Hon. David Marit: — Thank you. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. To you and through you, I’d like to introduce four guests from my constituency sitting in the west gallery up in the top row. They’re council members from the RM [rural municipality] of Hart Butte. The RM of Hart Butte is around the Coronach area, and that is the municipality that has had the privilege and honour to have the SaskPower Poplar River power plant in it and also has the Westmoreland coal mine in it as well. And they’ve had a good relationship with both those entities for the last almost 50 years I guess, eh, gentlemen?

With me today, Mr. Speaker, is the reeve, Rodney Setrum, and that’s Rodney there. And beside him is Tim Foley, councillor; then Curtis Noll is there; and then beside them obviously Randy Elder is on the end there. So, Mr. Speaker, I’d like everybody to please welcome these fine gentlemen to this, their Legislative Assembly. Thank you.

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

Carla Beck: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Today we have a school group joining us here, a group of 15 grade 11 students from Regina Christian School. They’ve made their way up from their beautiful 23rd Avenue campus to join us here today. They’re joined, Mr. Speaker, by their teacher Jennifer Kramer. Looking forward to having the opportunity to meet with them later, answer some questions. Until then I invite all members to join me in welcoming these grade 11 students and all the guests that have joined us here today.

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

Hon. Jeremy Harrison: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I’d actually join first with the Leader of the Opposition in welcoming these grade 11 students from Regina Christian School. I may know a few of them up there. And I want to say welcome to Ms. Kramer. I had the chance to speak to the class I think a couple of weeks ago. So welcome to your Assembly.

Also, Mr. Speaker, I would like to welcome a large number of guests in your gallery, folks who have joined us today from the Estevan and Coronach region, workers and community leaders who are directly affected by the energy discussion I’m sure we’re going to be having here today, Mr. Speaker.

But I really do want to welcome leaders from the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, Local 2067. I want to welcome our leaders from the United Mine Workers of America, Local 7606.

We had an opportunity to have a great discussion earlier today. We just had an opportunity to all speak together, with members of the media as well, talking about the importance of the work they do and the commitment that these folks have to our province in keeping the lights on, which they have been doing for literally generations, Mr. Speaker.

I want to by name recognize a number of the members from IBEW [International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers] 2067. We have — and I know I’ll probably miss a few but want to recognize all of them — Ken Hoste, Trent McClement, Jon Snowden, Dave Bisgaard, Luke Oulton, Kyle Stronski, Alan Smelt, Kenzie Bolen.

And from UMWA [United Mine Workers of America] 7606 we have Jody Dukart, Rick Dowhanuik, Ashley Johnson, Brian Brandow, Kevin Schrader, Kevin Toombs, Ryan Short, Erin Fraser, Kellie Choma, Samuel Dryden, Roger Slager, Ryland Tonne, Ron Thompson, and Wes Goudy. I want to welcome all those members.

In addition, Mr. Speaker, to IBEW and UMWA, we have leaders from the communities of both Coronach and Estevan. Mayor Calvin Martin, the mayor of Coronach, has joined us along with Nathan Guskjolen, councillor from the town of Coronach. From the city of Estevan, a great champion for his community, Mayor Tony Sernick has joined us as well.

So I want to thank them for their championing of their members, of their community, telling the story of what they do, and how it is so vitally important for this province today and into the future. I ask all members to join me in welcoming these leaders to their Legislative Assembly.

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

Aleana Young: — Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker, and my thanks to the minister. It’s my privilege to join with him on behalf of the official opposition in welcoming these workers and leaders from UMWA, from IBEW, as well as Mayor Tony Sernick, Mayor Calvin Martin, and your councillors who have joined you here today.

This is an important discussion that’s going on in the province of Saskatchewan, and we recognize the impact that this has had on your communities over the last 15 years today and into the future. On behalf of the official opposition, I want to welcome you. I want to thank you for your hard work every day on behalf of the province and your advocacy today here for the communities that you serve.

With that, Mr. Speaker, I’d ask all members to join me in welcoming these excellent people to this, their Legislative Assembly.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the member from Estevan-Big Muddy.

Hon. Lori Carr: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I ask leave for an extended introduction.

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

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Hon. Lori Carr: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, it is my true pleasure today, through you and to you, to welcome people that have already been introduced by the minister, Mr. Speaker, IBEW Local 2067 and the United Mine Workers of America 7606 union representatives.

They’re all here today, Mr. Speaker. And what brings them to the House today, you may ask, Mr. Speaker. They are here to voice their concerns over the action and comments of the NDP [New Democratic Party] about the future of energy production in our province, Mr. Speaker.

I would like to give a special shout-out to Jody Dukart and Ken Hoste, who have led these locals through what has been a very uncertain path. I have had the pleasure to work directly with them on a realistic plan forward, and will continue to work with them, Mr. Speaker.

These locals represent members in both Estevan and Coronach, and I would like to extend my sincere thanks to them for the work that they do day in and day out to ensure that we have reliable and affordable power generation, not only in my community but in our province, Mr. Speaker, and even sometimes for Alberta.

Mr. Speaker, I would ask that all members join me in welcoming these fine individuals to their Legislative Assembly.

