Hon. Everett Hindley: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. To you and through you, seated in your gallery, it is my honour and pleasure to introduce individuals from the Saskatchewan Heart and Stroke Foundation, alongside community champions and health professionals from a variety of fields, who are making Saskatchewan communities safer by supporting a program that will bring CPR [cardiopulmonary resuscitation] training to schools across the province called CardiacCrash.

Mr. Speaker, I had an opportunity to join these guests over the noon hour to announce this initiative, which will now be available starting in September of 2026 to grade 8s and grade 10s in schools across the province. And members will have a chance to meet them this evening at a reception.

Mr. Speaker, I’d like to introduce, from the Heart and Stroke Foundation, Carolyn Cyr, director of health policy and systems; Effie Kosmas, provincial mission specialist; Dr. Brett Graham, advisory board representative and Saskatoon stroke neurologist; and Christine Houde, health policy and systems with Heart & Stroke Manitoba.

People with lived experience are community champions: Jory Meyer from the great community of Swift Current — there’s Jory — and Norm Hydamacka and Corrine Dutka from Martensville.

Additionally I’d like to introduce a number of health care partners who are here today including Jarod Harvey, who is the president of Physical Health Education Saskatchewan; Dr. Andrea Lavoie from the amazing community of Melfort, a cardiologist and professor at the U of S [University of Saskatchewan] College of Medicine; paramedics Rob Snell of Regina and Paul Hills of Saskatoon, who is no stranger to this Assembly. And from the SHA [Saskatchewan Health Authority], Danielle Pellerin, manager, Regina General Hospital, interventional cardiology; Steven Klotz, director of Regina cardio sciences; and Jeff Schultes, co-ordinator, Regina public access defibrillation program.

Mr. Speaker, I’d like to ask all members to join me in thanking these guests for protecting the health and safety of Saskatchewan people year-round and now being able to expand that to students at our schools, and welcome them to their Legislative Assembly.

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

Meara Conway: — Thank you so much, Mr. Speaker. It’s my pleasure to join with the minister opposite in welcoming all of these wonderful guests that are seated in your gallery.

We had a wonderful and appreciated opportunity to meet with Carolyn Cyr, the director of Heart & Stroke, yesterday. A number of our MLAs [Member of the Legislative Assembly] on this side joined in that meeting to learn more about the many ways in which we can continue to improve CPR and AED [automated external defibrillator] education and access across this province.

Of course the minister has listed many of the individuals, so I’ll just refrain from maybe going through every single one. But we see you. We appreciate the incredible work you do for this province. And I know I speak for my colleagues when I say, we very much look forward to speaking and interacting with you more at today’s reception.

So on behalf of the Leader of the Opposition and the folks on this side of the House, welcome to your Legislative Assembly.

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

Hon. Michael Weger: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I have a few guests to introduce today, Mr. Speaker, so I’m requesting leave for an extended introduction.

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

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Hon. Michael Weger: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. To you and through you, I’d like to start with my introduction of Toni Giraudier. Mr. Speaker, Toni is a graduate from the collaborative nurse practitioner program through the University of Regina and Sask Polytech. For the past six years, Toni has served the residents of Bengough and surrounding area as a nurse practitioner, and Toni is currently the president of the Saskatchewan Association of Nurse Practitioners.

Mr. Speaker, in addition to supporting many individuals in the Bengough area as their primary health care provider, Toni also gives back to her province as a goalie coach with the University of Regina Cougars women’s team and the Notre Dame female goalies. I have also had the opportunity to have Toni out to Weyburn to assist with our minor hockey association. With a résumé that includes being a Canada West All-Star and Academic All-Canadian and Female Athlete of the Year, her coaching services are always in serious demand.

I’m also happy to point out that Toni also played hockey professionally with the Calgary Inferno and then returned to Saskatchewan for a stint in the NHL, and that’s the Notekeu Hockey League, Mr. Speaker. That’s a senior men’s league in southern Saskatchewan. And recently Toni came out of retirement to also participate in the inaugural season of the Saskatchewan Senior Women’s Hockey League. In addition to all of these impressive achievements, Toni’s also married to her husband, James, and they’re raising two beautiful daughters.

With that, Mr. Speaker, I’d like to ask all members to join me in welcoming Toni Giraudier to her Legislative Assembly.

Next, Mr. Speaker, I’m happy to turn my attention to four individuals also seated in the west gallery. We have Ryan Malley, Greg Olson, Craig McGillivray, and James Benesh. Mr. Speaker, as a retired Weyburn Kin Club member, I’m honoured to introduce these four members from the Regina Queen City Kinsmen. My seatmate will have more to say about the Queen City Kinsmen, so I just want to thank the Kinsmen for leaving their cares and troubles behind for a while to join us today, Mr. Speaker.

And with that, I would ask all members to join me in welcoming the Queen City Kinsmen to their legislature.

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

Jared Clarke: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. It’s an honour to join with the minister opposite to welcome Toni to her Legislative Assembly. Really appreciate, as shadow minister for Rural and Remote Health, the contributions that nurse practitioners make to primary care in this province. And certainly the team-based model of care and how nurse practitioners play into that is an important role in the future of health care in this province. And so I just want to say thank you for your commitment to your profession and to the people of the province in that capacity.

So I’d ask all members to join me in also welcoming Toni to her Legislative Assembly.

And while I’m on my feet, Mr. Speaker, very briefly I want to welcome James Benesh, a dad to a former student of mine back a few years ago. And his daughter is an amazing, amazing young person in this province who has a great future. And it was a pleasure to get to work with her over a couple of years. So I’d like to also welcome James to his Legislative Assembly. Thank you.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of Health.

Hon. Jeremy Cockrill: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I request leave for an extended introduction.

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

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Hon. Jeremy Cockrill: — Well thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I’ll join with colleagues on both sides of the aisle in welcoming a few different guests to this, their legislature here today.

First the folks from the Heart and Stroke Foundation. Had an opportunity to meet with several of them today, including Norm Hydamacka from Martensville. And just had the opportunity to — he’s hiding behind the clock from where I’m standing — but just to hear really the incredible story of how really the placement of an AED was there at the right time for Norm and is the reason that Norm is here at the legislature today.

Several other familiar faces obviously from the Heart and Stroke Foundation: Effie Kosmas, Carolyn Cyr, Dr. Lavoie, Dr. Graham, Paul Hills. I’d like to ask all members to thank them for coming to this, their legislature today.

While I’m on my feet, Mr. Speaker, I’ll also join with the member from Weyburn-Bengough and the member from Walsh Acres in welcoming Toni Giraudier to this, her legislature. Toni really and her team at SANP [Saskatchewan Association of Nurse Practitioners] has been absolutely key in where we’ve gotten to just very recently in terms of the role of nurse practitioners in this province.

And so I’d like to thank Toni for her advocacy on behalf of nurse practitioners all over the province in terms of their leadership role in how we deliver primary care and health care really right across the province. So again I’d ask all members to join me in welcoming Toni to this, her legislature.

And sorry, Mr. Speaker, the last one. While I’m on my feet I’d also like to welcome Jason Monteith from SEIU-West [Service Employees International Union-West] to the legislature here today. Obviously Jason and SEIU-West represent a whole variety of health care professionals from all across our system working in all different types of professions, important roles as part of our health care system, Mr. Speaker.

So when we think about who we have, you know, from cardiology leaders to nurse practitioners to SEIU-West representing many health care professionals right across the province, everybody plays a role in putting patients first, patients like Norm, to ensure that all 1.25 million people in this province are well looked after.

So I’d ask all members in the House to join me in welcoming Jason to this, his legislature.

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

Nathaniel Teed: — Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. To you and through you, I just want to join with the Minister of Health in welcoming Jason Monteith to his Legislative Assembly.

Mr. Speaker, during my time as shadow minister of Labour, it’s just been an absolute pleasure getting to know him better and his leadership team at SEIU-West. SEIU-West represents 10,000 health care workers across our province. And today is a special day for those health care workers. It marks the four-year anniversary, on the nose, that health care workers have not seen a raise in Saskatchewan — three years without a collective bargaining agreement.

So I really just want to thank Jason for coming to his Legislative Assembly. He’s no stranger to this Chamber and continues to advocate for those health care workers. Thank you so much. I ask all members to join me in welcoming Jason Monteith to his Legislative Assembly.

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

Brad Crassweller: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. To you and through you, seated in the west gallery, I’d like to introduce to you our fire chief of White City, and a deputy chief. Mathieu Theriault is our chief, and Krista Bull our deputy chief. We had a great conversation here today; I’ll have more to say in a member’s statement. But just two tremendous individuals that serve so faithfully White City. And so we thank you. And I’d ask all members to welcome them to their Legislative Assembly.

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

Tajinder Grewal: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I’m seeking a leave for an extended introduction.

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

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Tajinder Grewal: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. To you and through you, I would like to introduce many members from the Sikh community sitting in the east gallery. Today’s a very special day; it’s the start of Sikh Heritage Month. Last year in this House, The Sikh Heritage Month Act was passed. Special thanks to the member from Regina Pasqua and all the members in this House for supporting that bill. It’s a huge recognition to the Sikh community to recognize their contribution and service to this province.

