — Mr. Speaker, while we’re concerned about increasing prices of rent, increasing prices across the piece, that’s why we built two and a half billion dollars in affordability measures into each and every budget.

But the fact of the matter is, while well-intended, rent control in every jurisdiction that’s tried, Mr. Speaker, it just doesn’t work. It has the opposite effect; it dries up investment, Mr. Speaker.

What matters is housing starts, Mr. Speaker. And I’d like to set the record straight. Several of the members on the opposite side, over a period of time, have suggested that Saskatchewan trails in housing starts. I have, for the record, from the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation, Mr. Speaker, housing starts in the country. While we have more work to do, we’re in the top.

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

April ChiefCalf: — Mr. Speaker, this government must see that their strategy is clearly not working. Forty straight months of rent hikes. Renters seeing increases of 30 to 40 per cent. Janet McKay in the gallery is seeing a 95 per cent increase, from $563 a month to $1,100 a month. That is almost double. Seniors and SAID [Saskatchewan assured income for disability] recipients are on fixed incomes and cannot afford this. Who could, Mr. Speaker?

If this Sask Party government won’t pass our rent control bill, what do they say to seniors like Janet, who cannot afford their rent increases?

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of Finance.

Hon. Jim Reiter: — Mr. Speaker, as I said, while I’m sure the member’s bill is well-intended, rent control, time and time again, has proven not to work.

Here’s a quote, Mr. Speaker:

While rent control appears to help current tenants in the short run, in the long run, it decreases affordability, fuels gentrification, and creates negative spillovers in the surrounding neighbourhood.

Mr. Speaker, that’s from Rebecca Diamond, professor of economics at Harvard University.

Mr. Speaker, another one:

At CMHC we undertook a broad review of the literature on the impact of rent control. The conclusion of dozens of papers around the world is there are significant costs to rent controls, including reduced housing quality, decreased supply, poor maintenance, and more benefits to higher income than to lower income households.

Mr. Speaker, that’s the deputy chief economist from Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the member from Athabasca.

Addictions Treatment, Policing, and Supports for Northern Saskatchewan

Leroy Laliberte: — Mr. Speaker, the Sask Party has been ignoring and continue to ignore the people of northern Saskatchewan.

We’re joined today by Sean Cheecham Jr., a council member from Clearwater Dene Nation, and Trevor Moberly, a councillor from Birch Narrows. The crime and the drug use in my constituency is completely out of control, Mr. Speaker. Lives are lost, and many of them are just young people. That’s our future, dying, and the Sask Party is standing by.

Will the Minister of Northern Affairs commit to the supports and fight the drug crisis in the North?

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

Hon. Lori Carr: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and I thank the member opposite for the question. Mr. Speaker, helping people overcome their addictions is something that our government takes very, very seriously no matter which corner of the province you live in.

Our mental health and addictions action plan does address several areas of the province. Within our 500 spaces that we are additionally adding to the spaces we already have, Mr. Speaker, we have just about 300 of those in place, and some of those are working directly with First Nations organizations. And we will continue to work with those organizations to ensure that everybody gets the help when they need it, Mr. Speaker. Thank you.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the member from Athabasca.

Leroy Laliberte: — Mr. Speaker, we’re in a crisis. It’s the responsibility of this minister and this government to make sure that the services and resources are there for all people in Saskatchewan.

Mr. Speaker, they tell us they’ve been tough on crime. How tough are they, Mr. Speaker? After 18 years in power, they got our severe crime rate to double the national average. That’s how tough they are. Crime goes up, and they still haven’t admitted to failing.

And they’re failing the people of northern Saskatchewan, Mr. Speaker. These northern councillors travelled all this way because they want to work together to ensure that there are solutions that are being made, Mr. Speaker. Will this minister, or ministers, meet with these leaders about these concerns today?

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of Justice.

Hon. Tim McLeod: — Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. And our government is always happy to meet with other community leaders to discuss their concerns and the challenges that they’re facing.

We know that there are challenges when it comes to protecting communities, which is why that has been a priority of our government, Mr. Speaker, to make stronger, safer communities.

And that is why our government is committed to adding additional resources, whether that’s additional boots on the ground, Mr. Speaker, another 100 provincially funded municipal police officers; changing legislation, making it easier for those officers to remove criminal activity and dangerous items from the communities; or whether it’s adding 70 Saskatchewan marshals, a provincial police service that the opposition have opposed since day one, Mr. Speaker.

