Hon. Warren Kaeding: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. It is my honour to rise today to recognize His Excellency Shri Dinesh Kumar Patnaik, the High Commissioner of India to Canada, seated in your gallery.

His Excellency was appointed in August of 2025 after previously serving as ambassador of India to Spain and Andorra. He has a long career of diplomatic service in the Indian Foreign Service for over 35 years. His postings abroad included the Deputy High Commissioner of India to London, United Kingdom; India’s ambassador to the Kingdom of Morocco; India’s ambassador to Cambodia; and Deputy Chief of Mission at the Indian Embassy in Vienna, Austria. He’s also served in Indian missions in Geneva, Switzerland; Dhaka, Bangladesh; and Beijing, China.

This is the first time that His Excellency has visited Saskatchewan, and I know was very warmly welcomed by our Agribition community last night. His Excellency has also travelled with his wife to Saskatchewan, Poonam Patnaik — although she’s not in the gallery with us today — and she has a long career of service including a particular focus on mentoring girls and young women who want to seek careers in education.

I look forward to our meetings today to discuss the ongoing collaboration between India and Saskatchewan, and we value our strong relationship. And we appreciate the High Commissioner and his wife for taking the time to visit our great province. We have a very long and valued relationship due to the great work done by His Excellency and those that have preceded him.

So on behalf of the Government of Saskatchewan, all members of the Assembly, I ask the House to join me in extending a warm Saskatchewan welcome to His Excellency Patnaik, and wishing him every success as he continues to strengthen the bonds between India and Saskatchewan.

Mr. Speaker, as part of my introduction I would also like to introduce Victor Thomas, who has served as president and chief executive officer of the Canada-India Business Council since April 1st of 2020. Victor holds many roles including being a national executive member for the Governor General’s Canadian Leadership Conference, Pacific NorthWest Economic Region — North American Advisory Council, and Canada’s Energy for a Secure Future. We thank Victor for the great work that he has done and continues to do for our province, especially in extending our India-Saskatchewan relationships.

On behalf of the Government of Saskatchewan and all members of the Assembly, I ask the House to join me in welcoming Victor to his Legislative Assembly.

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

Kim Breckner: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. On behalf of the official opposition, I would like to echo the comments of my colleague, the Minister of Trade and Export Development, in welcoming the High Commissioner and Victor Thomas to the Legislative Assembly today.

We’re very glad to see that our Prime Minister is taking steps to re-establish trade with India. It’s very important to our producers here in Saskatchewan that we work towards removing those tariffs on our commodities.

And so again, I welcome these two people to the legislature, and thank them for their work. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of Advanced Education.

Hon. Ken Cheveldayoff: — Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. Colleagues, I’d ask for an extended introduction.

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

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Hon. Ken Cheveldayoff: — Well thank you very much. It is indeed a pleasure this morning, Mr. Speaker and colleagues, to welcome a true Canadian statesman seated behind the bar. If you go to his Facebook page you’ll see that he’s a Christian, a husband, a father, an Alberta politico and farmer, the former MP [Member of Parliament] for the Battle River-Crowfoot constituency, and a proud Conservative. Colleagues, please help me welcome Damien C. Kurek to the Saskatchewan Legislative Assembly.

Damien is no stranger to this building. He’s a former employee on the government side. He was in my office for many years and helped in former ministerial responsibilities, and certainly is somebody that is no stranger to elections and campaigning and door knocking in Saskatoon Willowgrove and all of that. He is an exemplary person, always putting his family first: his wife, Danielle, his three sons Matthew, Emerson, and Winston.

And as politicians we know he is one of the most selfless people that we can point to as an example of a politician. He was re-elected in the last federal election. He resigned his seat for the betterment of his party and his country, and certainly continues to serve in any way that he can. He’s now a principal with the Upstream Strategy Group.

Mr. Speaker and colleagues, please welcome Damien C. Kurek back to the building that he used to work in. Thank you.

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

Tajinder Grewal: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I join the Minister of Trade and Export and the member from Saskatoon Riversdale to welcome His Excellency Dinesh Kumar Patnaik-ji and Victor Thomas, president and CEO [chief executive officer] of the Canada-India Business Council.

Saskatchewan and India have a very good relationship, and we can always do better. And I ask all the members to join me to welcome His Excellency and Mr. Thomas.

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

Hon. Terry Jenson: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. To you and through you this morning, seated in the west gallery are 16 students from Hague High School. They’ve made the trip down to Regina this morning. They battled the fog but they made it in time for proceedings today, and I’d like to welcome them to their Assembly.

They’re accompanied this morning by their teacher Rebecca Loroff. And I should mention these students are the tourism class, the grade 11 tourism class. After proceedings today we’re going to, you know, get together for a photo, maybe answer some questions. And then the group are going to be off to the west side of the city. They’re going to go visit the RCMP [Royal Canadian Mounted Police] Depot, Mr. Speaker.

You know what, this is a great opportunity to be in the building today to watch what we do here at work. And it’s part of our commitment to making sure we’re giving students their best start, Mr. Speaker.

So with that, I’d like everybody to join me in welcoming the grade 11 tourism class from Hague High School.

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

Keith Jorgenson: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. It’s my pleasure today to introduce Pat Jackson. She’s sitting in your gallery. She is the mayor of Kipling. I had a great chance to visit Kipling this summer and chat with her. She’s a passionate advocate for her community, the Southeast, and health care. And I would encourage everyone to welcome her to her legislature.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of Agriculture.

Hon. Daryl Harrison: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I’d like to join the member opposite, so to you and through you, I’d like to welcome the mayor of Kipling, Saskatchewan. Very glad to know Pat. You know, we’ve become fairly close friends I’m going to say, Pat, so thank you for that friendship. And I’d like all members to welcome her to her Legislative Assembly.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the member from Regina Wascana Plains.

Brent Blakley: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I’d like to, in the east gallery, introduce a few guests from Big Brothers Big Sisters throughout the province. From Regina and area we have Dominika Krzeminska. I practised pronouncing that earlier. She is the executive director here in Regina and area. And we have Theresa Mura who is the mentoring coordinator in Regina and area. And we have with us from Yorkton and area, the executive director of Big Brothers Big Sisters, Irma Van De Bon-Nicol with us as well.

These folks and their organizations do outstanding work for the youth in our province, in Saskatchewan. And please join me in welcoming them to their legislature.

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

Hon. Terry Jenson: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. And I would like to join with the member opposite in welcoming these individuals from Big Brothers Big Sisters.

This group, you know, this organization plays such an important role with our youth throughout the province, Mr. Speaker. And I’ve had the opportunity to speak with some of the different Big Brothers Big Sisters organizations, the different chapters around Saskatchewan. And I look forward to meeting with these people maybe later today, and if not later today, we’ll schedule something for the next couple of weeks. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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

Jacqueline Roy: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to welcome, in your gallery, Joan McDonald to this Chamber. To me, she’s the mother of my university friend Leah. Nine years ago, Joan lost her daughter and Leah lost her twin sister to domestic violence. Joan is here today so that no other mother has to stand in this House and hear about a daughter who didn’t make it. And Leah hopes to visit this Chamber in the future. When she does, I’m determined that things will have changed to help people like her twin sister.

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

Brittney Senger: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to request leave for an extended introduction.

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

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Brittney Senger: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to echo what my colleague has said and recognize Joan McDonald, who is here with us today.

Joan is a fierce advocate and truly an inspiration. She took something heartbreaking, the loss of her daughter Abbie, and used it to make change. She has advocated to implement the recommendations in the domestic violence death review. She has advocated for change around employers and employees recognizing the signs of domestic violence and knowing where to ask for help.

Joan is an inspiration to me. She is somebody that I strive to be. And her and I had the privilege of working on a petition that I will be presenting later today. Truly I am grateful for everything that Joan has done to make change. And I would like to ask all members of the Assembly to thank Joan for her remarkable work and welcome her to her Legislative Assembly.

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

Joan Pratchler: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I too would like to recognize a constituent from Regina Rochdale. Saskatchewan Hollywood elite, if I can say so. It’s Lucas Frison and his dad.

Lucas is a filmmaker, a scriptwriter, a director, and he’s done documentary work for Telefilm Canada, CBC [Canadian Broadcasting Corporation], AMI [Accessible Media Inc.] and many more, and he now has another production in the works. And I’ll speak a little bit more about Lucas in my member’s statement. So I invite everyone in the House to welcome Lucas and his dad to their legislature.

Speaker Goudy: — Well we just lost the two fellows I was wanting to introduce. They’re out in the hallway. But the High Commissioner from India was here today. Just wanted to say a few words about he and the fellow that was with him.

High Commissioner Shri Dinesh, he . . . Pretty exciting to have diplomats from India here with that kind of perspective. It’s exciting to see when people have the best interest of their nation and your nation in mind when they’re serving as your High Commissioner, and that was what I saw this morning.

The fellow that was with him, Victor Thomas, we jokingly call him the international man of mystery because we don’t know how he knows everybody he knows, but it’s very interesting. You think you’ve seen it all, and as he was leaving the office today with the High Commissioner, in comes some people to repair the heating system in the building. And wouldn’t you know it, Victor knew the . . . Like how is this even possible? But you know, they say blessed are the peacemakers, but I think blessed are the matchmakers is sometimes underestimated.

[10:15]

You know, when you look at that fellow, Victor Thomas, what he has been for Saskatchewan. He has brought the rest of the world to this province. And though he may not live here now, he sticks out his chest, and he’s very proud of this province. His parents live here. And he serves us exceptionally well as a province. And I just wanted — wish he was here — but wanted to thank him for his great service to the province of Saskatchewan. So they’re gone, but let’s . . . We’ll send them the clip, says the Minister of Rural and Remote Health. Thank you very much.

All right. Who else? Minister of Government Relations.

Hon. Eric Schmalz: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. And a late addition to the introductions today. I wanted to rise in the House and introduce some good friends and constituents of mine in Saskatchewan Rivers, Virgil and Carly Brons and their two children, here today with us.

Mr. Speaker, they are ranchers. They raise arguably the cutest calves in history, and those would be the Scottish Highland breed of calves. Very popular in the plush toy world right now, Mr. Speaker. Also I want to say, point out that their son Mason has been accepted to the U of S [University of Saskatchewan] and will be studying political science coming up.

So I would ask all members to welcome these wonderful people to their legislature.

PRESENTING PETITIONS

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

Jacqueline Roy: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise to present a petition to the Legislative Assembly of Saskatchewan to implement rent control.

The undersigned residents wish you to know that Saskatchewan tenants are currently experiencing the highest level of rent increases in the country, and that with rent control, residents can budget more effectively and contribute to a growing economy. Provinces such as BC [British Columbia], Manitoba, Ontario, and PEI [Prince Edward Island] have already implemented rent control measures and protect tenants.

The undersigned . . . I will read the prayer before that:

Call on the Government of Saskatchewan to adopt a fair and effective rent control legislation that limits annual rent increases, ensures housing stability, and protects tenants from being priced out of homes.

The undersigned residents are from Regina and Saskatoon, Mr. Speaker. I do so present.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the member from Cumberland.

Jordan McPhail: — Well thank you, Mr. Speaker. Today I rise on a fairly important petition, especially this week. You know, over the course of the summer we got to see the Premier up in Ile-a-la-Crosse and talking about the residential schools in northern Saskatchewan that were phased . . . And hearing some of the reports here this last week on the Truth and Reconciliation’s Calls to Action, missing and murdered women and girls and the stance the government has taken on that.

I think it’s extremely important to rise on this petition here today to call on the Government of Saskatchewan to recognize the Timber Bay residential school as a provincially run residential school, release the school records, and the formal apology and compensation to the survivors.

The undersigned residents wish to bring to the attention the following: that survivors of the Timber Bay residential school have been denied the Indian residential school settlements that other sites received on the basis that the school was run by the province of Saskatchewan rather than operated by the federal government; the province of Saskatchewan oversaw approximately 2,000 children attend the school in Timber Bay which operated between 1952 and 1994; Timber Bay residential school is the only residential school in Canada with an open RCMP investigation surrounding historical claims.

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 recognize the Timber Bay school as a provincially run residential school, release the school records to the survivors, offer the students of this school a formal apology, and compensate the survivors.

The signatories of this petition, Mr. Speaker, live in Air Ronge and La Ronge. I do so present.

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

Brittney Senger: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise to present a petition to the Legislative Assembly of Saskatchewan calling for mandatory intimate partner violence education.

The 500 undersigned residents of the province of Saskatchewan wish to bring to your attention the following: Saskatchewan has the highest rates of interpersonal violence in all of Canada; the economic impact of IPV [intimate partner violence] in Canada is estimated at $7 billion per year; annual estimated losses to employers are estimated at $77 million in Canada; workplace orientation would include all genders from all walks of life and all areas of the province.

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 be included in all orientation processes for all new employees in all workplaces in Saskatchewan.

The undersigned residents reside in every corner of Saskatchewan including Moose Jaw, Bruno, Humboldt, The Battlefords, Outlook, Dalmeny, Warman, Rosetown, Martensville, Kyle, Clavet, Sturgis, Langham, Canora, Prince Albert, Yorkton, Weldon, and Dundurn, just to name a few. I do so present.

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

Nicole Sarauer: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise today to present a petition calling on the government to reverse the ban on third-party educators from publicly funded schools.