I will read the name of people who are sitting here. Please wave when you hear your name. So I’ll start with Amrik Singh, Balwinder Singh, Avtar Kaur, Joginder S Mann, Sukhdev Singh Brar, Surinder Singh, Kulwant Singh, Joginder Singh, Amanpreet Singh, Manjot Kaur, Tirath Dogra, Captain Harbhajan Singh, Bikaram Singh, Kashmir Singh, Baljit Kaur, Surjit Singh, Inderjit Singh, Charanjit Singh, Thana Singh, Gurtej Singh Khalsa, Gursant Singh, advocate, Satwinder Singh, Hardeep Singh, Manjit Singh, Giani Gurdeep Singh, Balvir Singh Bhattal, Surjit Singh.

I ask all the members to please join me to welcome these Sikh community members to their legislature.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of Parks, Culture and Sport.

Hon. Alana Ross: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I would like to join the member opposite and welcome the members of the Sikh community here today as they start their celebration for Sikh Heritage Month. And the Sikh community is very, very active in our communities and do many great things. And I would also like to thank them for the many contributions that they are making to support our strong and growing economy and communities here in Saskatchewan.

Mr. Speaker, I ask all members to please join me in welcoming these fine people to our Legislative Assembly.

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 welcome the grade 8 students from Regina Huda School seated in the east gallery — 51 students from that class. Some of them are sitting in the east and some of them are sitting in the west gallery. Thank you very much for coming to this Assembly.

[13:45]

This incredible group is being joined two incredible teachers, Amber Learned-Garritty and Shandra Stinson. Thank you very much bringing your class to this Legislative Assembly.

Mr. Speaker, I have really good memories with this school. I’ve been a driver educator for 14 years, and my five daughters graduated from this school. Two are still there in the same school, in grade 5 and grade 7. Mr. Speaker, after question period I will be facing their hard and smart questions. I hope so they will be very easy with me, not very hard.

With that, I will request all members to join me to welcome our future faces to their Legislative Assembly.

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

Kevin Weedmark: — Mr. Speaker, I request leave for an extended introduction.

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

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Kevin Weedmark: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. To you and through you, I’d like to introduce three individuals seated in your gallery from Moosomin this afternoon. We have with us today Joanne, Morgan, and Heather Kerr, who are the owners at Moosomin Dairy Queen.

And in addition to making great ice cream, they’re also very committed to fundraising and community service, and they’ve always done an outstanding job with projects like Miracle Treat Day. And after the last Miracle Treat Day I went with them up to Saskatoon so we could tour the Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital and see where some of the funds that they raise go.

And they brought their little one. Morgan and Heather have a little one named Woodrow. They brought him with them that day, but decided they shouldn’t bring him today because they thought he’s too opinionated to be in the Assembly here, Mr. Speaker. And just a side note, they’re expecting another one. Next week they should be adding to their family. So congratulations to them on that.

So, Mr. Speaker, I volunteered for Miracle Treat Day for a few days and I have to admit it’s not my strong point. The last couple of years when I’ve tried to make Blizzards I think I’ve got more ice cream on myself and everyone around me than I have in the cups. But they’re excellent fundraisers. And I’m going to have more to say about the incredible job that they’ve done in a member’s statement coming up.

So I’d ask all members to join me in welcoming them to their Legislative Assembly.

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

Darcy Warrington: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. It gives me great pleasure to introduce a man who’s already been introduced, but a colleague and a friend of mine, Jarod Harvey. Jarod and I taught at wâhkôhtowin School in Saskatoon Fairview a number of years ago. And he also taught with my wife at Chief Whitecap School.

Jarod, there are so many great things that can be said about you. You’re a tireless advocate for phys ed, for physical activity, and health for our students in this province, whether it’s giving up hundreds of hours of your time for professional development for the teachers of Saskatoon, for the teachers in this province, and the teachers in this country. I hope that all members get a chance to have a conversation with you sometime, because you are just such a wonderful human being, and I think the world of you.

With that being said, Mr. Speaker, please join me in welcoming and thanking Jarod Harvey for his service to this province. And welcome to your Legislative Assembly.

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

Megan Patterson: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. To you and through you, I’d like to introduce Blythe Vass, seated in your gallery. I had the honour of meeting Blythe earlier this year at my office. Blythe was born in Pangman, Saskatchewan. She’s a resident of Moose Jaw and is a social worker and mother of three beautiful children.

Blythe came to my office to share the story of her brother Timothy Vass, who struggled with addiction. Blythe is a supporter of The Compassionate Intervention Act and hopes sharing her family’s story and struggles will make a difference to others.

I will be sharing more information about Timothy and the scholarship the Vass family have created to keep Timothy’s memory alive later on. Please join me in welcoming Blythe to this, her Legislative Assembly.

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

Aleana Young: — Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. To you and through you, I wanted to take a moment and just chime in and add my introduction and my welcome to Ryan Malley, seated behind me.

When I first moved to Saskatchewan, we used to sit in front of Ryan and Jacqui at old Taylor Field. And Ryan just has such an amazing family, Mr. Speaker. He serves his province obviously as a lawyer. And he and Jacqui and Rylan do so much through their involvement with the Kinettes, with TeleMiracle, and in advocating for families across Saskatchewan with children with intensive needs.

I also want to recognize Ryan’s mom and dad, Brian and Sharon, who he’s lost in the last couple years, two remarkable people and educators, lifelong educators here in Regina who were just incredible people, really close friends with my in-laws and just remarkable contributors to the education system here in Saskatchewan to so many young lives and to the community through their service.

So Ryan, my heart is with you and with Erin and Andrew and Oliver and Evelyn and your whole family. And with that, Mr. Speaker, I’d like to ask all members to join me in welcoming once more to his Legislative Assembly, Ryan Malley.

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

Trent Wotherspoon: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I’d just like to join in briefly as well with the Kin leaders that are here today, the Kinsmen leaders here from the Queen City, and recognize them to thank them: Craig, James, and Ryan, and Greg Olson.

And I want to give a special shout-out to my buddy and constituent, who is a proud leader within our Crown corporations, an awesome community member that gives back in many ways. Certainly the Kinsmen are so active in building community and giving back and enriching the lives of many within our community. So I want to give a special shout-out to my good buddy, Greg Olson.

Speaker Goudy: — I just wanted to make one comment as well. We have a lady in the Speaker’s gallery named Dr. Andrea Lavoie. La-voy I knew growing up, but Lavoie.

Yesterday I had an experience. I was supposed to have someone in my office for lunch, diplomat from another country, looked after me. He’s looked after many others. Had a tough morning, pain in his heart. Asked if he could go to the hospital. He wasn’t in my office for lunch. He was having a visit to the Regina General, where he had a heart attack.

And so he wanted me to pass on to everyone thanks for our kindness to him. He personally has served many Canadians through the years, and we are privileged to have been able to serve him. But to you and through you to all of the staff at Regina General, we want to say on behalf of the Legislative Assembly of Saskatchewan, thank you very much.

I sat in his hospital room last night holding his hand. And the nurses there, the confidence . . . He told me this story. He said the doctor said, “Don’t worry. We’ve got you.” You know, you’re in a foreign country, your family’s far from home, and that crew . . . Could you say thank you on behalf of the government and the Legislative Assembly of Saskatchewan.

PRESENTING PETITIONS

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

Trent Wotherspoon: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise to present petitions today on behalf of concerned residents as it relates to the very precarious situation that many are facing with the highest rents in the nation, the highest rent increases in the nation, and the enormous pressure and hardship that places on those on tight and fixed incomes, Mr. Speaker. So many working families that are being displaced and making such terrible, difficult choices. So many seniors that don’t have anything but that fixed income but are facing rent increases often of 30 per cent or 40 per cent within a year, something that they just can’t afford. The petitioners are calling for some protection.

And the prayer reads as follows:

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

These petitions today are signed by concerned residents of Regina. I so submit.

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

Brent Blakley: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise today to present a petition calling on the Government of Saskatchewan to open up vacant Saskatchewan Housing Corporation units for occupancy.

These residents of the province of Saskatchewan wish to bring attention to the following: that approximately 3,000 Sask Housing units are currently vacant across Saskatchewan, including about 129 units in Prince Albert, 280 in Saskatoon, and over 700 in Regina; that the Sask Party government has cut the maintenance and renovation budget approximately 40 per cent over the last decade and failed to invest in the housing stock; that the province’s expenditures on emergency hotels, which have risen year after year, is one example of the cost of the Sask Party government’s failure to maintain the public housing stock; that every $10 invested towards housing and support of chronically homeless individuals results in a savings of $21.72 related to health care, social support, housing, and the involvement in the justice system.

So, Mr. Speaker, it is baffling why the Sask Party government refuses to make this investment in supporting unhoused people in this province.

The prayer reads as follows:

We respectfully request the Legislative Assembly of Saskatchewan call on the Government of Saskatchewan to immediately renovate all SHC units that require renovation, make units available and affordable and ensure that all the currently vacant SHC units are made occupied.

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

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

Bhajan Brar: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I rise here today to present a petition to the Legislative Assembly of Saskatchewan to fix the funding crisis in the disability service sector and for community-based organizations.

We, the undersigned residents of the province of Saskatchewan, wish to bring to your attention the following: that the disability service sector faces a funding crisis that threatens CBO [community-based organization] workforce, stability, and ability to provide essential services due to the underfunding of transportation, meals, technology, and maintenance; that direct-support professionals working for CBOs in the disability service sector make significantly less and have far fewer benefits doing similar work in health care and within homes for people experiencing disabilities that are directly operated by the Government of Saskatchewan; that the Ministry of Social Services funds CBOs for benefits at approximately 16 per cent of salary funding and this rate has remained relatively unchanged for 20 years.