The opposition, who would rather put a doorbell camera on your house, Mr. Speaker. As part of their election campaign, they promised a doorbell camera. We’re promising boots on the ground with the marshals service. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

INTRODUCTION OF BILLS

Bill No. 43 — The Municipalities Modernization and Red Tape Reduction Act

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of Government Relations.

Hon. Eric Schmalz: — Mr. Speaker, I move that Bill No. 43, The Municipalities Modernization and Red Tape Reduction Act be now introduced and read a first time.

Speaker Goudy: — It has been moved by the Minister of Government Relations that Bill No. 43, The Municipalities Modernization and Red Tape Reduction Act be now introduced and read a first time. Is it the pleasure of the Assembly to adopt the motion?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Speaker Goudy: — Carried.

Principal Clerk: — First reading of this bill.

Speaker Goudy: — When shall this bill be read a second time? I recognize the Minister of Government Relations.

Hon. Eric Schmalz: — Next sitting of the Assembly, Mr. Speaker.

Speaker Goudy: — Next sitting.

TABLING OF REPORTS

Speaker Goudy: — I would like to table a report from the Provincial Auditor of Saskatchewan. Pursuant to section 14.1 of The Provincial Auditor Act, the Provincial Auditor has submitted their business and financial plan for the year ended March 31st, 2027.

ORDERS OF THE DAY

WRITTEN QUESTIONS

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Government Whip.

Sean Wilson: — I wish to order question no. 24.

Speaker Goudy: — Question no. 24 is ordered.

GOVERNMENT ORDERS

SECOND READINGS

Bill No. 42 — The Saskatchewan Firearms Amendment Act, 2025

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of Justice.

Hon. Tim McLeod: — Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. I now move second reading of The Saskatchewan Firearms Amendment Act, 2025.

Mr. Speaker, in 2023 this government passed The Saskatchewan Firearms Act to implement provincially based administration of licensing of legal firearms. That Act serves the dual functions of promoting public safety in Saskatchewan and administering firearms in a manner that protects the rights of lawful firearms owners. This bill further expands these two key functions of that Act.

First, the amendments provide legal firearms owners the right to fair compensation for lawfully owned firearms that have been rendered valueless because of the federal government’s recent firearms laws. Under these new rules, Mr. Speaker, a firearm is deemed to be seized by the federal government if the firearm is subject to the new federal firearms laws and the owner does not receive full fair-market compensation under the Act within 12 months after the federal law comes into effect.

If the firearm is deemed to be seized, the owner may submit a request for fair compensation based on fair-market value by the Saskatchewan firearms commissioner, and the Government of Canada is required to pay the owner the full fair-market value of the firearms. If the Government of Canada refuses to pay the fair-market compensation to the owner, the owner could choose to bring a claim against the federal government for recovery of that compensation.

Mr. Speaker, these compensation rules will apply to both handguns that were impacted by the former federal Bill C‑21 as well as firearms that have been impacted by the federal orders in council in more recent years. In addition to providing fair compensation to owners, these compensation rules also serve an important public safety function by discouraging certain owners from turning to the illicit market to try and get value for their now-valueless firearms.

Second, the amendments made additional updates to enhance public safety. These changes include clarifying the Saskatchewan firearms office’s authority to inspect firearm ranges and designate firearm safety instructors, allowing medical professionals to report individuals who may suffer from a condition that makes it dangerous to possess or use a firearm, and finally by implementing other administrative updates to clarify the enforcement of the Act.

Saskatchewan has a strong tradition of promoting the safe and lawful use of firearms for activities such as hunting, sport shooting, and predator control. These amendments will build on those traditions and help Saskatchewan firearms office carry out its important functions.

With that, Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to move second reading of The Saskatchewan Firearms Amendment Act, 2025.

Speaker Goudy: — It has been moved that Bill No. 42, The Saskatchewan Firearms Amendment Act, 2025 be now read a second time. Is the Assembly ready for the question? I recognize the member from Regina South Albert.

Aleana Young: — Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. It’s a pleasure to rise today and enter preliminary comments on Bill No. 42, The Saskatchewan Firearms Amendment Act. And my thanks to the minister for his summary of the contents of the bill.

[14:45]

This is a piece of legislation this side of the aisle looks forward to supporting. It’s a nice thing in this Assembly, Mr. Speaker, when there are things that we agree on. And I think the member from Regina University said it last week: let’s take “yes” for an answer on some of these things. I think the people of the province want us to be able to come together and legislate in their best interests. And supporting the firearm commissioner’s office is certainly something that has widespread support across Saskatchewan and across both sides of this legislature.