Those who have signed this petition wish to bring to our attention the following: that on August 22nd, 2023, the Saskatchewan government banned all third-party educators from publicly funded schools. Those who were banned include organizations like the Regina Sexual Assault Centre, the North East Outreach and Support Services, Partners Family Services, and the various YWCAs across the province. The topics that these organizations teach include consent, healthy relationships, and child sexual abuse prevention.

Mr. Speaker, the government’s own domestic violence death review reports from 2018 and 2025 have both highlighted the importance of prevention education for youth. And, Mr. Speaker, the decision to ban these educators will make Saskatchewan’s rates of intimate partner violence, sexual violence, and sexual abuse worse, not better.

I’d like to read the prayer:

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

Those who have signed the petition today come from Saskatoon. I do so present.

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

Tajinder Grewal: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise to present the petition to permit the use of tax-reduced dyed diesel in refrigerated trucks immediately.

The undersigned residents wish to bring to your attention the following: that the price of food rose almost 4 per cent last year as the province continued to tax food refrigeration units on truck trailers; that each refrigeration unit on a truck costs an extra $24,000 to fuel each year with the 12‑cents-per-litre road tax continuing to be charged on them; that other industries in the province, including agriculture and forestry, are eligible to use dyed diesel on equipment that doesn’t touch the highway, but the trucking industry is not; that the Government of Saskatchewan has refused to allow refrigerated trucks to use dyed diesel fuel.

With that, Mr. Speaker, I will read the prayer:

We respectfully request that the Legislative Assembly of Saskatchewan call on the Government of Saskatchewan to immediately permit refrigerated trucks in Saskatchewan to use dyed diesel fuel.

The petition has been signed by residents of Saskatoon. I do so present. Thank you.

STATEMENTS BY MEMBERS

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

Saskatchewan Filmmaker Tells Local Stories

Joan Pratchler: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. With us today in the gallery, as I mentioned before, is an outstanding constituent from Regina Rochdale, Lucas Frison.

Lucas grew up in Strasbourg and is a graduate of the University of Regina with a B.F.A. [Bachelor of Fine Arts] in film production, and after finishing film school, he founded Prairie Cat Productions. And in the following years he wrote, directed, produced, scripted, and did documentary work for Telefilm Canada, CBC, AMI, and many more. You may well know him from his 2019 documentary Humboldt: The New Season. It was nominated for the best documentary program in 2020 at the Canadian Screen Awards. Most recently he directed a documentary series, We Were Broncos, and the feature film One Perfect Date.

We Were Broncos follows the Humboldt Broncos bus crash survivor Ryan Straschnitzki as he pursues the Paralympics. The Broncos are a subject close to Lucas as he lost his best friend in the crash, assistant coach Mark Cross. I was most honoured to be invited to attend that premiere this past summer, and it’s even more touching since I grew up and still have very close ties to the Humboldt community back home. Lucas’s most recent feature film, One Perfect Date, is a comedy and it follows a young woman with Down syndrome.

Please join with me to recognize and celebrate the depth and passion of this artist, Lucas Frison.

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

High School Basketball Team Raises Funds for Cancer Research

Sean Wilson: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise today to recognize the Norquay Knights senior girls’ basketball team and their coaches Stacy Rubletz, Jen Lindgren, and Meghan Lord for their incredible Buckets for Brain Cancer fundraiser, held February 14th and 15th of this year.

The team organized this event to support their teammate and friend Cheyenne Peterson, who was bravely battling DIPG [diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma]. With great sadness, Cheyenne passed away on March 12th, but her courage inspired the entire region.

The fundraiser brought together the communities of Norquay and Sturgis, beginning with a lasagna supper and the pink game, where fans dressed in pink to paint the province pink. The next morning, Norquay’s volunteer firefighters hosted a pancake breakfast, showing true community spirit. Through these efforts, the team raised $3,000 for the Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital Foundation. I’m also proud to note that they were recently nominated for the national youth philanthropist award.

Mr. Speaker, I ask all members to join me in congratulating the Norquay Knights in honouring Cheyenne’s memory.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the member from Regina Wascana Plains.

Big Brothers Big Sisters Empower Saskatchewan Youth

Brent Blakley: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Big Brothers Big Sisters of Regina and Area has been a pillar of youth empowerment and community support since 1971. Big Brothers Big Sisters operate agencies throughout Saskatchewan, including Yorkton and area.

The organization is dedicated to enabling life-changing mentoring relationships that fuels the potential of young people. Through its various one-to-one and group mentoring programs, Big Brothers Big Sisters connects children and youth facing adversity with caring adult volunteers who provide guidance, friendship, and encouragement. These relationships help build confidence and a sense of belonging to young people, giving them the tools they need to succeed in school, establish positive relationships, and make healthy life choices.

Programs such as in-school mentoring, big group activities, and traditional community-based matches meet the unique needs of each young person, ensuring a lasting impact. The organization also collaborates with schools, families, and community partners to address challenges and create supportive environments for youth.

In Regina, executive director Dominika Krzeminska, director of development and communications Amy Mohr, and mentoring coordinator Theresa Mura, along with the staff and volunteers, work tirelessly to foster connections that strengthen the entire community.

Big Brothers Big Sisters organizations in Regina, Yorkton, and throughout Saskatchewan continue to promote the belief that every child has incredible potential, potential to grow into confident, compassionate leaders.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Ag minister, our MLA [Member of the Legislative Assembly] from Cannington.

Pro Rodeo Volunteer Recognized for Years of Service

Hon. Daryl Harrison: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I’d like to take a moment to recognize my constituent Jill Lowe, a 25‑year member of the Moose Mountain Pro Rodeo committee in Kennedy, Saskatchewan.

Jill’s roots run deep in the Kennedy area, and her great-grandfather was a founding member of the Moose Mountain Pro Rodeo way back in 1933. Jill has served as the committee’s president since 2019 and was recently recognized for her years of hard work and dedication as the Committee Member of the Year in the Canadian Professional Rodeo Association. Jill says her role on the committee is a lot of work, but she wouldn’t do it if she didn’t love it.

You can’t put an event on like this without an exceptional team of volunteers, and the team that puts on the Moose Mountain Pro Rodeo is small but mighty. Jill was nominated by her peers on the committee for the award, and although she won it herself, she accepted it on behalf of the entire organization.

The little community of Kennedy grows from 200 people to 1,500 people on rodeo weekend, putting on an incredible show sanctioned by the Canadian Professional Rodeo Association, one of the only professional rodeos here in the province. I encourage all members to check out the rodeo next summer and join me in congratulating Jill on this accomplishment. Thank you.

[10:30]

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

Call to Action for Education on Domestic Violence

Jacqueline Roy: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. On April 20th, 2017 in Yellow Grass, Abbie Speir had her life taken in a brutal way. I will spare the Chamber the details, but her family lives with them every day.

When I was talking with her twin sister, Leah, this week, she said:

There was so much we didn’t know that might have changed the outcome. I didn’t know how prevalent domestic abuse was. I didn’t know that leaving and going back were common. I didn’t know it was unlikely to have been the first incident when she finally told us what was happening. I didn’t know that leaving was the most dangerous time.

Abbie died days before her family’s plan to help her escape.

Late last night while finishing this statement, I realized something horribly uncomfortable myself. After 17 years or more as an educator, Mr. Speaker, I didn’t know the signs. There’s lots of lives I could have turned around. It seems very obvious to me in retrospect when I look at some of the conversations I had with people over the years, some of those signs.

If we can require training on how to handle bleach, we can require training on how to save victims’ lives. It’s simple. It’s practical. It doesn’t cost much, and the government has already developed and used it with its own employees. Mr. Speaker, I will remind this House that it is our solemn duty as legislators to minimize harm, and if we don’t do more to educate kids in classrooms or educate adults at work, history will not look kindly upon us.

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

Saskatchewan Doctor Paved the Way for Universal Health Care

Barret Kropf: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise today to honour a remarkable pioneer of Canadian health care whose vision began over 110 years ago in the small village of Holdfast, Saskatchewan. In July 1914 Dr. Henry Joseph Schmitt arrived in the rural municipality of Sarnia. Faced with families unable to pay medical bills during tough prairie years, Dr. Schmitt proposed a bold idea. The municipality would retain his services through tax dollars, providing care to all residents with no additional fees.

In 1915 the RM [rural municipality] agreed to pay Dr. Schmitt an annual salary of $1,800, making Holdfast the very first community in North America to hire and fund a doctor this way. This was the birth of the municipal doctor system, the direct forerunner of Saskatchewan’s universal health care.

He was there at the outset of the Spanish flu and would take the horse and cutter and check on farms in the area. Whatever farm he ended up at night was where he stayed. It was amazing that he never got the flu himself.

Mr. Speaker, it is fitting that Dr. Schmitt’s grandson Fred Bradshaw, who served as MLA in this very Chamber, carried on that same spirit of public service as the member for Carrot River Valley from 2007 until 2024. The Schmitt-Bradshaw family reminds us that real change often starts in our smallest communities with the courage of one person who believes health care is a right, not a privilege.

Today let us thank Dr. Henry Joseph Schmitt for showing the world that medicare could work and that Saskatchewan could lead the way. To his grandson, MLA Bradshaw, thank you for your years of service to this province. And to the town of Holdfast, thank you for your leadership in health care over a century ago. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Environment minister, the member from Last Mountain-Touchwood.

Canadian Western Agribition Showcases Saskatchewan to the World

Hon. Travis Keisig: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Like a bull in the arena, the Canadian Western Agribition launched with full energy right here in the Queen City. Agribition attracts thousands from around the globe each year, showcasing Saskatchewan’s world-class agricultural sector.

Speaking of energy, Mr. Speaker, last night in this very building, there was a lot of exciting energy going on. Our Premier hosted the annual Canadian Western Agribition Premier’s reception, providing a meaningful opportunity for us to connect with producers, stakeholders, and special guests from Canada and around the globe. The building was buzzing with excitement about cattle prices, the long-time exhibitor awards, and our great trade relations.

And speaking of great trade relations, Mr. Speaker, you will never guess who dropped in at the reception last night — the High Commissioner of India to Canada, Mr. Dinesh Patnaik, who is also joining us here today. Our efforts to promote trade and expand this province’s reach internationally are succeeding, which is primarily due to the work of our Premier and this government, Mr. Speaker. There is no better place to see this momentum than during Canadian Western Agribition, where the chute opens, Mr. Speaker, where our world-class producers, ranchers, and businesses all step into that arena and showcase their world-class talent. Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker.

QUESTION PERIOD

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

Property Taxes and Supports for Municipalities

Vicki Mowat: — Mr. Speaker, the Sask Party government hammers families with taxes every single day. They hiked taxes on groceries. They hiked taxes on kids’ clothes. They even hiked taxes on tires, Mr. Speaker.

Now we find out they’re also behind the massive property taxes coming to Regina and Saskatoon. The city of Saskatoon produced a report that makes it clear. The Sask Party has dumped responsibility for housing and homelessness onto municipal government. Now as a result, property taxes are due to rise more than 12 per cent over two years.

Can the Premier explain to homeowners why he’s making them shoulder the burden for his horrible financial mismanagement?

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

Hon. Eric Schmalz: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. It is this government who implemented a comprehensive municipal revenue-sharing program in this province unique to this country, Mr. Speaker. No other province and jurisdiction of Canada has that municipal revenue sharing, Mr. Speaker: $362 million provided to municipalities over the last year, $66 million going to the city of Saskatoon, 55 million going to the city of Regina.

Mr. Speaker, we will continue to work with and support our municipalities, including lobbying trips to Ottawa with the mayors of the seven largest urban centres; SARM [Saskatchewan Association of Rural Municipalities] and SUMA [Saskatchewan Urban Municipalities Association] along with us . . .

[Interjections]

Speaker Goudy: — It’s a poor start. How about we listen a little more careful to the answers?

Sorry. Minister of Government Relations.

Hon. Eric Schmalz: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. SARM and SUMA along with us, Mr. Speaker, in an effort to secure further integrated bilateral agreements with our municipal partners to support municipalities in Saskatchewan, Mr. Speaker. We will continue that work every day, Mr. Speaker. Thank you very much.

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

Vicki Mowat: — So out of touch with everyday people, Mr. Speaker. Four in ten, four in ten people are borrowing money or draining their savings just to put food on the table. We have record food bank use, higher financial anxiety than anywhere else in Canada, and what does the Sask Party do here in Regina? They try to pick up Costco and move it to their failed GTH [Global Transportation Hub], a horrible decision that cost Regina taxpayers $7 million.

Now taxes in Regina could rise 15 per cent. Can the Premier explain why he clearly cares more about propping up the failed GTH than cutting families a break on their taxes?

Speaker Goudy: — Again I’m going to ask both sides when their time comes to talk about the intention and be careful in your questions please.

I recognize the Minister of Government Relations.

Hon. Eric Schmalz: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Again this government is doing more for municipalities than any other jurisdiction in Canada, Mr. Speaker. You don’t need to ask us. You can ask the Federation of Canadian Municipalities who said Saskatchewan was on the right track when it comes to supporting municipalities.

Mr. Speaker, we will continue to work with our municipalities in this province, supporting their infrastructure needs wherever and whenever we can alongside our federal partners, alongside our municipal partners, Mr. Speaker. We stand with Saskatchewan municipalities every single day.

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

Power Rates and Fiscal Management

Vicki Mowat: — Mr. Speaker, yesterday we asked about mounting losses at SaskPower. The Sask Party has blown a nearly quarter-billion-dollar hole in what they projected, and the year is only half gone. There’s only one place to turn to cover these losses, and it’s the ratepayers.

