Hon. Ken Cheveldayoff: — Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker, colleagues. Through you and to you, Mr. Speaker, I’m honoured to welcome a very special guest to our Legislative Assembly today. Dr. Vincent Bruni-Bossio, seated in your gallery, joins us as the newly appointed president and vice-chancellor of the University of Saskatchewan. You bet. Let’s give him a hand.

[Applause]

Hon. Ken Cheveldayoff: — We had lunch together today. We talked sports, as we usually do. We talked about the amazing weekend the University of Saskatchewan had. Track and field, basketball, gold medal for the university girls — he was in Laval presenting the gold medal to our team — and hockey winning Canada West as well.

We talked about the patient-first announcement, and we had a great discussion about that. We talked about the 20 more undergrad medical students that will be occupying those seats. And we talked about multi-year funding as well.

Mr. Speaker, the University of Saskatchewan is a university for the whole province. It serves rural, remote, urban Saskatchewan from north to south. Its students hail from communities in every one of the constituencies that we represent in the Chamber. But, Mr. Speaker, it has also had a strong reputation for global excellence and being what the world needs. Under Dr. Bruni-Bossio’s leadership I am confident that the University of Saskatchewan will continue building on its existing stellar reputation. I know he will focus on harnessing the unique strengths that our province has to offer.

Mr. Speaker, Dr. Bruni-Bossio brings extensive experience in strategy, governance, and institutional change. He has served in senior academic leadership roles and has led major university-wide initiatives. He is a nationally recognized educator and researcher, and has demonstrated both vision and collaboration in every role that he has held. Importantly he has committed to engaging actively with communities across the province by listening and building relationships and ensuring the universities reflect Saskatchewan’s priorities and aspirations.

Joining him in the Speaker’s gallery today are Alexandra Foster, chief of staff; and Sara Daniels, assistant vice-president, government relations. Sara was part of the Saskatchewan delegation that recently went to the Philippines and to Thailand. She was an integral part of the presentations made. I thank her for doing that and I welcome her and the others here.

I ask all members to join me in congratulating Dr. Bruni-Bossio on his new role and wishing him every success as he leads the University of Saskatchewan into the next chapter. Please welcome him.

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

Tajinder Grewal: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I join the Minister of Advanced Education to welcome Dr. Vincent Bruni-Bossio, the 12th president of the University of Saskatchewan.

Dr. Bruni-Bossio is a skilful teacher, and he was awarded the 3M National Teaching Fellowship for his accomplishments. He is an accomplished researcher who did research on strategy and governance for for-profits, non-profits, credit unions, and Indigenous organizations. And Dr. Bruni-Bossio’s an exceptional leader, and he’s going to lead a great organization, the University of Saskatchewan. And I wish him all the best.

I also welcome Sara Daniels, associate vice-president for government relations. She is a wealth of knowledge on advanced education and in governance, and she is our gateway to the university. And she’s very helpful to us when I want to meet deans, directors, and university officials. Thank you very much, Sara.

And I also welcome the chief of staff, Alexandra Foster. And I ask all the members to please join to welcome Dr. Vincent Bruni-Bossio, Sara Daniels, and Alexandra Foster.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Premier.

Hon. Scott Moe: — Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. To you and through you to all members of this Assembly, I want to join with the Minister of Advanced Education and the critic to welcome the entire delegation from the University of Saskatchewan.

But first to thank Dr. Bruni-Bossio for all of the work that he has done at the Edwards School of Business and the University of Saskatchewan more properly and congratulate him on this position. You congratulate at the beginning and then you deal with a number of difficult things throughout that time, and you’ll appreciate the congratulations at the beginning as we find our way through time.

But I would just say a couple of things. One, thank you Baljit Singh, the vice-president of research who was in India with us, signed an agreement with NIFTEM [National Institute of Food Technology Entrepreneurship and Management] in India for the pulse protein centre of excellence, Mr. Speaker. Going to provide nutritional security to students, to pregnant women, to lactating women in India. And there will be Canadian pulses that will be going through that centre to that country. And so thank Dr. Bruni-Bossio for their commitment, the U of S’s [University of Saskatchewan] commitment, to international engagement.

And also thank him for the work that they do at the College of Medicine, of which we announced an expansion to yesterday, Mr. Speaker. And you know, some challenging times across the nation when it comes to provincial budgets. It’s the University of Saskatchewan’s College of Medicine that is going to see a 17, 18 per cent increase in the physician students, Mr. Speaker, the College of Medicine students, as well as the nurse practitioner expansion there.

So I want to thank Dr. Bruni-Bossio for his leadership and thank him in advance for all the leadership that I know he’s going to provide to that very, very important institute, not only to Saskatchewan and Canada but globally, Mr. Speaker. So I’d ask all members to join me in welcoming this delegation to their Legislative Assembly.

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

Brent Blakley: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I have a couple introductions today. First I would like to welcome 90 students in the east gallery, and I think . . . no, no overflow. I thought there was overflow back there for the St. Gabriel Guardians. And I’d like to welcome to the legislature and along with their teachers and chaperones Abbigayle Kleisinger, Brooke Bentz, Scott Kuntz, Jen Adams, Danielle Desjardins, and Andrew MacPhail.

So as is tradition, afterwards we will meet for a discussion, some questions, and the member from Lumsden-Morse will be providing ice cream for everybody. No, I’m . . . I have something for you. So thank you again for the group from St. Gabriel.

Also, Mr. Speaker, in the west gallery seated are Brad and Karen Howard. Brad is a retired teacher and principal. Brad and I first met in university days, just a few years ago. Wife, Karen, is a semi-retired teacher. Karen and Brad continue to give back to the sporting community in Saskatchewan. I’ll have more in a member’s statement. And their daughter Kylee is also a constituent of mine. So I would like to welcome Brad and Karen to their Legislative Assembly.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of Community Safety.

Hon. Michael Weger: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. To you and through you, I’d like to introduce three guests seated up in the west gallery in the back row today, Mr. Speaker. Of course my wife, Cara, and she’s been lucky enough to bring her parents to visit the legislature today.

So we have Kenda and Lloyd Morrison. And, Mr. Speaker, as you might be aware, I married the principal’s daughter. So I’m going to take a few minutes to just recognize Principal Lloyd Morrison, who graduated from the University of Regina in 1981 with a Bachelor of Education. He’s taught all over the province, from Maidstone, Kincaid, Stoughton, Consul, Fillmore, Frontier, and then ended his Saskatchewan career in Midale. That’s 33 years of teaching in the province of Saskatchewan, Mr. Speaker.

He went on to work for a couple years after retirement at a small law firm, but it just wasn’t exciting enough for him and the call to get back in education was strong. So he’s gone to Alberta, Mr. Speaker, and he’s been working at the Little Red River Cree Nation in northern Alberta, the largest First Nation in the province, at Sister Gloria School. He’s in his 10th year now as the principal at that school. Mr. Speaker, if you’re keeping track, that’s 43 years. And at lunchtime I asked my father-in-law, how many sick days have you had? Less than 20 in that entire career, Mr. Speaker. And I’ll also tell you this fun fact: he wore a suit and tie — still does — every day of his career. So look good, teach good, right.

So I just also just need to mention, Mr. Speaker, beside Lloyd through his entire career has been his wife, Kenda. Much like myself, he’s had the support of his loving wife throughout his career, and I thank her so much as well for all the support she provides for our family. So with that, Mr. Speaker, I’d ask everyone to welcome Lloyd, Kenda, and my wife, Cara, to this legislature.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of SaskBuilds and Procurement.

Hon. Sean Wilson: — Thanks, Mr. Speaker. Up in the west gallery there’s three amigos up there: Don Soloninko, Keith Strutynski, and Trevor Baumung. All three of them are with the RM [rural municipality] of Calder, and they’re in town for the SARM [Saskatchewan Association of Rural Municipalities] convention.

So I would just like to ask everyone to welcome them to their Legislative Assembly. Thank you.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the member from Martensville-Blairmore.

Hon. Jamie Martens: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Up in the west gallery we have a gentleman that I would consider Mr. Super Mike — Mike Richards. He is definitely a public servant of this province, being as he’s the Chair of the Autism Services of Saskatoon. Also on the Prairie Spirit School Division board as well as a trustee. And then also serves as the outdoor living coordinator, I believe it’s called, for a 4‑H club out by Aberdeen.