Of course we hear often in here stories and quips from members on both sides about hunting, about sport shooting. Makes clear, Mr. Speaker, that Saskatchewan people take their guns very seriously. In addition to that, they take the safety of firearms incredibly seriously.

My household is a proud gun-owning household, Mr. Speaker, of restricted firearms as well. And through that experience, having not grown up with guns in my household as a child, I’ve learned a lot about firearm safety and I’ve learned a lot about responsible gun owners and the care and dedication and the seriousness with which they take safety. The thing that undermines responsible gun ownership the most is unsafe gun ownership. And this is a piece of legislation that looks to be respecting the rights of lawful firearm owners here in Saskatchewan, Mr. Speaker.

It’s of course important that the Chief Firearms Officer will be empowered to enforce compliance with all safety standards in ranges and clubs, and as the minister spoke to, ensuring the rights of health care workers to report any medical conditions that they fear could make gun ownership problematic or dangerous here in Saskatchewan, of course following the appropriate medical privacy procedures. And I’m assuming, Mr. Speaker, although I’m not sure if I missed it in the minister’s comments, that this would also apply to mental health concerns as well.

With that, Mr. Speaker, I know the critic will be doing widespread consultation, and I’m happy to conclude my remarks and move to adjourn debate on Bill No. 42, The Saskatchewan Firearms Amendment Act.

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.

ADJOURNED DEBATES

SECOND READINGS

Bill No. 24

[The Assembly resumed the adjourned debate on the proposed motion by the Hon. Warren Kaeding that Bill No. 24 — The Saskatchewan Internal Trade Promotion Act be now read a second time.]

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

Jacqueline Roy: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. It is my honour to rise today to enter into debate on Bill No. 24, The Saskatchewan Internal Trade Promotion Act. I had colleagues speak to this bill already, Mr. Speaker. Just a few more comments, my two cents to put on the record.

While we’re happy that this has been making progress on enhancing Canadian free trade and trade interprovincially, we did hear today a lot of comments about good policy and good policy and good policy coming forward. Well that includes occupational health and safety.

So the bill put forward by the member from Saskatoon Riversdale does not discount our provincial duty to make sure occupational health and safety standards do take place when we have this interprovincial trade. That’s something I have advocated for in my previous job and will continue to do so in this one.

At this point I am now prepared to adjourn debate on Bill No. 24.

Deputy Chair of Committees Beaudry: — The member has moved to adjourn debate. Is it the pleasure of the Assembly to adopt the motion?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Deputy Chair of Committees Beaudry: — Carried.

Bill No. 29

[The Assembly resumed the adjourned debate on the proposed motion by the Hon. Alana Ross that Bill No. 29 — The Tailgating Act/Loi sur les rassemblements d’avant-match be now read a second time.]

Deputy Chair of Committees Beaudry: — I recognize the member from Regina Pasqua.

Bhajan Brar: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise here today for debate on Bill No. 29, The Tailgating Act.

Mr. Speaker, in the last debate my colleague from Regina Douglas Park debated on this bill in which she clearly spoke to this bill with the hope to see the best consequence of the bill when implemented. After becoming the Act, it will be fully implemented.

Of course on the 16th of November Grey Cup win, it came here in Regina on the 18th of November. We all enjoyed a lot in the Assembly, and outside the Assembly too, when we had the Grey Cup in our hands and took photos along with the Roughrider heroes who got this big achievement in 2025 after a 12‑year gap.

We spoke to this Act in the Throne Speech too. Although while speaking about other Throne Speech from the ruling benches, they say twice strong economy, strong economy. If Saskatchewan had a real strong economy, then why everyday people of Saskatchewan feel bad about affordability, education, health care, and drugs?

The ruling party promised to bring big projects in Saskatchewan, but I have seen that they cannot complete a small project, like schools declared in my constituency in 2020. And for five years that Sask Party government has not done anything. I don’t know where the budget allocated for five years has gone.

Anyway we support this Bill No. 29. With this, Mr. Speaker, I’m now prepared to move to adjourn debate on Bill No. 29.

Deputy Chair of Committees Beaudry: — The member has moved to adjourn debate. Is it the pleasure of the Assembly to adopt the motion?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Deputy Chair of Committees Beaudry: — Carried.

Bill No. 30

[The Assembly resumed the adjourned debate on the proposed motion by the Hon. Tim McLeod that Bill No. 30 — The Inter-jurisdictional Support Orders Amendment Act, 2025/Loi modificative de 2025 sur les ordonnances alimentaires interterritoriales be now read a second time.]

