Hon. Ken Cheveldayoff: — Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker, colleagues. It’s indeed a pleasure, to you and through you, to introduce several guests who have joined us in your gallery today. This morning we announced the extension of the Ukrainian student tuition relief program. We have several guests here that participated in the announcement that will be introduced.

I want to begin by thanking members on both sides of the House for their work in ensuring that this program continued and was extended — members for Yorkton, Canora-Pelly, Saskatoon Churchill-Wildwood, Saskatoon University-Sutherland, and indeed each and every member of this House. Thank you very much for your guidance and your support in this.

Guests are here that are Ukrainian students. And I want to begin by first of all introducing Carolyn Warnyca-Griffin, who is seated in your gallery today representing the Ukrainian Canadian Congress of Saskatchewan. Welcome.

The UCC [Ukrainian Canadian Congress] has played an essential role in supporting Ukrainian families throughout our province. It offers settlement assistance, cultural connection, community leadership as the war on Ukraine continues. Ms. Warnyca-Griffin is here on behalf of Elena Krueger, the UCC president who wasn’t able to be here today. We are grateful for her presence and her kind words spoken during the event this morning.

She’s joined by no stranger to the House, former MLA [Member of the Legislative Assembly], cabinet minister, deputy premier, Ken Krawetz, the gentleman who has done so much for Ukrainian people across Saskatchewan and certainly in this Legislative Assembly. We’d like to welcome Ken to his Legislative Assembly.

Also seated in your gallery are five Ukrainian students from the University of Regina whose resilience and determination are truly inspiring. These students are part of our Ukrainian student tuition relief program, and it’s an honour to have them here today.

I want to give special recognition to Anton Merzliakov, who spoke at the announcement, shared his personal story about how much the program has helped him. I had lunch with Anton. I found out that he’s a hockey player, a goalie, a Connor Hellebuyck fan. And he even sat through some of my Blaine Lake Ukrainian as I said:

[The hon. member spoke for a time in Ukrainian] is what an elder would tell a young kid, “What are you doing?” So I heard that a lot in Blaine Lake.

Mr. Speaker, I’m also pleased to introduce a group of eight Ukrainian students from Dr. Martin LeBoldus Catholic High School. A few teachers and administrative staff have joined them from the Regina Catholic School Division.

They heard an inspiring message from the Minister of Education this morning. And they learned that they might have to go back to class this afternoon, but very lately they understood that they could come to the legislature as a legislative tour and be counted as being in class. So it worked out well for them, Mr. Speaker.

These students are exploring future post-secondary opportunities in Saskatchewan and are part of today’s celebration of the opportunities available to Ukrainian learners in our province. Mr. Speaker, these students and the individuals and organizations that support them demonstrate the strength, resilience, and compassion that define both Ukraine and our own province of Saskatchewan. We are proud to welcome them to their Legislative Assembly.

I’ll have more to say in a ministerial statement after question period. But I ask all members to heartily extend a warm welcome to our guests. Dyakuyu [Translation: Thank you], Mr. Speaker.

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

Keith Jorgenson: — Thank you so much, Mr. Speaker. I wanted to join the member opposite, the Minister of Advanced Education, in welcoming the group of Ukrainians who have joined us in your gallery, you know, in particular Carolyn from the UCC. And the UCC does so much to support both Ukrainians such as myself as well as the approximately 10,000 Ukrainians who have come to Saskatchewan having fled the war, Russia’s invasion of their country.

So I want to of course thank Ken Krawetz and welcome him back to his legislature, someone who’s undeniably done so much for the cause of Ukrainians. I’m sure underneath his T-shirt, instead of having an “S” on it, it probably has a big “U” on it for Ukrainian, as in Mr. Ukrainian.

I also want to, you know, sincerely welcome the group of Ukrainian students, both high school and university students, here to our legislature. And Anton actually has a playoff game tonight at 7:30 at I think Al Ritchie. Al Ritchie? If you want to come and cheer him on, he plays for the Regina Capitals. So you know, a great reason to cheer not only for a great Saskatchewan team but also a young man who joined us today with some heartwarming remarks about how he has been welcomed by our province from Ukraine.

So thank you to the minister opposite for his welcoming. And I’m happy to join him in welcoming this group of people to their legislature.

Speaker Goudy: — And welcome Ryan and Tim. They’ve been here before, couple good Melfort guys. So we’ll move on to presenting petitions.

I recognize the member from Saskatoon Nutana.

Erika Ritchie: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I do want to take this opportunity to welcome once again into your gallery a few guests that I had the pleasure of meeting with today. They met yesterday with government-side members. There was a large contingent that was here both yesterday and today. This afternoon we have with us Majors Karen and Al Hoeft as well as Tracy Desjarlais. And I want to thank the three of you for a wonderful discussion.

I was commenting that, you know, with the range of services and ways that you are engaged in humanitarian works throughout Saskatchewan, you’re kind of like the connective tissue that kind of holds our province together in many important ways that kind of go unseen. And then I couldn’t think of the word for it so I had to look it up, but you’re like fascia. And I mean that in the best possible way, as a compliment and out of gratitude and appreciation for the good work that you do throughout the province.

And with that I will ask all members to join me in once again welcoming you to your Legislative Assembly.

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

Hon. Terry Jenson: — Requesting leave to make an introduction.

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

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Hon. Terry Jenson: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. And to you and through you this afternoon, seated in the gallery I would like to join the member opposite in welcoming back Al and Karen Hoeft from the Salvation Army, as well as Tracy Desjarlais. You know, two days in a row in the legislature . . . You know, this is good stuff.

Just as a side note — and you know, I was remiss in mentioning yesterday — when it comes to Christmastime and putting together hampers for the kids, presents for the kids, when the parents come in, Mr. Speaker, Karen Hoeft is one of the best at training new people like myself. It was an absolute joy at Christmastime to join them when we were putting together the hampers for the kids at Christmastime.

So with that, I just thought I’d throw that in today since Karen’s back here today with Al. And welcome Tracy, Al, and Karen back to their Saskatchewan legislature.

PRESENTING PETITIONS

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

Hugh Gordon: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise today to bring attention to a petition to the Legislative Assembly of Saskatchewan calling for the repeal of Bill 137.

We, the undersigned residents of the province of Saskatchewan, wish to bring to your attention the following: queer and trans youth are at high risks of homelessness, self-harm, and suicide when denied access to safe and inclusive learning environments; that Bill 137, The Education (Parents’ Bill of Rights) Amendment Act, 2023 directs educators to non-consensually out two-spirit, trans, and nonbinary students under the age of 16 to their parents; that Bill 137 is in direct contravention of The Saskatchewan Human Rights Code and the Charter of Rights and Freedoms as it relates to gender identity and expression; that by explicitly invoking the notwithstanding clause under Bill 137 that the government is overriding children’s rights; that Saskatchewan’s Advocate for Children and Youth has denounced this policy, indicating that it would cause harm; that Bill 137 was developed without public consultation from communities of educators, parents, students, or experts; that Bill 137 is in direct contravention of evidence-based best practices for supporting 2SLGBTQ+ [two-spirit, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and/or questioning, plus] youth; and that Bill 137 will result in direct harm being inflicted on Saskatchewan’s students.

We in the prayer that reads as follows, respectfully request the Legislative Assembly of Saskatchewan call on the Government of Saskatchewan to immediately repeal Bill 137 and ensure that all 2SLGBTQ+ students are supported and protected in accordance with The Saskatchewan Human Rights Code.

Mr. Speaker, the signatories to this petition reside in Saskatoon and Martensville. I do so present.

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

Sally Housser: — Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. I rise today to present a petition to the Government of Saskatchewan to remove lead water lines in Regina.

We, the undersigned residents of the province of Saskatchewan, wish to bring to your attention the following. The province of Saskatchewan is responsible for ensuring the safety of our drinking water. Many citizens of Regina do not have safe drinking water because the pipes that deliver that water to their homes are both old and made of lead, resulting in high concentrations of lead leaching into their drinking water. The situation has a disproportionate impact on the health of vulnerable people living in Regina’s urban core. The province of Saskatchewan administers federal infrastructure funding that is intended to revitalize core infrastructure, including safe drinking water.

I’ll read the prayer:

We, in the prayer that reads as follows, respectfully request the Legislative Assembly of Saskatchewan call on the Government of Saskatchewan to immediately ensure access to safe drinking water for all Regina residents by providing supports to the city of Regina to replace lead water mains quickly and safely.

The undersigned in this petition reside in Regina. I do so present.

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

Keith Jorgenson: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. It’s my pleasure to rise to present a petition to the Legislative Assembly of Saskatchewan to fix the crisis in health care.

We, the undersigned residents of the province of Saskatchewan, wish to bring to your attention the following: that in the past five years the health care closures across rural Saskatchewan have disrupted service for 8,613 days; and that of those, 3,953 of those were disruptions to emergency room services; and that the Saskatchewan people deserve to have adequate and accessible health care where and when they need it.

We, in the prayer that reads as follows, respectfully request that the Saskatchewan Legislative Assembly call on the Government of Saskatchewan to immediately address the short-staffing and the crisis in health care, and work with health care workers to find solutions to improve patient care.

This is signed by residents of Gravelbourg. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the member from Athabasca.

Leroy Laliberte: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise today to present a petition to the Legislative Assembly of Saskatchewan to implement rent control now.

We, the undersigned residents of the province of Saskatchewan, wish to bring to your attention the following: that Saskatchewan tenants are currently experiencing the highest level of rent increases in the country; that rent in Saskatchewan has risen 4 per cent last year alone, far outpacing wage growth and putting more pressure on families, seniors, students, and low-income residents; that without rent control, landlords can implement unchecked rent hikes, making housing increasingly unaffordable and unstable; that provinces such as British Columbia, Manitoba, Ontario, Prince Edward Island have already implemented rent control measures to protect tenants and maintain housing affordability.

[13:45]

I will read the prayer:

We, in the prayer reads as follows, respectfully request the Legislative Assembly of Saskatchewan call on the Government of Saskatchewan to adopt fair and effective rent control legislation that limits annual rent increases, ensures housing stability, and protects tenants from being priced out of their homes.

The undersigned signatures are from Regina. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

STATEMENTS BY MEMBERS

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

Ituna Writer Wins Best Agricultural Coverage Award

Travis Keisig: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. This summer a constituent of mine, Heidi Spilchuk, won first place in the 2025 Saskatchewan Weekly Newspapers Association competition for Best Agricultural Coverage for her work with Ituna News and A Squared Printing.