So this gentleman is somebody that I’ve grown to know over the past few years and an absolutely wonderful gem and amazing person for Saskatchewan to have. So I just wanted to again recognize Mike Richards and ask everyone in the House to welcome him to his legislature.

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

Matt Love: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I’d like to join my colleague opposite in welcoming Mike Richards to his Assembly. He certainly does a lot in this province. And I want to, on my feet, recognize his service as an elected school trustee in Prairie Spirit schools.

And my colleague missed one role that she might not be aware of. I learned about it this fall when we were coaching football on opposite sidelines during a minor football game. He’s also a volunteer football coach in his community. He certainly does a lot for our province and for all the various roles that he serves in. So I ask all members to join me in welcoming Mike to his Assembly.

PRESENTING PETITIONS

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the member from Regina Walsh Acres.

Jared Clarke: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise today to present a petition calling on the Legislative Assembly of Saskatchewan for real action on climate change. The undersigned residents of the province of Saskatchewan wish to bring to our attention the following: that Saskatchewan, like other jurisdictions, continues to experience the challenges brought on by climate change — severe forest and grassland fires, increased flooding, and drought.

Mr. Speaker, when I think about climate change, the things that I worry about are, one, ranchers and farmers who will have to raise their crops and their livestock in a place where drought is becoming more and more severe. I worry about the people of the North who will face increasing forest fires, loss of homes, loss of community, loss of hunting grounds. I worry about children with asthma and breathing issues who will have to spend more days inside as smoke days increase during the summer.

There are lots of impacts of climate change that people in Saskatchewan are facing. And we see the costs of those impacts growing year after year through crop insurance, through provincial disaster assistance programs.

I’ll read the prayer:

We, in the prayer that reads as follows, respectfully request that the Legislative Assembly of Saskatchewan call on the Government of Saskatchewan to take real action on climate change.

Mr. Speaker, the signatories today reside in Saskatoon and Regina. I do so present.

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

[13:45]

Tajinder Grewal: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise to present a petition calling for adequate and equitable SAID [Saskatchewan assured income for disability] rates.

The undersigned residents of the province of Saskatchewan wish to bring to your attention the following: that the Saskatchewan assured income for disability program is a program for people with significant and enduring disabilities; that the current SAID rate means that individuals who rely on the program live in what is referred to as deep poverty, defined as less than 75 per cent of the poverty line; that the increases are insufficient and have led to an overall 20 per cent decrease in benefits when adjusted for inflation; that Saskatchewan people with disabilities are struggling to make ends meets under historical inflationary pressure.

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

Respectfully request the Legislative Assembly of Saskatchewan call on the Government of Saskatchewan to immediately increase the SAID rates to account for inflation and the cost of living, index the SAID basic amount to inflation going forward, and provide targeted relief to those in deepest poverty, such as single individuals paying market rent.

The petition has been signed by the residents of Regina. I do so present.

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

Sally Housser: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise today to present a petition to prohibit conversion therapy.

We, the undersigned residents of the province of Saskatchewan, wish to bring to your attention the following. Conversion therapy uses discredited and abusive practices which attempt to actively change sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. The Saskatchewan Human Rights Code names sex, sexual orientation, and gender identity as one of the prohibited grounds of discrimination. The practice of conversion therapy or reparative therapy is harmful to individuals and is opposed by the Canadian Psychological Association, the World Health Organization, and the American Psychiatric Association. The United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child indicates that children should not be discriminated against based on sexual orientation or gender identity.

I’ll read the prayer:

We, in the prayer that reads as follows, respectfully request that the Legislative Assembly of Saskatchewan call on the Government of Saskatchewan to ban the practice of conversion therapy and prohibit transporting youth and adults outside of Saskatchewan for such purposes.

The undersigned signatories reside in Regina. I do so present.

STATEMENTS BY MEMBERS

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

Virtual Health Care Connects with More Patients

Megan Patterson: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Access to timely health care matters to families across Saskatchewan no matter where they live. While the members opposite have actively tried to shut down options for virtual health care, our government is investing in innovative solutions that deliver the right care in the right place at the right time. The virtual physician program now supports more than 30 hospitals across the province and has helped to avoid well over 5,000 potential emergency room disruptions.

Through an incredible partnership with Whitecap Dakota First Nation, the Virtual Health Hub is transforming the way health care is delivered across our province. Remote presence technology with the assistance of professional care aides and advanced robotics will enable us to connect with more patients at a distance, delivering the care they need without unnecessary travel.

This government embraces innovation and is making the investments necessary to protect our health care system now and into the future.

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

Regina Family Gives Back to Sports

Brent Blakley: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The Howard family of Regina is, as they like to call themselves, a sport-for-life family, each one giving back to their individual sport after their playing and competing days are done.

Brad has been a hockey official for over 40 years as a referee and as a supervisor of officials for the SJHL [Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League] and the WHL [Western Hockey League]. And he currently works with the hockey federation over in Hungary training hockey officials.

Brad’s wife, Karen, has been a figure skating judge since the age of 16 in Melville, judging local competitions. Karen has worked her way to the top of her sport, recently judging the figure skating competition at her second Olympic Winter Games. Karen goes to Prague at the end of the month for the World Figure Skating Championships.

Brad and Karen’s daughters Kylee and Kabree continue to give back to their sport of basketball. Kylee is a basketball referee here in Regina and has worked her way up, reffing community and club basketball to high school and university games. Kylee was recently selected to officiate the Canadian Collegiate Athletic Association women’s basketball championships coming up later this month in Quebec.

Kabree is an assistant coach with the U of S Huskies women’s basketball program, who just won the Canadian championships, and was recently named the head coach for the Saskatchewan provincial U15 [under 15] women’s team.

Congratulations and thank you to the Howard family for your lifetime contributions to sport in Saskatchewan and around the world.

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

Health Care Plan Will Reduce Costs for Communities

Kevin Weedmark: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I was in Saskatoon Monday for the unveiling of the patients-first health care plan. One important element of the plan is the reduction of the community portion of the capital costs of new health care facilities from 20 per cent down to 10 per cent. I was there back in the fall when the Premier met with the Grenfell health care foundation and heard that the 20 per cent was a very high hurdle for them.

Mr. Speaker, this government listened, this government heard, and this government acted. Larry Parrott of the Grenfell health foundation says, “The change is welcome news for small rural communities such as Grenfell. The local community share has been a major point of discussion on the Grenfell Long-Term Care Home. We greatly appreciate that our concerns have been heard and responded to in such a positive way.”

Mayor Dennis Helmuth from Rosthern said the announcement was a Christmas gift in March. Weyburn mayor, Jeff Richards, said, “We’re grateful the province has taken this step to support communities like Weyburn.” He says, “We now have a clear path forward that allows local fundraising efforts to focus on the equipment, amenities, and added supports that help strengthen the patient experience.”

Mr. Speaker, this is a game changer for communities with capital health care projects. I am proud that our government has made this change that will benefit communities and health care across this province. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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

Al Ritchie Association Community Cleanup

Nicole Sarauer: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to highlight the Al Ritchie association’s community cleanup event. This incredible event brings neighbours together and builds pride in the community. I had an absolute blast joining residents as we worked together to tidy up the area.

A phenomenal group of volunteers were out in full force, working to pick up debris in community spaces like playgrounds and parking lots. On top of that, tons of community members stopped by to make good use of the available garbage cans by dropping off their stuff.

This special event does more than simply remove neighbourhood waste though, Mr. Speaker. This event provides an essential opportunity for community connection, builds a strong appreciation for shared spaces in the community, and serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of collective action.

Mr. Speaker, I ask that all members join me in thanking the Al Ritchie Community Association, Denis Simard, the board, the staff, and all of the dedicated volunteers for making this important event such a resounding success. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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

Health Care Plan Expands Access to Care

Kevin Kasun: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Yesterday was a big day for Saskatchewan patients as our government announced the patients-first health care plan. Mr. Speaker, we are continuing to invest in nurse practitioner and primary care contracts to build and expand access across the province. To date, we have signed 23 contracts and just announced last week another intake of applications.

Mr. Speaker, this investment, we are bringing care closer to home for more than 18,000 patients and connecting them to a primary care provider. As a result of recent success pilot projects, patients are getting the care they need more quickly. Pharmacists are now assessing and treating strep throat and ear infections with over 500 patients seen since the start of the pilot project, with 4,200 services delivered.