Deputy Chair of Committees Beaudry: — I recognize the member from Regina Wascana Plains.

Brent Blakley: — Thank you, Mr. Deputy Speaker. A pleasure again to rise in these chambers, add some comments to the record for Bill No. 30, The Inter-jurisdictional Support Orders Amendment Act, 2025. I know that several of my colleagues on this side have weighed in on this bill, which I will highlight and look to add some remarks and comments to the debate this far.

This particular bill deals with co-operation and coordination of parties involving international child support. Again any piece of legislation that centres around children and the support of children, their safety and their well-being is certainly important legislation. We need to make sure that all the t’s are crossed and the i’s are dotted to ensure the proper implementation of bills such as this, and that we look at all the implications and ramifications of such legislation.

We certainly support international co-operation ensuring that children get the supports they need and that families need to care for our children in these economic times. Even before you factor in the difficulties of international barriers, we have to also consider the issue of the number of children having to access food banks within Saskatchewan, Saskatchewan having the highest proportion of children accessing food banks in Canada.

Other things to consider is scrapping the PST [provincial sales tax] on children’s clothing and groceries. Despite the government’s claim, there is PST on food we buy in the grocery stores to feed our family, which we refer to as groceries.

As debate continues on this piece of legislation, my colleagues and our shadow minister will continue to weigh in on this bill and its details. And with that, Mr. Deputy Speaker, I move to adjourn debate on Bill No. 30.

Deputy Chair of Committees Beaudry: — The member has moved to adjourn debate. Is it the pleasure of the Assembly to adopt the motion?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Deputy Chair of Committees Beaudry: — Carried.

Bill No. 31

[The Assembly resumed the adjourned debate on the proposed motion by the Hon. Tim McLeod that Bill No. 31 — The Defamation Act be now read a second time.]

Deputy Chair of Committees Beaudry: — I recognize the member from Saskatoon Southeast.

Brittney Senger: — Thank you, mister deputy deputy speaker. I am pleased to put on the record some remarks about Bill No. 31, The Defamation Act. While I’m pleased to see some modernization and the tightening of laws against defamation, I think that there are some areas that we need to really take into consideration, such as consultation with stakeholders. There are a number of community-based organizations that do phenomenal work around ensuring that people are protected and advocated for. And I’m quite curious to know what sort of consultation went into the development of Bill No. 31.

As elected officials, I’m sure we all face some sort of harassment online. And as many people can understand, it can be quite disheartening. And so I do think that, you know, defamation on the internet is extremely common nowadays, and it’s difficult to combat. I’m certainly interested in how effective this bill will be on that front. I’m not quite sure what it looks like to actually combat defamation on the internet, since it is something that’s hard to navigate.

And with that I move to adjourn debate on Bill No. 31.

Deputy Chair of Committees Beaudry: — The member has moved to adjourn debate. Is it the pleasure of this Assembly to adopt the motion?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Deputy Chair of Committees Beaudry: — Carried.

Bill No. 32

[The Assembly resumed the adjourned debate on the proposed motion by the Hon. Tim McLeod that Bill No. 32 — The Defamation Consequential Amendments Act, 2025/Loi de 2025 corrélative de la loi intitulée The Defamation Act be now read a second time.]

Deputy Chair of Committees Beaudry: — I recognize the member from Saskatoon Southeast.

Brittney Senger: — Thank you, mister deputy deputy speaker. I’m pleased to put some remarks on the record about Bill No. 32, The Defamation Consequential Amendments Act. Very similar to Bill No. 31, I am pleased, as I said, to see that something is being done and that there’s some modernization.

I am still curious about how this bill came to be, how this will combat misinformation. As I mentioned earlier, defamation on the internet is extremely common and it’s difficult to combat; it’s difficult to identify. So I am curious to see how effective this will be on that front. I’m curious about what spurred the creation of this bill. I’m curious as to, you know, statistics behind it, as well as what stakeholders have been consulted and how stakeholders feel about this bill.

We will certainly be talking to community-based organizations and other stakeholders to learn how they feel about this bill. And with that I move to adjourn debate on Bill No. 32.

Deputy Chair of Committees Beaudry: — The member has moved to adjourn debate. Is it the pleasure of this Assembly to adopt the motion?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Deputy Chair of Committees Beaudry: — Carried.

Bill No. 33

[The Assembly resumed the adjourned debate on the proposed motion by the Hon. Tim McLeod that Bill No. 33 — The Credit Union Amendment Act, 2025 be now read a second time.]