Her article titled “Advice from a Sunflower” focuses on Heidi sitting down with Delon Smysniuk, a local farmer. Delon explained that he took his Baba Pauline’s advice and decided to grow sunflowers for fun. Throughout the article Heidi explains the history of the sunflower, its cultivation, its various uses, and in general the joy that a single sunflower can bring to people.

Mr. Speaker, the Ituna area always appreciates her storytelling abilities. She has a remarkable talent for captivating her audience while keeping her stories light and enjoyable to read. Mr. Speaker, local papers all across Saskatchewan are a bedrock of their communities. I am proud, as her MLA, to highlight Heidi’s achievements in journalism. Though humble, she should take pride in her accomplishments.

With that, Mr. Speaker, I would like to ask all the members to join me in congratulating Heidi Spilchuk on winning first place in the 2025 SWNA [Saskatchewan Weekly Newspapers Association] Better Newspapers Competition for Best Agricultural Coverage for her article, “Advice from a Sunflower.” Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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

Black History Month Gala and Awards Night

Tajinder Grewal: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Canada celebrates February as Black History Month to recognize the contribution of Black Canadians and to reflect on the struggles and resilience of Black communities throughout history. This month is a reminder to honour the past, celebrate the present, and commit ourself to a future where all people, regardless of their background, are able to thrive.

In Saskatoon, Black History Month Gala and Awards Night was organized by Truly Alive Youth and Family Foundation on February 27th at TCU Place. It was breathtaking to witness the rich diversity in the room, people from all walks of life and backgrounds coming together in celebration, unity, and reflection.

Many community leaders and organizations were awarded for their services in different categories. Congratulations to all the winners, and thank you for your advocacy and service to make Saskatchewan a better place to live.

I was very pleased to see many of my colleagues attending this important event. Members from Saskatoon Fairview, Saskatoon Nutana, Regina Coronation Park were present at this important celebration.

Thanks to the Truly Alive Youth and Family Foundation, especially to Anthony Olusola, its executive director, and all the volunteers and staff for organizing Black History Month Gala and making it a memorable evening. Thank you.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of Energy and Resources.

Remembering Newton “Newt” Melvin Taylor

Hon. Chris Beaudry: — Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honour the life of a gentle, generous man, Newton “Newt” Melvin. Born on a farm near Watrous in 1937, Newt spent his early years working hard, eventually moving to Pointe du Bois, Manitoba as a grader operator. It was good, steady work. But when tragedy struck his family in 1965 everything changed. His brother-in-law Neil passed away at just 37, leaving his sister Edna with three young children and a farm to run. Without being asked, Newt quit his job and moved home to Lockwood and stepped in.

That choice defined who he was — quietly selfless. Family meant everything to Newt. He was a dad to his niece Lori and a grandfather figure to her boys, and they adored him because he loved them so sincerely.

When Newt moved to the Lanigan Central Parkland Lodge in 2016, he found a second family. He bragged about the meals, joked with staff, and always said the girls worked too hard. Their care meant the world to him.

Before his passing on July 27th, 2025, he shared one final wish — to give back to the place that treated him so well. On August 20th Lori and her son Logan honoured that wish by presenting the lodge with a cheque for $10,000 to support the staff and residents he loved. Mr. Speaker, Newt’s kindness will continue to live on in the community he quietly served. Thank you.

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

Saskatoon Food Bank & Learning Centre Breaks Ground for New Location

Kim Breckner: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to draw your attention to an event I attended last October. In my constituency of Saskatoon Riversdale, the Saskatoon Food Bank & Learning Centre had a groundbreaking ceremony in Pleasant Hill, the neighbourhood for their new location. This groundbreaking represented years of hard work and planning, with an opening date of spring 2027. The new location will have a greenhouse, garden, food distribution centre, storage, offices, and classrooms.

The Saskatoon Food Bank & Learning Centre is not just a food bank but also aims to address some of the underlying causes of hunger and poverty, an example that this Sask Party government should follow. Building a new location will make it easier for the food bank to serve the over 23,000 people it feeds every month. As demand for the food bank climbs, we must ask why so many people are forced to choose between paying rent or providing food for their families. This new location will be an important resource in my constituency, and I congratulate the organization on this amazing achievement.

Yet I continue to call on this government to provide real solutions to the affordability crisis. Life is unaffordable for many in Saskatchewan, and without real work from the Sask Party government we will continue to see widespread financial stress, poverty, and the increased need for these services. Thank you.

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

Robot Surgical Program Shows Results

Blaine McLeod: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Last year our government announced 2 million in annual funding to expand the robot surgical program. Mr. Speaker, we’re already beginning to see results. Over the last year nearly 500 robot-assisted surgeries have been performed by the four robots now operating in the province. These surgeries include common surgeries like hernia repairs or more specialized treatments like cancer care and colon, liver, gall bladder, and pancreas surgery.

Dr. Michael Kelly, provincial head of surgery for the Saskatchewan Health Authority, said the technology represents, and I quote, “a major advancement in surgical innovation,” which will allow for safer, more precise surgeries to be performed and in some cases will lead to faster recovery for patients as well.

Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the Government of Saskatchewan, thank you to the Royal University Hospital Foundation for their recent contribution of 150,000 towards this new surgical system. And thank you to our medical teams working to deliver the best possible health care for Saskatchewan people.

This government will continue to find new and innovative ways to deliver health care to people in this province, unlike the opposition who tried to ban the use of innovative tools like virtual physicians. With the help of a strong economy, we can continue to make investments like these into our health care system. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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

Saskatoon 2025 Point-in-Time Count

April ChiefCalf: — Mr. Speaker, on October 16th I volunteered in the 2025 point-in-time count in Saskatoon. I was able to see first-hand how the count was organized and connect with the agencies and volunteers that participated. I was also able to meet the people who are experiencing housing insecurity, several of whom who are from northern Saskatchewan.

In Saskatoon the PIT [point-in-time] count is led by the city of Saskatoon, the Saskatchewan Housing Initiatives Partnership, and the Community-University Institute for Social Research. Numerous other organizations also contribute to the process, including the Saskatoon Fire Department, Saskatoon Poverty Reduction Partnership, Prairie Harm Reduction, and the Salvation Army.

Volunteers are trained in approaching individuals, asking questions, and recording information. I was assigned to an area behind the Central Urban Métis Federation, where people were able to use washrooms and showers, and access food and services provided by the Saskatoon Tribal Council. There were numerous tents and tarps in an encampment nearby and many people keeping warm by a firepit.

Mr. Speaker, the 2025 PIT count revealed that 1,931 people were experiencing houselessness that night, an increase from 1,499 in 2024. I wish to thank the organizers and volunteers, but most of all I would like to express my gratitude to the people who shared their experiences of houselessness with me. têniki and mahsi cho.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the member from Prince Albert Carlton.

Construction to Begin at Wheeler River Uranium Mine

Kevin Kasun: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. It’s a great day for northern Saskatchewan. The construction of a new uranium mine is set to begin this month in the eastern Athabasca Basin. The Denison Phoenix mine at Wheeler River will be a significant economic driver with a capital investment estimated at 600 million.

It is estimated that there are 56.7 million pounds of uranium reserves in this location. This project has received support from local Indigenous groups including the Ya’ thi Néné Lands and Resources which consists of Hatchet Lake Dene First Nation, Black Lake Dene First Nation, Fond du Lac Dene First Nation, Stony Rapids, Uranium City, Wollaston Lake, and Camsell Portage.

This is huge news for Saskatchewan. Saskatchewan ranks third globally for mining investment attractiveness and continues to lead the nation in mining investment with an estimated 7 billion invested just last year. We are the world’s leading potash producer, the world’s second-largest uranium producer, and the country’s largest helium producer.

Following the recent agreement with India for Saskatchewan uranium, this new project is another step forward for Saskatchewan and the global uranium mining sector. With the ongoing global shift to nuclear power, Saskatchewan is destined for success as we expand the provincial energy industry. Thank you.

QUESTION PERIOD

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

Provincial Budget

Carla Beck: — Mr. Speaker, October the 12th, October the 12th, 2024 the Premier, while he was fighting to keep his job, rolled out a platform promising to return the provincial budget to balance by 2027‑2028. It’s right there, Mr. Speaker. Right on page 77, under the somewhat amusing title “The Saskatchewan Party Plan for Responsible . . . [fiscal] Management.” $16.4 million. Does the Premier plan to keep that promise?

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Deputy Premier.

Hon. Jim Reiter: — Mr. Speaker, if the Leader of the Opposition wants to relitigate the 2024 election, I’d be happy to do it. Mr. Speaker, members on this side are very proud that this was an election that led us to our fifth straight majority government continuing to work hard for the people of Saskatchewan, Mr. Speaker.

So let’s go. Let’s go through the election, Mr. Speaker. We promised to reduce income tax for everyone in Saskatchewan. Promise made, promise kept. We promised to remove the Trudeau-NDP [New Democratic Party] carbon tax and keep it off until it’s removed for everyone. Promise made, promise kept. We increased the first-time homebuyers tax credit. Promise made, promise kept. We increased the graduate retention program. Promise made, promise kept.

Mr. Speaker, the list goes on. But the most important promise of all, we promised to keep the NDP in opposition for four more years. Promise made, promise kept.

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

Carla Beck: — Mr. Speaker, I didn’t see an answer but I saw a lot of swagger from that minister, especially given the budget he’s going to be presenting in this Assembly very soon.

But here’s the problem, Mr. Speaker. It isn’t that minister or the Premier who pay for their financial mismanagement. It’s the people of this province. They pay for it in PST [provincial sales tax] hikes. They pay for it in municipal property tax increases. They pay for it in climbing power rates, car insurance rates, and the list goes on.

They also pay for it in the failure of this government to build critical infrastructure or to even keep their promises like a Yorkton hospital or fully funding the P.A. [Prince Albert] hospital, Mr. Speaker. This government breaks it, and it’s the people of Saskatchewan who pay the price.

Can the Premier explain why they still can’t balance the budget, but people in this province are still getting less?

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Deputy Premier.

Hon. Jim Reiter: — Mr. Speaker, there are geopolitical headwinds and economic headwinds around this country, around the world, Mr. Speaker. There’s some things we can’t control, but there’s some things we can, Mr. Speaker.

That’s why the Premier set aside some political difference, some very obvious political differences with the Prime Minister and the federal Liberal government, to be in India this week to sign a very important uranium trade agreement, Mr. Speaker. Another important agreement today on pulses, Mr. Speaker. Those are the things we can control.