Our government is also adding 26 more nurse practitioner training seats, which increases capacity by 45 per cent, and will provide $78,000 over two years for RNs [registered nurse] to pursue their nurse practitioner training with a return-of-service contract. Saskatchewan Association of Nurse Practitioners president says, “What excites me the most about today’s announcement is the focus on collaborative, team-based, patient-centred care.”

Mr. Speaker, our government would like to take this time to thank all nurse practitioners serving in our communities as we continue to work together to put patients first. Thank you.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the member from Athabasca.

Ile-a-la-Crosse to Celebrate 250th Anniversary

Leroy Laliberte: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, northern Saskatchewan is rich in history and culture, encouraging northerners to thrive. 2026 marks the 250th anniversary of the founding of the northern village of Ile-a-la-Crosse, originally known as sâkitawâk.

Ile-a-la-Crosse is the second-oldest community in all of Western Canada. Historically it is the home of one of the Hudson Bay trading posts, promoting trade in the region, and a gathering place which brought together many Nations for generations before. Still today Ile-a-la-Crosse celebrates traditions, kinship, and community and the very foundations that make Ile-a-la-Crosse a beloved place to visit.

In this time of celebration Ile-a-la-Crosse is also taking the time to remember and honour the trailblazers and pillars of the community who have since passed on. Just last year, Mr. Speaker, their community laid to rest 101‑year-old Elder Marguerite McCallum. Noted as a matriarch and Knowledge Keeper, Marguerite served as a living, breathing library for future generations of the community to benefit from.

I ask all colleagues to help me and pay respect to Elders like late Marguerite and join congratulating the people of Ile-a-la-Crosse, with special recognition going to the community members on the wonderful 250th celebration to be held July 3rd to July 8th of this year. I just want to say, congratulations to Ile-a-la-Crosse. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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

Concerns Regarding Uranium Deal

James Thorsteinson: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Desjardins had it right in their most recent provincial economic report when they said, everything has been coming up Saskatchewan recently. That is especially true when it comes to uranium. Cameco recently secured a $2.6 billion deal with India to sell Saskatchewan uranium. This deal will support thousands of Saskatchewan jobs in the North.

You would think our province would be united in all of the positive news we’ve been hearing. Unfortunately that’s not the case. I was shocked this morning to see the headline in the Saskatoon StarPhoenix that said, “Saskatchewan Environmental Society opposes $2.6 billion uranium deal with India.” The Sask Environmental Society called the deal highly irresponsible. Really, Mr. Speaker? This is a huge deal for our economy and those who work in the uranium industry.

This is the same activist group that said it, and I quote, “does not support an expansion of the uranium mining industry in Saskatchewan.” Mr. Speaker, you may wonder who is supporting these radical anti-Saskatchewan uranium activists. Why, none other than the NDP [New Democratic Party] member for Saskatoon Nutana, who’s a proud member of the Saskatchewan Environmental Society. Mr. Speaker, this is yet another clear example of why no one can take the NDP opposition seriously.

QUESTION PERIOD

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

SaskPower Rates

Carla Beck: — Mr. Speaker, people in Saskatchewan, people in Saskatchewan pay more for power than they do in Alberta, more than they pay in British Columbia. We pay nearly double what they pay in Manitoba, and the rates in Quebec, well they’re cheaper still.

Mr. Speaker, despite all of this, this Premier decided to slap a $136 million rate hike on the people of Saskatchewan. Why?

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Premier.

Hon. Scott Moe: — I would just say, Mr. Speaker, in Saskatchewan and across the nation we are seeing power rates start to increase. Mr. Speaker, in some cases they’ve been increasing for some period of time due to inflationary pressures, due to many provinces looking at how they are going to produce electricity into the future.

For example, Mr. Speaker, just last year in British Colombia — and I remind the member that’s an NDP government there — 6.42 per cent was the rate increase there, followed by 3.75 this year, 3.75 next year. Mr. Speaker, New Brunswick twelve and a quarter last year, 4.75 this year. There are rate increases coming across Canada.

What we are focused on here in Saskatchewan, Mr. Speaker, is to continue to ensure that we have affordable, reliable power that is available not only for the residents but for the industries that are investing here and employing Saskatchewan people and creating jobs. Mr. Speaker, and all the while when you look at the utility bundle that we have in Saskatchewan, it’s the second lowest in Canada.

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

Carla Beck: — Mr. Speaker, let’s review the timeline here. The SaskPower board met in November. And soon after that, rumours began to swirl that a rate hike was coming. In December we asked the Premier about those rumours, and he denied that they were coming. In fact he said, “We haven’t even considered it.” Then, lo and behold, on January the 2nd the rate hike was announced.

[14:00]

Mr. Speaker, we’ve now asked the Premier and the Minister Responsible for SaskPower eight times about when they knew this rate hike was coming. No answer.

Mr. Speaker, it is clear that this is not answer period. That’s for sure, because we have had no answers. For the ninth time, I’m going to try again, Mr. Speaker. When did the Premier know about the plans for the $136 million SaskPower rate hike?

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Premier.

Hon. Scott Moe: — Again, Mr. Speaker, there’s a process when there is an application for a . . . There is a process when there is an application, Mr. Speaker, for any changes in the Crown utility rates that we have. Mr. Speaker, it goes to a board where they make the applications, Mr. Speaker, and then ultimately it would come to cabinet at some point in the future.

Mr. Speaker, with respect to the utility rates more generally in the province, as I’ve said, we’re the second lowest in the nation. That’s $1,200 less over the course of the year for a family in Saskatchewan versus British Columbia, Mr. Speaker.

That is due to a focus, Mr. Speaker, of not only this government but all of those in the Crown corporations that we have, the Crown utilities that we have on ensuring that, in the case of power, that we have reliable, affordable power in this province, Mr. Speaker. In the case of SGI [Saskatchewan Government Insurance], it’s to have affordable insurance rates for Saskatchewan families, Mr. Speaker. The same for gas and the same for our SaskTel Crown utility, Mr. Speaker.

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

Carla Beck: — Definitely not answer period. But I’m not the only one who’s asking this question.

We’ve got thousands of delegates who have travelled to Regina for the SARM convention. Last week SARM took a strong stance against this Premier’s hikes to power rates in this province. They said that it would put family farms at risk. Mr. Speaker, these are generational farms, proud of what they produce. But for some reason this Premier has decided to make it harder and more expensive for them. Mr. Speaker, it doesn’t have to be this way.

I’m going to ask the Premier this question: will he support a vote in the House today and pass our bill to stop these SaskPower rate hikes?

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Premier.

Hon. Scott Moe: — What I will say today and what I will say if asked tomorrow, Mr. Speaker, at the SARM convention is simply this. All of those in rural Saskatchewan, Mr. Speaker, can be thankful that they’re not living in NDP-governed British Columbia or Manitoba. Because in British Columbia from 2024 to ’26 they are experiencing a 14 per cent rate hike on their power. In NDP Manitoba, 11 per cent from ’25 to ’29 . . .

Speaker Goudy: — Order.

Hon. Scott Moe: — Mr. Speaker, and in Saskatchewan we are focused on providing reliable, affordable power to all of Saskatchewan. Saskatchewan’s residents, Saskatchewan’s ag producers, all of the industries, Mr. Speaker, that are investing — mining industries, oil industries — that are investing and creating jobs in this province, Mr. Speaker.

And I would say further to those differences in . . .

[Interjections]

Speaker Goudy: — I would ask the member from Regina South Albert to come to order, please.

Hon. Scott Moe: — I would say in addition to that, Mr. Speaker, this is the one province where each and every one of those Saskatchewan families and businesses aren’t paying the carbon tax.

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

Restrictions on Farm Landownership

Carla Beck: — Mr. Speaker, the Premier might say that he’s focused, but the truth is he’s failing. He’s failing to keep power rates affordable. He’s also failing to take action on illegal foreign landownership in this province of farm land. The Provincial Auditor found mile-wide gaps — mile-wide — in the system that’s supposed to protect our farm land from illegal foreign ownership.

SARM’s on this week, as we all know, Mr. Speaker. And they’ve spoken about the need for action on this front, just as they’ve spoken out against the latest SaskPower rate hikes. Simple question: does the Premier think that the laws that we have in place today are good enough to protect Saskatchewan farm land?