Deputy Chair of Committees Beaudry: — I recognize the member from Saskatoon Fairview.

Vicki Mowat: — Thank you, Mr. Deputy Chair of Committees. It is my pleasure to participate in debate on Bill No. 33, The Credit Union Amendment Act, 2025.

I understand that these changes are being proposed because of a list of priorities and concerns that came out of the Canadian Credit Union Association, and that’s where this list of amendments came from. We’ll certainly be watching to make sure that’s the case and make sure that these processes do in fact modernize and streamline the existing processes here.

Apparently this Act clarifies the process for member terminations, and I know from folks who have sat on credit union boards before that there are so many rules about how this takes place. So hopefully this is something that folks within the Saskatchewan credit union network can get behind and appreciate.

I know our critic will be doing some of that consultation work and making sure that is in fact the case. Certainly if we can make things good for credit unions in our province, we are helping everyone in our province. We know that these dollars stay in Saskatchewan and it is something that many of us can get behind. And I know most of us have some credit union memberships as well, Mr. Speaker, myself included, and are proud of that membership.

[15:00]

So we’ll be watching to ensure that that’s the case, and digging through this with a fine-tooth comb. But with that, I would move to adjourn debate on Bill No. 33 for today.

Deputy Chair of Committees Beaudry: — The member has moved to adjourn debate. Is it the pleasure of the Assembly to adopt the motion?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Deputy Chair of Committees Beaudry: — Carried.

Bill No. 34

[The Assembly resumed the adjourned debate on the proposed motion by the Hon. Tim McLeod that Bill No. 34 — The Cyberstalking and Coercive Control Act be now read a second time.]

Deputy Chair of Committees Beaudry: — I recognize the member from Regina Pasqua.

Bhajan Brar: — Mr. Deputy Speaker, I rise again here on my feet today to participate on Bill No. 34, The Cyberstalking and Coercive Control Act. Mr. Deputy Speaker, a few days back, one of my colleagues from Saskatoon Stonebridge debated on this bill. We all support this bill. My colleague talked about the teenagers.

The same way it will also protect the seniors like me, whose number in this province by population is 19 per cent in 2025, and maybe go up to about 20 per cent at the end of the year. Mr. Deputy Speaker, this Sask Party government has had the worst record in Canada for intimate partner violence and gender-based homicide. As of last year, crimes include senior citizens receiving texts every day from the prank phone call to intimidate the people, including me, under the name of CRA [Canada Revenue Agency], immigration, or a parcel.

Mr. Deputy Speaker, in Canada there is a five-day work week and two rest days. But these people, clearly stating, work always seven days in a week and 24 hours in a day, to extract money from vulnerable people. Perhaps implementing this Act may give some relief to those seniors who want to live their balanced lives peacefully.

So we support this bill, and with this I’d like to request you to adjourn the debate on Bill No. 34. Thank you.

Deputy Chair of Committees Beaudry: — The member has moved to adjourn debate. Is it the pleasure of the Assembly to adopt the motion?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Deputy Chair of Committees Beaudry: — Carried.

Bill No. 35

[The Assembly resumed the adjourned debate on the proposed motion by the Hon. Colleen Young that Bill No. 35 — The Mineral Resources Amendment Act, 2025 be now read a second time.]

Deputy Chair of Committees Beaudry: — I recognize the member from Regina Wascana Plains.

Brent Blakley: — Thank you, Mr. Deputy Speaker. I’m on my feet again to add some comments on the record for Bill No. 35, The Mineral Resources Amendment Act, 2025. Again like I said before, my colleagues have weighed in on this bill, and I will add some remarks to the debate here.

This amendment supports the mining industry, moving to improve and maximize mineral exploration in the province. It allows parties to apply for access for mineral exploration in areas that have been deemed inaccessible.

As this bill moves forward, it will be imperative for the government to engage and consult with all stakeholders that may be affected, including with First Nations. Unfortunately proper engagement and consultation has been sorely lacking on other bills that this government has introduced, and just off the top of my head, Bill 137 comes to mind.

Mining, as we know full well, is an integral part of the Saskatchewan economy, and we agree with efforts to expand mining and attract investment to the province. As debate continues on this bill, my colleagues and our shadow minister will continue to look closely at this legislation and its details. And with that, Mr. Deputy Speaker, I move to adjourn debate on Bill No. 35, The Mineral Resources Amendment Act.