Will the Premier tell the people of Saskatchewan exactly how high he will hike their SaskPower bills?

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of CIC [Crown Investments Corporation of Saskatchewan].

Hon. Jeremy Harrison: — Well thank you, colleagues. Let’s be very clear what the NDP [New Democratic Party] just asked, Mr. Speaker. They are demanding that the industrial carbon tax be put back on to SaskPower bills. That is what the NDP have been demanding since we took the industrial carbon tax off of SaskPower bills, Mr. Speaker.

In fact the only thing that they’ve actually had to say about power, Mr. Speaker, is that they are going to shut down 1500 megawatts of our existing facilities right now, adding tens of billions of dollars of capital costs and doubling or tripling SaskPower bills, Mr. Speaker.

That’s their plan. Our plan is to take and keep that industrial carbon tax off SaskPower bills, keeping our power system reliable and affordable into the future.

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

Health Care Staffing and Rural Emergency Departments

Keith Jorgenson: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. This tax-and-spend Sask Party government is failing the families of Saskatchewan with the cost of living, but they’re failing to deliver health care in rural Saskatchewan too, Mr. Speaker.

Today we’re joined by Pat Jackson, the mayor of Kipling. She’s here to advocate for her hospital in her community. Last night the ER [emergency room] was closed again due to short-staffing.

What does the minister say to the people of Kipling who can’t trust that their hospital will be open for them when they need the care they need?

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of Remote and Rural Health.

Hon. Lori Carr: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. And I do thank the member opposite for the question because stabilizing and strengthening our health care services in rural and remote areas of the province is a priority for this government.

And I want to truly thank Pat for being with us here today. She is a strong advocate for her community, and I truly appreciate her for the way she works collaboratively with both sides of the House on trying to find solutions.

And one of those solutions, Mr. Speaker, that we just announced is point-of-care testing is going to be coming to Kipling. Staff is being trained as we speak. Hopefully it’s up and running in early December. And that will truly help and alleviate some of these short-term disruptions that are taking place in her community.

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

Keith Jorgenson: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. You know, last night was not an isolated incident. The Kipling hospital was closed on November 3rd, from the 7th to the 12th, then again on the 19th, the 20th, the 25th. That’s nine days in November and 50 days so far this year, Mr. Speaker.

This Sask Party government has been in power for 18 years. Why did they let things get so bad in Kipling?

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of Remote and Rural Health.

Hon. Lori Carr: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. And once again I’d like to thank Pat for coming here. I had an opportunity to speak with her last week at length. We had a great conversation.

During that conversation I had the opportunity to highlight the things that we are doing for rural communities, and specifically for Kipling, through some administration savings that we found earlier this year right across the province. In 30 communities we were able to have 77 new and enhanced clinical roles, two of which went to Kipling, Mr. Speaker.

We have been able to fully staff their doctor complement through the SIPPA [Saskatchewan international physician practice assessment] program. So that is one more thing that Kipling has, and we’re so happy to be able to have those there. And with the point-of-care testing it will help augment that so that short-term disruptions do not happen in the future, Mr. Speaker.

So thank you to Pat for coming, and we’ll continue to work with not only her community but all rural communities across Saskatchewan, Mr. Speaker.

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

Keith Jorgenson: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. You know, the people of Kipling are seeing the effects of these closures on their health and the people in the community, but they’re also seeing the effects of these closures on local businesses.

My office has reached out to many of the small businesses in Kipling, and almost universally they’ve told my office that they’re seeing a decrease in customers and also they’re having difficulty securing investment in Kipling due to the uncertainty of the hospital being open.

Does the minister understand the damage that she is doing not only to health care and people’s health, but also how this affecting local businesses? And will the minister agree to meet with Pat today after question period?

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of Remote and Rural Health.

Hon. Lori Carr: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. And Pat already knows I have an open door. And any time she wants to meet with me, I will meet with her.

As for the conversation that we had last week — as for several conversations we’ve had over several different ministries that I’ve had the opportunity to work in, Mr. Speaker — her collaboration and the way we work with the community of Kipling, I’m actually quite proud of that. And that’s why we’re continuing to do the work that we’re doing around ensuring that there’s doctors, ensuring that care comes to the front line; you know, getting rid of some of those administrative positions across the province to be able to do that, Mr. Speaker.

The point-of-care testing that I talked about . . . I understand that home care services in their community, there are no longer wait-lists because we’ve been able to staff up in that area as well, Mr. Speaker. We have registered nurse APPs, authorized practice nurses, within that community now. There are additional services that they have there as well, Mr. Speaker, and we will continue to work with rural Saskatchewan. Thank you.

[10:45]

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

Child Care Agreement with Federal Government

Joan Pratchler: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Well, well, well. I go to Ottawa for just three days and I come home and we’ve got a child care agreement announcement. Who knew? There we go. I rise today on behalf of those families and the child care providers who have been ignored for so, so long . . . [inaudible interjection] . . . I’ll wait.

Child care makes life more affordable, and it’s good for the economy. Yet this government dragged its heels, and now we’re going to be the second-last province to sign on to the deal with the federal government. There was so much anxiety and worry for the families. Centres, centres have nearly closed. And we desperately need more child care spaces, and we got child care deserts everywhere.

[Interjections]

Speaker Goudy: — Sorry. The government, it’s not listening very well to questions here.

The member from Regina Rochdale.

Joan Pratchler: — Will the minister stand and apologize for all he’s put these families through?

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of Education.

Hon. Everett Hindley: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I will not stand and apologize for negotiating a better deal on behalf of every single family in this province, Mr. Speaker.

Those members opposite, and that member for Regina Rochdale has the gall to stand in the House today to take credit for this deal, Mr. Speaker, the hard work being done by the ministry, the assistant deputy minister and her team on this file working on behalf of this government and on behalf of families and child care operators in this province to make sure that not only do we get a better deal for child care in this province, but a long-term, sustainable deal that is the best deal for families, for the sector, Mr. Speaker.

The only apology that should be given in this House today to the people of this province, Mr. Speaker, is from that member opposite who ran around the province for months and months and months creating uncertainty in the child care sector. She knows better than that, Mr. Speaker, and she should apologize.

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

Joan Pratchler: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Well that wasn’t very nice, was it? Saskatchewan ranks dead last in affordable child care spaces. In fact we’ve been last for the last four years. Oh wait, who’s been in government?

And as one provider joining us in the legislature said to me yesterday on the plane, any signatures now don’t make up for the last number of months of chaos child care operators have had to endure. And we still don’t have clarity.

Can the Premier explain why his government has driven affordable child care in Saskatchewan to last place in all of Canada?

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of Education.

Hon. Everett Hindley: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Great to finally get some questions this session finally on child care. It’s been a bit of a desert when it comes to questions from that member opposite, Mr. Speaker.

Mr. Speaker, here’s the deal. As I’ve said multiple times and . . . Lots of chatter from members opposite. Mr. Speaker, as we’ve said for months now, we have been willing and ready to negotiate a child care deal on behalf of the families of this province, Mr. Speaker. And that is what we’ve been waiting to do and reached out to the minister back in May after her appointment.

Mr. Speaker, it wasn’t until the 16th of October when we got a letter from the minister federally saying that she was now instructing her officials to begin negotiations with our government. And so that’s when negotiations began and occurred in a very robust fashion, Mr. Speaker, to ensure that we get the deal.

Mr. Speaker, we’re not going to do what the members opposite were suggesting the entire time, which is to simply . . . [inaudible interjection] . . . They’re right, Mr. Speaker, actually . . .

[Interjections]

Speaker Goudy: — Yeah, it’s time. But I was standing up to say that the member from Cumberland needs to listen a little more careful to the answers to the questions. Next question, please.

I recognize the member from Regina Douglas Park.

Addressing Interpersonal Violence

Nicole Sarauer: — Mr. Speaker, Saskatchewan has the highest rates of intimate partner violence amongst provinces in the country, more than double the national average.

Joan McDonald, seated in your gallery today, lost her daughter to intimate partner violence in 2017 and has since become a tireless advocate for action in our province. She is the creator of the petition for mandatory intimate partner violence education that you heard earlier today. Mr. Speaker, education is essential in combatting intimate partner violence.

To the Minister of Labour: will this government consider mandatory workplace education to address our worst-in-the-nation rates of intimate partner violence?

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

Hon. Alana Ross: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. And I would like to express my sincere condolences to Joan and her family. I know what you’ve been through is absolutely heartbreaking, and I express my condolences on behalf of our government.

And, Mr. Speaker, violence of any form is unacceptable in our workplaces, in our homes, anywhere in our province. And employers have an obligation to ensure the health and safety and well-being of their workers. As of May 17th, all workplaces are required to have a violence policy and a prevention plan in place to ensure the safety of their workers.

Our government has put in place interpersonal violence leave for survivors of interpersonal violence or sexual violence to access supports or relocate homes. However there’s more work to be done. There is a bill that we, as we speak . . .

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

Nicole Sarauer: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Kind words from that minister, but very little action. The actions presented were provisions that we’ve been pushing government to implement. And that question was to the Minister of Labour, Mr. Speaker.

Let’s take the province’s own Domestic Violence Death Review Report as an example of this government’s inaction. The second report came out almost a year ago now with many of the same recommendations as the first.

From the 2018 report, Mr. Speaker: “Develop a comprehensive program that focuses on building education and awareness about healthy relationships and how to prevent and respond to situations of domestic violence and abuse.”

Now from the 2025 report, Mr. Speaker: “Develop youth-focused educational programs on healthy relationships.”

To the Minister of Education: why has the Sask Party failed to do these and actually taken us backward by removing healthy relationship education from our schools?

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

Hon. Alana Ross: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I’ve spoke many times in this House as to many programs and actions that we’ve put into place. However there’s still more work to be done when protecting victims of gender-based violence and interpersonal violence, and we recognize that.

There is a bill before this Assembly as we speak that can be passed through all stages today. Immediately following question period, the government will be requesting leave to move Bill No. 34, The Cyberstalking and Coercive Control Act. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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

Access to Primary Care

Meara Conway: — So disappointing to see this government ignore recommendations that they could put in place today, Mr. Speaker. Unacceptable, unacceptable.

On Sunday the Gardens Community Health Centre in Regina is due to shut its doors for good because, after 18 years of this Sask Party, they couldn’t find or keep doctors. Now today the Health minister brushes off questions about this clinic. He wants to distance himself totally from it. But back in 2018 when it opened, their own press release heralded it as “the future of primary care,” after which they poured over $20 million into this clinic.

It makes no sense that that Health minister can’t tell us a single thing he’s done to save this clinic. So forget him, Mr. Speaker. To the Premier: does the Premier know how many Regina residents will lose their family doctor come Sunday when this clinic closes?

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of Health.

Hon. Jeremy Cockrill: — Mr. Speaker, I’ve answered this question multiple times from the member opposite. This is an independently run clinic that makes decisions to close on their own, Mr. Speaker.

But, Mr. Speaker, I would highlight — I know the member opposite doesn’t want to hear this from me but — the availability of new contract nurse practitioners that we have right here in the city of Regina. Nineteen right across the province, but five new nurse practitioners accepting at least 800 patients each, Mr. Speaker. Those five right here practising in the city of Regina.

I had an opportunity to speak to three of those nurse practitioners a couple of weeks ago. They are welcoming patients, new patients, in the city of Regina. And I would recommend that any patient in Regina looking for a primary care provider seek that out through those nurse practitioners that are now available right here in the city of Regina.

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

Meara Conway: — Mr. Speaker, the evidence on the value of nurse practitioners has been around since the 1970s. So, great, but you’re late to the party and it’s not enough.

And to the Premier, the answer to that question was 5,000. Five thousand people will find themselves without a family doctor. It’s another step in the wrong direction, making it totally clear they have no intention of honouring their election promise that they will find primary care for every Saskatchewan resident by 2028.

They’ve known about this closure for months, Mr. Speaker. Why did the Premier and the Health minister do nothing to find solutions? And again, what are the 5,000 people that will find themselves without access to primary care or a family doctor, what are they expected to do come Monday?

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of Health.

Hon. Jeremy Cockrill: — Mr. Speaker, I’m happy to tell residents of the city of Regina, residents right across this province that myself, this government, this Premier are absolutely committed to putting patients first and ensuring that every single person in this province has access to a primary care provider by 2028. That’s why we’re adding these 19 nurse practitioner positions right across the province. That’s why we’ve added more family medicine residency seats in rural communities, including Nipawin and Melfort and Yorkton, Mr. Speaker.

Again, Mr. Speaker, these are all the things that we’re doing to ensure that we have more primary care providers to ensure that everybody in this province has access to primary care by 2028.

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

Supports for Agricultural Producers

Trent Wotherspoon: — Mr. Speaker, yesterday very proud producers from a region in the Southwest that have faced nine years of drought and counting came to this legislature demanding action. They’re in a dire situation. But instead of delivering the supports those producers need, that minister sent an official out to the rotunda to answer on his behalf.

That’s not accountability. That’s not stepping up. That’s pathetic and weak, Mr. Speaker. But that’s what the Saskatchewan people have grown to expect . . .

Speaker Goudy: — I don’t think we can be calling members pathetic and weak. In that case it was maybe not the response, but it was towards the individual. So I would ask that you apologize to the member.

Trent Wotherspoon: — I’d withdraw.

That’s not accountability. That’s not stepping up. But that’s what Saskatchewan people have grown to expect from that 18‑year-old Sask Party government.