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Premier.

Hon. Scott Moe: — Mr. Speaker, the laws that have been in place for some period of time, updated from time to time in this province, Mr. Speaker, have been robust.

In saying that, the auditor’s come out with a number of recommendations that the Minister of Agriculture has looked at and made some changes, Mr. Speaker, now consulting with farm landowners across this province. And I would say that it is not off the table for us to be considering additional changes as we move forward. Some of those have been made.

We’ll continue to work with ag producers, landowners across this province to ensure that they can have every confidence that the farm landownership legislation that we have in this province — like we have had for years, Mr. Speaker — is going to continue to ensure that you’re going to be a Canadian if you own farm land in Saskatchewan.

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

Trent Wotherspoon: — Mr. Speaker, that Sask Party government has had 18 years to get tough on illegal foreign farm-landownership, and they’ve failed. They’ve been incredibly lax. We’ve been pushing this government for years, along with producers and rural leaders.

It’s long past time that the penalties for breaking the law match the scale of these transactions. Farm land in this province can sell for tens of millions of dollars. But the fines and penalties under the existing law are a drop in the bucket, nothing more than a slap on the wrist. Breaking the law, Mr. Speaker, shouldn’t pay. And the hard-working producers of this province shouldn’t unfairly have to compete with foreign money and foreign entities that are breaking the law.

When will the Sask Party government finally step up and get tough on illegal foreign farm-landownership in this province?

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of Agriculture.

Hon. David Marit: — Well thank you, Mr. Speaker. Obviously being a farmer all my life and owned farm land all my life — over 50 years, Mr. Speaker — I value farm landownership in this province, as does everybody on this side of the Assembly, Mr. Speaker.

This government has always listened to the producers in the land and the farm groups in this province. We always have. We’ve strengthened the regulations, Mr. Speaker. We’ve implemented all of the recommendations that the auditor had put forward, Mr. Speaker. And we’ve also struck a committee to look at reviewing the Act and changes that could be made, as the Premier has said previously, Mr. Speaker.

We’ll continue to do that. The Farm Land Security Board is now requiring statutory declarations on all sales that have to be made, Mr. Speaker. I was just over at the SARM convention. I had two hours of dialogue with the RM councils over there, Mr. Speaker. Farm land security came up once. And it was a member who was mad that he had to sign the declaration, not because he couldn’t sign it, because he just felt he didn’t have to because he was a Saskatchewan resident and a Canadian citizen. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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

Trent Wotherspoon: — Well there he goes again, Mr. Speaker. The Ag minister here in Saskatchewan — who was the Ag minister for like a six-year period, Mr. Speaker; who looked the other way instead of stepping up and enforcing our law and acting on this front — goes and dismisses once again the very real concerns of producers, yes, over at SARM and right across this province. There he goes again.

Doesn’t have to take my word for it. He can listen to SARM. He can listen to APAS [Agricultural Producers Association of Saskatchewan]. He can listen to the rural leaders across the province who are clearly saying that the status quo isn’t on, Mr. Speaker. The only people who think the protections we have today are doing their job is that Sask Party front bench, Mr. Speaker.

Does the Ag minister really think that the status quo is good enough when it comes to illegal foreign farm-landownership? Why won’t he step up and stand up for producers in this province?

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of Agriculture.

Hon. David Marit: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I don’t know of any government that has stood up more for farmers and ranchers in this province, and we’ll continue to stand on our record.

As I said, I just finished two hours of dialogue session with the RM councils over there. One question came up on farm land security.

Mr. Speaker, we’ve got the tools in place. Mr. Speaker, even the auditor, the Provincial Auditor has said that the tools in place are working. Obviously there’s no cases. I ask the member opposite if he knows of a case of foreign ownership, I’ll ask him, I ask him to table a . . .

[Interjections]

Speaker Goudy: — Order, please.

Hon. David Marit: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I ask the members opposite, if they know of a case of foreign ownership, I ask them to table it in this House today, Mr. Speaker.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the member from Regina Walsh Acres.

Consultations with Health Care Workers

Jared Clarke: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Now the Sask Party’s health care plan has missed the mark. Why, why is there no new contract for health care workers in that plan with back pay and desperately needed pay increases? Mr. Speaker, that would probably have required the Health minister to talk to health care workers, and those workers are saying that they were not consulted once about this health plan.

So to the Health minister, why didn’t he consult with health care workers on the fourth edition of the Sask Party’s patient-first strategy, and when can we expect the fifth edition with the same broken promises?

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of Health.

Hon. Jeremy Cockrill: — Mr. Speaker, I would remind that member opposite, as well as all the members opposite, Mr. Speaker, consultation with those in the health care system is what people on this side of the House do each and every single day. Mr. Speaker, as the Minister of Rural and Remote Health, and I . . .

[Interjections]

Speaker Goudy: — Order, please.

Minister.

Hon. Jeremy Cockrill: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. As the Minister of Rural and Remote Health, I tour the province, visit facilities. Mr. Speaker, I have an opportunity to meet with associations, regulatory bodies, with our union partners right across the province, Mr. Speaker. We are constantly engaging with those who work in the health care system, Mr. Speaker.

Again, Mr. Speaker, the most important consultations that have gone into this document that we introduced yesterday are the consultation with patients, Mr. Speaker. Making sure that every decision we make, at the heart of every decision that we make in the health care system, we’re going to put patients first — that’s this government’s commitment to the people of Saskatchewan.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the member from Regina Walsh Acres.

Jared Clarke: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Now earlier today my colleague from Regina Elphinstone-Centre was joined by health care workers, and they were talking about how the Sask Party didn’t consult with health care workers. She was joined by Olivia, who has worked as a continuing care aide for 15 years in Saskatoon. She has seen a $3‑an-hour wage increase during those 15 years, all while the pay for SHA [Saskatchewan Health Authority] executives has gone through the roof.

So why didn’t the minister consult with health care workers like Olivia when he was drafting the fourth edition of the Sask Party’s health care plan?

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of Health.

Hon. Jeremy Cockrill: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. As I’ve outlined today and yesterday, Mr. Speaker, we have been working and meeting with health care workers throughout the last several months, getting their feedback on what they see in the facilities where they work in providing care for patients, Mr. Speaker. We’re going to continue to do that, Mr. Speaker.

When the member asks about bargaining. I would remind all members of the House that where we’re going to get to a fair deal is at the bargaining table. And we’re at the bargaining table with all of our . . .

[Interjections]

Speaker Goudy: — Member from Saskatoon Meewasin, I can hear you pretty good over here. I’m not wanting to hear you over here, actually.

Minister.

Hon. Jeremy Cockrill: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. As I was going to say, Mr. Speaker, we’re currently at the bargaining table with all of our health care union providers, Mr. Speaker. I am confident that we are going to get to a fair deal with all of those union partners, Mr. Speaker. We’re working in that direction, and we’ll do so soon. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the member from Cumberland.

Funding for Expansion of Prince Albert Hospital

Jordan McPhail: — Well thank you, Mr. Speaker. It’s quite clear that the Health minister has committed himself to the same level of competency as last session.

Mr. Speaker, this Premier and Health minister stood in this Chamber last November and promised to fully fund the long overdue Victoria Hospital expansion. Then Prince Albert’s mayor revealed that they are actually holding the project for over $30 million. The city didn’t budget for this because they didn’t think they had to. Prince Albert deserves the hospital.

Why is the Premier playing political games? Will he commit right now that Prince Albert will not have to write a cheque to the province for any amount to the province for this hospital?

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of Health.

Hon. Jeremy Cockrill: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. You know, Mr. Speaker, this specific topic is a great indicator of why it’s so hard to take the NDP opposition seriously, Mr. Speaker.

The arrangement with the city of Prince Albert has been well-known for several years. In fact, Mr. Speaker, it was this government, this Premier, Mr. Speaker, who announced that we would be making the Prince Albert Victoria Hospital a tertiary hospital, and that that community would be exempt from the community share, Mr. Speaker. That would be $200 million that would come from the taxpayers of Prince Albert that this government has decided to cover, as we recognize that the Prince Albert Victoria Hospital is an important health care stop for many folks in this province, Mr. Speaker.

Are the members opposite suggesting that we should actually charge the city of Prince Albert the full community share?

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the member from Cumberland.