We, in the prayer that reads as follows, respectfully request the Legislative Assembly of Saskatchewan call on the Government of Saskatchewan to commit to a three-year funding plan that strengthens CBO capacity and stabilizes the sector, while simultaneously collaborating with CBOs on a job analysis for the disability service sector, as well as a full review of the operational funding standards to ensure adequate funding for areas including but not limited to transportation, maintenance, technology, food, insurance and audit.

This petition has been signed by the residents of Kindersley. I do so present. Thank you.

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

Kim Breckner: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise today to present a petition calling for the Government of Saskatchewan to step up for Indigenous students in Saskatchewan. The undersigned residents would like to bring to our attention that Jordan’s principle was established to ensure that First Nation children have equitable access to the services they need, including supports in school. The recent loss of this federal funding will leave a significant gap in Saskatchewan classrooms especially for Indigenous students who rely on inclusive education supports to thrive. The cut has also led to the layoff of 80 education assistants from Saskatoon Public Schools.

With that I’ll read the prayer:

We, in the prayer that follows, respectfully request that the Legislative Assembly of Saskatchewan call on the Government of Saskatchewan to stand up for Saskatchewan and advocate for the restoration of federal Jordan’s principle funding to support Indigenous students in schools; commit to sustainable, predictable, and equitable provincial funding for inclusive education across Saskatchewan; and ensure education support workers have the resources and staffing they need to keep classrooms safe and support every student’s learning journey.

The signatories to this petition reside in Gallivan and Cochin. I do so present.

STATEMENTS BY MEMBERS

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

Sikh Heritage Month in Saskatchewan

Bhajan Brar: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise in the Assembly today to recognize April as Sikh Heritage Month. It has also been one year since the passing of The Sikh Heritage Month Act. I want to thank all members of the Assembly, including the members opposite, for joining me in passing this private member’s bill.

Mr. Speaker, the Sikh community in Saskatchewan is very happy with this bill. They no longer need to request for this important month to be recognized each year.

[14:00]

It is a profound statement from their government that Sikhs are welcome here in Saskatchewan. “From many peoples, strength” is Saskatchewan’s motto, and Sikh Canadians exemplify values that resonate deeply with the Saskatchewan spirit: sarbat da bhala, the well-being of all; seva, selfless service; kirat karo, honest living; vand chakko, sharing with others.

Sikh Heritage Month is the perfect opportunity to celebrate the history, culture, and traditions of the Sikh community in Saskatchewan and in Canada. During this Sikh Heritage Month, let us remember that our diversity is our strength, and our strength lies in our unity. I call on all members to join me in congratulating all the Sikh community for their contribution to Saskatchewan. Happy Sikh Heritage Month.

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

Moosomin Dairy Queen Honoured for Fundraising Efforts

Kevin Weedmark: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Today I want to recognize an outstanding example of generosity and community spirit in Moosomin-Montmartre.

The team at Moosomin Dairy Queen, led by Joanne, Morgan, and Heather Kerr, has achieved something truly remarkable. Through the 2025 DQ [Dairy Queen] Miracle Treat Day, they raised an incredible $42,000 in support of Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital. That’s a tremendous contribution that will make a real difference for children and families across the province.

And this effort didn’t go unnoticed. The Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital Foundation nominated Moosomin DQ for recognition on National Philanthropy Day, and they received that award last November.

And the recognitions continued. Recently Moosomin Dairy Queen was presented with the 2025 Miracle Maker Award, which honours the top Dairy Queen franchisee in all of Canada in support of Children’s Miracle Network hospitals. And what makes this achievement even more special is that for the first time ever this award has been presented to a Saskatchewan franchise.

Mr. Speaker, this is a proud moment for Moosomin and for the entire province. I ask all members to join me in congratulating the team at Moosomin Dairy Queen for their leadership, generosity, and for their unwavering commitment to help others. Thank you.

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

High School Improv Team Goes to National Tournament

Vicki Mowat: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise today to recognize a group of nine exceptional young people from Tommy Douglas Collegiate in Saskatoon Fairview. The Tommy Douglas high school improv team, also known as Skits & Giggles, recently placed first at the Saskatchewan improv games competition and now has the incredible opportunity to go to Ottawa to compete in the national tournament from April 15th to 19th.

This cohort of dedicated and talented students is made up of Ellie Diekema, Brynn Cawood, Graeme Peters, Nathan Quick, Tyler Stockdale, Alex Papunen, Casey Mooney, Alex Zook, and Nashi Zimmer, as well as their coach and teacher Michael Prebble. Through improv these young people build confidence, creativity, leadership, and teamwork — skills that will stay with them long after they leave the stage.

This team will become the first competitive improv team from Saskatoon to perform live at the Canadian Improv Games National Festival in the event’s 50‑year history. At the federal competition, the Tommy Douglas improv team will compete against the 15 best high school improv teams across Canada.

While the group has the opportunity to travel to Ottawa, for many families this trip is not financially feasible. I encourage folks to step up, make a donation, and help contribute to the goals and dreams of these young people.

I ask all members to join me in recognizing their fantastic work and wishing them all the best in Ottawa. Thank you.

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

White City Fire Department Contributes to Community

Brad Crassweller: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Today it’s my privilege to welcome to their Legislative Assembly, Chief Mathieu Theriault and Deputy Chief Krista Bull from the White City Fire Department.

Mr. Speaker, these two dedicate an incredible amount of time organizing and training their entire team to be ready and able to respond when called upon. And they have 25 volunteers in their department. And I would like to add, just last night Brady Peter, who’s worked in this building for a long time, joined that department. And so we’re excited about that. But keep your eye on him.

I have enjoyed getting to know both of them — incredible leaders and just people in general. Their department not only responds to fire calls and accidents, they host and participate in numerous community events such as their open house, Fire Prevention Week, and their First Responder Fun Day.

Recently White City combined with Balgonie, Pilot Butte, Emerald Park, and the village of Edenwold, gathered some of their extra equipment, and together gave it to Tugaske fire department after the total loss of their fire hall. Those donations were delivered by Doug Lapchuk, the chief from Balgonie, and included boots, balaclavas, gloves, turnouts, and hoses.

They also have a great focus on training up young female firefighters through an event they have called Camp Molly. This camp runs to empower and encourage all girls across Saskatchewan to explore the world of firefighting, learn new skills, and connect with like-minded girls who share a similar passion and ambition.

I want to thank both Mathieu and Krista for being here today and for your service to our community and your fellow firefighters. Your constituents, your friends, your neighbours, and your government want you to know how much we appreciate your dedication and commitment to being ready, willing, and able to respond in crisis and often tragic situations. I also want to say a huge thank you to your families. I’d ask all members to join me in thanking them for their commitment.

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

Heart and Stroke Risk Screen Tool Saves Lives

Jacqueline Roy: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. More women die from heart attacks and strokes than nearly all other cancers combined — five times more than breast cancer alone. But a lot of people don’t know that fact.

Too many women do not recognize their risk or see themselves reflected in prevention tools. That’s why the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada’s risk screen tool matters. You can find it online, and I’ve tried it myself. It helped me uncover a risk factor that I didn’t even know existed for women. That kind of knowledge is powerful to me.

This tool reflects the reality that women’s risks and symptoms can differ greatly, factoring in life stages like pregnancy and menopause, when risks can rise and often go unnoticed. Mr. Speaker, 9 in 10 Canadians have at least one risk factor, and women can die because signs are missed, which is why awareness is of course so critical.

I thank the Heart and Stroke Foundation for their work in our schools. Students are engaged and bring that knowledge home to their families. But I also urge everyone to learn where AEDs are located in their communities and how to use them. Are they there and are they accessible? I challenge my fellow MLA colleagues to use the constituency screening tool provide by Heart and Stroke. Take five minutes. It could just very well save your life.

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

Regina Queen City Kinsmen Club Celebrates 100 Years

Hon. Terry Jenson: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Today marks a very special anniversary for the city of Regina and for a legacy of men who decided to serve their community’s greatest need.

One hundred years ago today, Mr. Speaker, the Regina Kinsmen Club, now known as the Regina Queen City Kinsmen club, was officially founded. Over that 100 years literally hundreds of members have donated their valuable time and energy volunteering to make their city better and helping individuals and groups in their time of need.

The Kinsmen Club of Canada was founded in 1920, Mr. Speaker, and continues to be a service club focused on community service, family values, personal development, and national pride. At one time, Mr. Speaker, there were three Kinsmen clubs serving Regina, but it’s been the original Regina Queen City Kinsmen club that’s been here since the beginning, the first one in the province.

Mr. Speaker, the Kinsmen in Regina have left a legacy of community service all over the city. When the Agridome was built, it was the Queen City Kinsmen who stepped up and fundraised and paid for the upholstered seating in the lower bowl. They also helped fundraise for what is now the Girl Guide centre in Regina, and were instrumental in the establishment of two Kinsmen parks here in Regina.

Mr. Speaker, the club was chartered on April 1st, 1926 with 20 to 25 members at the first meeting, and over the years the club has had as many as 100 members or more. Today the club is made up of 21 individuals who are extremely dedicated to helping their community and the members who live in it.

On behalf of the Legislative Assembly and all residents of Regina and Saskatchewan, thank you to the Regina Queen City Kinsmen club for all you do. And happy 100th anniversary.