[14:00]

Mr. Speaker, the NDP actually, they still can’t get over the fact they lost the last election, Mr. Speaker. They remind me of Toronto Maple Leafs fans still planning the next Stanley Cup parade, Mr. Speaker. I apologize for that, Ken.

Mr. Speaker, now they want to rehash the election. Mr. Speaker, one minute they want to spend more, the next minute spend less. Mr. Speaker, they’re all over the place. That’s why nobody can believe them, Mr. Speaker.

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

Supports for Homeless Youth

Carla Beck: — Well hilarious hockey jokes aside, the impact of their failures have terrible consequences for the people of this province, Mr. Speaker. Just after this government blocked a motion on measures to deal with child poverty in this province, another damning report dropped. This one, Mr. Speaker, reveals that one in five of those who are homeless in Saskatoon are young adults under 24. Literally our future, Mr. Speaker.

Can the minister explain how he has failed these young people in our province so terribly?

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

Hon. Terry Jenson: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. This is an issue that this government takes extremely seriously, Mr. Speaker. When it comes to children and ensuring that we’re protecting the most vulnerable in our communities, I’d point to some of the investments that we’ve made in Saskatoon, Mr. Speaker. We’ve invested thousands and thousands of dollars into White Buffalo Youth Lodge to provide youth overnight shelter services, Mr. Speaker.

This is helping to prevent individuals that are youth that are vulnerable to different things like gangs, prostitution, and all of the bad things that come with being on the street, Mr. Speaker. This is a government that is making the investments in our communities to ensure that the young people of our province who may fall into the problem of homelessness, we’re trying to protect that. And we’re doing the work, and we’re consulting with our municipalities and our Indigenous partners in that work. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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

Carla Beck: — Mr. Speaker, they’re not doing the work. Over 200 of those homeless in Saskatoon are age 12 and under. It’s unacceptable. But this is where we’re at in this province right now. We have 2,000 people who are homeless in Saskatoon alone. We have record food bank usage. We have almost 80,000 children in this province who are living in poverty, and we have a government that can’t even be bothered to pretend to care about it, Mr. Speaker.

My last question is pretty simple. What does this government keep themselves busy with all day? Because it certainly isn’t standing up for the people of this province.

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

Hon. Terry Jenson: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and again I’ll say this. This is extremely important work that my ministry and this government has undertaken — with the collaboration, with the dialogue, with the conversations and the investments — with our municipalities around the province, our Indigenous partners around the province, as well as our community-based organizations, Mr. Speaker.

This is a government that’s invested $118 million into homelessness services across this province, including 22 million, $23 million in Saskatoon, Mr. Speaker. We are working on the problem of the existing homelessness issue with our community-based organizations and Indigenous partners.

But further to that, Mr. Speaker, in order to prevent that from being a growing problem in the future, we are focused on ensuring that kids that are vulnerable, the youth that are in a vulnerable position are being provided the supports. And I would point to the transition house in Regina that we just opened up three weeks ago . . .

[Interjections]

Speaker Goudy: — Sorry. Again, he’s giving an answer and we’re listening. Just, we can’t talk. It’s a very simple rule.

So, Minister, please continue on.

Hon. Terry Jenson: — I would just point to the transition house that we opened in Regina just a few weeks ago, Mr. Speaker, that’s being run by the YWCA. That is going to keep vulnerable kids off the street and give them a head start, give them some extended educational opportunities, and provide them with life skills, Mr. Speaker.

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

Saskatchewan Government Insurance Rates

Darcy Warrington: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. This Saskatchewan Party government remains out of touch, making everything expensive from rent to groceries to clothing and now power rates and even SGI [Saskatchewan Government Insurance] insurance too. Saskatchewan people can’t keep up.

Take Deepan Dasgupta seated in your gallery. Deepan is a constituent in Saskatoon Stonebridge. He works hard to feed his family and provide them a good life by driving to work every day. How does the minister for SGI justify hikes on Deepan and the people of Saskatchewan just to drive to work?

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

Hon. Jeremy Harrison: — Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. I appreciate the question. I want to put on the record that SGI has the lowest personal auto insurance rates in the entire country, Mr. Speaker.

And I would remind members as well, the Auto Fund is not a profit centre. It is entirely operated on a not-for-profit basis, entirely operated to make sure the claims that come in are able to be paid out. There are recommendations that come forward with regard to what we need to actually charge for rates to be able to keep that Auto Fund solvent, Mr. Speaker. That’s what is being reflected in the application to the rate review panel. We are going to make sure that the Auto Fund retains its ability to pay out claims. That’s what it’s there for. It’s not for profit, Mr. Speaker.

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

Darcy Warrington: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The SGI rate hikes will hurt the hard-working people of this province. Deepan, like many others, has to drive to work. It’s not a choice for him. His family needs to use the vehicle to drive to school. Giving up his vehicle is not an option. Commuting to work, the grocery store, picking up the kids — all more expensive thanks to this Sask Party government.

Does the minister recognize that he’s making life more expensive for families like Deepan’s, and will he reverse the SGI rate hikes today?

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of SGI.

Hon. Jeremy Harrison: — Well thank you, thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. I would just reiterate that SGI has the lowest average personal auto insurance rates in the entire country, Mr. Speaker. The Auto Fund operates on a not-for-profit basis. We’re going to make sure that we maintain the integrity of the Auto Fund going forward and its ability to pay out claims.

I would also note, Mr. Speaker, that there has not been a rate increase in this province at SGI for over a decade. Mr. Speaker, that’s because our hard-working officials and managers at SGI have done a very, very good job in keeping those costs down at the company. We’re going to continue to work hard to do that, Mr. Speaker. But there have been an increase in cost per repair of vehicle, and that’s going to be reflected in rates as we move forward.

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

Darcy Warrington: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The Sask Party government just increased the cost to insure Deepan’s SUV [sport-utility vehicle] this year, and again next year. People’s livelihoods depend on better management than this.

But it’s not just cars and SUVs. It’s trucks too. Four-by-four pickup trucks are essential in Saskatchewan’s fields and often snow-covered roads. Trucks are crucial to the farm, to work within small businesses, to take kids to hockey practice, and to help move when they can’t afford their rent anymore. The Sask Party government made it more expensive to own a truck in Saskatchewan as well.

Why does this Sask Party government want to make it harder to own a pickup truck in the province?

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of SGI.

Hon. Jeremy Harrison: — Mr. Speaker, I’m sure there’s many members on this side that own pickup trucks as well. But I would underline though as well, Mr. Speaker, that SGI does have the lowest personal auto insurance rates of any jurisdiction in the entire country, including a New Democrat British Columbia, New Democrat Manitoba. We have the lowest rates in Canada.

The Auto Fund operates on a not-for-profit basis, Mr. Speaker. It’s professionally managed by our staff at SGI, who do a very good job in investing and managing that fund. We are facing pressures because of the increase in cost per repair of vehicle, Mr. Speaker, and that’s going to be reflected as we move forward. That application is in front of the rate review panel right now.

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

Saskatchewan Health Authority Compensation Rates

Meara Conway: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Yesterday I asked why this government is giving its friends and insiders in the SHA [Saskatchewan Health Authority] executive leadership a $300,000 pay hike . . .

Speaker Goudy: — Okay. You didn’t cross the line, but I’m sure going to caution you. “Friends” and the pay-to-play comments yesterday, and “friends” today. So you’re going to have to steer more clear of your comments, please.

Meara Conway: — Just try to stay in the lines, Mr. Speaker. Yesterday I asked why this government is giving its friends and insiders in the SHA executive leadership a 300,000 . . . You just said . . . Sorry, to clarify, I thought you said I didn’t cross the line.

Speaker Goudy: — I was saying stay away from the line. So “friends” is the line. Stay back from there.

Meara Conway: — Noted, Mr. Speaker. Yesterday I asked this government why it’s giving SHA executive leadership a $300,000 pay hike while front-line health care workers are having to sell their blood plasma to make rent or stop at the food bank on the way home from a 12‑hour shift.

In response yesterday, the Minister of Rural and Remote Health made this claim. She told the press that this six-figure pay hike was, “Right in line with what our regular union members get.”

Does the minister realize that a $300,000 pay increase is ridiculous, while those keeping our health care system afloat haven’t seen a pay increase in years and can barely afford food or shelter?

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

Hon. Lori Carr: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, what is ridiculous is the comments coming from the other side of the House, Mr. Speaker. That money that we’re talking about is not just one thing, Mr. Speaker. The dollar amount that she’s talking about comes from a combination of . . . The salary clarification I made yesterday with the individual who had worked half a year and then a full year the next year.

So yes, of course we’re going to see an increase in that, Mr. Speaker. There was some severance pay. There was vacation pay that was paid out for employees that had worked and not taken their vacation. So the vacation pay was paid out.

So yes, those dollar amounts were in there, Mr. Speaker. So I look forward to the next question.

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

Meara Conway: — Mr. Speaker, I have before me meeting minutes from an SHA board meeting held on June 25th, 2025. The public meeting was called to order at 11:02 a.m., and it was adjourned at 11:06 a.m. until three months later, September 25th.

For the record, four minutes is not enough time to boil an egg. Does the minister really think that the public is getting its money’s worth?

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

Hon. Lori Carr: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, just for clarification, she’s talking about two different items here now. She’s trying to mix the dollar amount that she talked about yesterday and today with what she just brought up in this question, Mr. Speaker. They are two completely different items, Mr. Speaker. And so when she talks about the increases, when I . . .

[Interjections]

Speaker Goudy: — Sorry. Again, we need to listen carefully, and that means our mouths don’t move.

So, Minister, please.

Hon. Lori Carr: — But when I also talked about the increases yesterday, Mr. Speaker, I talked about the progression within their existing pay bands, which is the same type of an increase that a unionized employee would get. So I would just like to clarify that for the record as well, Mr. Speaker. Thank you.

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

Meara Conway: — Ah. So the increase for the unionized health care workers is theoretical, Mr. Speaker. I think I am starting to understand.

The people of Saskatchewan want to know what they are getting for the extra $300,000 that this government is investing in SHA executives. The Regina urgent care centre is cutting back its hours again. Health care workers are being subjected to growing violence. Patients are forced to receive care crammed into hallways or up against registration desks, Mr. Speaker. Today five hospitals are closed in rural Saskatchewan, and health care workers have gone years without a contract and without a pay raise.

So will this government support a motion to freeze SHA executive pay until this government can deliver a contract for the hard-working front-line health care workers of Saskatchewan?