Jordan McPhail: — Mr. Speaker, maybe I need to repeat it for the Health minister. We’ve said it pretty clearly on this side that Prince Albert should not have to pay for that hospital. Mr. Speaker, the games will never end with this minister while patient care suffers here in the province.

Documents leaked to us show that last week the existing Victoria Hospital in Prince Albert was at 122 per cent capacity. It’s overrun, and this happens all the time. After 20 years of this Sask Party government, people are getting care in the hallways and ER [emergency room] waiting rooms because there are no available beds.

Why does this Premier sit on his hands while the hospital in Prince Albert is being overrun?

[14:15]

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of Health.

Hon. Jeremy Cockrill: — Again, Mr. Speaker, it’s challenging to take these members opposite seriously some days, Mr. Speaker. It’s easy to oppose. It’s easy to close, Mr. Speaker, as they did with health care facilities all across the province, Mr. Speaker. But it’s hard to build. And that is exactly why . . .

[Interjections]

Speaker Goudy: — The minister, let’s listen to the answer.

Hon. Jeremy Cockrill: — Mr. Speaker, it’s hard to build. And that’s exactly why this government is putting nearly a billion dollars into a new Prince Albert Victoria Hospital that will serve not only the city of Prince Albert, Mr. Speaker, but the entire northern half of this province, Mr. Speaker.

Mr. Speaker, going back to the community share question, do the members opposite remember what the community share was under their government, Mr. Speaker? Thirty-five per cent that communities had to contribute, Mr. Speaker. Our announcement yesterday, we’re reducing from 20 per cent to 10 per cent, Mr. Speaker, providing more relief to taxpayers and municipalities right across the province.

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

Supports for Small Businesses

Aleana Young: — Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. It’s clear why members opposite don’t want to talk about their own record, because since 2018 — the year that this Premier took office — since 2018 over 500 businesses in Saskatchewan have closed. That’s 500 businesses not creating jobs, not paying taxes, not generating economic activity. That’s 500 dreams, 500 legacies.

So my question, Mr. Speaker, to the Premier, is this. In his opinion, is the loss of 500 businesses in Saskatchewan, is that a sign of the strong and resilient economy that he and his cabinet keep bragging about?

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

Hon. Warren Kaeding: — Now thank you, Mr. Speaker. And certainly small business is big business in Saskatchewan. You’ve heard that mentioned over and over here. We recognize the value of small business to our economy here in Saskatchewan.

I’d like to remind everyone that since 2018 we’ve raised the small-business income threshold from 500,000 to 600,000, which is the second-highest threshold in Canada, Mr. Speaker. The small-business tax rate has reduced and will remain at 1 per cent, Mr. Speaker. In 2024 Saskatchewan had just over 154,000 small businesses, representing 98.8 per cent of total business, Mr. Speaker.

We certainly recognize the value that small business brings to this province, and are going to be there to support them through thick and thin, Mr. Speaker.

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

Aleana Young: — Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. The numbers say otherwise. Outside of Regina and Saskatoon, Mr. Speaker, there are 900 fewer businesses since this Premier took office. These are communities that are represented by that government’s members. Those are the businesses facing the full consequences of this government’s mismanagement and waste.

So how does the Premier explain to people in rural Saskatchewan, in smaller centres, how does he explain to his own caucus that there are 900 fewer businesses on his watch? Why, Mr. Speaker?

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

Hon. Warren Kaeding: — So we’ll talk stats I guess, Mr. Speaker. So 2014, 147,016 small businesses in Saskatchewan, Mr. Speaker. 2024, 154,278 small businesses, Mr. Speaker. Right now in Saskatchewan, as of 2024, Saskatchewan had the second-highest number of small businesses per capita among provinces, with 124 small businesses for every 1,000 people, Mr. Speaker.

I tell you, the one thing we recognized during the last election, 2024: we need to support small businesses even more. Especially those that want to get into business, Mr. Speaker, we introduced the Saskatchewan young entrepreneurs business bursary, Mr. Speaker. Supported with the Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce, we provided $5,000 bursaries to young entrepreneurs to help them develop their business.

So with the help and support of our chambers of commerce across the province, Mr. Speaker, we’ve been able to support 57 small businesses that are so unique — and enterprising too — and very indicative of what goes on in this province, Mr. Speaker. And we’re going to continue to do that year after year. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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

Aleana Young: — You know, Mr. Speaker, I thought we were talking about statistics, and we’re trying to talk about this Premier’s record. Because we know, Mr. Speaker, this Premier is no Brad Wall.

Since this Premier took office, 900 fewer businesses. Debt has doubled, Mr. Speaker. Utility rates are through the roof. This government has raised utility bills five times in the last decade, Mr. Speaker. And the population has fallen under this Premier’s watch for the first time in generations. Saskatchewan is third-last amongst provinces for economic growth. And again, under this Premier there are 500 fewer businesses today than when he took office.

Is the Premier proud of that legacy of debt and failure?

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

Hon. Warren Kaeding: — Okay, apparently we’re in a statistics war here, Mr. Speaker. Since this Premier has been in office, Mr. Speaker, we have seen record capital investment come to this province: investment that has come from big business and small business, Mr. Speaker. What we’ve seen, just in 2025 alone, $19.7 billion. That’s up almost 14 per cent since 2024, Mr. Speaker. Second best in the country.

You know, Mr. Speaker, our GDP [gross domestic product] reached an all-time high of — what? — 83.6 billion. An average increase of 3.1 per cent, again second in the nation for growth, Mr. Speaker. Something our government, our Premier is very, very proud of.

Do you want to talk history and records, Mr. Speaker, because we can go back to the age of declining growth which happened during this opposition’s time in government, Mr. Speaker. We do not want to go back there.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the member from Athabasca.

Provision of Health Care in Northern Saskatchewan

Leroy Laliberte: — Mr. Speaker, my colleagues and I met with the First Nations health ombudsman, Dr. Dianne Lafond, last month. She and her team are doing incredible work in this province, hearing directly from First Nations people about the experiences accessing health care in this province. They have received nearly 600 complaints of mistreatment and discrimination, many that are very serious, Mr. Speaker, within Saskatchewan’s health care system.

We also learned, Mr. Speaker, that this Premier nor the ministers, Health minister, have not taken the time to hear directly from Dr. Lafond. Now I was talking about proper consultation, Mr. Speaker. What kind of patients-first plan doesn’t consult or consider the experiences of First Nation people in this province?

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Premier.

Hon. Scott Moe: — Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. I think the ministers of health, one or the other or both of them, would be pleased to meet with Dr. Lafond, talk to her, Mr. Speaker, about the investments that this government has made — making — whether it’s in the patients-first health care plan or the investment of $900 million, close to a billion dollars, in the Prince Albert hospital. That is going to serve many Indigenous folks, Mr. Speaker, in the area of the province where I live and the northern half of this province.

And this is a good opportunity for us to look at the discrepancy and the differences between the policy and the record of the two parties that are on the floor of this Legislative Assembly.

Close to a billion dollars’ investment in the Prince Albert hospital, Mr. Speaker. That capital investment is fully funded . . .

[Interjections]

Speaker Goudy: — Order. The member from Saskatoon . . . Regina South Albert.

Back to you again, Premier.

Hon. Scott Moe: — That capital investment fully funded by the province of Saskatchewan, Mr. Speaker. Under the NDP, 35 per cent community share, over $300 million would be the bill to the taxpaying public . . .

[Interjections]

Speaker Goudy: — Okay, this time I’m going to apologize to the students that are up in the balcony. I am sorry.

Could we let the Premier finish?

Hon. Scott Moe: — In addition to that, Mr. Speaker, when they had the opportunity, they closed the Holy Family Hospital in that very community.

Mr. Speaker, with respect to consultation of our patients-first health care plan, a made-in-Saskatchewan plan, Mr. Speaker, made by Saskatchewan families, patients, health care workers. Unlike the members opposite who have hired an American consultant to do their big, bold plan, Mr. Speaker, asking for change that they don’t like . . .

INTRODUCTION OF BILLS

Bill No. 613 — The Saskatchewan Farm Security (Foreign Farmland Ownership) Amendment Act

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

Trent Wotherspoon: — Mr. Speaker, I move that Bill 613, The Saskatchewan Farm Security (Foreign Farmland Ownership) Amendment Act be now introduced and read a first time.