Why won’t that Ag minister and that government step up to support this region and these producers that are in such a dire situation, and make sure they have the emergency supports that they deserve?

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of Agriculture.

Hon. Daryl Harrison: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I’ve got to say, the member opposite goes out to rural Saskatchewan to see the challenges. I go home and see those challenges myself. I’m very, very in touch with the producers of this province.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. This year producers had $12 billion worth of crop insurance coverage alone. We know this program supports producers. It has paid out over $7 billion in the last four years. From that amount, almost a quarter of a billion dollars has gone to the RMs of Big Stick and Fox Valley and their neighbouring municipalities.

Mr. Speaker, we are there for our producers, and we will fully fund our business risk management programs. We are there every step of the way. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the member from Athabasca.

Public Documents Related to Indigenous Experiences

Leroy Laliberte: — Mr. Speaker, the Sask Party government has shown severe disrespect for the First Nations and Métis people in this province. The reports of the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls and the Truth and Reconciliation Commission detail the abuses and violations of Indigenous people, both historical and ongoing.

[11:00]

They are two of the most important documents published in the country. And in the Court of King’s Bench, the Sask Party government lawyers called those documents “patently unreliable.” This is an insult to all Indigenous peoples in Canada.

Will the Premier apologize for this outrageous statement?

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of First Nations, Métis and Northern Affairs.

Hon. Eric Schmalz: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The comments from the member clearly demonstrate they don’t understand the question before the court, Mr. Speaker. It has nothing to do with the content of the documents or the experiences of the individuals, Mr. Speaker. It is simply focusing on what public documents meet the established legal criteria on admissibility for evidence in court, Mr. Speaker.

Moreover, Mr. Speaker, I’ve got a list here of ways and means in which we are meeting reconciliation in this province every day, Mr. Speaker. But no more of an example points to that than the opportunity I had with the Premier this summer, Mr. Speaker, to attend Ile-a-la-Crosse, where the Premier of this province took the unprecedented step to apologize and provide compensation to the survivors and their families of the residential school in that community, Mr. Speaker. Thank you very much.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Government House Leader.

Hon. Tim McLeod: — Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. I ask leave to move to Government Order no. 7, The Cyberstalking and Coercive Control Act.

Speaker Goudy: — The member has asked leave to move to Government Orders no. 7.

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

GOVERNMENT ORDERS

ADJOURNED DEBATES

SECOND READINGS

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.]

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of Remote and Rural Health.

Hon. Lori Carr: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I move that the question on the second reading of Bill No. 34, The Cyberstalking and Coercive Control Act now be put.

[Interjections]

Speaker Goudy: — Order please. The question before the Assembly is the motion moved by the Minister of Remote and Rural Health that Bill No. 34 be now read a second time. Is it the pleasure of the Assembly to adopt the motion?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Speaker Goudy: — Carried.

Deputy Clerk: — Second reading of this bill.

Speaker Goudy: — To which committee shall this bill be committed? I recognize the Minister of Remote and Rural Health.

Hon. Lori Carr: — I designate that Bill No. 34, The Cyberstalking and Coercive Control Act be committed to the Committee of the Whole on Bills and that the said bill be considered in the Committee of the Whole on Bills immediately.

Speaker Goudy: — I do now leave the Chair for the Assembly to go into Committee of the Whole on Bills.

COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE ON BILLS

Bill No. 34 — The Cyberstalking and Coercive Control Act

Chair B. McLeod: — I’ll ask for order in the House. Order in the House.

The item of business before the committee is Bill No. 34, The Cyberstalking and Coercive Control Act.

Clause 1, short title, is that agreed?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

[Clause 1 agreed to.]

[Interjections]

Chair B. McLeod: — I’ll ask for order in the House once more, and please keep silent.

[Clauses 2 and 3 agreed to.]

Chair B. McLeod: — His Majesty, by and with the advice and consent of the Legislative Assembly of Saskatchewan, enacts as follows: Bill No. 34, The Cyberstalking and Coercive Control Act.

I recognize the Government House Leader.

Hon. Tim McLeod: — Thank you very much, Mr. Chair. I move that the committee report the bill without amendment.

Chair B. McLeod: — It has been moved that the committee report Bill No. 34 without amendment. Is that agreed?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Chair B. McLeod: — Carried. I recognize the Government House Leader.

Hon. Tim McLeod: — Mr. Chair, I move that the committee rise, report progress, and ask for leave to sit again.

Chair B. McLeod: — It has been moved by the minister that the committee rise, report progress, and ask for leave to sit again. Is that agreed?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Chair B. McLeod: — Carried.

[The Speaker resumed the Chair.]

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Chair of Committees.

Blaine McLeod: — I am instructed by the committee to report Bill No. 34, The Cyberstalking and Coercive Control Act without amendment.

Speaker Goudy: — The Minister of Justice may proceed and move to third reading.

THIRD READINGS

Bill No. 34 — The Cyberstalking and Coercive Control Act

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

Speaker Goudy: — It has been moved that Bill No. 34, The Cyberstalking and Coercive Control Act be now read the third time and passed under its title. Is the Assembly ready for the question?

Some Hon. Members: — Question.

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

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Speaker Goudy: — Carried.

Deputy Clerk: — Third reading of this bill.

Speaker Goudy: — When shall the committee sit again? I recognize the Minister of Justice.

Hon. Tim McLeod: — Next sitting, Mr. Speaker.

Speaker Goudy: — Next sitting.

I recognize the Government House Leader.

Hon. Tim McLeod: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I move that we do now return to routine proceedings.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Government House Leader.

Hon. Tim McLeod: — Apologies, Mr. Speaker. I request leave.

Speaker Goudy: — The minister has asked leave. Is leave granted?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Speaker Goudy: — Carried. So to confirm with the Assembly, we’ll now return to routine proceedings.

ROUTINE PROCEEDINGS

PRESENTING REPORTS BY STANDING AND SPECIAL COMMITTEES

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Chair of the Standing Committee on Human Services.

Standing Committee on Human Services

Michael Weger: — Mr. Speaker, I am instructed by the Standing Committee on Human Services to report Bill No. 28, The Public Libraries Amendment Act, 2025 without amendment.

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

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

Speaker Goudy: — The minister has requested leave to waive consideration in Committee of the Whole on Bill No. 28, The Public Libraries Amendment Act, 2025 and that the bill be now read the third time. Is leave granted?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

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

THIRD READINGS

Bill No. 28 — The Public Libraries Amendment Act, 2025

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

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

Some Hon. Members: — Question.

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

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Speaker Goudy: — Carried.

Deputy Clerk: — Third reading of this bill.

PRESENTING REPORTS BY STANDING AND SPECIAL COMMITTEES

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Chair of the Standing Committee on Intergovernmental Affairs and Justice.

Standing Committee on Intergovernmental Affairs and Justice

Blaine McLeod: — Mr. Speaker, I am instructed by the Standing Committee on Intergovernmental Affairs and Justice to report Bill No. 26, The Miscellaneous Statutes Repeal Act, 2025 without amendment.

[11:15]

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

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

Speaker Goudy: — The minister has requested leave to waive consideration in Committee of the Whole on Bill No. 26, The Miscellaneous Statutes Repeal Act, 2025 without amendment and that the bill be now read the third time. Is leave granted?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

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

THIRD READINGS

Bill No. 26 — The Miscellaneous Statutes Repeal Act, 2025

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

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

Some Hon. Members: — Question.

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

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Speaker Goudy: — Carried.

Deputy Clerk: — Third reading of this bill.

PRESENTING REPORTS BY STANDING AND SPECIAL COMMITTEES

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Chair of the Standing Committee on Intergovernmental Affairs and Justice.

Standing Committee on Intergovernmental Affairs and Justice

Blaine McLeod: — Mr. Speaker, I am instructed by the Standing Committee on Intergovernmental Affairs and Justice to report Bill No. 27, The Statute Law Amendment Act, 2025, a bilingual bill, without amendment.

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

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

Speaker Goudy: — The minister has requested leave to waive consideration in Committee of the Whole on Bill No. 27, The Statute Law Amendment Act, 2025 without amendment and that the bill be now read the third time. Is leave granted?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Speaker Goudy: — The minister may now move third reading.

THIRD READINGS

Bill No. 27 — The Statute Law Amendment Act, 2025/Loi de 2025 modifiant le droit législatif

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

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

Some Hon. Members: — Question.

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

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Speaker Goudy: — Carried.

Deputy Clerk: — Third reading of this bill.

ORDERS OF THE DAY

TABLING OF ESTIMATES AND SUPPLEMENTARY ESTIMATES

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of Finance.

Hon. Jim Reiter: — Mr. Speaker, it’s my pleasure to submit supplementary estimates accompanied by a message from Her Honour the Lieutenant Governor of Saskatchewan.

Speaker Goudy: — Would you please rise for the message from the Lieutenant Governor. The message is as follows:

The Lieutenant Governor transmits supplementary estimates no. 1 of certain sums required for the service of the province for the 12 months ending March 31st, 2026, and recommends the same to the Legislative Assembly.

Her Honour, the Honourable M. Bernadette McIntyre, Lieutenant Governor, province of Saskatchewan.

Thank you.

SEVENTY-FIVE MINUTE DEBATE

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

Government’s Record on Economic Growth

Megan Patterson: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. It is my pleasure to speak today about the framework that this government has created for strong economic growth. Creating an environment where the private sector can flourish is actually the founding principle upon which this party was created. The first guiding principle is that economic growth and job creation through the private sector, not the government, is the engine of the economy.

We are blessed with natural resources, but it is the guiding principles of our party and the hard-working people in our province that come together to create a strong foundation for our economic framework. This government uses building blocks to elevate our strong foundation to create an ecosystem for economic growth. Important building blocks include targeted incentives, diversified markets, low costs, and stable regulations.

Our investment-attracting strategy is actually the Saskatchewan advantage. And it includes keeping our small-business tax rate low at 1 per cent, keeping utility bundle costs among the lowest in the country, and maintaining a transparent and predictable regulatory environment. In addition to the lowest small-business tax rate, Saskatchewan is one of the highest small-business income tax thresholds in Canada at 600,000.

Another important building block in our framework of economic growth is the elimination of the carbon tax. We’ve removed the carbon tax for everyone, becoming the first carbon tax-free province in Canada. This strategic policy decision makes our jurisdiction extremely attractive to energy-intense resource companies. It also makes life more affordable for families across our province.

Why is this framework to stimulate economic growth so important? Why am I talking about it for 15 minutes? Well it’s not only important, but it’s crucial because it’s only with a strong private sector that the government can generate the revenue that we need to deliver investments in health care, education, highways, and the social programs that our citizens rely on.

Another example of the targeted incentive building block is the SME [small to medium-sized enterprise] investment tax credit. I was happy to be at the SME investment tax credit announcement at Pile O’ Bones brewery. This tax credit will offer a 45 per cent non-refundable tax credit to individuals or corporations who invest in the equity of an eligible industry to assist with scaling up operations or expanding.

Another example of an important building block for economic growth is our young entrepreneur bursary program. Developed in partnership with the Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce, the Moose Jaw Chamber of Commerce awarded four local businesses this $5,000 bursary.

Kelsey Byers is a proud Indigenous entrepreneur and founder of Hometown Healing massage therapy. Kelsey will use this grant to grow as a young entrepreneur, deepen her experience, support community health, and strengthen Indigenous representation in health care.

Montana Falasca, another recipient, launched MontanasPhotoWorks, which is a photography and videography business specializing in lifestyle, branding, weddings, portraits, and creative storytelling. They are using the bursary dollars to expand into a creative studio and event space to offer even more value.

Rylan Wheaton Photography offers photography and videography services to individuals and businesses primarily capturing weddings, landscapes, artwork, and events.

The final recipient of this bursary in Moose Jaw was Kolter Mealing. He runs The Blue Line Hockey Shop, which is a quick, one-stop hockey shop offering skate sharpening, profiling, and equipment repairs, with a focus on custom skate comfort and fit. With this bursary they are expanding fitting services and are enhancing their customer rewards system to recognize customer loyalty and add value for every athlete in Moose Jaw.

These economic building blocks that this government has put in place are supporting start-ups, but they’re also attracting strong and significant investment in our province. Examples of the recent investment in our province include of course the BHP Jansen potash mine, which is the largest single mining investment in Saskatchewan history; the commitment by K+S to double potash production at the Bethune mine; the construction of two new uranium mines, Denison mine and NexGen Energy. They’re ready to go, just awaiting federal approval.

There is a new Cargill canola crushing plant being built at the Global Transportation Hub. The Louis Dreyfus Company is more than doubling the facility’s canola crushing capacity and adding a new pea protein isolate production plant at the same site. Richardson International is doubling its Yorkton canola crush plant as well.

So many investments in this province. I have to take a break. The east central Saskatchewan net zero copper mine is another important development. This will revive base metal mining, contributing to critical mineral supplies for clean energy and electrification under a net zero emissions design.

These building blocks are working. In 2024 Saskatchewan had the second-highest level of total capital investment growth among the provinces, reaching nearly $20 billion. A strong economic framework is critical because it creates opportunities for our citizens through job creation. When businesses thrive, they employ people, support families, and invest in communities.

One of our government’s guiding principles is to provide a strong social safety net which protects those in need while encouraging individuals to become self-sufficient. It’s not about providing individuals with a hammock but a safety net, and the opportunity to reach their potential and achieve the lives they aspire to.