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

[14:15]

Hon. Lori Carr: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, our government supports and respects the collective bargaining process. We value the work of the province’s health care providers and share a common interest in providing Saskatchewan patients with high-quality care, Mr. Speaker. We know that the best deals are reached at the bargaining table, Mr. Speaker, and we have confidence that the Saskatchewan Association of Health Organizations and the health unions will be successful in negotiating these agreements, Mr. Speaker. Thank you.

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

Funding for Post-Secondary Institutions

Tajinder Grewal: — Mr. Speaker, it’s a great time to work as an SHA executive, but these are very difficult times for the staff at Saskatchewan Polytechnic. Sask Poly trains tomorrow’s future, but we have heard of dozens of jobs cut at campuses across the province. That’s both faculty and non-faculty, Mr. Speaker.

This minister has already failed the staff of Sask Poly, and he has failed the students. He should not make it worse. Will the minister commit to no more layoffs at Sask Poly?

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

Hon. Ken Cheveldayoff: — Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. And as a government we are always putting our students first. We’re wanting to make sure that they have the programs that they need.

The member opposite and members across the floor and members on this side of the House will know the federal government put a cap on international students. This has affected the finances of institutions across the country. In Saskatchewan we are very, very fortunate. We have a multi-year funding program that was historic for Saskatchewan and precedent-setting across the country. It’s the envy across the country.

Yes, 151 layoffs is something to be concerned about. But, Mr. Speaker, we have to put it in perspective. There are 17,000 that have happened across Saskatchewan. We’re trying to insulate our institutions due to the good leadership work of our senior staff at those institutions. We’re ensuring that the layoffs are as minimal as possible. And the member will know — and I’ll expand on a further answer — what happened in Manitoba.

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

Tajinder Grewal: — Mr. Speaker, this Sask Party government has underfunded Sask Poly year after year until they are forced to cut staff. He has made the quality of education for students in this province worse. He has forced young people to make the difficult decision to leave Saskatchewan and learn their trade in a province that will invest in them. And he will not commit to fixing it.

And then he should be honest. How many layoffs can we expect to see at Sask Poly this year?

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

Hon. Ken Cheveldayoff: — Mr. Speaker, this is why the NDP opposition cannot be believed. Mr. Speaker, we’re trying to put things in perspective. We’re trying to look at what is happening across the country.

Speaker Goudy: — Okay, there were two comments. I’m not sure if you said, “He needs to be honest.” And then he says, “You can’t be believed.” Please, we’re honourable . . . Let’s not be casting accusations back and forth.

Minister of Advanced Education.

Hon. Ken Cheveldayoff: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The opposition can’t be taken seriously on this because, you know, if they do their research . . . And you know, I’m being forthright here. We take no glee in what happens in this situation because it’s something that’s caused by the federal government. They opened the doors. They had thousands and thousands coming in.

And now the pendulum has swung and it’s penalizing provinces like Saskatchewan, like Manitoba. But Manitoba’s made the decision to close the Manitoba Institute of Trades and Technology. We take no glee in that, but that’s the seriousness of this situation.

Thank goodness that we have a multi-year funding agreement that is bumping up monies that go to those institutions, for sure. And we will ensure that we keep putting students first in this province. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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

SaskPower Rates and Power Generation

Aleana Young: — Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, on November 20th the SaskPower board met. On December 4th the Premier said in this Assembly that power bills were not going to go up.

When was the Premier informed that Saskatchewan people’s power bills would be increasing?

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of CIC.

Hon. Jeremy Harrison: — Well thank you, Mr. Speaker. I’ll take this question on behalf of the Premier, who is currently with Prime Minister Carney and Prime Minister Modi signing a . . .

Speaker Goudy: — Sorry, we just aren’t supposed to be membering members in the Chamber not in the Chamber. So I mentioned that yesterday, but . . .

Hon. Jeremy Harrison: — Sorry, Mr. Speaker. My head is stuffed up; I can’t hear clearly. But I would say this: we are making significant investments into transmission and generation at SaskPower, Mr. Speaker. In fact we made a very, very significant investment and announcement on transmission just last week, laying out our plan in the long term to increase our interconnection capacity with jurisdictions surrounding Saskatchewan and also connecting the northern and southern grids here in this province.

I would encourage members as well, tomorrow there’s going to be a very significant announcement I’m very excited about. My colleague and friend Minister Lecce is going to be making that on behalf of provinces and territories at PDAC [Prospectors and Developers Association of Canada] in Toronto. We have been very directly involved in the negotiation of that agreement that really is going to be a generational advance on transmission across this country and make a huge impact here in Saskatchewan.

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

Community Supports and Library Worker Safety

Joan Pratchler: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, libraries should be places where people feel safe to discover new things. But across this province violence against library workers is on the rise, and library workers are speaking out. Twenty years of Sask Party government cuts to mental health, housing, and addictions supports have consequences, and we see those consequences each and every day in our libraries.

Does the Minister of Education take responsibility for the increase in violence against library workers under its government’s watch? And what is he going to do about it?

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

Hon. Terry Jenson: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. And again when it comes to engagement with our municipalities, these are issues that are brought up. And this is a government that’s listening, Mr. Speaker.

I would point out in Saskatoon and Regina we have outreach teams that meet people in place, Mr. Speaker, whether that be somewhere in the community. It could be on the street. It could be in front of a library. It could be pretty much anywhere, Mr. Speaker. These outreach teams connect with these individuals and offer them supports, and that is work that we’re doing. We’re investing with our municipalities and our community-based organizations as well as our Indigenous partners, Mr. Speaker.

In Saskatoon we have outreach teams operated by sawêyihtotân, which is Saskatoon Tribal Council, Mr. Speaker. And these outreach teams are doing exceptional work, and that work will continue in Saskatoon and Regina. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

MINISTERIAL STATEMENTS

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

Tuition Relief Program Extension Will Support Ukrainian Students

Hon. Ken Cheveldayoff: — Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. Moving very quickly. Thank you for the opportunity. Mr. Speaker, Saskatchewan has a long history and connection and kinship with Ukraine. We have developed strong, supportive relationships and mutual appreciation over many decades based on common values and common culture.

Most recently Saskatchewan has added to this legacy by supporting Ukrainians who came to our province seeking refuge from war. Mr. Speaker, three years ago our government stepped up to help Ukrainian families who came to Saskatchewan through the Canada-Ukraine authorization for emergency travel program. Working across government and with essential support from community partners, Saskatchewan mobilized quickly to provide the essentials people needed to begin rebuilding their lives.

And I credit many of the individuals on both sides of the House for being there when those planes arrived, and the people were welcomed wholeheartedly by MLAs and community leaders across the country. This including helping newcomers secure housing, employment, and community connections.

We also ensured immediate access to provincial health care, recognizing that many families arrived with urgent medical needs and ongoing care requirements. Through collaboration with community organizations and volunteers across the province, Ukrainians were welcomed with supports that helped ease their transition during an incredibly difficult time.

Mr. Speaker, our government also recognized the need to support those who wanted to pursue post-secondary education. And in true Saskatchewan style, we delivered in a way that far exceeds what has been done in other provinces to be sure. Today our government is proud to announce the extension of the Saskatchewan Ukrainian student tuition relief program. I thank members on both sides of the House for that applause.

Those who came to Canada under the federal CUAET [Canada-Ukraine authorization for emergency travel] program are not considered refugees, which means that students would need to pay international tuition fees. Our provincial government program ensures these students pay domestic tuition fees, helping them access high-quality education by reducing financial pressure.

Mr. Speaker, our government wanted to help Ukrainian students continue to study and live in our province, and we did. Since the program began we have supported around 38 students in their post-secondary endeavours, and we will continue supporting even more students. Our government is extending the tuition relief program for another four years, ending March 31st, 2030.

Mr. Speaker, as the war in Ukraine continues for far too long with no clear end in sight, many families still face profound uncertainty about their future. Extending this program ensures that Ukrainian students, who have already endured so much, can continue building their stability here in Saskatchewan. By offering predictable, affordable access to education during an unpredictable time, our government is reaffirming its commitment to supporting these students.

At this time I’d like to thank my deputy minister, Louise Michaud, and her team at the Ministry of Advanced Education for their work on this file. Our government will ensure that any eligible student who begins their studies before March 31st, 2030 can benefit from the subsidized tuition.

Mr. Speaker, I am proud to say that Saskatchewan is the only province in Canada to offer this level of support for Ukrainian students. This shows how important post-secondary education is to our government and to our province. And it shows our appreciation for the many ways Ukrainians contribute to our communities, to our workforce, to our culture, to our legislature, and to our province.

Mr. Speaker, we hope that many of these Ukrainian students will see Saskatchewan as a new place to call home permanently. We’ll be working closely with them to ensure that they get their resident status and hopefully become full Canadian citizens as well.

Mr. Speaker, we are proud to support them, proud to invest in them, proud to walk with them as they pursue their goals and lives in Saskatchewan, and humbly thank them for all that they’re doing to make Saskatchewan a better place. Thank you.

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

Keith Jorgenson: — Thank you so much, Mr. Speaker. I’ll want to start by thanking the Minister of Advanced Education for providing me with a copy of his remarks in advance. It’s very kind of him.

As many of you in the Legislative Chamber will know, myself and my colleague from Saskatoon University brought this issue up in November of this last year. And since then my office has been working with many, many young Ukrainians and their families who would have been potentially affected by a cut to this program had that happened. So I want to thank the Minister of Advanced Education and the government personally but also on behalf of those young Ukrainians and their families, providing them with the support so they’d be able to continue to study in Saskatchewan and set down roots here.

I think that what I guess my request is that when issues like this come up in the legislature, Mr. Speaker, that the government not only do the right thing but do the right thing at the right time. This announcement could have been made in November. And had it been made in November, it would have saved a lot of worry and heartache on behalf of a lot of young Ukrainians and their families, who did not just have to worry about a war that was at home and how that was affecting their families there but also uncertainty here.

So again thank you to the minister and the government. And let’s try to do this in a more timely fashion in the future. Thank you.

[14:30]

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

Meara Conway: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Before orders of the day, I would seek leave to move a motion under rule 61.

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

MOTION UNDER RULE 61

Saskatchewan Health Authority Compensation Increase

Meara Conway: — Of course, Mr. Speaker. Thank you. This is an important motion I hope we can all be united on regarding disparities in pay between front-line SHA employees and executives. If leave is granted, I would move the following motion, and namely:

That this Assembly calls upon the government to ensure that no senior executives or board members in the SHA receive a pay increase until contract negotiations with front-line health care workers have concluded.

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

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Some Hon. Members: — No.

ORDERS OF THE DAY

GOVERNMENT ORDERS

ADJOURNED DEBATES

SECOND READINGS

Bill No. 24

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

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

Don McBean: — I heard it be announced for Bill 24, and so I think it’s not on our order paper but that would be over there.