Speaker Goudy: — It has been moved by the member from Regina Mount Royal that Bill No. 613, The Saskatchewan Farm Security (Foreign Farmland Ownership) Amendment Act be now introduced and read a first time. Is it the pleasure of the Assembly to adopt the motion?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Speaker Goudy: — Carried.

Deputy Clerk: — First reading of this bill.

Speaker Goudy: — When shall this bill be read a second time?

Trent Wotherspoon: — At the next sitting of this Assembly.

Speaker Goudy: — Next sitting. Why is the member on her feet?

MOTIONS

Second Reading of Bill No. 612

Aleana Young: — Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. Notwithstanding the government’s agenda and what’s published in Orders of the Day, I request leave to move the following motion:

That the Assembly immediately consider second reading of Bill No. 612, The Lower Power Bills and Car Insurance Act.

Speaker Goudy: — Is leave granted?

Some Hon. Members: — No.

Some Hon. Members: — Yes.

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 Churchill-Wildwood.

Keith Jorgenson: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Happy to be on my feet to enter some comments on Bill 24, The Saskatchewan Internal Trade Promotion Act.

You know, Mr. Speaker, as a patriotic Canadian it’s important that we build connections between our various provinces and remove barriers. And I think a lot of us, I think were very dismayed to see a lot of the tariffs that have been threatening our economy and our way of life in Saskatchewan.

And I think it’s important to bring forth legislation that makes it easier for us to trade across provincial boundaries, you know. Oddly enough, historically it’s been remarkably difficult for a number of business owners in Saskatchewan to sell goods and services in the neighbouring provinces. And you know, we simply can do better than that.

You know, I think there are a couple of questions I would ask of the government in regards to this bill. First of all, you know, the member from Riversdale introduced a bill that provided some protections for OH & S [occupational health and safety] standards. And so it seems like that’s something that needs to be considered in a bill such as this, as well as the government really should be challenged to look through how this province does procurement for both services, websites, materials, to make sure that we’re buying Canadian whenever we can and promoting our own provincial and national interests over those of people who are tariffing us.

With that, I 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. 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 Athabasca.

Leroy Laliberte: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Honoured to rise into debate on Bill No. 31, The Defamation Act.

Taking a look at some of the things that were discussed based on this bill, Mr. Speaker. Ideally it’s been, you know, said before that the internet is so common nowadays, but it’s very difficult to combat these types of situations. Certainly we’re interested in how effective this will be on that front, but you know, most of the time there’s still a lot of different things that need to be discussed.

And I’m sure that’s there many people that already had went into debate based on this bill. Talking about tightening laws for legal action against defamatory publications. And also there was one here . . . Be interested to learn more, the way that this legislation aligns with what the other provinces have, Mr. Speaker.

So I don’t think that there’s more that could be said to this bill right now, Mr. Speaker. So I’m going to move that this bill be moved now to committee, Mr. Speaker. Thank you.

[14:30]

Speaker Goudy: — The question before the Assembly is a motion by the member that Bill No. 31, The Defamation Act 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. 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. 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 Athabasca.

Leroy Laliberte: — Again, Mr. Speaker, honoured again to rise today and speak to Bill 32, The Defamation Consequential Amendments Act, 2025. Again, Mr. Speaker, ideally this would help combat misinformation.

Some of the things that were spoken about again by colleagues when debating this bill . . . I’m sure that there’s more things that could be put into this Act and I think that that would be, you know, something that the committee could decide on, Mr. Speaker. So I’m thinking that again with this one I would move to move this bill also into committee, Mr. Speaker.

Speaker Goudy: — The question before the Assembly is a motion made by the member that Bill No. 32, The Defamation Consequential Amendments Act, 2025, 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 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. 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 Chief Mistawasis.

Don McBean: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I’m glad to rise and speak to The Credit Union Amendment Act. As my colleagues have spoken previously, this is cleaning up things that have been asked for by the credit union association: various items regarding termination of membership, transfer of funds, and the such.

It does give me an opportunity to reflect back to being a member of a credit union, growing up thinking that this is where we did our banking, was at a credit union, and then at some point having the understanding that the other banks didn’t operate as credit unions. They didn’t reward the people that are coming there, that the money was going into the bank and going to the stakeholders spread all over. And just sort of one of those little revelations, mini-epiphanies as we mature and understand how the world works.

So there is no question as to the value of credit unions, how credit union in Saskatchewan is right on par with the co‑operative movement that I was able to speak to last week. There’s hardly anything more Saskatchewan than the credit union.

When I moved down east, at first I was a little bit in difficulty because the credit union wasn’t as accessible, but I quickly found that the caisse populaire Desjardins in Quebec operated pretty much as the credit union. And for the 13 years that I was there I was very happy to be able to support them.

And I’m not quite sure how it works, but I know that in downtown Saskatoon there is a Caisse Desjardins sign. I’m not sure what they’re doing in downtown Saskatoon, but they’re the same credit union structure.

So in response to the request, we are continuing to look at some of these, reaching out to the various stakeholders. And with that I will move to adjourn debate on The Credit Union 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. 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 Southeast.

Brittney Senger: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I am pleased to speak to Bill No. 36, The Change of Name Amendment Act. As someone who represents a very diverse community and a growing community, I’m very pleased to speak to this legislation that is addressing some limitations around changing names, particularly for diverse communities.

Some of the changes included in this legislation allow permanent residents to change names, to have more than two surnames. This is important as many people from diverse backgrounds have more than one legal name. Permanent residents and citizens can change their names.

Family names no longer have limitations to components. For example, they can have triple-barrelled surnames and more. If your last name is multi-component, your spouse may use just one component for their last name.

While you can’t change a spouse’s name without their written notice, you don’t need to notify your spouse if you are changing your name. This is important because, as I’ve said, Saskatoon Southeast has a very diverse community, and I know of many residents within my constituency that have multiple surnames and sometimes choose to only use specific surnames.

Government can notify police of any change of name and can also notify other provinces’ vital statistics and be notified of name changes in another province. We will have to talk to our stakeholders to make sure that notification to police is done safely and responsibly.

I am curious to know how often temporary residents were attempting to change their names and why they’re attempting to change their names. However as our province becomes more diverse, we welcome the greater freedom to respect people’s culture and religious name practisings.

And with that I move to adjourn debate on Bill No. 36.

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 Coronation Park.

Noor Burki: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. It’s my pleasure and honour to be entering into the debate on Bill No. 37, The Vital Statistics Amendment Act, 2025.

Mr. Speaker, this is really great that with the change of technology, change of the world, we are bringing some amendments into our laws, rules, regulations. I’ve been working for a long time with the United Nations, and my job was workflow analysis to find it out, where are the glitches in working systems. There were so many duplications, so many redundancies, and so many reversal things that was not really necessary to flow the work. It’s very important that we make sure vital statistics of Canada is playing a very important role. All the information that they are keeping track, it’s really very important. It’s all official records of key life events like birth, stillbirth, death, marriages, and divorce. These are really important and sensitive information as well.

As far as my colleagues, they talk on this side of the House that these changes should be kept in such a way that should be compatible with the different cultures, with different backgrounds as well. And those informations are very important in so many ways because when government is forecasting any strategies, especially when they are doing demographic monitoring, public health planning, policy development, and genealogical family tracking, this is the most information that they will be using into that one, most important one. So make sure, we have to secure. We have to make sure it is compatible, it should be efficient, and make sure so the people can be taking advantage from that as well.

And I heard that in some places, in some offices, it is very hard for you to get a birth certificate. You would have to go through long waits. So we make sure, in this modern world, we have to make sure it should be accessible to the people, to the stakeholders if they need it.

Most of my students, when I was a driver educator, they were not able to get a driver’s licence because they were not having a birth certificate, they were not having ID [identification]. So when we were sending them to vital statistics of Canada — go there and get it from there — they were waiting for like six to seven weeks. Like that much time they were taking, six to seven weeks. And they were always telling me, “Mr. Burki, when my birth certificate will be coming?”

So make sure we have to make it electronically and make sure we have it secure, so those people that need those data regarding to their . . . it should be given to the people.

With that, Mr. Speaker, I think our shadow minister on this portfolio will be the best person to make his final comments on that. And he will be contacting with different stakeholders, and he will be the best person to be giving a response on that bill. With that, I will be adjourning the debate on Bill No. 37, The Vital Statistics 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. 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 Saskatoon Centre.