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

Remembering Timothy Alan Vass

Megan Patterson: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Timothy Alan was born and raised in Saskatchewan. Tim was a true family man. Being with the ones he loved brought him profound happiness. He also had a deep love for nature and wildlife. He enrolled in the integrated resource management diploma program at Sask Polytech in 2016. He found meaning and purpose in learning about landscapes, forestry, and natural resources.

Timothy battled heroically with mental health and addictions and ultimately lost his life at a time when he was fighting for sobriety. Tim had a huge heart and a strong desire to help others and to have a positive impact in the world.

The Vass family established the annual $1,000 Timothy Alan Memorial Scholarship at Sask Polytech in his name. The scholarship is for a student who struggled or triumphed in their own mental health journey and is pursing similar goals to that that Timothy strived to achieve. The scholarship was created so that Timothy’s life will always be a light, a legacy of love, hope, and inspiration. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

QUESTION PERIOD

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

Contract Negotiations with Health Care Workers

Vicki Mowat: — Mr. Speaker, Saskatchewan people cannot keep up with the rising cost of living. Everyone in this province is feeling the squeeze, including the health care workers who’ve joined us here today. Saskatchewan’s population is on the decline for the first time in a generation, and health care workers are among those leaving the province because of the rising cost of living.

As of April 1st, Saskatchewan health care workers have gone four full years without a raise. How can we get our health care system out of last place if we don’t take care of the people who take care of us?

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of Health.

Hon. Jeremy Cockrill: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. As I had an opportunity to answer last week, I’ll do the same again today. We are in active bargaining at the table with all of our provider union partners this week as well as next week, with CUPE [Canadian Union of Public Employees] and SEIU-West and SGEU [Saskatchewan Government and General Employees’ Union], Mr. Speaker.

Mr. Speaker, as I indicated last week, this government’s focused on getting to a good deal for the health care workers that serve patients each and every day, and a good deal for patients as well. We’ll continue to do the work at the bargaining table to get to that point as soon as possible. Thank you.

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

Vicki Mowat: — It’s been four years, Mr. Speaker. We hear every day from health care workers who are turning to food banks, selling blood plasma, and piling on credit card debt just to make ends meet. These people take care of us during some of our darkest times, and they deserve respect. Four years without a raise sounds like a bad April Fool’s joke, but this is reality for our health care workers after 20 years of this Sask Party government.

It’s time for change. Why won’t the Premier show health care workers some respect and sign a fair deal?

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of Health.

Hon. Jeremy Cockrill: — Mr. Speaker, you know, the member opposite talked about respect. We have an incredible amount of respect for the health care workers right across the province in a variety of professions.

Mr. Speaker, again, I mentioned last week I’ve had some interactions with the SHA and SAHO [Saskatchewan Association of Health Organizations], who’s at the bargaining table, in terms of refocusing our priorities at the bargaining table to try and streamline the process as much as possible, Mr. Speaker.

We want to get a deal done. I know health care workers around the province want to get a deal done. And I’m confident that we’ll get there at the table.

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

Former Speaker’s Comments and Government Policies

Vicki Mowat: — Mr. Speaker: “It’s long overdue that trust, accountability, transparency, and honour be restored to Saskatchewan politics.” Does the Premier agree with this statement?

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of Health.

Hon. Jeremy Cockrill: — Excellent. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Happy to answer the question. Mr. Speaker, on the floor of this Assembly the focus of the government is to continue debating the policies put forward by this government. Not individuals, whether we agree with them or not, Mr. Speaker, but on the policies of this government. We’re going to continue doing that. That’s going to be the focus of our government going forward.

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

Vicki Mowat: — Well, Mr. Speaker, that was the former Speaker of the legislature, Randy Weekes. He said he tried to intervene to stop the sublet scandal . . .

Speaker Goudy: — This will be my one warning for the day that we will move away from that line of questioning. I’ve ruled on that for the last two days. And let’s move on to a different line of questioning.

I recognize the member for Regina Rochdale.

Child Care Agreement with Federal Government

Joan Pratchler: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, Tina and Ian Lloyd are parents in Saskatoon. Their kindergarten child turned six just yesterday, on March 31st. This morning they owed $900 in child care, nearly four times what they paid in March.

What does the minister say to parents like Tina and Ian, who are now scraping by . . . to this minister’s botched child care deal?

[14:15]

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of Education.

Hon. Everett Hindley: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. This is a new child care deal. It takes effect today; today’s April 1st. This is the new agreement that we negotiated with the federal government that now includes a provision that wasn’t in there before.

And as we’ve debated many times on the floor of this Assembly, Mr. Speaker, this is a provision that allows for, if there’s children who are in kindergarten who turned six on today, April 1st, or after — any time after this day — that they are now covered until the end of the school year. Something that wasn’t in the previous agreement that we had with the federal government, and one that we advocated for and successfully negotiated for with the federal government on behalf of child care operators and on behalf of families in this province, Mr. Speaker.

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

Joan Pratchler: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The minister has said that this was the best deal that he could get, but it does nothing for the hundreds of families who can no longer afford their child care bill. This is going to break the budgets of families in our province.

I asked the minister at committee this week, and I’ll ask him again today. Does the minister even know the $10‑a-day child care costs for the other children who turned six while in kindergarten, like he promised in November?

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of Education.

Hon. Everett Hindley: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I’ll reiterate again that this is a better deal for Saskatchewan families and for the child care operators, providers in this province. This provision did not exist previously. It’s providing benefits to families as of April 1st, today, for this year starting today and for years to come. This is an additional year of coverage and months of coverage for families that are in this position, Mr. Speaker.

And I would say that this is something that we advocated for. Again it’s part of the new agreement that’s effective today. It was not part of the previous agreement, which the members opposite had been advocating that we simply sign an extension of the old agreement. And we would not be having this debate today, Mr. Speaker, if we’d followed through with what the opposition was calling for.

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

Joan Pratchler: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Of course the minister doesn’t know because the minister didn’t care enough to look into it. If he did, he would have ensured all families of kindergartens and six-year-olds . . .

Speaker Goudy: — You can’t be saying whether the minister cared or didn’t care. Ask the question appropriately, please.

Joan Pratchler: — What does the minister say to the Saskatchewan parents who have to give up their jobs or take leaves of absences now due to his failure to deliver the deal that he promised last November?

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of Education.

Hon. Everett Hindley: — Thank you. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Saskatchewan is the third province in the country to reduce fees to $10 per day under the agreement. Three years ahead of schedule when we first got into this child care agreement with the federal government, Mr. Speaker.

And as we were working towards the expiration of this deal a year ago, we said to the federal government that we wanted to negotiate some changes to the deal, as opposed to what other provinces did, Mr. Speaker, as opposed to what the member opposite and other members across the way were advocating for, which was to not have this included as part of the new agreement. Secondly . . . And they disagree with it, the member for Eastview, who is also, I guess, the child care critic now as well or backup child care critic, Mr. Speaker.

I would say this. The member for Regina Rochdale, who was in . . . She claimed that she was in Ottawa in November and was talking to members of parliament and other decision makers. I’d be curious to know if the member for Rochdale was advocating for this change as part of her meetings that she was having with government officials in Ottawa last November, Mr. Speaker.

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

Provision of Electricity

Aleana Young: — Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. It’s clear people in Saskatchewan cannot afford to have their child care costs double, and they can’t afford to have their power bills double either. And now we know, Mr. Speaker, we know from independent analysis that that is exactly what the Sask Party government’s plan is going to do.

And the latest headline today: “Estimated cost to refurbish Sask coal plants nearly tripled to $2.6 billion.” Mr. Speaker, how does the minister justify these massive cost overruns under his watch? And much more importantly, just how much is this going to cost Saskatchewan people?

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

Hon. Jeremy Harrison: — Well thank you. Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. Again another example of why nobody takes this critic and this party seriously.

The reality is that we are going to be saving the ratepayers of this province $21 billion on our approach to refurbishing our existing coal-fired power plants using coal from this province, Mr. Speaker, that’s located literally within kilometres of the plants themselves rather than — under their plan — importing gas from outside of this jurisdiction. Ask the Europeans, Mr. Speaker, whether that turned out as a good plan for them.

We’re going to be using Saskatchewan resources. We’re going to be refurbishing our coal plants. We’re going to be keeping 1,400 people at work, Mr. Speaker, and two communities thriving and growing here in this province.

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

Aleana Young: — Mr. Speaker, just last week that minister said, and I quote, “Why there are no gas plants being built in the country right now is because of the fact that they are all illegal under the CER if you’ve started them past last year.”

Now, Mr. Speaker, it is a little odd, passing strange that that minister would hide behind Justin Trudeau’s clean electricity regulations to justify his $2.6 billion boondoggle. Because those exact same regulations that he’s hiding behind, Mr. Speaker, they would make coal illegal too.

But a simple question for the minister: does he stand by that? Are there really no gas plants being built in this country today?

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of CIC.

Hon. Jeremy Harrison: — Well, Mr. Speaker, the opposition demonstrate every single day in this House why nobody takes them seriously. Their plan would shut down one-third of our power production overnight, Mr. Speaker. It would put 1,400 people out of work, Mr. Speaker. It would devastate two communities, Mr. Speaker.

[Interjections]

Speaker Goudy: — Order. Order, please.

Hon. Jeremy Harrison: — Mr. Speaker, as I said, their plan would put 1,400 people out of work. It would shut down one-third of the power generation in this province overnight.

Mr. Speaker, our plan is seeing investment. It’s working, Mr. Speaker. We’ve had $60 billion of investment coming into this province because we have reliable and affordable power. Bell Canada would not be investing $12 billion in the third-largest private sector project in the history of Canada but for the fact that we have reliable and affordable power here to allocate for large-scale projects in addition to two new uranium mines and potash . . .