Our province continues to show strong labour market growth. Nearly 20,000 jobs were added year over year in March, leading the nation with a 3.4 per cent job growth rate. Saskatchewan also has the lowest unemployment rate among provinces at 4.9 per cent, well below the national average of 6.7 per cent. Mr. Speaker, our economic framework is working. Year-over-year full-time employment increased by 5,400 jobs, an increase of 1.1 per cent.

I was happy to have the opportunity to bring greetings on behalf of this government at the SaskAbilities event celebrating Disability Employment Awareness Month, otherwise known as DEAM. The goal of DEAM is to promote and bring awareness to the economic benefits of hiring people with disabilities.

A quote from Elle’s Cafe, an inclusive employer, that she had about her employee Colton, who is legally blind:

Colton’s unwavering determination and his positive and grateful attitude became a daily source of motivation for our entire team. He demonstrated that many obstacles can evolve into chances for growth and wisdom. This has motivated us all to surpass our own limits when facing challenges that seem minor in comparison.

Inclusive employment is another building block in our economic framework. The Accessible Saskatchewan Act came into force in December of 2023. This Act will work to remove barriers in the workplace, enabling individuals with disabilities to contribute economically and giving them a sense of purpose.

Markus is another example of an individual who benefited from inclusive employment. Markus has always wanted to work, but he couldn’t find a job that was the right fit. Then SaskAbilities came into his life, and he realized he could be happy working part-time and using his training in interactive design and technology. Through his résumé-writing and interview skills that he learned from Partners in Employment, he secured a job at Code Ninjas.

A quote from Markus is:

Before Partners, I really had no idea of what I could handle and what I couldn’t. This was a huge issue for me. I needed to start somewhere that I could be confident, and Partners helped me find that [says Markus]. This job is something that I can actually say I’m really, really good at. I’m super stoked about going into work every day and doing a good job every day.

Inclusive employment programs like Partners in Employment are another important building block in our economic framework.

There are also more women working in Saskatchewan than ever before. Female employment reached an all-time high of almost 290,000, which is up 4.1 per cent. I am pleased to share that we have reached an agreement with the federal government on child care. We will continue to support female employment in this province and strong families through affordable child care, both of which are key building blocks in our economic framework.

This strong economic framework is also delivering in and around my constituency in Moose Jaw Wakamow. At the Moose Jaw night at the legislature we highlighted several businesses that have taken advantage of our business-friendly ecosystem.

Simpson Seeds took advantage of a targeted incentive to build a new pulse processing facility. Donald’s Fine Foods was also represented. They made a multi-million-dollar commitment to open a new sow harvest and processing facility in our community, the first new pork processing facility in Canada in over a decade. Once fully operational, they expect to employ nearly 500 people in Moose Jaw.

[11:30]

Companies like JGL and Golden West Trailer continue to expand their businesses, hire more people, and make significant investments in our community, such as a $30,000 sponsorship that both companies made, totalling $60,000, to sponsor the Rockefeller Christmas tree and the Moose Jaw Health Foundation. This government will continue to create a framework with the necessary building blocks to foster innovation, growth, and economic security for Saskatchewan families.

The steady and decisive leadership of our Premier is at the helm of our strong economic framework. He provides the clarity and consistency and determination that Saskatchewan needs to compete and thrive. Our Premier has been tireless in advocating for new trade opportunities from potash and pulse crops to uranium, opening trade offices and doors in key markets around the world. We now export to 161 countries.

He recognizes that we won’t always see eye to eye with our partners on everything, but he understands that protecting and growing Saskatchewan’s economy requires maintaining productive relationships. His commitment to diplomacy and engagement has strengthened ties with India and other countries. It is our Saskatchewan Premier that has contributed to repairing Canada’s broader relationship with India, work that will deliver significant benefits for our country and our province.

The foundation we’ve built, grounded in the party principles that we have, strengthened by the building blocks, combined with our Premier’s strong leadership, have set the framework for strong economic growth in this province. And the results speak for themselves.

Mr. Speaker, today is a great day to be alive and a great day to live in Saskatchewan. And with that I’ll read the motion:

That this Assembly supports the government’s work in creating a framework for strong economic growth.

Thank you.

Deputy Speaker B. McLeod: — It has been moved by the member from Moose Jaw Wakamow:

That the Assembly supports the government’s work in creating a framework for strong economic growth.

Is the Assembly ready for the question? I recognize the member from Saskatoon Silverspring.

Hugh Gordon: — Thank you, Mr. Deputy Speaker. I’m glad to be on my feet today to discuss this motion put forward. I might end up beating up on the word “framework” a few times, so please bear with me. You’ve been forewarned.

I’m not sure quite frankly, Mr. Deputy Speaker, how this government can even talk about a framework for strong economic growth when they can’t even balance the books. Why don’t you start with having a balanced budget first?

And why is that important, Mr. Speaker? Well it’s important for a number of reasons, not the least of which is because businesses and industries need to have certainty on where to invest their dollars beforehand, and they need to have confidence in a government and its finances. And when the Government of Saskatchewan says that they’re going to have a balanced budget, that they actually have a balanced budget.

And why is that important? Again it’s because they know that for every dollar that this government overspends, it is another dollar they are going to come for in future taxes right out of their pockets. And they know that. They need to trust that this government has a credible plan to balance their books and that it has a contingency plan in place in the event that circumstances change, and that they just don’t go about making up stuff as they go along, just like we forewarned last spring.

The Finance minister and the members opposite took every opportunity in this Chamber and out to applaud themselves for their so-called balanced budget, which is now a whopping $427 million deficit and counting — what a shock.

And what did the Finance minister say was an underlying reason for being so wildly off on his numbers, Mr. Deputy Speaker? Why, tariffs of course. And what contingencies did the Finance minister put in his budget to deal with those tariffs? What assurances did he give all of our industries that this government had a plan to deal with the impact of tariffs on business and industries? Well there wasn’t any, Mr. Deputy Speaker.

There was no plan, certainly nothing resembling any kind of framework that was in their budget apart from a very, very short note on one page of their budget about tariffs. Whether it’s the canola industry, the steel industry, the manufacturing industry and many others, this government kept saying, don’t worry; be happy.

But now look at the damage that’s been caused by this trade war and the accompanying tariffs on our industries. Retail sales in Saskatchewan have dropped a full percentage point just from August to September and, year to date, have dropped 1.6 per cent — the worst record in the country.

The first eight months of 2025, manufacturing sales are down 5.8 per cent, the second-largest decline amongst all the provinces. Year over year as of last August, a 7.85 per cent decline. This province is on pace to sell a billion dollars less to manufacturing goods just this year. How’s that framework working out for you?

StatsCan reports that Saskatchewan has had a 14 per cent reduction in exports to the United States this year. And if that wasn’t enough, Saskatchewan has suffered a 25.6 per cent decline in exports to China. But again there’s no framework for these businesses and industries, just more blind, Milton Friedman faith in free markets, and with such an incredibly naive, laissez-faire attitude that even Adam Smith would find offensive.

And let’s talk about this government’s record on growth. That’s a great one. Its own budget forecasted a growth of GDP [gross domestic product] between 1.8 and 2 per cent, but that is now falling, Mr. Deputy Speaker. And this province’s average real GDP growth of only 1 per cent per year is the worst record since the 1960s.

During COVID our economy fell by 4.18 per cent. And while other provinces were rebounding in their economies after COVID, the Saskatchewan economy fell another 2.3 per cent. It wasn’t until 2023 that our economy finally got back to 2018 levels.

Saskatchewan ranked last in Canada for growth for most of the past seven years. That is not a strong framework. It’s really quite frankly a bad roller-coaster ride where the cart never goes all the way to the top anymore.

Let’s also talk about how this government’s proclivity to slap the PST [provincial sales tax] on everything that walks, crawls, or breathes in this province is cited as a direct barrier by 37 per cent of our small and medium-sized enterprises to investment in this province. Our small businesses have faced ever-rising costs, have had to raise their prices, delayed their expansion plans, or couldn’t even pay themselves properly. No wonder two-thirds of small-business owners don’t feel supported by this government. What kind of framework is that?

We know that putting the PST on construction labour and productivity-enhancing equipment has also deterred investment in this province. Quite frankly not too bright. Even GDP per capita, which is the most recognized approach to measuring our standard of living, has fallen from $66,173 in 2018 to $64,525 in 2024. When you adjust for inflation, we are going backward even in real terms.

But yet this government continues to pretend that its policies are working. Only this government, Mr. Deputy Speaker, would crow about not lifting a finger to provide badly needed supports to industry. And when they succeed in spite of this government, the members of this government want to be the first in line for all the photo ops to claim their success. Talk about stolen valour.

And how can this government talk about creating a strong framework for economic growth when businesses and industries are still being forced to pay the Sask Party carbon tax? That’s right, Mr. Speaker. Despite assurances from the other side, it’s still there. And according to this own government’s second-quarter report, the government and that Finance minister are still counting on $432 million from their industrial carbon tax to help keep their coffers full. That’s a heck of a framework, Mr. Deputy Speaker.

And businesses aren’t stupid. They know that this government’s track record on negotiating with the federal government — hint: it’s not good — and they know that the odds that the federal government is going to pick up the tab for their Sask Party industrial carbon tax is also not very good, and therefore they will be stuck with the bill once again and most likely well into the foreseeable future. And if they don’t, they fear that this government will just tax them all the more to make up for their bad management.

This is also a government, Mr. Deputy Speaker, that says it champions economic development in this province and all the opportunities within it, like opening up the North. Well you can’t open up the North without investments in infrastructure. If P.A. [Prince Albert] is really the Gateway to the North, then why are we not investing more into our highways and roads north of P.A.? Why aren’t we in fact putting a second bridge in Prince Albert to open up the North?

How about investing in our shortline rail facilities to facilitate the movement of our products out of Saskatchewan and to ports on the coasts? Like investing in broadband internet for rural Saskatchewan to help businesses connect to markets? These are some of the kinds of investments, a framework if you will, Mr. Speaker, that won’t be solved with an ad hoc tax credit or reduction in red tape.

First it takes the will to do it. Then it takes hard work — the kind of work this government has been allergic to — by working with the communities, all of the communities in the North, to make these badly needed investments. Not just for the people living there, but for businesses and investors who recognize the potential there. They need a government willing to make these infrastructure investments.

Furthermore, Mr. Speaker, investments in child care, investments in education, in post-secondary education, investments in health care, investments in housing, in mental health and addictions, these are also the kinds of investments that need to be a part of a framework for economic growth.

Without child care and housing, businesses like BHP can’t attract workers for their mine. Without education and lower tuition fees, our kids will go elsewhere to get the skills and training they need to earn a living, and they most likely won’t be coming back when they do so. Without investments in health care, Saskatchewan’s becoming an unattractive option for families and seniors looking to retire here. Without investments in addictions and mental health services and supports, we risk losing more of our young people, quite literally, their lives.

Tell me, Mr. Speaker, what good is a framework for economic growth when it leaves the people of this province out of the equation? It’s time for this government to get real, stop with all the self-congratulatory back-patting exercises and platitudes and start to do the real work of building a province from the people up.

And therefore, Mr. Deputy Speaker, I cannot support this motion, and I urge all members of this Assembly to vote against it. Thank you.

Deputy Speaker B. McLeod: — I recognize the member from Canora-Pelly.

Sean Wilson: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I want to begin today talking about something foundational, something that tells the story about what real economic leadership looks like in Saskatchewan.

When we’re in Regina, the backdrop is often the Co-op Refinery Complex. But long before it was known by that name, it was the NewGrade Upgrader, a project launched in the 1980s under a Conservative provincial government that understood something simple but profound: real growth requires courage.

People forget this. This upgrader didn’t get built in one year. It didn’t pay off in one election cycle. It was a multi-year, multi-phase project that began in the 1980s and continued into the very early ’90s. Because this is how you build real economic assets — slowly, strategically, and with conviction. It created thousands of construction jobs, anchored long-term refinery employment, and helped shape Regina’s industrial base for generations.

And, Mr. Speaker, the Regina upgrader wasn’t the only example of long-term conservative vision. Right around the same era, the Lloydminster upgrader was also moving forward, again because conservative governments in Saskatchewan and Alberta believed in value-added production, believed in long-term jobs, and believed in saying yes to opportunity.

Conservative leadership made the Lloydminster upgrader possible. It pushed it ahead. Conservative leadership took the risk. And the NDP? They hesitated. They doubted. And they even opposed the kind of long-term investment and expansion that could have made the upgrader even bigger, even more competitive, and even more valuable to Saskatchewan workers. Mr. Speaker, both the Regina and Lloydminster upgraders stand as monuments to a simple truth: history rewards the builders, not the talkers.

[11:45]

And that’s why I support this motion:

That the Assembly supports the government’s work in creating a framework for strong economic growth.

Because strong economic outcomes never happen by accident. They are the result of governments who say yes to investment, yes to growth, and yes to Saskatchewan.

On one side, our government is delivering a competitive tax environment; predictable, transparent regulation; record provincial productivity; strong investment incentives; a diversified economy; and nine international offices connecting Saskatchewan to global markets.

On the other side, the NDP offers higher taxes; more red tape; anti-business messaging; a belief that government, not the private sector, should direct the economy; and a backwards-looking economic mindset.

Mr. Speaker, Saskatchewan cannot compete globally with NDP economics — not then, not in 2025, and not with the pressures we face. So let me weave in what Saskatchewan is doing right now to stay competitive in a world that is changing fast.