Betty Nippi-Albright: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I’m pleased to be weighing in on the debate on Bill No. 38, The Building Schools Faster Act. What my understanding of this bill is, this bill applies to new builds and not for repairs in the past, not for replacements or repairs . . . [inaudible interjection] . . . Okay. So the other thing that . . . Thank you so . . . I’m like, oh what are you saying?

So the municipalities are responsible for acquiring the land for these new builds. That’s my understanding. And if there’s no land available, readily available, and there’s a need for a school in a particular area, that the minister can order the municipalities to find land. You know, and if they don’t, of course, the government can withhold those dollars and withhold the revenues equal to the market rate for the land with a 60‑day notice.

And that before buying the land, that the municipalities and the school divisions must present the minister with contribution agreements for the cost, the timelines, and the land needs, etc. And of course, if land is not found to be used for a school site, then the municipality and division must repay the ministry’s contributions.

So my understanding of this bill is only for new builds. And it’s been a long, long time since I’ve had any of my children attending school. They’re all adults, and I’m a grandmother. So when I drop off my grandchildren to their schools, they’re old. Many of the schools that we have are pretty old. And this bill doesn’t address the repair needs or to bring the buildings up to code in terms of . . .We know that with the climate change and with the intense heat that we often have — we have it in this building where there’s places where it’s really hot and the air conditioning isn’t flowing — and I worry about that, especially with schools, if the new schools will ensure that of course AC [air conditioning] is in the building. And also this doesn’t address the issues and the concerns that existing buildings have, whether it’s with the infrastructure and the repairs.

[14:45]

And we know that many of our children and our grandchildren . . . there’s a lot of children. There’s lots of children. And the new builds that have been happening, I’m not sure if, you know, there’s an anticipation of how much children that will be getting into these schools. But I’m finding with the new builds that in Saskatoon and other areas where, when a new school was built, it wasn’t big enough because of the amount of people moving into the area and how many children are needing to attend school and go to school.

And what I’ve also noticed, even with the new builds that have happened in Saskatoon where communities have been waiting for a long time for a new school, that they’re adding trailers for additional space for the students. And I’ve often — and this is before public life — I’ve often wondered, well isn’t that something that should be taken into account in planning these schools and also in budgeting new schools?

And again this bill doesn’t address the current conditions of the existing schools that we have. And I think about the small rural communities where the municipalities don’t have and the school divisions don’t have the dollars to ensure that the schools are functioning properly so that our children are able to learn. So there’s nothing in the bill that speaks to bringing those schools, especially in those small little communities, up to where it’s a good environment for our children to learn.

But here’s something that’s interesting. In the last 18 years in power, the Sask Party has given up on maintaining those schools, and we see many schools that are in disarray. And also what is also very interesting — and it’s been quite a while since I visited these older schools — sometimes they’re closed off because there needs to be some major repair. And there’s nothing in here that this government is looking.

One of the things that I’m thinking about here is, you know, the Sask Party, the government, could have paid for three schools with the $100 million they blew on water bombers that did not, did not extinguish a single fire this summer. So you look at the choices governments make — $100 million and a single fire wasn’t put out. That’s three schools they could have built for that amount.

But anyway my colleagues will also be weighing in on it. And the shadow minister for this portfolio I’m sure has and will continue to engage the stakeholders and the communities that are impacted by not having a new school or their communities, their schools not being . . . There’s nothing in there really, a whole lot in there to ensure that their schools are up to par so that our children are learning in a safe school that is safe, that is going to help them learn better. And with the intense heats that we’ve had in early spring, I always think about even with my grandchildren, you know, how could you learn when you have poor circulation in the school.

So with that, I won’t say anything more, but I am going to adjourn debate on Bill No. 38. 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 Saskatoon Centre.

Betty Nippi-Albright: — I’m pleased to rise again to talk about Bill No. 39, the consequential amendment Act of 2025 on The Building Schools Faster Act.

Like I’ve said previously, any time that we’re looking at making consequential amendments to the bills that are being presented, it’s really important to really consult and engage those that are going to be most impacted to find out if, as legislators, we’re doing the right thing and that we’re taking into account the changes and that those changes that we’re making, those amendments that we’re making are going to serve everybody in the province, not just a select few. So I won’t say much on this, but I’ll end my comments on this. And I move to adjourn debate on Bill No. 39. 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 Churchill-Wildwood.

Keith Jorgenson: — Thank you so much, Mr. Speaker. It’s a pleasure to be on my feet to talk about Bill 40. You know, as an animal owner, both livestock and pet owner, I’m happy to see a modernization of the Act that will better protect both pets and livestock, Mr. Speaker.

You know, my kids I think were blessed to grow up around livestock. You know, on our farm when my kids were really small we had dogs, cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, guinea fowl, chickens, ducks, goats, horses, and even a donkey. And you know, it was a real menagerie, but I think it really impacted my kids in terms of building a sense of responsibility in them for looking after their animals, whether that be like a goat or a horse, you know.

And I’ll just maybe share two quick stories about when my kids were small, when I was thinking about this. I remember when my son Parker was quite tiny, we’d had a couple of baby goats — kids — that were in the tub in the washroom. And my son Parker was a real crazy guy when he was small.

And it was just like something out of a Curious George cartoon. My wife had gone to . . . was making cookies or something like that and had been painting the washroom — and you know, it’s like one of those, I guess, lapses in judgment — quickly left my two-year-old son, a can of green paint, and two baby goats in the washroom together. And there was a rather predictable outcome, Mr. Speaker. There was two baby goats that had little green handprints all over them.

And the second story I would share with you is about my daughter Lily and a baby sheep that she lovingly called Clorox. And there was two baby goats that were born kind of this weird brown colour, kind of like if you poured bleach on a pair of black jeans, you know, it was that kind of, like weird kind of burnt brown colour. So she called them Clorox and Javex.

And one of those goats . . . Sorry, one of those sheep was a bit weak when it was born and had trouble walking. So my daughter Lily thought, you know, she wanted to teach the baby sheep to walk. So she took a cloth grocery bag and cut four little holes in it and hung it from, you know, like a little Jolly Jumper for a sheep. And so you know, very predictably, the sheep thought that it was a person. And so I kind of vividly remember my daughter thought it was funny. She sat and watched Shaun the Sheep with this little baby sheep on her lap, you know.

So I just wanted to share those stories. You know, both pets and livestock have had a big effect on my life growing up and the lives of my kids, who now are still involved in equestrian sports. And so you know, it’s good to see an Act brought about that makes sure that those animals, whether they be pets or livestock, are treated with respect. You know, both pets and livestock are so integral to the Saskatchewan way of life.

So with that, Mr. Speaker, I would move to adjourn debate on Bill 40, The Animal Protection 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. 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 Saskatoon Southeast.

Brittney Senger: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I am pleased to join in debate around Bill No. 41, the heritage recognition Act, from many peoples, strength. As I’ve said, Saskatoon Southeast is a very diverse community and a growing community.

The minister can proclaim in this bill any heritage day, week, or month that they want, such as Sikh Heritage Month. They can do it in regulations. And these heritage events are annual unless otherwise designated. The minister can easily make regulations that they’re not annual.

This Act does not affect any heritage event that’s already been proclaimed. While we are pleased to see that they are not repealing previous heritage Acts, such as Sikh Heritage Month . . . That was a very important piece of legislation on both sides of the aisle as a way of coming together after hateful language was spoken on the floor in this Assembly. It was a way for us to stand with Sikh people across Saskatchewan. It’s very important that we continue to do that as Saskatchewan grows, as Saskatchewan diversifies.

We do find the timing of this legislation to be a bit strange. As we know, the Sask Party made some changes at their last convention around permanent residents voting at their party convention. This was a clear act against multiculturalism. Canada is . . .

Speaker Goudy: — Sorry, I’d just ask the member to keep comments to the government business, not party conventions. Thanks.

Brittney Senger: — Canada and Saskatchewan are multicultural. Unlike the United States — and I think it’s very important that we demonstrate how different we are from the United States — we are not a melting pot.

“From many peoples, strength.” This indicates to me that we need to be celebrating the diversity in Saskatchewan and not just limiting recognition of heritage to one month. I believe that with diversity growing so quickly in this province, we need to continue to recognize and celebrate that diversity.