Deputy Chair of Committees Beaudry: — The member has moved to adjourn debate. Is it the pleasure of the Assembly to adopt the motion?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Deputy Chair of Committees Beaudry: — Carried.

Bill No. 36

[The Assembly resumed the adjourned debate on the proposed motion by the Hon. Jeremy Cockrill that Bill No. 36 — The Change of Name Amendment Act, 2025/Loi modificative de 2025 sur le changement de nom be now read a second time.]

Deputy Chair of Committees Beaudry: — I recognize the member from Saskatoon Chief Mistawasis.

Don McBean: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I’m pleased to rise today to speak to Bill No. 36, The Change of Name Amendment Act. As has been noted, there’s lots of cleaning up and technical legal amendments ostensibly to bring The Change of Name Act of 1995 a little closer to the year 2025, things that will facilitate people who are going through this process.

I know that it’s been noted already, but I want to repeat how, you know, with the growing diversity and cultures that make up the mosaic of Saskatchewan, it’s been quite a burden for lots of new Canadians to conform their name structure to our European first name, middle name maybe, last name.

I worked with my constituency assistant for quite a while before I found out that his name really isn’t Paras Kumar. It’s Paras Paras. But that doesn’t work here. I’m not sure that the technical changes with Bill 36 will fix that for him. But there is so much of that, that it’s important that we recognize the various cultural diversity situations that many face. And if we can facilitate their name assignment, their name change, that’s very important.

Look forward to committee — the question’s been raised a number of times — and the answer as to why this is only applying to permanent residents and citizens, if it’s somehow because temporary residents don’t make this sort of request or it’s too much work for us to accommodate that request for a temporary resident.

I do know with some of the work that I did receiving families, in particular the fall of 2021 when a lot of Afghan families were coming in, the names and family structures and such were that it was tricky to know what the legal names were as they went forward. And while they would have become permanent residents by now, certainly at the time that would have been a barrier for them.

Can’t let the opportunity go by without mentioning that name change and Bill 137 go together, and I wish that we were so accommodating as to allow that for persons of all ages in the situations that they and their teachers and adult supporters might sponsor.

I’ve got someone looking at me with a smile, but I think there’s time for a quick story. My four children were born in Quebec. In Quebec they often have hyphenated names — mother’s name, father’s name — family names. And we decided we didn’t want to do that, so all of the children had their mother’s maiden name — or their mother’s name, because she hadn’t changed it — as one of their middle names until the fourth one.

Well I’d filled out the form three times and then it worked. We found out when he was age two and we were moving out of Quebec that his name actually, legally, according to the document that supposedly had been submitted to l’hôtel de ville, the city hall, he had a hyphenated name of his mother’s name and his father’s family name.

We still laugh about it. I like telling the story. I’m sure there’s a clerk down at the Quebec City city hall who looked at the form and said, oh, that guy just doesn’t know what he’s doing; there’s supposed to be a hyphen in here. But it kind of worked out. My 27‑year-old son now proudly carries the hyphenated name. Kind of makes it awkward when he doesn’t get seated with his siblings, but whatever.

I’m not sure . . . We’d already moved when we realized this. And I do remember looking into it, and it was complicated to change his name in Quebec. Whatever we might be doing with this change of name amendment Act, I hope, would facilitate that for situations, this and far beyond.

With that I’d like to move adjournment of Bill No. 36, change of name Act. Thank you.

Deputy Chair of Committees Beaudry: — The member has moved to adjourn debate. Is it the pleasure of the Assembly to adopt the motion?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Deputy Chair of Committees Beaudry: — Carried.

Bill No. 37

[The Assembly resumed the adjourned debate on the proposed motion by the Hon. Jeremy Cockrill that Bill No. 37 — The Vital Statistics Amendment Act, 2025/Loi modificative de 2025 sur les services de l’état civil be now read a second time.]

Deputy Chair of Committees Beaudry: — I recognize the member from Saskatoon Fairview.

Vicki Mowat: — Thank you, Mr. Deputy Chair of Committees. It’s my honour to participate in Bill No. 37, The Vital Statistics Amendment Act. When we’re talking about vital statistics, this Act, the Act itself, relates to identifiable information such as births, deaths, marriages, and sort of the registry of how the government keeps track of these folks.

These amendments seek to remove administrative barriers to changes. Some of those include allowing a single name, which the member from Saskatoon Chief Mistawasis will be happy to hear that Bill No. 37 does in fact deal with situations such as his constituency assistant.