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

Aleana Young: — Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. What a load of nonsense. It’s clear that minister will just stand up and say whatever he wants, because he certainly won’t answer the question, Mr. Speaker. That minister will have us believe, he’ll have his own members believe that he’s got the best plan, that there’s no alternative, that everything he says is crystal clear, Mr. Speaker.

But in fact it’s not true. There is a new gas plant being built, Mr. Speaker, right here in Saskatchewan, right now. And do you have any idea where it is, Mr. Speaker? Why, it’s in Meadow Lake, that member’s own constituency. It’s right there on SaskPower’s own website. These gas plants “take less time to build and provide fast, flexible, and dispatchable power whenever it’s needed to support our system.”

Mr. Speaker, why are members, why is that Premier so committed to that minister’s plan that they’re going to push ahead with this expensive plan that’s going to double rates instead of building out natural gas?

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of CIC.

Hon. Jeremy Harrison: — Oh my, Mr. Speaker, I hardly know where to start. I mean the members demonstrate day after day that they have no idea about how a power system operates, Mr. Speaker. The clean electricity regulations, which we have been very . . .

[Interjections]

Speaker Goudy: — I’m not sure if you knew that it went quiet in the room for a reason.

Minister.

Hon. Jeremy Harrison: — Well thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. We are very, very proud of our . . .

[Interjections]

Speaker Goudy: — Please.

Minister.

Hon. Jeremy Harrison: — Well thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. We are very, very proud of our energy security strategy, which is resulting in record investment into this province, which has the strongest economy in the entire country, Mr. Speaker.

And we’re proud of that because of what it means. It’s not just the investment. This is creating thousands of jobs here in this province. It’s going to be allowing people to make their life here, build their lives here, raise their children here. That’s what this is all about, Mr. Speaker. That’s why we’re making the right decisions for the people of this province.

Speaker Goudy — I recognize the member from Regina Northeast.

Health Care for Women and Victims of Violence

Jacqueline Roy: — Now, Mr. Speaker, just last week the RCMP [Royal Canadian Mounted Police] reported the tragic news that Saskatchewan saw over 9,800 victims of family and intimate partner violence in 2025. These numbers are staggering and quite frankly probably higher due to under-reporting. And my heart goes out to all the victims. We need to do more to protect women and girls from gender-based violence in this province.

So given these horrific numbers, how can that Minister of Finance justify refusing 1.8 million bucks that the Saskatchewan Health Authority requested for sexual assault nurse examiners?

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of Health.

Hon. Jeremy Cockrill: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. We do actually have 20 sexual assault nurse examiners serving patients right across the province, Mr. Speaker. Interpersonal violence, gender-based violence has no place in our province.

But when people do present in that situation, we want to make sure that they’re looked after. As I said, we’ve got 20 of these folks working in many communities right around the province. I understand we have two more in training, Mr. Speaker, that will soon be providing this service to Saskatchewan women.

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

Jacqueline Roy: — Mr. Speaker, for five or six years, people have been warning that those numbers are a crisis. 20? Does that minister have any idea that this is an epidemic?

Let me be clear what a sexual assault nurse examiner does. They’re there to support victims during what is the worst moments of their lives. The Sask Health Authority asked for 1.8 million to deal with this. That Minister of Finance said no. People want to know: why?

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of Health.

Hon. Jeremy Cockrill: — The member’s right in the sense that, you know, these are folks in our health care system working with patients at one of their most vulnerable moments in their life. And we thank the 20 folks that we have in the province — Saskatoon, Regina, Lloydminster, I believe Prince Albert as well, Mr. Speaker. As I mentioned in my previous answer, we’ve got two more in training, Mr. Speaker.

Again in any budget process there’s decisions to make, and we’ve made several decisions in this budget to put patients first, Mr. Speaker. A significant increase to funding for health care right across the province, expanding access to primary care, expanding acute care capacity in Saskatoon, Mr. Speaker. We’ll continue to make these investments to put patients first.

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

Jacqueline Roy: — Mr. Speaker, I’m not sure how that deserves applause. Just yesterday that Health minister said he’d take the women’s health budget in Sask any day, any day, best in the nation, period. Does that Premier and does that Finance minister agree? Because it’s okay apparently to spend yourself into $1.2 billion of debt interest but flat out reject nearly 2 million for the victims of sexual assault.

Why do they get less cash than the billion-dollar Bay Street bankers? How does this make any sense? Does that Finance minister, does that Finance minister believe, like the Health minister, that we have the best budget here in all of Canada?

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of Health.

Hon. Jeremy Cockrill: — Mr. Speaker, even in that question there’s a contradiction. Spend more, save more. Mr. Speaker, which is it? However I stand by the words I said yesterday that around the investments that this government, that this budget is making in the health of Saskatchewan women, Mr. Speaker.

I had an opportunity just this morning on CTV Morning Live to talk about how we have reduced wait times for biopsies in the southern half of the province with the opening of the Regina breast health centre. Nearly 1,500 patients now referred to that Regina breast health centre over the last year, Mr. Speaker. Reducing the screening age for screening mammograms, Mr. Speaker. We already rolled out a new mobile mammography bus. We’re going to have a second one on the road very soon, Mr. Speaker.

Again these are the investments that put Saskatchewan women first and patients first across the province.

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

Construction of New Yorkton Hospital

Jared Clarke: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Now Yorkton was promised a hospital two decades ago. And last night in Health estimates, the minister confirmed that they have no plans to build it this year, they have no plans to build it next year, and they have no plans to build it the year after. Capital spending drops year after year.

It is clear, Mr. Speaker, that this government has already made up its mind. So will the minister come clean and just admit that the Sask Party was closer to building a Yorkton hospital 14 years ago?

[14:30]

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of SaskBuilds.

Hon. Sean Wilson: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. This government has promised the people of Yorkton a new hospital, and that’s exactly what we’re going to deliver. The ’26‑27 budget almost doubles the budget for the Yorkton hospital to complete the pre-design phase and enter the design phase. That includes determining the facility’s needs, which include geotech, the pre-engineering, and the procurement options planning.

We’re making sure that we’re delivering for the people of Yorkton and working with them every step of the way. When this government commits to building a hospital, we build it. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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

Jared Clarke: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. They promised to build Yorkton a hospital, and then they cut capital spending. Actions speak louder than words, Mr. Speaker.

Now it doesn’t take two decades to build a hospital, but for this Sask Party government it appears it takes two decades to design one. If that Premier and the Sask Party government wanted to build Yorkton a new hospital, it would already be serving patients today.

So how long? How long will the people of Yorkton have to hold out before this government builds Yorkton a hospital?

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of Health.

Hon. Jeremy Cockrill: — Mr. Speaker, the members opposite ask how long it takes to build a hospital. And I’d like to ask them how long it takes to close a hospital like they did in community after community after community in this province.

Mr. Speaker, I had the opportunity last week to share some numbers with the House. This year’s capital budget: $636 million. What was it in the last year of the NDP [New Democratic Party] government? $76 million. And, Mr. Speaker, I . . . last week, and I’ll share it again. Even if we adjust that for inflation to 2026 dollars, that is a fraction of what this government and what this budget is spending on capital needs for health care across the province, Mr. Speaker.

Every hospital we’ve committed to — Leader, Humboldt, Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital, Prince Albert. When this government commits to a hospital, we get it done.

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

Jared Clarke: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Just like last night, no answers for the people of Yorkton. They’re tired, they’re tired of waiting, Mr. Speaker.

They’ve got no answers, no timeline, no plan to build a hospital in Yorkton. They can’t even get their story straight about which phase the project is in. SaskToday’s article says the member from Yorkton stated they aren’t even in the design phase yet. The government’s own documents say the Yorkton Regional Health Centre is outdated, has limited space, and is an aging infrastructure.

So I’m curious to know, will the minister make the people of Yorkton wait three decades before Yorkton gets a new hospital?

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of Health.

Hon. Jeremy Cockrill: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I’ll start by saying we have some incredible staff at the Yorkton Regional hospital. We’ve added physicians. We’ve added surgical capacity there, Mr. Speaker. You know, here’s an answer for the community of Yorkton: when this government commits to a hospital, we get it done.

Mr. Speaker, we’ve also reduced the community share, which was 35 per cent under the members opposite. We reduced it to 20 per cent shortly after forming government, and now it’s going down to 10 per cent this year, easing the burden on Yorkton taxpayers, Mr. Speaker.

But those members opposite, they voted against the funding for the Yorkton hospital in last week’s budget, Mr. Speaker. So the next time the member for Regina Walsh Acres or Regina South Albert travel up to Yorkton, I wonder what they’ll say to Yorkton residents.

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

Funding for Addictions Services

April ChiefCalf: — Mr. Speaker, this government says it believes in recovery, but instead of stabilizing front-line services during a crisis, they have just pulled more than $2.5 million from Prairie Harm Reduction with just a few days’ notice. Meanwhile vulnerable people still rely on that organization for outreach, housing, and overdose protection. While Prairie Harm Reduction is trying to help people who face addiction, homelessness, and crisis, this government’s response is to walk away.

Why is this government turning its back on one of the only places offering supports to the most vulnerable in Saskatoon? And where do they expect the people who access these life-saving services to go?