We will continue to call on the minister to recognize significant cultural groups within Saskatchewan, especially as we continue to grow, as we continue to diversify. And it’s, as I’ve said, very important to celebrate our differences, our values, our cultures, and really ensure that we are recognizing everybody within Saskatchewan.

And with that I will move to adjourn debate on Bill No. 41, the heritage recognition 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. 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 Chief Mistawasis.

Don McBean: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. It’s my pleasure to rise to speak to The Municipalities Modernization and Red Tape Reduction Act. And I might start by pointing out just how catchy the titles of our bills are. You know, when someone asks, how’s it going down in Regina? I say, oh my goodness, we are building schools faster. We’re reducing red tape. We’re modernizing so much. And it just fills our sails and helps us to sleep well at night.

[15:00]

And then I start trying to look at it and I start reading it and I go inside. Yeah, I’m not sure. I’m not sure if modernization and reduction of red tape is the target here. Or maybe it’s the target, but that we might be hitting that target is a little suspect. And I wonder in my perhaps simplistic world view how it is . . . I mean, there are many parts of this that are probably relatively straightforward. We need to make some better legislation around how to deal with dangerous animals, you know, the municipality designations.

Very curious to me that we get to something ethics. And there is somewhere in these 800 pages that is going to lead us to consider fairness. And I wonder just how many pages are necessary for that, or if it isn’t something simpler. But we live in a world of litigious nature, with all respect to the lawyers in the room. Whenever I take a slap at lawyers, I point out my older brother’s a lawyer, you know, so I carry some . . . [inaudible interjection] . . . Whoops. Now I’d better not hear what’s being said.

We have to have faith in the public service, I guess, when it comes right down to it. The promotion of these Acts of legislation are coming out of the public service. They’re coming from the people that are doing this work. Far be it from retired principals and others sitting here to understand exactly the language that’s going to bring us to something better. I sure hope so. I can only have that faith.

We will continue to reach out. I know it’s been mentioned by a number of my colleagues, you know, reaching out to SUMA [Saskatchewan Urban Municipalities Association], the concern about the downloading of many aspects of the provincial legislation onto the municipalities. We do hope that this is modernizing. We do hope that it is reducing red tape. And we will continue to consult with our stakeholders in this regard.

And with that, I would move to adjourn debate on Bill No. 43. 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. 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 Regina Coronation Park.

Noor Burki: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. It’s my honour to be on my feet to enter into the debate on Bill No. 44, The Co‑operatives Act, 2025. Mr. Speaker, traditionally if we go back to the history until today as well, co‑operative societies, co‑operative corporations, and co-operative businesses, they are really playing a very vital role, especially specifically in our rural areas.

When I was a driver educator, I’d been teaching in a lot of rural areas, and I was just wondering sometimes if these people need something, how they can help out. And I saw small towns, most of the small towns, they were having credit unions, co‑operative places over there. And every small town, they were having a small house, and they’d just been supporting and helping out people with financial things.

I belong from a very remote area, and we know what we were doing. We were not having banks for miles and miles in our area back home, so people used to be sharing things. If they ran out of sugar, they were going to next door neighbours and were asking, can we borrow some sugar? If we were running with eggs, we were chatting to the neighbours. People were working with co-operation with each other, helping out with that. That was the culture in rural areas.

But when I see the rural areas in this country, well the ethics are the same. And I’ve been teaching a lot of my students the same thing: if you run out somewhere in rural areas, out of gas, or some problem happens, people will be helping out. Or go to the farm where they’re friendly, they’re helpful. That is the tradition of that.

But when we’re looking at financial things, they were having banks and all institutions. They were there. And I will say, these organizations are really very important, and we make sure we have to be strengthening them the way they are being worked. It’s reducing the commutation of the people going back and forth to the cities, to the urban areas. They can be served over there with different areas, especially they are providing financial inclusion, agriculture support, marketing fairness in price, employment generation as well. They are small places. They will be definitely hiring people over there. So they’re playing an important role.

With that I will say, if you’re doing any amendment, anything we do in your life, we have to make sure with the passage of time we have to enhance them. We have to make modifications into them. Technology has been changing. Things have been changing. So make sure we have to keep things more accessible, more easily available, and more secure as well because that’s very important to make sure we can do that.

Mr. Speaker, the member on our side, shadow minister for this portfolio, will be looking into more detail of that by contacting stakeholders and getting insight. With that I will be adjourning debate on Bill No. 44, The Co‑operatives 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. 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 Regina Coronation Park.

Noor Burki: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Again it’s my pleasure to be entering into debate on Bill No. 45, The Co‑operatives Consequential Amendments Act, 2025.

I remember back when I was in IT [information technology] industry — I was a software engineer — when we were making software. At that time we were doing reverse engineering sometimes. If we were changing one change, we were looking into that, how this will affect so many modules and stuff like that. And it is true, it is important. If we’re bringing one change, we have to look to the consequences, how that will be. So I’m not going in more detail of that.

I will say it is more important that we have to look. Sometimes though . . . [inaudible] . . . of small change will become a really big problem. And we in the IT industry, we were proffering, we were proffering to do new software development and new module development rather than working and patching all those things.

But I know it’s the legislation, so again with the passage of time, I’m in favour. So those things that we are . . . with the passage of time we can upgrade them. We enhance them to make sure more easily, securely available to the people.

With that, I will say I will adjourn debate on Bill No. 45, The Co‑operatives Consequential Amendments 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. 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 Southeast.

Brittney Senger: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I am pleased to join the debate on Bill No. 47, The Response to Illicit Drugs Act.

With this bill any public employee who commits a drug crime or who committed them in the last three years can be let go without notice or severance. This also applies to anyone receiving a government grant or anyone with an agreement with the government or a Crown. It will be a civil crime to commit a drug-related crime that injures someone by the use of their exposure to drugs, and the government can recuperate costs from drug-related injury or disease on behalf of the victim. They don’t need to identify individuals or prove the cause or cost of the injury. They can also seize any remaining profit afterwards.

Mr. Speaker, my mom owns a flower shop on 20th and Avenue M in Saskatoon, near St. Paul’s Hospital. As we all know, there is a mental health and addictions crisis within Saskatchewan, and it is increasing. Now my mom sees that first-hand every single day. My nearly 80‑year-old grandma also works in that flower shop very often. And obviously the increase in crime related to drugs is something that I’m very familiar with. I’ve seen the changes within Saskatoon over the past few years and know that this is really a growing issue.

In regards to crime or injury related to illicit drugs, this is something that I’ve also seen. You know, my mother’s flower shop is often vandalized. She’s had weapons pulled on her. She has seen all sorts of things with the location of her small business, and it is something that is very much top of mind for me. As I said, my 80‑year-old grandma also works out of this flower shop from time to time, and I do worry about their safety. I think that it is very important that the province and the government address the crimes related to drugs within Saskatchewan, and I think that action needs to be taken.

So with that, I will move to adjourn debate on the illicit drug Act, Bill No. 47. 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. 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 Regina Pasqua.

Bhajan Brar: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I rise here today for debate on Bill No. 48, The Compassionate Intervention Act. Before this, my colleague from Saskatoon Silverspring has participated in said debate.

Mr. Speaker, we agree that the drug crisis in the province is out of control, and the government needs to be doing more to address it. We have been trying to get a clear picture of barriers to accessing treatment for addictions. But the minister claimed that data does not exist, even though we have seen with our own eyes that it does. That makes us worry about how seriously that minister is taking this crisis.

Communities are being impacted seriously by drugs, and every day we are listening from our constituents about the serious problem. Every disease can be removed from society by eliminating, by isolating and prevention, but none is being done by the government. Due to that, we are losing hundreds of people each year to addictions, overdose, and drug poisoning. It tears apart families and whole communities. This is why it is important to get tough on the cause of crime. This is a time to increase supports, not cut them. We support evidence-based treatment for addictions.

And with this, Mr. Speaker, I move to adjourn the debate on Bill No. 48, The Compassionate Intervention 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. I recognize the Government House Leader.

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

Speaker Goudy: — It has been moved that the Assembly does now adjourn. Is it the pleasure of the Assembly to adopt the motion?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Speaker Goudy: — Carried. This Assembly stands adjourned until tomorrow at 1:30.

[The Assembly adjourned at 15:14.]

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

Disclaimer: The electronic versions of the Legislative Assembly’s documents are provided on this site for informational purposes only. The Clerk is responsible for the records of each legislature.