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

Betty Nippi-Albright: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I’m pleased to rise and give my remarks on Bill No. 24. You’ll have to excuse me. I still am suffering from a cold here. So this bill, you know, The Saskatchewan Internal Trade Promotion Act, it’s . . . [inaudible interjection] . . . Oh, sure you can give me water, sure. But I don’t know if it will help me.

Anyway this bill, it’s really important — on this trade, internal trade — it’s really important for the people here in Saskatchewan as well as across the country. And it’s always important to ensure that we’re streamlining and ensuring that certification in another Canadian jurisdiction, it meets corresponding certification here in Saskatchewan.

I’m not going to say too much because I want to rest my voice. I have a few more to talk about. But you know, the one thing I do want to say is we’re glad to see that the minister that proposed this is taking tariffs seriously, and that it will be very good for the Premier and of course the Minister of Finance also to take these tariffs seriously as well.

I just want to chat a little bit about the bill that was put forward by the member from Saskatoon Riversdale. Now that bill that was presented by my colleague, you know, the bill itself does not discount our provincial duty to make sure occupational health and safety standards are met. It’s really important that when we present bills or when government presents bills, that the stakeholders are consulted, and to also consider when opposition members present bills, that they’ve really consulted with the folks that are going to be impacted. And when it comes to occupational health and safety, it’s really important that we consider that and we are mindful of how this impacts our citizens here in this province.

So with that I’m not going to say much more, but with that I would move to adjourn debate on Bill No. 24, The Saskatchewan Internal Trade Promotion Act.

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

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Speaker Goudy: — Carried.

Bill No. 29

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

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

Don McBean: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I was excited to speak to this bill today as the shadow minister of SLGA [Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Authority]. When it was announced well before the fall session and the introduction of the bill that the Saskatchewan Roughriders would be looking at and probably getting permission to hold tailgating parties, I thought, hey, that’s me; that’s SLGA. I get to . . . I’ve enjoyed listening to my colleagues speaking to it. And as today will be the last day to discuss it, I’m very happy to stand up and share some of my thoughts and experiences.

Some of you have noticed, and remarked frequently, I’m old. I’m old enough that I started drinking legally in a licensed establishment at age 18, before it was raised. And especially about my age, in those licensed establishments if I wanted to go to a different table to visit with friends, I had to call the waitress over to carry my drink because our liquor regulations insisted that we were not responsible to carry our own drink from one table to the other.

So you can kind of imagine a couple years later when I moved to Quebec and you could buy alcohol — wine and beer — in the grocery stores, in the corner stores. There was little to no regulation as to where you would consume that within the limits of responsible consumption. So for a little boy from Swift Current, that was quite something. The point is that it’s not about the regulation and the prohibition. It’s about the encouragement and education of responsible use.

So here we are. We’re in 2026. As I mentioned, I learned about it in the paper well before the bill was introduced that this was coming to Saskatchewan. You know, anyone born and raised here, even me, not such a big football guy now, but you know, we came to the Labour Day classic every year from Swift Current to watch these. And even if don’t bleed green, I certainly have lots of affinity with this.

And so as the bill was introduced and as we spoke to it and we went out and we met with the executive of the Riders, learned that this was a response to quite a bit of feedback, ongoing feedback for a number of years from Rider nation, we knew that we would facilitate this moving forward. And in fact the Riders are confident enough that it’s moving forward because they’ve already opened applications before the bill is passed. We didn’t even raise an eyebrow over that because we just know that this is a good thing.

There was a lot of talk at the beginning about how this fits into being a priority piece of legislation in the Throne Speech. We’ll let that go now. We’re just happy that we’re able to move forward. And with that, I’m happy to allow this bill to proceed to its next stage towards passage.

Speaker Goudy: — The question before the Assembly is the motion by the member that Bill No. 29, The Tailgating Act, bilingual, 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 Government House Leader.

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

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

Bill No. 31

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

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

Erika Ritchie: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. It is a pleasure to be on my feet and make some remarks on Bill No. 31, The Defamation Act.

I guess I would start by acknowledging some of the change in the terminology that reflects the modernization and current reality that this subject matter is addressing, shifting from sort of libel and slander language, which as I understand it from a technical, legal perspective can be rather problematic, to one that sort of is all-encompassing now, and referring to defamation in all of its forms, particularly since we have now with the . . . Well it’s been quite some time that we’ve had online expressions and debates, and in particular ways where defamation can potentially occur while at the same time also, you know, a lot of changes in sort of citizen journalism and demise of the news media.

And so we’re certainly living in a very different landscape now in terms of how individuals will engage in public spaces when addressing, you know, issues of public interest and the need for that to happen in ways that avoid defamation and avoid reputational damage — protecting people’s professional interests and careers and the like.

And I don’t profess here to be an expert in these manners of course. You know, certainly as a professional engineer I am, you know, I adhere to a code of ethics and conduct to ensure that my speech is not defamatory, that it is professional. I expect the same thing from my colleagues. And so I’m certainly very apprised of the need for, you know, right speech and avoidance of defamation.

But certainly in terms of its legal implications, I think it’s important and good that this legislation has come forward. I understand that there was a number of recommendations put forward by review panels that looked at ways to modernize the Act. And I know that our critic will be doing some good work to look and see which of those recommendations have indeed been adopted within this legislation, and whether or not we’ve stricken the right balance.

I do want to mention a few more things with respect to that in terms of ensuring that, while we’re looking to strike that right balance, that it’s not impeding upon freedom of expression. And I think it’s often said within the wisdom traditions that as are the thoughts, so is the speech; and then as are the speech, so are the actions. And so it can become a bit of a slippery slope in terms of when you can have defamatory speech, you know, insight, actions that can put the public at risk. We need to ensure that that kind of thing is avoided while at the same time as, you know, that there is the opportunity for positions and opinions to be made based on fact.

And you know, I think understandings for the difference between the two and when someone has crossed the line is where this legislation needs to ensure that it has stricken the right balance, and that at the same time that we’re avoiding things like creating a chilling effect. We’ve spoken in the past about anti-SLAPP [Strategic Lawsuit Against Public Participation] legislation. We see down in the States where threats of lawsuits for libel or defamation, you know, have a way of silencing critical thought and debate. We don’t want that to be an unintended product of these attempts to modernize the legislation. And I did want to mention that.

There are other issues around, for instance, you know, the high burden for public figures when it comes to defamation. It would be interesting to see how this legislation has accounted for that. Certainly, you know, public figures need to prove actual malice in certain cases. I have heard mention of a case potentially here in Saskatchewan of defamation and, you know, where there’s been an individual who does a lot of sort of online commentary. And so again it’s about striking that right balance I think between both, you know, being able to speak to issues of public interest but ensuring that it’s happening in such a way that isn’t creating defamation.

[14:45]

But as I say, I mean I think, you know, there’s a need for fair comment and responsible communication. We want to see that people can be able to express their opinion but do so in respectful ways, and that will be the balance that needs to be looked at. I know that our shadow minister for Justice will be looking closely at this, our member from Regina Douglas Park, and also engaging with stakeholders to ensure that all of that feedback and potential implications are addressed. And so with that I am prepared to adjourn debate on Bill No. 31.

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

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Speaker Goudy: — Carried.

Bill No. 32

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

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

Erika Ritchie: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. It is a great privilege to be on my feet in regards to Bill No. 32, The Defamation Consequential Amendments Act. I think I’ve already had the opportunity to make several comments on this matter before the legislature, and I have nothing further to say at this time, and so with that, will move to adjourn debate on Bill No. 32.

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

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Speaker Goudy: — Carried.

Bill No. 33

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

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

Matt Love: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. It’s an honour to enter into debate on Bill 33, The Credit Union Amendment Act. I don’t think I have too much to say on this piece of legislation. I think I’ll be somewhere between the last bill and the one before that in terms of how much speaking time my colleague from Nutana gave to those two pieces of legislation.

You know, I’ll start by just noting the value that credit unions have in our province, the history and the value that they have in terms of keeping money and investment and jobs here in Saskatchewan, but also the ways that our credit unions give back to our communities.

You know, I was on a school tour last week in Saskatoon. One of the new schools, part of Greater Saskatoon Catholic Schools, awâsisak kâ-nîmîhtocik St. Francis Cree bilingual school. Really just an amazing vision that has come to reality there as far as the Indigenization and the opportunities that they’re creating there for children to learn Cree language in school incorporated into the curriculum and the Catholic education and the values that they have there.

But one of the unique classrooms that I saw in the school had a plaque outside the door, because that classroom was a STEAM lab, which is science, technology, engineering, art, and math. And that classroom was sponsored by Affinity Credit Union. The dollars to build that classroom and for the learning opportunities that take place inside of it are funded by a credit union. And so I thought that that was really quite inspiring, again, as far as this bill goes just to notice the value that these credit unions and their members have in our province.

Now as far as this legislation goes, I understand that this bill is looking at bringing some clarity in terms of increasing efficiency for credit unions and how their memberships work and how terminating memberships work and the different processes and steps that go into that in terms of the type of notice given to members, and lays out all of this. And I know that on this side of the aisle our members here are going to continue to consult and see if it certainly does achieve the intended results that this legislation is aiming for, if it’s going to increase efficiency or not.

So we’re going to continue to do that work, but at this time I think I’ll move that we adjourn debate on Bill No. 33, The Credit Union Amendment Act, 2025. Thank you.

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

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Speaker Goudy: — Carried.

Bill No. 35

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

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

Matt Love: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Up again and proud to enter into debate on Bill 35, The Mineral Resources Amendment Act, 2025.

And I’ll start just by noting I think what several of my colleagues have, and I know members on the other side, you know, that we’re all proud to talk about the resources that we have in this province, our resources that we benefit from, certainly resources that the world needs. And when we look at the role of our mining industries in Saskatchewan when it comes to things like potash and uranium, critical minerals, helium, we have incredible natural resources in this vast and beautiful province of ours.

And it is certainly our job as legislators to consider and to think about how those resources can and should benefit the people of Saskatchewan, from our children all the way up to our seniors, and the vision that we have to grow our province and to ensure that everyone is thriving right here in Saskatchewan.

So this bill, I understand, is meant to eliminate some of the hurdles that are in place when it comes to accessing resources under the ground as far as defining, you know, the subsurface development areas, and in some cases where resources, where it’s hard to locate the rights holders of those resources.