Our investment attraction strategy is the roadmap to meeting our growth plan target of 16 billion in private capital investment annually. And, Mr. Speaker, it’s working. Private capital investment reached 14.7 billion in 2024. That’s a 17.3 per cent increase, the highest increase in the entire country. Total capital investment hit 19.9 billion, the second-highest provincial increase. These are not theoretical numbers. They represent real projects, real employers, and real paycheques.

The NDP could not attract this level of investment when they were in power, and they cannot explain how they would attract it today. Saskatchewan has the second-lowest small-business tax rate in the country, one of the highest small-business income thresholds at $600,000, the second-lowest manufacturing and processing tax rate. This is deliberate, strategic, and this is why we win projects. Meanwhile the NDP’s track record is the opposite: tax more, spend more, grow less.

Our red tape reduction committee has saved Saskatchewan businesses 682 million since 2015. Those savings matter. They free up capital, they encourage job creation, and they set Saskatchewan apart from provinces that bury businesses in paperwork. That’s why the Fraser Institute ranks Saskatchewan the number one jurisdiction in Canada and the number three in the world for mining investment attractiveness. Yeah. Saskatchewan is the most attractive jurisdiction in Canada for oil and gas investment. This is competitiveness, leadership, and this is what the NDP would dismantle.

Saskatchewan has one of the most productive labour forces in the country, over $74 GDP per hour worked, second only to Alberta, outpacing the national average by more than $10 an hour. That productivity is driven by construction, wholesale trade, manufacturing, energy, agriculture, potash and uranium, and a growing critical minerals sector.

And who benefits? Well welders in Yorkton; millwrights in Wadena; power engineers commuting to Regina and Lloyd; truckers hauling grain, fuel, lumber; oil field workers; farmers; and small businesses in places like Sturgis, Kamsack, Norquay, and Canora. A strong economy keeps these people working. The NDP policies would not.

South of the border, the Trump administration is committed to cutting US [United States] manufacturing tax rate from 21 per cent to 15 per cent. They are removing permitting hurdles for domestic resource development, and they are courting global mineral investment aggressively. Saskatchewan must stay competitive. This government is taking action. The NDP wouldn’t.

For the people of Canora-Pelly, Yorkton, Kelvington-Wadena, this is not academic. This is daily life. Farmers depend on strong transportation systems. Tradespeople depend on investment. Seniors depend on stability. Municipalities depend on certainty. And young people depend on opportunity close to home.

When the economy is strong, our region thrives. When the economy weakens, our region feels it first. And, Mr. Speaker, our government understands that. The NDP never have. Mr. Speaker, the Regina and Lloydminster upgraders remind us of that fundamental truth: you cannot cut, delay, tax, and regulate your way into prosperity. You must build your way into it. This government is building; the NDP would block. And that’s why I support this motion.

Mr. Speaker, I want to bring us back to something simple — leadership. Real leadership is measured not by what a government says, but by what it builds. And Saskatchewan’s history tells a clear story. In the 1980s the Conservative government built the Regina upgrader, a project that took vision, courage, and long-term commitment. They built the Lloydminster upgrader, another bold multi-year project that still provides jobs and value-added production today. Those projects weren’t easy. They weren’t popular with everyone. They weren’t politically convenient, but they were right. And the NDP, they hesitated. They resisted expansion. They refused to think big. They have never, in their entire history, built anything of that scale.

Mr. Speaker, that same choice stands before us today. Saskatchewan is attracting record levels of private capital investment because our government is competitive, not complacent. 14.7 billion in private investment, 19.9 billion in total investment, the highest private investment growth rate in Canada — this isn’t luck, chance; this is policy. Our competitive taxes, our predictable regulation, our red tape reduction, our strong workforce productivity, our international offices, our investment attraction strategy — all of it is deliberate.

This government chooses growth; the NDP chooses fear. This government chooses opportunity; the NDP chooses bad policy. This government chooses the future; the NDP just regurgitate old talking points. Mr. Speaker, farmers can’t afford NDP economics. Construction crews in Yorkton cannot afford NDP economics. Small businesses in places like Canora, Kamsack, Norquay, and Sturgis can’t afford NDP economics. Because every time they were in power, investment collapsed, young people left, and Saskatchewan stalled. And every time our government has stepped up, we have built. We have grown, invested, and led. And that is why, proudly and without hesitation, I support this motion. Thank you.

Deputy Speaker B. McLeod: — Just before I recognize the member from Saskatoon Westview, I want to just say to both sides of the House, the common courtesy of respect and listening will be definitely enforced here. So I’ll recognize the member from Saskatoon Westview.

April ChiefCalf: — Thank you, Mr. Deputy Speaker. And I just want to say that as an educator, I appreciate that because it’s a little disconcerting sometimes when we’re speaking in the legislature and we can’t use our classroom management skills to get, you know, folks back on track and engaged.

I rise today in the Saskatchewan legislature to oppose the motion that Saskatchewan Legislative Assembly supports the government’s work in creating a framework for strong economic growth.

Now what I want to say, Mr. Deputy Speaker, is that it’s not that I’m opposed to strong economic growth in our province. A strong economy is the foundation for good jobs, for funding essential services such as health care and education, for infrastructure such as highways, and for paying down and managing debt. A strong economy is important for our province to grow, to ensure that everyone has a roof over their head and their basic needs are met and that our children and youth have opportunities for quality post-secondary education and jobs.

But, Mr. Deputy Speaker, the reality of our province since the Premier took office is that debts and deficits have soared. Economic growth has been unstable, and rising inequalities are evident throughout our province. There has been an ongoing increase in taxation through the PST, record numbers of houselessness and people using the food bank, high financial anxiety, the lowest levels of per-student funding for K to 12 [kindergarten to grade 12] education, and an expanding health care crisis.

So, Mr. Deputy Speaker, my point isn’t that Saskatchewan is a bad place to live. And just to clarify, I left Saskatchewan in 1987 and so did a lot of my friends. Okay, who was in power then? I came back in 1991 and Saskatchewan has been my home ever since. And I convinced my husband from Alberta to marry me and move here, so there we go.

My point is actually that Saskatchewan isn’t being governed responsibly, and this shows in our economy. And when we examine our economy looking at measurable outcomes versus talking points and anecdotes, we see that the growth framework has been poorly planned and inconsistent. The outlook for 2025 is weak, with the projected budget failing, small businesses struggling, industrial carbon tax confusion — did we eliminate it or not, it’s still on the books — and a declining standard of living.

This is a point that I want to take up for the remainder of my time here. The real GDP per capita has fallen from 66,000 in 2018 to 64,000 in 2024, and this government is the only one in 50 years to actually reduce Saskatchewan’s standard of living.

Mr. Deputy Speaker, economies aren’t just about markets and money. They are also about people. And if the people aren’t doing well, then really your economy isn’t healthy either. So let’s consider a few key areas of where people are hurting in our province and our economy is being impacted by these circumstances.

Let’s start with houselessness, Mr. Deputy Speaker. As the shadow minister for Housing, I am constantly researching the issue both locally and on a larger scale. We know that homelessness has increased on a national, international level, but this does not mean it’s okay for us to be experiencing it here. The point-in-time counts, or PIT counts, in Saskatoon in 2022 identified that there were 550 people unhoused. The PIT count for 2024 found 1,500 people were unhoused, and the recent numbers from 2025 showed 1,931. The numbers are growing, but why?

Now the Premier and the Minister of Social Services have both declared here in the Legislative Assembly that it’s cut and dry: homelessness is simply caused by addictions. And the Minister of Social Services last spring cited a post on Facebook by a city councillor in Saskatoon that had revealed some preliminary data from the report on the PIT count that had not actually yet been released. Mr. Speaker, without the actual report, they misunderstood the data.

So what did the full report actually reveal? It revealed that 55 per cent of people surveyed in the PIT count identified evictions as the cause of their houselessness, and only 19.6 per cent identified a substance use disorder as the cause of their housing loss. Another 32.8 per cent identified insufficient income as the cause of their housing loss.

Eighty-two per cent of respondents did note that they had a substance use disorder and this was a health challenge they faced, not the cause of their houselessness. Other health challenges included mental health issues, medical conditions, physical mobility challenges, cognitive or learning disabilities, acquired brain injuries, and hearing or visual impairments. Now, Mr. Speaker, do we think visual impairments are the cause of houselessness?

You know, Mr. Speaker, we can’t actually solve problems if we don’t understand the cause of the problem and if we just jump to conclusions. The respondents in the PIT count also noted that sufficient income and assistance in finding an affordable place to live were key to getting housing.

Houselessness has a tremendous impact on our economy. It can affect small businesses and it can be very expensive for the municipalities that have to try to find ways to dismantle encampments, shelter people, and provide security on transit, among other issues. Houselessness is also expensive on a provincial level when people are constantly seeking medical care, because living on the street causes so many health issues. Mr. Speaker, keeping people in poverty is not good for the economy.

[12:00]

Now, Mr. Speaker, moving on to rent control. I’ve been doing a significant amount of research on this topic and I want to challenge the main talking point that is being leveraged by the Minister of Finance that rent control destroys housing supply and, like some rent control fairy comes along and magically waves their wand and poof, all the housing disappears just because you’ve implemented rent control.

But first of all, let’s be clear — not all economists agree that rent control has detrimental effects on the supply of rental housing. For example, in 2023, 32 economists signed onto a letter to the federal housing finance agency agreeing that “there is substantial evidence that rent regulation policies do not limit construction nor the overall supply of housing.”

And this was in Washington, DC [District of Columbia], and this group of economists was extremely distressed by the plight of tenants in that state at that time. Others have found mixed results throughout the world, and this is often the result of the specifics in each piece of rent control legislation and of government policies and taxation that may affect construction, such as the PST, investment, and supply.

Many of the economists that make the supply-and-demand claim don’t even include Canada in their studies. And yet, you know, Mr. Speaker, there are numerous experts who study housing in Canada. Why not take their research into consideration? Experts such as Carolyn Whitzman, who wrote Home Truths and noted that we only have 5 per cent of housing in Canada that is operated as non-market housing. Ninety-five per cent of housing in Canada is market-based housing.

Housing is a human right, not a commodity. And if rent control universally leads to less investment in supply, how do you explain Prince Edward Island, who is leading the country in new investment in residential construction but also have rent control? How do you explain that Saskatchewan is in a supply crisis when we don’t have rent control? Again, designing policy and legislation requires thorough research and consultation.

So further, Mr. Speaker, if this government was truly concerned about housing supply, they would invest in affordable non-market housing, repairing and opening up our existing social housing stock, building new affordable homes, and cancelling the PST on labour construction that has in fact caused a slowdown in the construction of new homes in our province. And if this government was truly concerned about tenants, they would pass our rent control legislation.

In conclusion, Mr. Deputy Speaker, from 2018 to 2025 our province has experienced inconsistent and below-potential economic growth and poor policy when it comes to our economy. And one of the results is a decline in the standard of living for our residents. I cannot support this framework for economic growth. Thank you.

Deputy Speaker B. McLeod: — I recognize the member from Moosomin-Montmartre.

Kevin Weedmark: — Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. It’s an honour to speak to this motion:

That the Assembly support the government’s work in creating a framework for strong economic growth.

I think I understand a little bit about economic growth. I’m very fortunate. One of my businesses that I own in Moosomin has grown 400 per cent since I bought it, and it’s still growing as of now. And that’s partially because of our amazing staff, but it’s partially because of the conditions that the provincial government has set.

Creating a framework for economic growth is the most important thing we can do, Mr. Speaker, because Saskatchewan is a province brimming with potential. And to realize that potential, we have to always create the right conditions for economic growth. I’m proud of the Saskatchewan government’s record on the economy, what we’ve accomplished, how we’ve positioned our province for long-term success, and how we will continue driving growth that benefits every region and every citizen.

Saskatchewan has always punched far above its weight. We’re home to only one and a quarter million people, and yet we help feed and power the world. We export to 161 countries. We export food to every corner of the world. We supply the world with potash to grow its food. We export the energy needed to keep industries running and homes warm. We produce the uranium that helps decarbonize global electricity grids.

We have amazing resources, but developing them successfully depends on vision, leadership, and commitment. Over the last decade Saskatchewan has attracted billions of dollars in private sector capital — investments that are building new mines, expanding food processing, growing manufacturing, and creating jobs in every corner of the province.

BHP approved a $6.4 billion investment in stage two of the Jansen potash project, making its planned total investment $19 billion. K+S Potash announced plans to increase production to 4 million tonnes per year at the Bethune potash mine, with a $3 billion expansion project. Foran is spending $826 million to bring its copper mine to commercial production.

Louis Dreyfus’s expansion of canola processing in Yorkton and the addition of a new pea protein plant will create 120 new jobs. Cargill is spending $350 million on its canola crush project at the Global Transportation Hub that will employ 50 people. Richardson’s canola crush plant expansion in Yorkton has doubled processing capacity to 2.2 million metric tons annually.

Oil and gas producers are expanding production thanks to targeted incentives, reinvesting in Saskatchewan wells, workers, and technology. We have a growing value-added agriculture industry that keeps more processing and more prosperity right here at home in Saskatchewan.

Manufacturing companies are expanding into global supply chains such as IJACK, which right now is more than doubling the size of its manufacturing plant in Moosomin, adding 35,000 square feet after just opening the original plant just six years ago. And they sell oil field equipment manufactured, designed, and engineered in Moosomin, all around the world.