There are so many folks that come to us from different cultures, and you know, it’s a very Eurocentric view that you have to fit into these neat boxes of having a first name and a last name. So to be more inclusive of different cultures, Mr. Speaker, it certainly makes sense that we make those changes.

And in particular, I know a lot of folks have had issues accessing eHealth because of barriers like this. So they’re registered under a different name and something doesn’t entirely match. There are cases where there is miscommunication and someone gets written down under the wrong name, and in those cases making changes needs to be expedient.

And as it stands right now, those changes can’t be made without a court order, which is incredibly cumbersome for individuals and families to have to deal with, especially in the age of lots of folks not having a family doctor or regular access to health care. Being able to log into your eHealth account to see test results can bridge a gap in that access to care. And so when folks don’t have that access to log in, when they can’t get access to their eHealth information, that is a barrier.

So anything that improves access and can streamline the process sounds good in my books. And certainly we need to make sure that this follows the spirit of eliminating red tape and streamlining the process and ensuring that folks have a little bit more control over their personal information.

So we’ll be watching closely with this. I know the critic will dive into it. But with that I would move to adjourn debate on Bill No. 37 for today.

Deputy Chair of Committees Beaudry: — The member has moved to adjourn debate. Is it the pleasure of the Assembly to adopt the motion?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Deputy Chair of Committees Beaudry: — Carried.

Bill No. 38

[The Assembly resumed the adjourned debate on the proposed motion by the Hon. Everett Hindley that Bill No. 38 — The Building Schools Faster Act be now read a second time.]

Deputy Chair of Committees Beaudry: — I recognize the member from Regina Wascana Plains.

Brent Blakley: — Again, Mr. Deputy Speaker, I’m on my feet to say a few words as we debate Bill No. 38, The Building Schools Faster Act, 2025. I would first like to compliment the government on their creativity in naming their bills. The Building Schools Faster Act — that’s genius. Being a former teacher and having taught full-time in about a dozen school buildings across the country, I do have a few comments regarding this bill.

While I agree with the importance of building new schools faster, this bill doesn’t address replacements, repairs, or renovations of existing schools. There are schools throughout the province that have fallen into disrepair because of neglect, lack of funding, and lack of foresight from this government. There have been schools promised to certain communities that have been promised by this government to certain communities, only to have zero progress in fulfilling these promises to date.

In my constituency of Regina Wascana Plains, a promise of new schools was trotted out by the government in the last election. And here we are 14 months later. There have been no shovels in the ground, no indication of where these schools might be built, not even a sign indicating these new schools’ location.

It’s all well and good to say we’re going to build new schools faster. But in speaking with members of CUPE [Canadian Union of Public Employees] the other day, they pointed out there’s no plan as to how to staff these schools with teachers, maintenance workers, or trained educational assistants.

Yes, by all means we need to build schools faster. But there also needs to be a plan in place to staff them and to give the students more than just a building, but give them a quality education delivered by trained professionals.

[15:15]

As debate continues, again my colleagues and shadow minister will continue looking closely at this legislation. With that, Mr. Speaker, I move to adjourn debate on Bill No. 38, The Building Schools Faster Act.

Deputy Chair of Committees Beaudry: — The member has moved to adjourn debate. Is it the pleasure of the Assembly to adopt the motion?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Deputy Chair of Committees Beaudry: — Carried.

Bill No. 39

[The Assembly resumed the adjourned debate on the proposed motion by the Hon. Everett Hindley that Bill No. 39 — The Building Schools Faster Consequential Amendment Act, 2025/Loi de 2025 corrélative de la loi intitulée The Building Schools Faster Act be now read a second time.]

Deputy Chair of Committees Beaudry: — I recognize the member from Regina Wascana Plains.

Brent Blakley: — Again, Mr. Speaker, on my feet one more time to address Bill No. 39, The Building Schools Faster Consequential Amendment Act, 2025. This bill is obviously connected to the aptly named Bill No. 38, The Building Schools Faster Act. My words put on the record to this previous bill would certainly apply to this bill as well. We’re supportive of these amendments as highlighted in Bill 39.

Again colleagues on this side may have more to say at a later date, but I doubt it. But for now, Mr. Speaker, I move to adjourn debate on Bill No. 39, The Building Schools Faster Consequential Amendment Act, 2025.

Deputy Chair of Committees Beaudry: — The member has moved to adjourn debate. Is it the pleasure of the Assembly to adopt the motion?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Deputy Chair of Committees Beaudry: — Carried.