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

Hon. Lori Carr: — Well thank you, Mr. Speaker. We do believe in recovery, and that is why we continue to make the investments that we are making across this province. This year, in this year’s mental health and addictions space we are increasing by 8 per cent, and last year we increased by 8 per cent. We’re opening spaces so individuals can get into recovery.

Mr. Speaker, she refers to harm reduction and safe consumption sites. This government has never funded those services because we don’t believe in providing illicit drugs to individuals. We believe that recovery is the best . . . We believe in recovery, Mr. Speaker, and we will continue in that. Thank you.

MINISTERIAL STATEMENTS

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

Government Invests in Installation of Quantum Computer

Hon. Warren Kaeding: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise today to recognize a very exciting milestone in Saskatchewan and really for Canada’s growing leadership in advanced research and innovation. This week our government proudly announced a $400,000 investment through Innovation Saskatchewan’s Innovation & Science Fund to support the installation of a quantum computer at the University of Saskatchewan.

Mr. Speaker, this is not just an investment in equipment, it is an investment in people, in talent, and in the future of our province. This initiative places Saskatchewan at the forefront of the most transformative technological fields of our time. Quantum technology has the potential to revolutionize how we solve complex problems that traditional computing simply cannot address at the same scale or speed. And today Saskatchewan is taking a very meaningful step forward in that global race.

Mr. Speaker, I want to recognize the University of Saskatchewan including Dr. Vince Bruni-Bossio, Dr. Baljit Singh, and Dr. Steven Rayan, along with the quanTA [quantum topology and its applications] team for their leadership and vision in bringing this project to life.

I also want to acknowledge a strong collaboration with national and international partners including PrairiesCan, the University of Calgary, and leading industry partners such as Rigetti Computing, Qblox, Zero Point technologies, and QuantrolOx. Their collaboration demonstrates what can be achieved when academia, industry, and government work toward a shared goal.

Mr. Speaker, this investment directly supports Saskatchewan’s research strategy and aligns with our growth plan. We’re building a modern, competitive research ecosystem, one that attracts world-class talent, drives innovation, and delivers real-world outcomes.

Now the benefits of this investment will be felt across sectors where Saskatchewan is already a global leader. In agriculture, quantum computing will accelerate genomic analysis and support the development of stronger, more resilient crop varieties. In life sciences, it’s going to enable more advanced modelling for drug discovery and emerging therapies. In energy and mining, it will improve the efficiency and sustainability through better optimization of complex systems, and in digital technology it will strengthen cybersecurity and support the next generation of artificial intelligence.

Mr. Speaker, these are not distant possibilities. They are real opportunities that will strengthen our economy, support our industry, and improve the lives of Saskatchewan people.

Just as importantly, this initiative will help train the next generation of highly skilled workers by providing students and researchers with hands-on access to quantum technology. We are truly building a workforce ready to meet the demands of tomorrow’s economy. And this strengthens not only Saskatchewan’s talent pipeline, but Canada’s as well.

So, Mr. Speaker, our government is committed to ensuring that Saskatchewan remains competitive in a rapidly evolving global economy. By investing in innovation we are positioning our province as a destination for research, for investment, and opportunity. And we are creating the conditions for high-value job creation, new partnerships, and long-term economic growth.

Yesterday’s announcement really reinforces that Saskatchewan is not standing still. We are moving forward. We are embracing new technologies, supporting our institutions, and building a future that is innovative, resilient, and globally connected.

Mr. Speaker, I want to thank all the partners that were involved in making this initiative possible. Together we are advancing discovery, strengthening our economy, and securing Saskatchewan’s place in the global innovation landscape. Thank you.

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

Tajinder Grewal: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. First I will start by saying thanks to the minister for sharing the announcement in advance.

Mr. Speaker, this is a remarkable announcement for the University of Saskatchewan. USask will be home to Canada’s first university-owned-and-operated, vendor supported, full-stack quantum computer. This advanced technology will unlock new possibilities for research and innovation across the key sectors, including human health, energy, agriculture, and defence.

I worked for the University of Saskatchewan for twelve and a half years, Mr. Speaker. This is a world-class university doing cutting-edge research in many scientific fields.

This new tool, I will call it big and powerful tool, quantum computer will enhance the capability of researchers. This powerful new tool will support cutting-edge projects such as rapid discovery, quantum secure data encryption, and hardware optimization for the agriculture and energy industries.

I will say thanks to Prairies Economic Development Canada and Innovation Saskatchewan for the funding to install this quantum computer on the USask campus. It’s a great example where both the federal government and the provincial government work together to do something extraordinary.

And with this new technology, USask is not only advancing research but also co-operating to tackle future challenges. It will play a central role in shaping the future of technology and innovation right here in Saskatchewan.

On behalf of the official opposition, I congratulate USask management for securing this important funding to start a new chapter. Special congratulations to Dr. Steven Rayan, director of USask Centre for Quantum Topology and Its Applications. Dr. Rayan said it very well: “We will solve the most challenging problems of today and train the quantum leaders of tomorrow right here, right now.”

And once again, thanks to all the partners for this remarkable announcement. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

INTRODUCTION OF BILLS

Bill No. 617 — The Provincial Health Authority (Family Physician Registry) Amendment Act

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

Meara Conway: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I move that Bill 617, The Provincial Health Authority (Family Physician Registry) Amendment Act be now introduced and read a first time.

Speaker Goudy: — It has been moved by the member from Regina Elphinstone-Centre that Bill 617, The Provincial Health Authority (Family Physician Registry) Amendment Act be now introduced and read the 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?

Meara Conway: — At the next sitting of the Assembly, Mr. Speaker.

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

MOTIONS

Second Reading of Bill No. 612

Aleana Young: — Mr. Speaker, notwithstanding the government’s agenda and what’s printed in the Orders of the Day today, I seek leave to move the following motion:

That the Assembly immediately consider second reading of Bill 612, The Lower Power Bills and Car Insurance Act.

Speaker Goudy: — Is leave granted?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Some Hon. Members: — No.

Speaker Goudy: — Leave is not granted.

ORDERS OF THE DAY

GOVERNMENT ORDERS

ADJOURNED DEBATES

SECOND READINGS

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 Regina Mount Royal.

Trent Wotherspoon: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. It’s a pleasure to enter in here today to debate of Bill No. 38, titled The Building Schools Faster Act, Mr. Speaker. Now we wish, of course, that that was what this bill was all about, and we wish that’s what this government was up to. Unfortunately they brought forward a budget that’s actually delaying schools at the same time they have legislation that says, in legislation, that they’re going to build schools faster, Mr. Speaker.

So a real disconnect. You know, their mouth doesn’t match their money on this one, Mr. Speaker, because in this budget they’re actually delaying desperately needed schools across Saskatchewan, in rural and urban communities. We can think of Carlyle down in the Southeast as one example, Mr. Speaker. We can think of those desperately needed schools in the southeast of Regina, which have had such immense hardship on students and learning in those area schools, Mr. Speaker, a desperately needed school.

[14:45]

Of course we’ve seen that government get out there for all the ribbon cutting, Mr. Speaker, eat-the-cakes. You know, they love that part, Mr. Speaker. But then the follow-through, Mr. Speaker, that’s not their strong suit. And they walked away from the funding that those projects needed in their budget which are causing delays of those schools, Mr. Speaker.

That has direct impact on student learning, direct impact on those other area schools. It drives up the cost once again, Mr. Speaker, for transportation to move kids further from their homes, dollars that are wasted. It spends dollars needlessly on building out portable capacity in these cases that are going to be hopefully very temporary, Mr. Speaker, as opposed to building the schools that are needed for the students, in this case, in southeast Regina, Mr. Speaker, and alleviating that terrible pressure that those other schools have faced.

It’s a serious concern to the people of this province that this province is delaying school builds in this province. It’s a serious concern of the people of southeast Regina and the students in the school communities of southeast Regina that they’ve delayed the very needed projects in southeast Regina, Mr. Speaker. So for them then to bring forward a piece of legislation titled “building schools faster” at the same period of time is almost laughable, Mr. Speaker.

Now of course we’ll engage on this legislation in a good way. Our critic will lead the way on that front. I know we’ll be consulting with school boards and with municipalities and with SUMA [Saskatchewan Urban Municipalities Association] on this front. So far, Mr. Speaker, what we’re hearing I think from school boards and from communities is that this legislation itself actually doesn’t really do what it says it’s going to do and make and build schools faster.

So this legislation doesn’t really seem to match its title, Mr. Speaker, to build schools faster as we need in this province. And we certainly know this awful bad-news budget of this government doesn’t build schools faster. In fact it delays very needed projects in this province. At this point I’d move adjournment of debate of Bill No. 38.

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

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Deputy Speaker B. McLeod: — Carried.

Bill No. 39

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

Deputy Speaker B. McLeod: — I recognize the member from Regina Mount Royal.

Trent Wotherspoon: — Thank you, Mr. Deputy Speaker. I’ll enter in briefly to the consequential Act of Bill 38 that I just spoke to, and that’s Bill 39, The Building Schools Faster Consequential Amendment Act, 2025.

Again that’s the title of this bill only, Mr. Speaker. It’s not what’s in this legislation. We know that what we’ve heard right now from school boards and from communities is in fact that this bill doesn’t live up to its title, that it doesn’t actually take the measures and actions that are needed to build schools faster. We hear as well a real concern that this government once again hasn’t worked with those on the ground, those school boards and those municipalities, to build this legislation and get it right, Mr. Speaker.