And I think that this bill aims to bring some clarity and direction to ensure that those resources aren’t going to be unreasonably delayed in accessing them when rights holders can’t be contacted. It lays out, you know, some regulation as far as the steps that need to be taken to contact those individuals and to ensure that those resources aren’t going to be left untapped.

And so, you know, I think again the goal is that we want to see that we’re finding the balance between, you know, protecting rights and ensuring that everyone who should be consulted on things like this, including First Nations groups, when it comes to rights to accessing those resources are being upheld. That we’re respecting rights holders, but that we’re also consulting with everyone who needs to be consulted.

Those are certainly some of the things that we’re looking at, you know, and I know that our shadow ministers who work in these areas will continue to consult and are looking forward to the opportunity to find out from this government in terms of what steps they’ve taken to consult on a piece of legislation as important as this one.

But at this time, I’ll move that we adjourn debate on Bill 35, The Mineral Resources Amendment Act. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Speaker Goudy: — Carried.

Bill No. 36

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

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

Nathaniel Teed: — Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. It’s a pleasure to be on my feet here to enter into adjourned debate on Bill No. 36, The Change of Name Amendment Act.

Mr. Speaker, I’d left some comments on the record previously for The Vital Statistics Act, Bill No. 37, that we’ll be hearing about in just a moment. But, Mr. Speaker, just in summary, you know, this is a health-care-related bill looking to make amendments on how people in this province are able to change their name.

And this bill lays out some parameters, some things like only permanent residents and citizens are allowed to change their name. There is a notification policy in this bill as to notification of authorities. There are some limitations put on how families, family last names . . . sorry. There’s actually . . . They’re opening the limitations as to how family last names can be changed.

As we see a more multicultural society develop in our province, we see folks with non-traditional letters in their last names, and many times multiple names in a name, or a singular name, as my colleague mentioned yesterday. There’s also a regulation put in, you know, that you can’t just change your spouse’s name without their written consent. And we still will see fees put in place as far as marriage and name alterations.

Now of course we’ll be engaging with stakeholders. We will be determining . . . You know, one of the curious questions is how often temporary residents were actually looking to change their names, and you know, again speaking about the diversity of our province.

Now I would be remiss, Mr. Speaker, if I didn’t quickly come back to some of the thoughts I put on the record as the shadow minister for 2SLGBTQ affairs. Some of the concerns that come from our transgender and nonbinary and gender-nonconforming community in Saskatchewan is the difficulty that they face in changing their names legally in Saskatchewan.

There are a number of factors. Firstly, a privacy metric that when you change your name, your name is still published in what is called The Saskatchewan Gazette — and I would ask anyone to google that document because it was the first time I’d heard about it — but it’s a carry-over, Mr. Speaker, of the olden days when we would post many government changes and decisions and regulations in a public forum.

And this public forum, in this case, registers when people change their names, Mr. Speaker, and so if you are to google someone’s name, it will come up. And in the case of transgender individuals their dead name is right there in that document along with their new chosen name, Mr. Speaker, and so there’s a privacy consideration that folks do have when they are engaging in name change.

You know, again, and the last time I spoke on this, there is a balance for sure, Mr. Speaker, about, you know, respecting the laws. If you are engaging in breaking the law, Mr. Speaker, you have kind of given up your right in some of those cases. I’m sure that there are lawyers who would be able to debate those arguments more. But you know, if you are engaged in criminal activity maybe you don’t get the same privacy regulations when you’re changing your name. But there’s also just the costs and bureaucracy that folks in our community face when they’re looking to change their name, Mr. Speaker.

So, Mr. Speaker, I know that we will continue to engage with stakeholders and continue to analyze these bills. But you know, at this time I’m happy to adjourn debate on Bill No. 36, The Change of Name Amendment Act.

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

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Speaker Goudy: — Carried.

Bill No. 37

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

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

Brent Blakley: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I’m rising this afternoon to enter debate on Bill No. 37, The Vital Statistics Amendment Act, 2025. I certainly don’t want to interrupt what appears to be a caucus meeting on the other side, but I will move on.

This bill aims to modernize and streamline naming regulations in the province, also making it more efficient for the government and the law enforcement to search name records. My constituency of Regina Wascana Plains has a very diverse demographic when it comes to age, income, religious and ethnic backgrounds, where traditional names may no longer be accurate. This closely reflects the landscape of the province. Modernizing these names, naming regulations, is in keeping with our more diverse population.

This bill also strives to strengthen protection for vulnerable people in the province, which is obviously a much-needed step, seeing that Saskatchewan has the worst-in-Canada record of intimate partner violence.

I know that my colleagues and the shadow minister will absolutely have more to say, but for now, Mr. Speaker, I move to adjourn debate on Bill No. 37, The Vital Statistics Amendment Act, 2025.

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

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Speaker Goudy: — Carried.

Bill No. 38

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

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the member from Athabasca.

Leroy Laliberte: — Oh, there you go. I was waiting for the mike. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. It’s my honour again to rise and enter debate on Bill No. 38, The Building Schools Faster Act.

I was looking through the bill and seeing that . . . and looking through, and just kind of a summary, a breakdown as to what this bill implements. And seeing that it only applies to new schools and replacement and repairs, one of the things that I noticed and one of the things that I had brought up both in spring sitting last year and then also in fall sitting was the need for new schools in northern Saskatchewan.

[15:00]

Now I was given the opportunity to again, at the fall of 2024, tour the school in Buffalo Narrows. And something that I’d brought up before was that they had no running water on one side of the school. And I thought that, you know, bringing that up in the Assembly to see it be of importance of the government to ensure that all students throughout the province would have the same services that any other school would offer. And I think that, you know, running water being one of them.

The school is dated, just like many schools. My colleague and I, the MLA from Cumberland, toured the far North, and we’ve seen up in Stony Rapids a school that also needed some work done to it. Hasn’t been done in a long time — in many years, actually, from what we had seen.

Now it says also in the bill that the minister can set guidelines as to when new schools are needed or can be built, and I seen that municipalities are responsible for acquiring the land to build the schools on. But there’s a lot of schools that sit on land that’s owned by those particular communities that are looking to see if they could have a school built in their communities or in their Nations.

Now I know that there was jurisdictional talk based on whose responsibility that would be as to who would be building this thing, so seeing that the minister can set the guidelines as to when the new schools are needed or when they can be built. I noticed that in my area, where people of Athabasca and the Northern Lights School Division have presented, and I know that they have almost like a wish list as to when these schools can be built.

And I think in all fairness there’s a lot of schools that do need some repairs. You know, we take a look at the poor condition of some of the schools that we’ve had the opportunity to tour. And you know, you think that it’s almost 20 years of this government, the Sask Party government, sitting in power, that we’d have a lot more schools being built throughout the North because, you know . . .

And one of the things that I’m thankful for is I went to La Loche and we had opened up a new school here in the late fall, which was really nice to see for a community that size. It was definitely needed. But you know, it would be really nice if we would have the opportunity to be able to do that in other communities that been lacking those types of services for a long time. And so, you know . . .

And then thinking about this new deal with uranium, for example, and we’re going to have billions of dollars being pulled out of the North again — billions of dollars. There’s been billions of dollars of money being pulled out of the North for years already. And you think that we would, you know, the rich North or Saskatchewan being very rich when it comes to those types of resources, that we’d have more schools being both maintained or updated or else built in our province. So it gives us the great opportunity to be able to do that.

So taking a look at this bill and, you know, I’m thinking that there is still some work and some consultation that needs to be done with either stakeholders, with school divisions, and to have a better understanding as to what the minister’s position is, the Minister of Education, when it comes to these types of bills and this type of responsibility that the ministry has in ensuring that people understand, you know, the process as to what is needed for them to acquire these types of renovations to their schools or what is required for them to one day get a new school into their community.

So with that, Mr. Speaker, I’m going to say that I move to adjourn debate of Bill 38, The Building Schools Faster Act. Thank you.

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

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Speaker Goudy: — Carried.

Bill No. 39

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

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the member from Athabasca.

Leroy Laliberte: — Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. Again it’s my honour again to rise into debate for Bill No. 39, The Building Schools Faster Consequential Amendment Act, 2025.

And again, you know, speaking to this bill, and just like the other bill, there’s again more consultation that needs to be done with the communities, with the stakeholders, with the school divisions, educational assistants, people that sit on these boards. Because I think they need to have a better understanding as to what’s required for them to have these renovations done to their schools, or else a new school for their communities. And I think that’d be the responsibility of the ministry to be able to do that.

So with that, Mr. Speaker, again I’m going to move to adjourn debate on Bill 39 as well, The Building Schools Faster Consequential Amendment Act, 2025. Thank you.

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

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Speaker Goudy: — Carried.

Bill No. 40

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

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

Erika Ritchie: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Pleasure to be on my feet this afternoon entering into debate on Bill No. 40, The Animal Protection Amendment Act. And I do have a few things I want to say on this bill of a few different natures, so hopefully I can do it in such a way that isn’t too confusing.

I’m also doing some stakeholder work on Bill No. 43, and have had the opportunity to explore maybe some of the interactions with that bill and some of the concerns that have come forward there.

You know, this is a bill that is sort of governing animal welfare in the province. And I believe it last came up for revision in 2018, so really not that long ago. But I did note in reviewing the materials that the Animal Protection Services of Saskatchewan, who currently provide animal welfare enforcement for the entire province except for the city of Regina, you know, their contract is coming to an end on March 31st, 2026. And this non-profit has chosen not to renew that contract.

So I don’t think that was mentioned in the minister’s introduction of the bill, but that does seem to be quite consequential in terms of the bill that we see before the House, one would assume. I mean certainly, you know, having an organization that was providing the service sort of province-wide and now has stepped away kind of begs the question in terms of, you know, what’s behind that? Why have they chosen to step away?

From some of my, you know, very brief review of the materials, I understand that there’s quite a complex relationship between interpersonal violence and animal abuse. I can’t profess to understand or appreciate all of the interworkings of that relationship, but it would seem that, yeah, providing these kinds of services has become, you know, a very complex space that they’ve decided to sort of back away from. And now they’re moving more into sort of an awareness, educational role instead of, you know, direct enforcement.

And so going back to Bill 43, I mean you know, one of the concerns that has come forward is, okay, so now who is going to sort of pick up this work? Is this going to be a case where we’ll see municipalities taking a bigger role? And those are just kind of some of the open questions in terms of, you know, with this shift. You know, is it going to result in a burden being placed on municipalities in these issues?

I do note that the Saskatchewan Marshals Service has also indicated that they will be handling complaints related to animal neglect or cruelty, so certainly some questions there about what their role’s going to be, what will be the role of community safety officers, the role of police in general, the role of the marshal services.