Crestline Coach added 30,000 square feet to their manufacturing facility in Saskatoon. Pro Metal Industries built a new 50,000 square foot facility in Regina last year. Inland Steel invested in a major expansion in its Lloydminster facility this year. And there are many more.

And, Mr. Deputy Speaker, these investments didn’t appear by accident. They came about because Saskatchewan has built one of the most competitive business environments in Canada, an environment that rewards innovation and encourages growth. The province has a target of increasing the value of manufacturing exports by 50 per cent compared to 2020, and this goal was surpassed in 2024 with manufacturing exports totalling $11.5 billion.

And to help that growth continue, applications are open for the small and medium enterprise investment tax credit, which is designed to encourage investment in Saskatchewan manufacturing. We live in a world that needs what Saskatchewan produces more than ever before. The global population is growing. The demand for food is rising. The push for clean, reliable energy is intensifying, and the need for critical minerals is increasing. And Saskatchewan stands at the centre of all of it.

Saskatchewan has more than two-thirds of global potash reserves. Here in this province, Mr. Deputy Speaker, we have the world’s largest high-grade uranium deposits. We are a major energy-producing province with still untapped potential, and we are a powerhouse in agriculture, from grains and oilseeds to livestock and specialty crops. We have a fast-growing agri-food processing sector, turning raw products into finished goods right here at home.

Saskatchewan exports more per capita than any province in Canada, and we’re expanding trade into new markets every single year, Mr. Deputy Speaker. We have trade offices established around the world to work for Saskatchewan exporters, opening doors for farmers, for miners, for processors, and manufacturers.

I spoke yesterday about some of the important work of those trade offices and trade missions being recognized in a Globe and Mail article and in comments by the federal Agriculture minister, who said that if Canada can come to an agreement with India on trade, it will have Saskatchewan to thank for its relationship with India.

Saskatchewan exports potash, uranium, and pulse crops to India. And little old Saskatchewan accounts for 40 per cent of Canada’s exports to India. And I was pleased to see the Indian High Commissioner here at the reception last night and in the House today.

Mr. Speaker, small and medium-sized businesses account for the majority of jobs in Saskatchewan. They sponsor our local teams, give to our fundraisers, and invest in the communities where they live and work. Our government has provided tax relief and investment incentives, the most important of which is keeping the small-business tax rate at 1 per cent permanently, and has helped entrepreneurs scale up from local markets to global exporters, and the small and medium enterprise investment tax credit is helping do just that.

I’m proud of our government’s focus on young entrepreneurs with the youth entrepreneurship bursary. Across my riding I see young entrepreneurs stepping up, from the very young women who moved from Alberta to Moosomin to open Trends Mercantile, to the McGill University grad who upon graduating business school in Montreal moved to Wolseley, Saskatchewan to open a wonderful little business called The Garden Club, and to the young woman who got together with some local investors to set up Third Avenue on Main, an amazing and very busy little business. Small-business success is economic development, and our government has made Saskatchewan a province where entrepreneurs feel empowered to take risks and to grow.

Now, Mr. Speaker, I’m proud of our government’s record on growing the economy, and I want to contrast that with the record of the former NDP government. I made a statement on potash back in the spring. And, Mr. Speaker, I’m very fortunate. I always get a lot of comments back from my constituents. And after I made that statement on potash, I heard from Phil Hamm. He’s a community leader and he’s a long-time mayor of Fleming, Saskatchewan. I’m just going to read his words here. He said:

Well said, Kevin, and absolutely true. I worked at the sylvite potash mine, now Nutrien, near Rocanville in 1974. Then-owner Hudson Bay Mining and Smelting were planning a huge expansion of their mine. HBMS was ready to invest huge amounts of private money into our area and create hundreds more jobs and wealth for Saskatchewan and Canada.

I was working for the capital projects superintendent who called me to his office and informed me of the plans. His advice was to relocate to Rocanville and be prepared to work lots of overtime for the following four years. He told me I was in the right place at the right time and the next few years could set me up for a bright future. There was a buzz of excitement around the area and I felt giddy, like I’d just won the lottery.

Still quoting. He says:

However that summer the premier’s bus tour brought Allan Blakeney to visit. A few weeks later the sylvite mine site became like a morgue. Models and plans for expansion disappeared. High-ranking executives left for HBMS divisions in northern Manitoba and Mexico. It had been made clear by the NDP government that sylvite was one of the potash mines they were going to expropriate.

“The feeling of betrayal has never left me,” he said. So that’s a first-hand account of how a former NDP government’s policy impacted one person, one mine, one industry.

And now the situation couldn’t be more different. Nutrien Rocanville employs a massive workforce. They’re a huge force in southeast Saskatchewan and I was happy to be there a few weeks ago when Nutrien was rewarded for its work on sustainability with funding from the technology fund.

So that’s just one example of how our government is doing the right thing by creating the right conditions. And that’s why, Mr. Speaker, we are not just surviving, we are thriving in Saskatchewan. And that’s why I support this motion. Thank you very much.

Deputy Speaker B. McLeod: — I recognize the member from Saskatoon Churchill-Wildwood.

Keith Jorgenson: — Thank you, Mr. Deputy Speaker. It’s an absolute honour to be on my feet. You know, Mr. Deputy Speaker, I want to talk about something truly mysterious today, something that defies the law of nature, bends logic and time itself. It’s something that was made right here in Saskatchewan.

You know, we have all kinds of math in the world. We have algebra, geo-trig, calculus, and a variety of math that was created right here in Saskatchewan in this very Chamber, Mr. Deputy Speaker — Sask Party math.

Sask Party math is truly unique because all those other kinds of math get hung up on little things like adding and subtracting. Sask Party math is totally and completely different, Mr. Deputy Speaker. It frees you of all those things.

There’s another way to think about Sask Party math, Mr. Deputy Speaker. You might have heard of the term “feel facts.” You know, they’re not quite true but they feel true. Sask Party math is kind of like that, Mr. Deputy Speaker. It’s like “feel math.”

[12:15]

You know, a great example of this was the most recent budget. A lot of people criticized this budget when it was passed because they said it was obviously not balanced. But you know, those folks did not embrace Sask Party math, Mr. Deputy Speaker. Because the folks that embrace Sask Party math . . . sorry, because those folks felt that the budget was balanced. And isn’t that important too, Mr. Deputy Speaker? Because with Sask Party math, “feel numbers” are important too.

Mr. Speaker, if you look at your bank account and you saw a negative balance, you know, that can make you feel bad about yourself. Sask Party math teaches you to embrace the idea that you should act like you have the amount of money that you think you should have, Mr. Speaker.

Mr. Speaker, the number −427 million is an ugly, ugly number. Sask Party math teaches us to look beyond the minus sign. Sask Party math teaches us that we shouldn’t feel so bad about ourselves, because we tried. Sask Party math tells us we should all just go for lunch and never speak of this ugliness again.

Mr. Speaker, let’s explore some of the mysteries of Sask Party math together because I think this truly speaks to the motion moved by the member from Moose Jaw Wakamow. Because the premise of that motion could only be true with Sask Party math.

Mr. Speaker, before we dive into the fuzzy details of this unique kind of math, I want to tell you a little bit of a story. You know, for more than 20 years, Mr. Deputy Speaker, I was a teacher, and for most of those years I taught young people with behavioural disorders.

So I want to share a little story from my days teaching at Chief Taylor school in Onion Lake. I remember one day another teacher came up to me and said that one of my students, we’ll call him Kevin, had gone into her classroom and taken some candy out of the classroom. And so I went to Kevin, and I said, “Kevin, did you take the candy out of Ms. Smith’s classroom?” And Kevin replied, “Tom and I didn’t take the candy out of the classroom.” So I said, “Let’s get this straight. So only you and Tom were the ones that didn’t take the candy out of the classroom?” And he replied eagerly, “Yes, we were the only two that didn’t take the candy.”

Now when we’re thinking about Sask Party government math, I thought of this story. Kevin, however ridiculously absurd it was, shifted the blame to essentially everyone and anyone except for himself. That is the key to applying Sask Party math. You know, I call that the integer cha-cha. Whenever you encounter a negative number, you blame someone else. If it’s a positive one, time to take credit.

So let’s dive into the messy, fuzzy world of “feel math.” Now to create a framework for strong economic growth, we need strong public finances, competitive taxation, solid economic fundamentals, and a talented workforce.

So let’s explore some of those things through the lens of Sask Party math. Let’s start with public finances. Strong public finances keep taxes low and provide businesses with the confidence that they need to invest and grow their businesses. You know, the Sask Party government has run deficits in 9 of the last 11 years, and I’m sure that’s what the members opposite are talking about now. They’re looking for where the balanced budget went. But that’s going to take a while, Mr. Speaker.

So in 9 of the last 11 years, they’ve run deficits, and we’re on track now to triple our public debt this year. You know, Mr. Deputy Speaker, that’s hard to explain away on the surface. I mean several days in Vegas could maybe explain that for an individual, but it’s a little bit trickier for a government.

Now remember, if you feel like you did a good job, then Sask Party math tells us to not let the pesky minus sign get in the way of feeling good about yourself and patting yourself on the back. Remember, just blame someone else.

The key is to change up who you blame because you don’t want to be repetitive. So I would suggest something kind of like a Magic 8 Ball. You could maybe call it a blame ball, where you just throw in a few favourites, like you could blame the NDP from the ’90s, China, global forces, Trudeau. You could claim that you had the most ambitious plan. Maybe throw chemtrails in too. Be creative.

Now let’s talk about taxation next. In 2027 the Saskatchewan NDP collected $874 million in PST. This year this Sask Party government is going to collect $3.3 billion. When I saw that, I said, “Wow, that’s a lot of tax,” Mr. Deputy Speaker. That’s an increase of 300 per cent in taxation, and that works out to almost $3,000 per Saskatchewan resident. You know, I’m not going to candy-coat that, Mr. Speaker. That could make some people mad.

But remember Sask Party “feel math” tells us not to worry about the details. Just blame someone else. I mean could be the NDP, could be chemtrails.

So I’m going to be serious for a second. You know, jokes aside. Sometimes — there’s a saying — if you didn’t laugh, you would cry.

You know, one of my consistent criticisms of this government, Mr. Deputy Speaker, is the inability to see the interconnectivity between various things that are going on in our society and our economy. And so I think we in Saskatoon and Regina see that all the time, and it’s very, very frustrating. We talk about an economic framework for strong growth. You’re ignoring all of the other factors that go into it such as . . . I was sort of jokingly talking about public debt. But I want to talk about people now, and the effect that this government has had on the people that we depend upon to build a strong, resilient economy.

So I own a business on 20th Street in Saskatoon. And every day you walk down 20th Street, and you would see the same thing in Regina, absolutely the most difficult economic conditions you could imagine. You know, one of our neighbours on 20th Street talks about how because of the explosion in homelessness in our province — latest count is 2,000 people in Saskatoon — that each day she comes to her business, someone has used the washroom in front of her front door and in the winter that freezes.

So you know, this is a human tragedy for those people that with assistance could be working and paying taxes. But also as business owners across the province are struggling under the weight of this government ignoring these massive social problems and just pretending they don’t exist and pretending that there is no economic impact on business when we allow homelessness and addiction to explode and spread throughout our province.

You know, we’ve talked in Saskatoon with councillors and mayors — and even as my role as associate deputy Health critic, I talk to a lot of small-town administrators — and they all say the exact same thing. They want to get back to the job of running a town or a city, right.

But even today the mayor of Kipling was talking to the press, and she was telling that they’ve now purchased their fourth house. I’ve talked to RMs that have spent in excess of a million dollars on health care. This is all money that can’t be invested in building infrastructure and economic growth because that money is being put into doing the job of the provincial government. And that’s just plain sad, Mr. Deputy Speaker.

You know, again each day when I drive through my home city of Saskatoon, I feel like sometimes I don’t recognize what has become of the city because of the degree to which this government has allowed homelessness and addictions to spread without addressing them. You know, even in downtown Saskatoon you see building after building with for-lease signs. Our downtowns are emptying out, and this isn’t free, Mr. Deputy Speaker.

So you know, if someone’s asking me if I can support this motion, the idea that this government has built a strong framework to support economic growth, that simply doesn’t hold water. It is, plain and simple, Sask Party math. And you know, I would rather actually use real math where a balanced budget is balanced and we treat the people who run our economy with dignity and respect, Mr. Deputy Speaker. Thank you.

Deputy Speaker B. McLeod: — The 65‑minute period has expired. The 10‑minute period, question-and-answer period, will begin. I recognize the member from Saskatoon Silverspring.

Hugh Gordon: — Thank you, Mr. Deputy Speaker. Does the member from Moosomin-Montmartre approve of his government’s continuing collection of their industrial carbon tax? And does he still expect Saskatchewan businesses to pay up?

Deputy Speaker B. McLeod: — I recognize the member from Moosomin-Montmartre.

Kevin Weedmark: — Thank you very much, Mr. Deputy Speaker. As was announced in the spring, Saskatchewan became the first carbon tax-free province in the nation of Canada. And for our government, Mr. Speaker, business tax competitiveness is very important. The carbon tax nationally was a drag on our economy, did a lot of damage to all of us.

And Saskatchewan, we have taken the lead on trying to make business taxes as competitive as possible. We are keeping the small-business tax rate at 1 per cent, and we are trying to make things affordable for businesses. Thank you, Mr. Deputy Speaker.