And then of course we can look to the budget, Mr. Speaker. And when we look to the budget, it’s clear that this Sask Party government is in fact not building schools faster; they’re actually delaying schools, Mr. Speaker. They’re going to build them slower, and they’re going to cause a lot of wasted money in the process for transportation and portables, Mr. Speaker, instead of getting those schools built that are so desperately needed in rural and urban Saskatchewan, that have been committed to, Mr. Speaker, by that government.

Again, this is a crew that, you know, they don’t consult much. They love, love the ribbon cutting. They love a little bit of cake on the side of that too, Mr. Speaker. But then they are very off with following through, Mr. Speaker.

And in the case of southeast Regina, Mr. Speaker, these are communities that are growing. We have the area schools that are overburdened and overcrowded. It’s not the right learning conditions for students. It’s not right for the staff within those schools, Mr. Speaker. And it’s not right for this Sask Party government to walk away from their commitment in the way that they have and to delay the needed school building that’s needed in southeast Regina and right across this province on other fronts as well.

So again they have legislation here that says one thing. They’re doing another with their budget, kind of the opposite. Mr. Speaker, that’s a big disappointment to the people of the province who expect better, who expect that schools will be built faster where they’re needed now. With that being said, I’ll move to adjourn debate on Bill No. 39.

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

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Deputy Speaker B. McLeod: — Carried.

Bill No. 41

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

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

Leroy Laliberte: — Thank you, Deputy Speaker. It’s my honour to rise today to debate Bill No. 41, The Heritage Recognition (From Many Peoples, Strength) Act.

Actually pretty happy to be able to speak to this one, Deputy Speaker, seeing heritage and culturalism has a place in my life, you know, learning a little more each day when it comes to my culture and being from the North. And recently again, you know, seeing family trees that tied into Flying Dust First Nation, for example, and being a proud member of sîpîsisihk, Beauval, and learn my language.

And of course there’s a dark past also when it comes to heritage and speaking at the residential school that sat right up on the hill there in Beauval. And a few times that I spoke to the residential school, the schools like the boarding school up in Ile-a-la-Crosse, sâkitawâk, both my kohkoms, we say, my grandparents had went to school at.

Now the resiliency though of my family and of the people in northern Saskatchewan is something I’d like to speak about when it comes to this bill, because it’s very important for us to recognize. You know, from my area we have the Cree and the Dene, and we have diverse communities now. It’s a little bit different from when I was younger, but it’s really welcoming to have all of these different cultures that made way to the Northwest and into our beautiful province of Saskatchewan.

Just today and seeing, you know, our visitors that we’d had here, and it’s really interesting to be able to learn about these different cultures. And of course to welcome them to this province that they now call home. It’s important for us to stay focused on that stuff as well, Mr. Deputy Speaker.

Now I was a part of a group, and I want to share a little bit of a story. I was part of this outreach team where we had the opportunity to work with different youth organizations from across the country. And we were sitting in this gathering where we had different nationalities from different parts of Canada come together. And one of the things that these young people said that they wanted to create was a cultural exchange program, where you’d have the opportunity to travel to different parts of our country and meet with somebody of a different culture and stay with them for a couple of months, learn about their culture and learn about their history and all of this stuff. And I thought that was really, really cool to be able to do that, and listening to the stories of these individuals.

And then, you know, you fast forward. Now this was about 20‑some years ago and you fast forward now to 2026, and you see that there’s people from different countries living in our beautiful province, calling this place home. We’re learning about their culture and their identity. And seeing that, you know what? I’m really impressed with a lot of those individuals that made the North home and learning about our culture. Like there’s people that are practising our old ways and having a say when it comes to the Dene virtues, the Indigenous seven sacred teachings, and all of these different things.

And so, you know, obviously it’s good to collaborate. And in this bill I think that a little more collaboration would be great especially, and debates to this thing and ways that we can accommodate everybody that’s coming into this province, Deputy Speaker.

And so I’m thinking, you know, I could go on and on with stories when it comes to history and heritage and all of that, because I’m a proud nêhiýaw from northern Saskatchewan obviously. And I have some good stories that I would share maybe sometime over coffee or ice cream, seeing that you like to provide a lot of ice cream for people here, Deputy Speaker.

So I’m thinking that for now I’ll move to adjourn debate on this bill, Bill 41, The Heritage Recognition (From Many Peoples, Strength) Act. Thank you.

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

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Deputy Speaker B. McLeod: — Carried.

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.]

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

Brittney Senger: — Thank you, Mr. Deputy Speaker. I am pleased to rise and join in the debate for Bill No. 43, The Municipalities Modernization and Red Tape Reduction Act. Wow, there is a lot here: everything from changing how taxes are collected to addressing pets. There’s a lot of different points in here and lots of things for us to discuss.

We’re going to look into exactly what the Sask Party government calls red tape reduction, because it seems like there might be some centralizing of power in the minister’s office, which is something that has happened in the past. And we want to ensure that we’re not offloading responsibilities onto municipalities.

As the shadow minister for disabilities, we’ve seen changes to the Saskatchewan assured income for disabilities program as well as the Saskatchewan income support program. We’ve seen the changes where those payments go directly to individuals. We see individuals that might not have the experience with financial management, which has led to an increase in poverty and an increase in houselessness, more reliability on community-based organizations. Yet this funding isn’t keeping up, and what we’re seeing coming out of that is an increase of houselessness.

And therefore it is becoming the responsibility of municipalities to address this. And really, if the government wanted to improve municipalities, they would stop offloading their responsibilities onto them and causing increases in property taxes. People are still paying to address these issues. It’s just coming out of a different pocket of money. And with that, I will move to adjourn debate on Bill No. 43.

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

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Deputy Speaker B. McLeod: — Carried.

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.]

Deputy Speaker B. McLeod: — I recognize the member from Regina Mount Royal.

Trent Wotherspoon: — Thanks, Mr. Speaker. I’ll enter in briefly here to Bill No. 47, The Response to Illicit Drugs Act, Mr. Speaker. Certainly, you know, what’s real in this province is that we have a drug crisis that’s cutting across communities and families in every part of this province — rural, urban, northern, First Nations, and otherwise, Mr. Speaker. It’s ravaging people’s lives. It’s stealing family members from one another, stealing loved ones from one another, Mr. Speaker.

And we know that it’s really gotten out of control in these last number of years, Mr. Speaker. This side of the House has stood up and called for action for many years on this front as we’ve watched our communities change and as we’ve lost far too many people across this province, Mr. Speaker.

For far too long in this province, Mr. Speaker, when someone reaches out and asks for help, the supports and services and treatment is delayed. When someone reaches out at the time of crisis — at a time where they’re facing mental health challenges, where they’re in the grips of addiction — when they reach out, there’s a window of opportunity to work with them, Mr. Speaker. And that service delayed, Mr. Speaker, has very tragic consequences all too often for the people of this province.

It’s well past time that this government step up and treat this crisis with the kind of action that’s required. They’ve dismissed it for far too long while we’ve seen this drug crisis grow across this province. You see so many communities, so many families in the grips of it, Mr. Speaker. We’re losing hundreds of people each and every year to overdose and drug poisoning.

[15:00]

And of course as I’ve said, it tears apart families and communities. We support of course thoughtful action on this front, evidence-based treatment for addictions. We need to make sure that those services are there when someone reaches out, when somebody needs them, Mr. Speaker, and that there’s the kind of wraparound supports that people need and deserve.

With that being said, Mr. Speaker, I know our critic is leading the way on this front and working with the broader community and will bring forward that constructive approach, ready for action, into committee, Mr. Speaker. So at this point in time I’d move that we adjourn debate on Bill No. 47.

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

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Deputy Speaker B. McLeod: — Carried.

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.]

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

Brittney Senger: — Thank you, Mr. Deputy Speaker. I am pleased to rise and join in debate on Bill No. 48, The Compassionate Intervention Act. There is a drug crisis in Saskatchewan and it is out of control. I think we all know somebody who’s struggled with addictions issues, and we all understand how important it is that people are able to get the help and support they need. And the government needs to take action to address it.

Services need to be available for people that are struggling with addictions issues across the province. You know, we’ve really been trying to get a picture of what the barriers are to accessing treatment for addictions. We’ve been told that that data doesn’t exist, even though we’ve seen it, and it makes us worry about how seriously the minister is taking this crisis.

We need to take action. Things are not getting better. As I mentioned previously, we’re going to see an increase in poverty, in houselessness based on this budget, and we need to ensure that people have the support they need.

We’re losing hundreds of people each year to addiction, to overdoses, to drug poisoning. It’s tearing families apart, but it’s further than that. It’s tearing communities apart. That’s why it’s important for us to get tough on the causes of crime, to increase supports to people that need them — not cut them — ensure that we have evidence-based treatment for people with addictions, and ensure that the services that people need, when they need support and when they’re struggling with addictions, that it’s actually available to them.

And with that I’ll move to adjourn debate on Bill No. 48, The Compassionate Intervention Act.

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

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Deputy Speaker B. McLeod: — Carried.

Bill No. 49

[The Assembly resumed the adjourned debate on the proposed motion by the Hon. Jim Reiter that Bill No. 49 — The Income Tax Amendment Act, 2026 be now read a second time.]

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

April ChiefCalf: — Thank you, Mr. Deputy Speaker. I’m pleased to rise today in the legislature to add a few words to the record on Bill 49, The Income Tax Amendment Act. The amendments in Bill 49 correspond to tax changes announced in the recent budget.