The Act does provide some language around the role that animal protection officers will have. It gives them powers and provides a code of conduct and various things like that. And so the question is a very practical one that is around how this Act will be implemented. Who will be providing the services? Who will be paying for these services? Is it going to, you know, result in sort of an additional financial burden on the municipalities? How are they being consulted and impacted as a result of this legislation?

You know, I guess another thing that’s talked about in the, you know, the preamble or the introduction of the bill is that it’s intended to also kind of keep pace with international — I think it said international trade, although that doesn’t quite seem right — or okay, so the model that meets trade market standards. And I found that sort of confusing. Perhaps I don’t quite understand the full scope of this bill. I understand that most of the complaints about, you know, cruelty to animals has to do with companion animals such as dogs and cats. On the livestock side there have been some large cattle seizures, but most complaints are related to horses.

So it seems like it’s a pretty wide gamut there in terms of, you know, companion animals on the one hand, livestock on the other. You know, we certainly also hear cases of things like wild horses, particularly kind of in the area around North Battleford. Sort of like, you know, how does this apply to this broad range of animals ensuring that their safety and their welfare are being protected?

Kind of related to that, I know there’s a piece in here about humane euthanasia. Certainly that is something where I do want to give a big shout-out to the veterinary college of medicine in Saskatoon and other service providers, and you know, as veterinarians in that profession and some of the services they offer.

My sister had the very unpleasant task this week of putting her beloved pet of 12 years down after a very long, happy, you know, life as their pet. So a big shout-out to Tanya and Lila, and just very grateful for the support that the veterinary college provides and, you know, those services. Sort of end of life when our beloved pets are . . . it’s time to put them down. Never an easy decision. Glad that there’s professional standards and so forth around how that works, and you know, want to make sure that that animal welfare in general is being protected in all of its various forms.

Certainly I did want to mention that, you know, we are seeing an evolution in that space. I know that in some countries, they’re starting to put more regulations in place around things like, you know, chipping your pets, ensuring that they stay with their moms for the first eight weeks, other kinds of . . .

And so that’s really kind of a moving bar there you see in terms of wanting to ensure that animal welfare and so forth, which I don’t believe this Act has really contemplated. I’m not saying it should, but we’re talking about, you know, keeping up the standards. Like that is the direction that things are moving in and . . . overall, for all animals.

[15:15]

And I just want to make sure that, you know, as we see the association, or the Animal Protection Services of Saskatchewan organization, as they’re stepping away that we do — and I understand there’s also a procurement process under way right now to find a replacement agency — that, you know, that that transition is one that is going to happen in a smooth manner, that those protections and that continuity of service is ensured, and that at the same time that we’re not imposing a greater burden on our municipalities which are seeing some of those services through.

So just some of the thoughts that I did want to get on the record as we were reviewing this bill. But for now, I’ll move to adjourn debate on Bill No. 40.

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

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Speaker Goudy: — Carried.

Bill No. 41

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

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the member from Cumberland.

Jordan McPhail: — Well thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. It’s an honour to rise for the first time this spring session to enter some remarks on Bill No. 41, The Heritage Recognition (From Many Peoples, Strength) Act.

You know, this is a bill that’s actually kind of near and dear to me as a person that, you know, growing up in the North but also having a mother that was always wanting me to experience other cultures and religions and things of the world. So it was really great for me to be able to see many different parts of the world and what those cultures, language, religions bring to the people of those nations as well as what they bring here in our nation of Canada and our province of Saskatchewan.

You know, the language, the culture, the religion, community, and the identity that one has is so important to the fabric of our province. And it’s great to see an Act here before us at the legislature that honours all of those identities here in the province.

You know, some of the personal experience I had with building community as a town councillor up in northern Saskatchewan was . . . Actually my seatmate and I, along with a few other folks in the community, organized the first Pride parade in La Ronge when I was sitting on La Ronge town council. And you know, you saw a lot of the same individuals that you saw at your local grocery stores, at the uniplex, the libraries, the community halls. But when you were able to identify and bring community together under what makes them unique, you get to see a different person at those events. You get to see who they are and their whole self in those moments. And it’s such a great thing to have here in the province of Saskatchewan.

You know, my wife, born and raised for the earlier parts of her years . . . was born and raised in Cebu City in the Philippines. And you know, once I was able to meet her and understand the culture, the food, the language, everything about her, it was such a beautiful experience.

And I attended my first Filipino flag raising to honour their independence in the Philippines. And it was, you know, further deeper ingrained in the culture and the language and the experience of my wife as she grew up and when we visit her hometown and seeing the language and the culture and the food. And I got to see a different side of my wife when she was in her home country doing what she can to show me different parts of the culture.

And that’s what I think is so important about Saskatchewan — that it doesn’t matter what language you speak, what part of the world you’ve come from, the religious background that you have, or the community that you choose to call yourself a part of. Every person in Saskatchewan brings something to the table to help make our province better.

And I truly appreciate the efforts of my colleagues that have brought forward heritage honouring the cultures and the community that they represent. I think of the MLA from Regina Pasqua in the passage of the Sikh heritage bill here just in this sitting. Something that I’ve been able to see as an MLA here on the floor of this legislature.

There’s so much that makes Saskatchewan strong. And I am so proud to be a member of a team that recognizes so many different parts of that culture and that very tight fabric that makes Saskatchewan great.

But with that, I know there’ll be more to be entered on the record by the shadow minister, but I am always grateful to enter some remarks on Bill No. 41 and will now move to adjourn debate on Bill No. 41, The Heritage Recognition (From Many Peoples, Strength) Act.

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

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Speaker Goudy: — Carried.

Bill No. 42

[The Assembly resumed the adjourned debate on the proposed motion by the Hon. Tim McLeod that Bill No. 42 — The Saskatchewan Firearms Amendment Act, 2025 be now read a second time.]

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

Nicole Sarauer: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. It’s my honour to rise and enter into the debate on this bill. Just for your reference, Mr. Speaker, I will be allowing this bill to move on to the next stages of committee once I’ve finished my remarks.

Now my colleagues have had the opportunity to speak about this bill already and have provided some thoughtful comments. Mr. Speaker, this legislation is needed to amend The Saskatchewan Firearms Act to respond to some of the announcements made by the federal government as we all know about the gun buyback, Mr. Speaker. And there’s been a lot of concerns from the public about how that’s going to operate and what that will mean for Saskatchewan citizens. So with the passage of this legislation, once it does pass, it will allow for some of that certainty.

Of course as you well know, Mr. Speaker, we’re very supportive of the work that the Saskatchewan firearms office does in terms of protecting respectful gun owners, legal gun owners, and our rights within Saskatchewan, Mr. Speaker. We’re very supportive of this legislation, but I’m looking forward to having the opportunity to ask questions about the bill to officials at committee. And to allow that work to happen, I am prepared now to allow this bill to move on to its next stage.

Speaker Goudy: — The question before the Assembly is the motion by the member that Bill No. 42, The Saskatchewan Firearms Amendment Act, 2025 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 Deputy Government House Leader.

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

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

Bill No. 43

[The Assembly resumed the adjourned debate on the proposed motion by the Hon. Eric Schmalz that Bill No. 43 — The Municipalities Modernization and Red Tape Reduction Act be now read a second time.]

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

Nathaniel Teed: — Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. It’s another honour to be on my feet here to speak to a few more bills in this adjourned debate process. Proud to be on my feet to speak to Bill No. 43, The Municipalities Modernization and Red Tape Reduction Act.

Now, Mr. Speaker, I know we’re not supposed to use props, but this is a big bill. A lot going on in this bill. I hope I’ll do some justice to it in my remarks here, but I know that our critic, the shadow minister for municipalities and Government Relations, will be continuing to engage with the stakeholders across our beautiful province, municipalities that so many folks call home here in Saskatchewan.

You know, at the high level what we’re seeing is some new regulations in how municipalities are able to deal with dangerous animals. We see a number of different provisions being added to The Municipalities Act or being created through this Act, points like raising animals to fight is illegal. We’re reinforcing those points. And then it goes into just different ways that municipalities are able to seize or to deal with dog attacks, animal attacks within our municipalities.

We are seeing a couple designations being retired with this Act. We see the title “organized hamlet” is now becoming obsolete. We have no need for a hamlet to organize for three years before applying to a village, so we’re fast-tracking village status in this bill. So we’re getting rid of that red tape, as we should. Those municipalities that are growing need to be able to access the funds that they need, and they should be able to do it quickly.

We have a couple other things, such as, you know, bylaws. They’re enforcing that unpaid bylaw fines that someone might incur can now be added to property taxes, so it just makes it easier for municipalities to get those taxes owing. We have appeals processes being built in for some of these processes.

More to say. We have an update on ethics. We’re seeing that councils must have a code of ethics and an orientation for new councillors following the Sask employment and harassment rules, and they must be considered for fairness. We’re seeing some ability for councils to appoint Indigenous advisors, publish documents and notices on their websites.

And we have some new policies around harassment and whistle-blower protections, you know, if they are going to the ombudsperson in this province. We’re seeing some of those. And we also are seeing some changes to the way elected councillors have to file their disclosures through their election or nomination process, Mr. Speaker.

So lots to discuss in this bill, lots for us to speak with municipalities and make sure we’re hitting the right course on this.

You know, I think the last thing that I will say is there’s a lot of discussion around that if we let municipalities deal with the issues that they’re supposed to deal with under The Municipalities Act — sewer, roads, garbage collection, all those really important things that our municipalities are tasked with — that if we let them deal with that and we make sure that they have enough money to deal with those things, that we see great policy, public policy, come out of our municipalities.

And I think one of the really, you know, concerning things on this side of the House when it comes to municipalities is that we do continue to see just downgrading of responsibilities. I think housing is one that we see. And you know, we have a mental health and addictions crisis that’s unfolding. And we really hoped that, you know, we would see a provincial government . . . And you know, we’ll give kudos where kudos is due, that they have, but they continue to partner with our municipalities and continue to make sure that we’re not seeing a downgrade of responsibilities to municipalities.

You know, one of the most very realistic situations that municipalities face is that they are not able to go into debt. They have no ability to run deficit budgets year over year. And so every single year when that budget time comes up, they have to make those really complicated decisions about where they’re going to spend the finite pie of money that they’re able to collect.

And so, Mr. Speaker, I think we’d really like to continue to see responsibilities taken by the provincial government that need to be the provincial government’s responsibility and ensure that the responsibilities that municipalities have, that they’re able to do the best job possible.