Deputy Speaker B. McLeod: — I recognize the member from Carrot River Valley.

Terri Bromm: — Members opposite have actively campaigned against building pipelines to BC and in 2014 voted against supporting the construction of Northern Gateway. It’s a matter of public record, Mr. Deputy Speaker. The member from Regina Mount Royal opposes pipelines so firmly that he’s voted against them twice in this House. The NDP government in BC has also actively campaigned against a co‑operative approach to our economy.

To the member from Saskatoon Silverspring: why has your party wanted to stop the development of a pipeline to BC?

Deputy Speaker B. McLeod: — I recognize the member from Saskatoon Silverspring.

Hugh Gordon: — What would be really great is if this Premier would release his list of projects so you could prove exactly what you’re talking about there. It’d sure be great to have that. You know, Mr. Speaker, we’ve been unequivocal on this side: we approve of building more pipelines. We want to get our oil and gas to tidewater. And it’d be great to work collaboratively with other provinces to get it done. Maybe that member should take a lesson from that.

Deputy Speaker B. McLeod: — I recognize the member from Saskatoon Westview.

April ChiefCalf: — Thank you, Mr. Deputy Speaker. How does the member from Canora-Pelly reconcile “a strong economic framework” with rising food bank usage, decreased spending, and skyrocketing homelessness?

Deputy Speaker B. McLeod: — I recognize the member from Canora-Pelly.

Sean Wilson: — Let’s talk about something the NDP know nothing about: value-added ag. Louis Dreyfus in Yorkton right now, there’s an expansion of the canola processing complex right just north of the city of Yorkton. There’s a new pea protein isolate production plant. That’s 120 new jobs total.

I have a massive list of all kinds of value-add that’s being provided to this province, Mr. Speaker. Richardson canola crush plant expansion in Yorkton to double capacity to 2.2 million metric tons annually. So if you want to talk to me about any kind of value-add production, it’s right here.

Deputy Speaker B. McLeod: — I recognize the member from P.A. Carlton.

Kevin Kasun: — Mr. Deputy Speaker, every day in this House and on social media, the NDP choose fear over facts on our economy. Fact: Saskatchewan is posting record-breaking GDP growth. Fact: we have one of the lowest unemployment rates in Canada. Fact: we rank second in private investment and wholesale growth.

To the member from Saskatoon Silverspring: will you trade fear for facts and acknowledge that our government’s plan is working and delivering on growth?

Deputy Speaker B. McLeod: — I recognize the member from Saskatoon Silverspring.

Hugh Gordon: — Thank you, Mr. Deputy Speaker. Fact: this government under this Premier has the worst record of economic growth in the entire country. Fact, Mr. Speaker: their record private investment was due to one company, thank you very much, and without that investment it would be zero. So, Mr. Speaker, I don’t think, quite respectfully, that the member knows what he’s talking about.

Deputy Speaker B. McLeod: — I recognize the member from Saskatoon Churchill-Wildwood.

Keith Jorgenson: — Thank you so much, Mr. Deputy Speaker. My question is for the member from Moose Jaw Wakamow. Could the member from Moose Jaw Wakamow please tell us why her government raised the PST from five percentage points to seven percentage points, increasing the tax burden on the people of Saskatchewan by 300 per cent?

Deputy Speaker B. McLeod: — I recognize the member from Moose Jaw Wakamow.

Megan Patterson: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. And thank you for the question. So our government actually implemented $2.5 billion in affordability measures in this last budget, and we do it each and every year. And actually we also implemented the largest personal income tax cut in this last budget, and we actually took 54,000 families off of the income tax roll entirely.

Deputy Speaker B. McLeod: — I recognize the member from Kindersley-Biggar.

[12:30]

Kim Gartner: — Mr. Deputy Speaker, the NDP stand up in this House and continue to talk down the investments being made in this province: $20 billion invested at BHP Jansen potash mine, doubling production at the K+S mine, two uranium mines approved by this government, a net zero copper mine under way, doubling of a canola crush plant, expansion to the Louis Dreyfus plant in Yorkton, construction of the new Cargill plant. These aren’t promises; they’re projects. They’re proof of a government that’s delivering results.

So, to the member from Saskatoon Silverspring: if you truly believe this isn’t getting the job done, tell us, what do you say to those choosing to invest in Saskatchewan right now?

Deputy Speaker B. McLeod: — I recognize the member from Saskatoon Silverspring.

Hugh Gordon: — Thank you, Mr. Deputy Speaker. And that government had nothing to do with those investments whatsoever. Even a broken clock, even a broken clock can be right twice a day, Mr. Speaker.

Deputy Speaker B. McLeod: — I recognize the member from Saskatoon Westview.

April ChiefCalf: — Thank you, Mr. Deputy Speaker. To the member from Moosomin-Montmartre: does the member understand “only government in 50 years to lower the standard of living,” and understand what a strong economic record really means?

Deputy Speaker B. McLeod: — I recognize the member from Moosomin-Montmartre.

Kevin Weedmark: — Thank you, Mr. Deputy Speaker. And I thank the member opposite for the question. Yes, I understand exactly what a strong economic record is. I understand that Saskatchewan’s strong economy is continuing to grow. I understand that in 2024 Saskatchewan’s private capital investment was $14.7 billion, up 17.3 per cent from 2023, ranking first in the country for growth. And in 2025 private capital investment is expected to increase 10.1 per cent to $16.2 billion, ranking second among provinces.

So yes, Mr. Speaker, I and everyone on this side of the House understand exactly what strong economic growth looks like. Thank you.

Deputy Speaker B. McLeod: — I recognize the member from Humboldt-Watrous.

Racquel Hilbert: — Thank you again. Thank you, Deputy Speaker. The NDP continue to run the economy down. The MLA for Walsh Acres, in a public realm, has claimed that extracting oil, I quote, “won’t save us.” And the member from Regina Elphinstone has claimed that using our resources to invest in services for Saskatchewan people, I quote, “not a reason to keep pumping oil.”

To the member from Saskatoon Silverspring: do you stand by your colleague’s comments on our resource sector?

Deputy Speaker B. McLeod: — I recognize the member from Saskatoon Silverspring.

Hugh Gordon: — Thank you for the question, Mr. Deputy Speaker. It’s unequivocal on this side. We support the development of our resources. We’ve been calling for more infrastructure. We’ve been asking for a plan from this government to expand infrastructure; to get our products to tidewater; to help move our products in our agricultural industry, our mining industry, our oil and gas industry out of Saskatchewan to divest away from just a single trading partner. And what plan have we gotten from this government? Crickets, Mr. Speaker.

Deputy Speaker B. McLeod: — I recognize the member from Saskatoon Churchill-Wildwood.

Keith Jorgenson: — Thank you. Thank you, Mr. Deputy Speaker. My question is for the member from Moose Jaw Wakamow. We’ve had 68,000 young people leave our province for other provinces. If this economic framework is so successful, why are they driving our young people away?

Deputy Speaker B. McLeod: — I recognize the member from Moose Jaw Wakamow.

Megan Patterson: — Thank you, Mr. Deputy Speaker, and thank you for the question. Actually it was when the NDP were in power that we saw the biggest outward migration in this province. I was actually one of those people. When I graduated from university, everyone left the province and so did I. But I came back.

Deputy Speaker B. McLeod: — I recognize the member from Martensville-Blairmore.

Hon. Jamie Martens: — Thank you, Mr. Deputy Speaker. As I’m sure that the members opposite are aware, Saskatchewan did formerly have rent control legislation. Legislation . . .

Deputy Speaker B. McLeod: — The 75‑minute debate period has expired.

PRIVATE MEMBERS’ PUBLIC BILLS AND ORDERS

ADJOURNED DEBATES

SECOND READINGS

Bill No. 606

[The Assembly resumed the adjourned debate on the proposed motion by Jared Clarke that Bill No. 606 — The Provincial Health Authority (ER Closure right-to-know) Amendment Act be now read a second time.]

Deputy Speaker B. McLeod: — I recognize the member from Saskatoon Churchill-Wildwood.

Keith Jorgenson: — Thank you so much, Mr. Deputy Speaker. It’s an absolute pleasure to be on my feet talking about this. And I want to start off by thanking my friend and colleague from Regina Walsh Acres for introducing this very important legislation.

You know, one of the things I wanted to maybe clear up at the outset is when we ask questions about this in the House, routinely I hear the Minister of Health routinely say that we’re somehow opposed to virtual care and point-of-care testing. And I want to set the record straight. You know, we’re not opposed to these things; we’re opposed to the reckless use of these things.

You know, my grandmother, when I was a little kid, told me not to run around with a pair of scissors. And she told me not to do that, not because she was opposed to scissors, she just thought it was dangerous to run with them. And you know, there’s nothing wrong with using a virtual doctor, but implementing them and using it in such a manner where you put the lives of rural people at risk is simply inappropriate.

So you know, this legislation is critical at keeping rural folk safe. You know, often when I walk around in this building, it’s hard not to be continually surrounded by your sort of sense of history. And we see, you know, our colleagues from the past’s faces on the wall. And I can’t help but think that a hundred years from today, when somebody is searching in Hansard and sees that the member from Regina Walsh Acres introduced this legislation, that they’re not going to be a bit confused and perplexed as to why anyone in the government would have been in favour of concealing when hospitals are open and closed from their constituents.

And it really baffles me as to why we needed to even introduce this legislation. This should be common sense. When a hospital’s closed you tell the people that it affects.

So when I was at Agribition the day before yesterday, I stopped by and saw the booth of Highway Hotline. You know, somebody who’s spent most of their life living in rural Saskatchewan used Highway Hotline thousands of times. And the person who was demonstrating it, you know, was . . . The sort of added feature that you can see a plow in real time moving down the highway. And when I was talking to the person at the booth, and I told them what I did for a living, that I was an MLA, the person asked me, well why wouldn’t the government do something like that for hospital closures? And you know, that’s an absolute excellent question, Mr. Speaker.

You know, this summer and fall we’ve had over 600 times that hospitals have been closed and 400 times when there’s been alterations in services. So that’s basically when the hospital door is still open but not all of the services that would normally be available at the hospital are available. You know, until about two weeks ago only one — only one — of those 600 closures was ever posted on the SHA [Saskatchewan Health Authority] website.

And so my colleague from Regina Walsh Acres has dragged the government kicking and screaming to the point where they’re making a half effort to do the right thing, but it’s not nearly enough. Myself and the member from Regina Walsh Acres have visited over 30 rural communities affected by this chaos. We’ve done interviews with the media and talked to countless people. And this is something that is absolutely common sense.

You know, still to this day, I’ve not seen one member on the opposite side of the legislature post on their social media accounts any information about these closures, even though they’re now put on the SHA website, when in theory this information could be the difference between somebody living or dying. Yet they choose to tell no one, Mr. Speaker. It’s absolutely shocking. You know, this government’s response to this legislation has been to change the very definition of what it means to have a hospital open, and I’ll come back to that in a second, Mr. Speaker.

So the government has started posting on the SHA website at 4 p.m. what hospitals are open and closed. The problem, Mr. Deputy Speaker, is this is largely historical information. It tells people about closures that are under way or have already happened. This is simply not sufficient, Mr. Speaker. People need to know in real time when a facility is closed so they know what direction to drive in in an emergency.

So my kids attended for most of their school career, a rural school. And you know, as I mentioned Highway Hotline, we would often consult on a daily basis Highway Hotline to make sure that when we were putting our kids on the road we knew that they were going to be safe. So I want to tell you a little bit of a story about one time when my middle daughter, Lily, was quite badly injured on the farm.

You know, we had a trampoline and it had blown over in the wind and the guideposts had broken on it. And my kids weren’t supposed to jump on it, but like a lot of nine-year-old girls, she didn’t listen to her parents. And she was jumping on the trampoline, and she landed on a post, one of the guideposts that extended above the trampoline frame. She landed on that and her leg became impaled on it. And so I remember a white-knuckled drive with my daughter in a minivan bleeding, going to a hospital to seek care for her.

And every time I’ve thought about what the members opposite are doing, besides not paying attention during debates, is they are putting the lives of rural folk at risk by not telling them. And I imagine showing up at a hospital with my daughter who’s bleeding in the back of a minivan only to find a note on the door telling me that the hospital was closed.

And then if I discovered afterwards, as her dad, that the Minister of Health had known, had known that that hospital was closed and chose not to tell me, and I had driven an hour in the wrong direction, I can’t tell you how angry I would’ve been, Mr. Speaker. So I would encourage all the members opposite to read the memo that we leaked — or that was leaked to us — about the change in opening practices at rural hospitals. I encourage you to read it.

The members opposite almost exclusively represent rural ridings. And I ask you, after you read that memo from start to finish and ask yourself, is this what my constituents voted for? Is this what they want, is for us to conceal and hide whether or not their hospital is open and whether or not there’s a doctor on service? And I would encourage all the members opposite to do their job and vote in the best interests of their constituents and vote for the member from Walsh Acres’s private member’s bill.

With that I move to adjourn debate.

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

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Deputy Speaker B. McLeod: — Carried. I recognize the Government Deputy House Leader.

Hon. Lori Carr: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I move that this House do now adjourn.

Deputy Speaker B. McLeod: — It has been moved that this Assembly do now adjourn. Is it the pleasure of the Assembly to adopt this motion?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Deputy Speaker B. McLeod: — Carried. This Assembly now stands adjourned until Monday at 1:30. Safe travels, everyone. See you next week.

[The Assembly adjourned at 12:43.]

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

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