In short, Mr. Speaker, these tax credits include increases to the amount for the basic personal amount; the amount for spouses and equivalent-to-spouse, dependent children; and the seniors’ supplement. As well, tax credits for seniors, low-income earners, and persons with disabilities are being indexed in line with inflation.

Now personally I’m excited about the home renovation tax credit. And if I can afford to save some money after paying for groceries and gas, I might be able to finish some renovations on my house and benefit from this tax credit.

I am especially pleased to see the improvement in tax credits for volunteer firefighters, medical responders, and volunteer search and rescue. And all of these people provide a valuable service to folks in our province, whether fighting fires in the North or small communities down south, as well as searching for people who may have been lost while hiking or fishing off the beaten path.

Now having lived in the North for over 19 years, I really want to give a shout-out to my friends in the area of La Ronge who do this work in the North. And I want to take a moment to acknowledge the late Tom Charles, who was an expert at finding lost people in northern Saskatchewan. And I really thought I was going to be one of them, but fortunately I stayed on the path. I didn’t wander too far.

But overall, Mr. Speaker, we know that giving people a break on their taxes is always welcome by most taxpayers. But it’s important to note that many people in our province are really struggling with the cost of living right here and right now, and income tax breaks are only delivered at tax time. So we would like to see the government put forward some immediate affordability measures that would help people right now. And with that, Mr. Speaker, I move to adjourn debate on Bill 49. Thank you.

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

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Deputy Speaker B. McLeod: — Carried.

Bill No. 50

[The Assembly resumed the adjourned debate on the proposed motion by the Hon. Jim Reiter that Bill No. 50 — The Financial Administration Amendment Act, 2026 be now read a second time.]

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

Leroy Laliberte: — Thank you, Deputy Speaker. It’s my honour to rise in the Assembly today to speak to Bill No. 50, The Financial Administration Amendment Act, 2026. Be very brief on this one, Deputy Speaker. And I’ll first of all say, of course we support responsible, efficient financial management, Deputy Speaker. But this is something that wasn’t a part of this year’s budget or last year’s.

I’ve had the opportunity to speak to the finances of this province for this budget as well and also in estimates last night, Deputy Speaker, and assure you that there’s still some conversations that are being had with stakeholders and other people with businesses throughout the province and throughout the North as well, Deputy Speaker. People with businesses need the supports, and they need the supports today. It’s not something that we could wait year by year to see. That way they can ensure that their businesses run successfully, Deputy Speaker.

So with that, again there’s still some conversations that need to be had. And I’ll move to adjourn debate on Bill No. 50, The Financial Administration Amendment Act of 2026. Thank you.

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

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Deputy Speaker B. McLeod: — Carried.

Bill No. 51

[The Assembly resumed the adjourned debate on the proposed motion by the Hon. Jim Reiter that Bill No. 51 — The Corporation Capital Tax Amendment Act, 2026 be now read a second time.]

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

Keith Jorgenson: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. A perfect time for me to stand up. You’re back in the House. Thank you.

So it’s a pleasure to rise to speak to Bill 51. So this is, from my understanding, largely a housekeeping Act that cleans up a number of wordings and regulations and so on. I did also, being that we are talking about tax, I always like to talk about tax and money and how the government is failing the people of Saskatchewan when it comes to tax and finances.

You know, I’ve heard a number of times the members opposite want to point out that social programs are paid with taxes. And I would like to mention to the members opposite that taxes are paid by taxpayers. And yet strangely, the government opposite just loves increasing fees and charging more for power to consumers and more in tax. This year the budget is going to be raking in a record $3.3 billion in PST [provincial sales tax].

This government instituted the largest tax increase in the history of the province, and are running deficit after deficit after deficit after deficit. Now totalling some 73 per cent of our total debt, has been racked up by the members opposite, you know. So I think it really is some time for some better management in the way that they govern our province, which is why we voted against their deficit budget.

So with that, I would be happy to move to adjourn debate on Bill 51, the corporate capital tax amendment Act of 2026. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Speaker Goudy: — Carried.

Bill No. 52

[The Assembly resumed the adjourned debate on the proposed motion by the Hon. Alana Ross that Bill No. 52 — The Heritage Property Amendment Act, 2026 be now read a second time.]

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

April ChiefCalf: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I’m pleased to enter into debate today on Bill 52, or The Heritage Property Amendment Act. This bill amends the existing heritage property Act to add a non-refundable application fee for those hoping to engage in archaeological or paleontological investigation.

Now I’m concerned that the amount of the fee isn’t actually specified in the amendment. I was interested in speaking to this bill, Mr. Speaker, because my first degree was a specialist in anthropology, and I was able to take some courses in archaeology during my studies at that time at the University of Toronto. And I’ve always had a passion for this area and always ensured to take my children to numerous heritage sites, parks, and museums. The work in this area is just so important, Mr. Speaker.

And I’ll tell a little story about the rock paintings that I used to enjoy visiting in northern Saskatchewan near the community of Stanley Mission. And you can see a replica of these at the Royal Saskatchewan Museum here in Regina.

So my husband taught for four years in Stanley Mission, and he had friends with boats who knew how to get to the site. And so we used to arrange to take our family and friends when they would come visit us in La Ronge. We would go on boat trips with our friends and family out to Nistowiak Falls, Stanley Mission, and of course to this site where the rock paintings are. And it’s such a beautiful place and so important to have these historic Indigenous paintings preserved.

There’s a park in southern Alberta called Writing-on-Stone park, and my husband’s ancestors would have created the artworks that are in this area. And these were actually subject to graffiti and vandalism before the area was made into a heritage site and protected.

So I would just like to highly encourage people to visit both of these areas if they can, and appreciate how archaeologists can contribute to preserving our heritage in Western Canada. And with these fond memories, Mr. Speaker, I move to adjourn debate on Bill 52. 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. 53

[The Assembly resumed the adjourned debate on the proposed motion by the Hon. Jeremy Harrison that Bill No. 53 — The Saskatchewan Chemical Fertilizer Incentive Amendment Act, 2026 be now read a second time.]

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

Keith Jorgenson: — Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. It’s a pleasure to be on my feet to talk about The Saskatchewan Chemical Fertilizer Incentive Act. So this Act is extending eligibility for certain capital expenditures for those that are developing fertilizer plants in Saskatchewan.

You know, this side of the House is very much in favour of trying to support and encourage business development and job creation, and I think it’s a very frustrating time to watch the government opposite as they do many things that are making it more difficult for people to do business in Saskatchewan.

And you know, we have talked at length. In fact there’s a bill in front of the House that on numerous times has been moved by my colleague from Regina South Albert, who seeks to bring some relief in power rates for people who are struggling under inflationary pressures. And then we’ve also been talking about the tremendous effect that high gas prices are having on not just consumers, but on wholesalers. And all through our distribution network, those high gas prices are going to work their way through and affect how much we pay for every single thing we buy in our economy.

And I think it’s truly ironic that gas prices are much higher now than they were under Prime Minister Trudeau. And the members opposite were very upset about the price of gas then but now seem unconcerned by prices that are even higher, and seem to ignore the fact that that is going to have devastating effects on not just consumers but also business owners, wholesalers, anyone who is transporting or moving anything in their province. And they want to sit on their hands and pretend that the problem isn’t in front of our very eyes.

[15:15]

And the last thing I wanted to bring up is another crushing pressure that many retail businesses face in our large cities, and that is the effects of crime and social disorder. You know, in Saskatoon there’s been numerous surveys done of business owners, where they have listed this as being the single greatest impediment to their economic development. And we see along the Riversdale corridor in the downtown soaring vacancy rates.

And every day when I’m back in my riding, I talk to business owners who can feel the weight of that pressure. And again the government ignores those calls from those people who are struggling. And every time one of those storefronts closes, not only is that fewer people working in that business — those people paying taxes that they want to collect — but it has a cascading effect through our community in terms of social blight. The community is looking less appealing.

My constituents tell me all the time that they’re concerned about going downtown or to Riversdale to shop. And it’s frustrating when the government likes to talk and brag about all of the projects and economic development they are bringing in when they’re ignoring those small businesses at the front line that are the pillar of our economy.

So with that I move to adjourn debate on Bill No. 53, The Saskatchewan Chemical Fertilizer Incentive Amendment Act of 2026. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Speaker Goudy: — Carried.

Bill No. 54

[The Assembly resumed the adjourned debate on the proposed motion by the Hon. Michael Weger that Bill No. 54 — The Correctional Services Amendment Act, 2026 be now read a second time.]

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

April ChiefCalf: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Last but not least, I rise again in the Chamber to enter into debate this time on Bill 54, The Correctional Services Amendment Act, which will lead to some changes in administrative segregation, which actually refers to solitary confinement; discipline of inmates within the correctional system; and the amount of time an inmate can be confined.

Mr. Speaker, I believe it is necessary to consult with stakeholders about these proposed changes, and listening to experts when determining if these changes will lead to safer environments for inmates and workers within correctional facilities.

We are seeing a rise in crime in our province. And if we don’t understand circumstances, such as poverty or lack of housing that can lead to an increase in crime, we aren’t really dealing with the situation. And the end result is more people in jail, which in the long run is very expensive and doesn’t really solve why people ended up there in the first place.

So with that, Mr. Speaker, I move to adjourn debate on Bill 54. 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 Deputy Government House Leader.

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

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

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Speaker Goudy: — Carried. This House stands adjourned until tomorrow at 1:30 p.m. Make that 10 o’clock tomorrow in the a.m.

[The Assembly adjourned at 15:18.]

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

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