So, Mr. Speaker, as I said, our shadow minister of Government Relations will continue to engage with the great people, great elected officials across our province who govern our municipalities, and ensure that we’re hitting the right mark with this Act.

And so at this time, Mr. Speaker, I would be happy to adjourn debate on Bill No. 43, The Municipalities Modernization and Red Tape Reduction Act.

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

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Speaker Goudy: — Carried.

Bill No. 44

[The Assembly resumed the adjourned debate on the proposed motion by the Hon. Tim McLeod that Bill No. 44 — The Co‑operatives Act, 2025/Loi de 2025 sur les coopératives be now read a second time.]

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

Don McBean: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. It’s my pleasure to rise and speak to The Co‑operatives Act, 2025. I’ll make note that the previous speaker lifted his binder saying how hefty his was. I think this one might be even more, but when you’re looking at it you realize that it’s because The Co‑operatives Act and the history of the co‑operative movement in Saskatchewan is our legacy. I got to speak a little bit towards the Roughriders earlier; well I think co‑operatives define Saskatchewan much more so than the Saskatchewan Roughriders.

Going way back, you know, when you grow up in Saskatchewan you think that co-operatives are normal. And then if you travel a bit outside of the province and other parts of the country and in certainly other countries, you realize this is not the norm. When we grew up with it, co-operatives were normal.

I bet most of us could list the number they grew up with. And a curious little fact, I was in Maple Creek. They asked me for my number. I said, well my number’s in Saskatoon, but, you know, what about 33093? The young guy punched it in, came up with my dad’s name — deceased for about 12 years at this point — but it’s indicated Duncan Stuart McBean, deceased. I asked him where he thought those dividends were going. He had no idea. He’s 18 years old. He probably didn’t know much about The Co-operatives Act.

[15:30]

But I will say that when I came back to Saskatchewan and would teach history and social studies, there was a very significant portion of maybe grade 5, grade 5/6 on the co‑operative movement in Saskatchewan. And that’s when I realized just how foundational this is to us.

2025‑2026, I guess it got brought in on December 4th, just before the end of the fall session. It’s a hefty bit of work. It’s moving forward and unifying and cancelling some amendments, which I hope make it all a little better and easier for the lawyers in the group to navigate and the board members.

I took a quick look at the history of the co‑operative movement, and the challenges. And we know this to be the case, that in the mid- to late 1900s, privatization and consolidation were the pressures that caused the co‑operative movement to lose its momentum. I hope that what we’re proposing here will continue to solidify it. Saskatchewan has a history of the greatest co‑operative movement in North America certainly, and I believe maybe even globally.

So I am glad to put those comments on record, and I move to adjourn debate on the Bill No. 44 project, The Co‑operatives Act.

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

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Speaker Goudy: — Carried.

Bill No. 45

[The Assembly resumed the adjourned debate on the proposed motion by the Hon. Tim McLeod that Bill No. 45 — The Co‑operatives Consequential Amendments Act, 2025 be now read a second time.]

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

Don McBean: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I don’t have another story for Bill No. 45, and lots of people complain when I repeat my stories, even . . . Yeah, I move to adjourn debate on Bill 45, the consequential amendments Act, 2025.

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

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Speaker Goudy: — Carried.

Bill No. 47

[The Assembly resumed the adjourned debate on the proposed motion by the Hon. Tim McLeod that Bill No. 47 — The Response to Illicit Drugs Act be now read a second time.]

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

Keith Jorgenson: — Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. It’s a pleasure to rise to debate this bill. You know, Mr. Speaker, I have to be honest: I’m frustrated. I’m really frustrated with this government, and my constituents are frankly frustrated.

You know, I taught math for many years, and sometimes you’d see a young person working on a math problem. And you’d see kind of halfway through the math problem, you could see that they were going to get the answer wrong. And that’s kind of like that when I see this government attempting to address the crisis that we have with illicit drugs in our province. Bill after bill, plan after plan will all fail. They’re doomed to fail because this government does not even understand in the most basic sense the problem that we’re dealing with, Mr. Speaker.

And I’m going to come back to that in a second, but first of all I want to talk about how this illicit drug crisis is affecting this province. So you know, it’s absolutely ravaging individuals, families, communities, and businesses. In Saskatoon we see something like 2,000 people living on the street. Our life expectancy for our first time in our entire history, Mr. Speaker, the most basic way that we measure progress as a society, is dropping. And it’s dropping primarily because we have people dying when they’re 15 instead of when they’re 95. You know, it’s totally and completely unacceptable.

You know, recently we’ve talked to people associated with school divisions, business owners. When I go door knocking in my constituency, they all say the same things. They’re frustrated that this government is doing nothing that has any hope of ever addressing the problem that we’re facing.

And so I think underlying that is . . . I think it was in the last session when we were here, the Minister Responsible for Mental Health and Addictions actually rose in the legislature and actually suggested that people should travel from other jurisdictions in North America and study what we are doing here because it was an example. And again my suggestion, and it is a sincere invitation to the minister, is that she join some of the members of the Saskatoon caucus and walk through downtown Saskatoon and Riversdale and Pleasant Hill and see what’s actually happening in our communities.

You know, I want to attempt to sort of describe this problem in numbers. Mr. Speaker, once I was in court a number of years ago, in Provincial Court to — not as an accused — to testify. And there was another matter that was before Provincial Court at the same time. And there was an individual who had been arrested with 20 kilos of meth in their possession.

And so for those of you who don’t know how meth is sold in Saskatchewan, it’s sold as in a point of a gram, often referred to as a point. So that 20 kilos of meth represented 200,000 doses of methamphetamine just in Saskatoon from one drug dealer, right. So when we talk about adding, you know, 5 virtual beds here and 10 virtual beds there, it really, truly is not on the scale — it’s not only not the right thing; it’s not on the scale — that is required of the problem that we have in front of us, Mr. Speaker.

You know, recently I walked through our core neighbourhood and talked to a number of business owners. And just as I was walking, I counted how many smashed windows I saw in our downtown core. And I stopped counting at 20, Mr. Speaker.

So when we treat this problem not only with not the severity that it requires, we don’t bring the tools that it requires to the problem, and we allow it to sort of spread through our communities, our urban communities, and cause damage not only to people’s lives but people’s businesses and livelihoods, it honestly makes me angry, Mr. Speaker. And I can tell you when I talk to business owners in Saskatoon and my constituents, they’re angry too.

You know, I don’t know how in the end we fix a problem when the government chooses not to attempt to understand the scale of the problem.

With that, Mr. Speaker, with sincere wish in my heart, I hope the government does come up with plans that are more inclusive than Bill No. 47. And with that I move to adjourn debate.

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

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Bill No. 48

[The Assembly resumed the adjourned debate on the proposed motion by the Hon. Lori Carr that Bill No. 48 — The Compassionate Intervention Act be now read a second time.]

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

Matt Love: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. You know, I really am grateful to have an opportunity to rise and speak to this piece of legislation, Bill No. 48, The Compassionate Intervention Act.

You know, Mr. Speaker, it’s very interesting to me, and I think to certainly my colleagues on this side and I think to thousands in our province, to see that this government that’s been in power for so long, and they’ve seen the addictions crisis that has gripped our province get worse and worse and worse, finally recognize, finally recognize those devastating impacts that addictions are having on our province.

What have they done during their time in government to address this problem? What have they done? They have led us to the worst position in the country when it comes to providing access to care, access to treatment for the people who need it, people who are living in the grip of addictions and substance abuse in our province. What has this government done? They’ve presented this legislation today, but for the last 20 years they have seen a situation, especially over the last number of years, get worse with zero action.

And we’ve tried to access this information. We’ve tried to learn more, both in here, in this Assembly, through the channels that we have in opposition to access some of that data to find out what the real situation is, to get access to the knowledge that they have in government in terms of the wait times and the lack of access that people are telling us, coming to our offices and telling us about what they’re trying to do to get treatment and help for themselves, for their loved ones, for their families, for their relatives.

And all we hear from that government is that that data doesn’t exist, that it’s not knowable information. While, due to the good work of my colleague from Saskatoon Centre, some journalists in this province, we learn that data does indeed exist. Contrary to what we hear from that minister and from that government, that data does exist. And it’s not good. It doesn’t paint a positive picture of what we’re doing as a province to provide access to care.

Forty-six weeks waiting is unacceptable. When people are voluntarily identifying that they want access to treatment and care, 46 wait time is something that every person in this room should agree is completely inappropriate and inexcusable for a province as wealthy as ours.

So while that minister and that government is claiming that data doesn’t exist and that we’ve tried nothing and it hasn’t worked, we know that there are other paths forward. And the current Minister for Mental Health is laughing while I stand on my feet and talk about . . . She can heckle all she wants when we are last in the country.

[Interjections]

Speaker Goudy: — Member, continue please.

Matt Love: — I would love to continue, Mr. Speaker, while the minister, who has led the . . . [inaudible] . . . that is last in the country — last in the country — continues to heckle me from her seat. This is inexcusable, the situation that this government has led us to. There is no one in this room or any room in this province that should think that the work that that minister and that government . . . has been adequate to meet the needs of people living with addictions in this province.

We are losing hundreds of people each year in this province to addictions. We are losing hundreds of people due to the flow of illicit drugs that my colleague from Saskatoon Churchill-Wildwood just spoke to. And this government has led us to last place in the country in terms of the ability to access the care that folks need.

Now, Mr. Speaker, I don’t think that I need to canvass this, but I will remind this Assembly and I’ll remind that minister that these are people. These are moms and dads, sons and daughters, nieces and nephews, aunts and uncles, community members who are loved and cared for. And they deserve better.

And that’s what my colleagues on this side of the House will continue to fight for each and every day. We support, Mr. Speaker, an evidence-based approach to the addictions crisis gripping this province. That’s what we’ll continue to advocate for. I am honoured to speak to this bill because it’s given me the opportunity to point out the terrible record of failure of this Sask Party government.

Mr. Speaker, I will conclude my remarks there on Bill 48, and I look forward to hearing from my colleagues. We have incredible shadow ministers on this side who are looking into this bill, the work that it intends to do, and doing those consultations with folks in health care, mental health, addictions, community safety to ensure that we’re building the brighter future that people in this province so desperately need and deserve.

But at this time, I will conclude my remarks and move that we adjourn debate on Bill 48. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

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

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

Speaker Goudy: — It has been moved that this House do now adjourn. Does the Assembly adopt the motion?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Speaker Goudy: — Carried. This Assembly stands adjourned until tomorrow at 1:30 p.m. Thank you.

[The Assembly adjourned at 15:44.]

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

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