Bill No. 40

[The Assembly resumed the adjourned debate on the proposed motion by the Hon. Daryl Harrison that Bill No. 40 — The Animal Protection Amendment Act, 2025 be now read a second time.]

Deputy Chair of Committees Beaudry: — I recognize the member from Saskatoon Chief Mistawasis.

Don McBean: — Thank you, Mr. Deputy Speaker . . . whatever. It’s my pleasure to rise and make a few points on Bill No. 40, The Animal Protection Amendment Act, 2025. As has been noted in a lot of the legislation that’s come before us, these are cleaning up certain legal and technical pitfalls in the existing legislation, in this case The Animal Protection Act of 2018. It’s a longer Act than compared to many of them that we’ve been revising.

And when I look to the notes, there’s quite a number where it says, “Existing provision: None.” So there are things being added, undoubtedly to fill some of the gaps that were in the 2018 Act. And I’m understanding increasingly that legislation is like that — that it goes out, it gets studied, test driven; barriers and gaps are identified.

No one could be against protecting the animals. There are horrific situations that do surface now and again, and the existing legislation identifies and deals with those. A number of the things in this bill, amendment Act, seem to facilitate more quick action: more, you know, being able to get people’s contact information; that vets can be given permission to put down animals without having to jump through lots of hoops; if ever something is being seized and sold, that it’s done in an equitable and fair way.

I guess I’m maybe getting a reputation. I always have another story. Here’s my other quick story on animal protection . . . [inaudible interjection] . . . You’re welcome, madame. In my classroom we had mice. The mice would breed. We would have pregnant mice.

An Hon. Member: — On purpose? Like pet mice?

Don McBean: — Pet mice. Yeah, white . . . I’m sorry. Sorry. And this is in Quebec so we don’t have to take any slam. But I had an aquarium full of mice and they would get pregnant. And we would allow them to grow a little bit — I have to concentrate here — and then we would feed them to a person in the village who had a snake that had to pay good money to get mice for her snake, so we would send those.

One day I come in and the very pregnant mom unfortunately had died during childbirth, and I had eight little micelets — I’m not sure what we call baby mice — no bigger than that, about that pink. And the students pulled in and I explained and told them, and they were devasted and wanted me to make sure they were cared for. So I had to promise my students that I would take them to the SPCA [Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals].

And I did, because you know, a promise is a promise. And so I brought them in to the SPCA at the end of the day. And I love the workers that were at the front desk that day. They were very sincere with me and said yes, they would look after these little, tiny mice no bigger than the end of my finger. I always feel like I might have heard the toilet flush before I left the building.

But just saying, care for animals is important in all sizes and shapes, and with your indulgence of another story, thank you very much. I move to adjourn debate on Bill No. 40.

Deputy Chair of Committees Beaudry: — The member’s moved to adjourn debate. Is it the pleasure of the Assembly to adopt the motion?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Deputy Chair of Committees Beaudry: — Carried.

Bill No. 41

[The Assembly resumed the adjourned debate on the proposed motion by the Hon. Alana Ross that Bill No. 41 — The Heritage Recognition (From Many Peoples, Strength) Act/Loi sur la reconnaissance du patrimoine (Nos origines multiples, notre force) be now read a second time.]

Deputy Chair of Committees Beaudry: — I recognize the member from Regina Northeast.

Jacqueline Roy: — Thank you. It is my honour to rise today to enter into debate on Bill No. 41, the Saskatchewan “from many peoples, strength” Act.

I’ve had colleagues speak to this bill already, Mr. Speaker. I won’t be adding much, but I do want to get it on record that recognizing a culture is very different than understanding and embracing it. Authentic engagement means understanding language, culture, and how that contributes to identity and happiness.

So I know myself and my colleagues will be watching closely as this bill goes forward to see what that type of recognition looks like. And at this point, I’m now prepared to adjourn debate on Bill No. 41.

Deputy Chair of Committees Beaudry: — The member has moved to adjourn debate. Is it the pleasure of the Assembly to adopt the motion?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Deputy Chair of Committees Beaudry: — Carried. I recognize the Government House Leader.

Hon. Tim McLeod: — Thank you very much, Mr. Deputy Speaker. To facilitate the work of committees, I move that the Assembly do now adjourn.

Deputy Chair of Committees Beaudry: — It has been moved that this Assembly do now adjourn. Is it the pleasure of this Assembly to adopt the motion?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Deputy Chair of Committees Beaudry: — Carried. This Assembly now stands adjourned until tomorrow at 10 a.m.

[The Assembly adjourned at 15:22.]

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

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