And while I’m on my feet, Mr. Speaker, Mr. Speaker . . . Thank you, Mr. Speaker. And while I’m on my feet, through you and to you, Mr. Speaker, seated in the west gallery it is my pleasure to introduce Hailey Lekivetz, Mr. Speaker.

Mr. Speaker, Hailey is in her fourth year of political science studies at the University of Saskatchewan. Hailey grew up on a grain farm south of Regina, and her MLA [Member of the Legislative Assembly] is actually Minister Weger. But I am here introducing her today because I had the privilege to speak with her. We had a great conversation about what it is like to be an elected official, as well as what it is like to serve as a minister for the province, Mr. Speaker.

If all political studies students were as intelligent and engaged as Hailey, we can rest assured that our province will be in good hands. So please help me welcoming Hailey to her Legislative Assembly.

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

Erika Ritchie: — Request leave for an extended introduction.

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

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Erika Ritchie: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Well it just so happens that we have more than one political science student in the gallery here today. I want to welcome our friend here in the west gallery, and also give a heartfelt welcome to my daughter Natalia Ritchie. She’s also studying political science at the University of Saskatchewan.

She just completed her first year and now is busy in intersession and summer session. Natalia is my youngest daughter, youngest of four, affectionately known as Sister Bear and me as Mama Bear. Natalia is a mature student. Before entering university she was a world traveller. She worked hard and saved up her money and literally travelled the world on her own steam in Europe, in Central America, Southeast Asia, and Australia.

And in Australia she had some really amazing opportunities working in the oil and gas sector. She worked on a banana plantation. She became a scuba diving instructor. And so we missed her a lot, and it was so exciting when she came home two years ago right before the 2024 election.

And I was so happy how she kind of jumped into the election and helped with our campaigns, and afterwards started as a casual constituency assistant in some of the neighbouring constituencies in Saskatoon. And so she’s been having a very well-rounded experience and education as a political science student and is really driven by compassion, purpose, and meaning in the work that she does advocating for social justice for all. And I couldn’t be more proud of her and the work that she’s done.

Lastly she took really good care of me yesterday on Mother’s Day — breakfast in bed and a whole day of pampering — and I couldn’t ask for a better daughter. And so with that, I ask all members to join me in welcoming Natalia Ritchie to her Assembly.

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

Blaine McLeod: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I ask leave for an extended introduction.

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

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Blaine McLeod: — Mr. Speaker, it really is an honour today to introduce the family and friends of a great Canadian hero, Major Lorne Benedict Plemel. My later member’s statement will pay tribute to a life well lived. From his hometown of St. Gregor, just east of Humboldt, many have travelled today quite a distance to be here, not only from Humboldt, from out of province as well. And really it felt like a bit of a family reunion today down in the dining hall. So thank you for honouring your father, your brother, your cousin, and all around good friend by being here with us today.

I’ll introduce them, Mr. Speaker, starting with his daughter Mickenzie (Mick) Plemel — just wave please, thank you — from Val Marie; Lorne’s brother Jeff and his wife, Tammy Plemel; Lorne’s brother Les and his wife, Magdalena Plemel; first cousins — the list is going to be lengthy here — Donald Plemel, Harry Plemel, Maurice Plemel, Gerard and Terri Doepker, Marcel and Berniece or Bernie Doepker, Adele and Steve Patton, Joan Dixon, and Vera Taylor. I think I’ve got them all.

Honourable mention must as well go to another individual not here today, Mr. Bernard Farley, who went through basic training with Lorne Plemel. Bernard was relentless in his attention to the details of organizing this family reunion that’s happening today. He’s a true friend of the family.

I’ll have more to say later, but thank you for honouring the life of Major Lorne Plemel. Your presence today speaks volumes regarding the impact his life had on the province of Saskatchewan and the country of Canada, and most importantly on your lives. Join with me in welcoming this fine family to their Legislative Chamber.

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

[13:45]

Hugh Gordon: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I want to thank the member opposite from Lumsden-Morse for letting me know that the family of this fine serviceman is in our attendance today. I want to thank the family for being here. Your presence honours his service to this province, to his country.

And even though I never had the great fortune to meet Major Plemel, I, reading his obituary, must say what an amazing career he had, what a love he obviously had for the Canadian military, serving 38 years in the Royal Canadian Artillery Battery 128, starting off at the age of 17 — much like my grandfather, who snuck into the Second World War about the same age as a, you know, small-town farm boy himself.

A recipient of the Golden Jubilee Medal, Chief of the Defence Staff Commendation, and the Order of Military Merit — quite an accomplishment. And nothing brought him more joy than his family, his friends, travelling. He was an outdoorsman, a hunter, a fisher, a hockey player, and by all accounts one heck of a poker player. You wouldn’t want to put good money up against Major Plemel any time.

With that, on behalf of the official opposition, I want to thank the entire Plemel family for being here, for honouring us with their presence, and honouring his 38 years of service to Canada. Thank you.

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

Betty Nippi-Albright: — Miigwech, Mr. Speaker. I rise to request leave for an extended introduction.

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

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Betty Nippi-Albright: — Miigwech, Mr. Speaker. To you and through you, I want to welcome the leadership from Onion Lake Cree Nation, their duty-to-consult team, and the family of the late Chief Henry Lewis and also Elder Jackie Chocan.

Arlene Lewis was late Chief Henry Lewis’s wife. His family — Amanda, Dallas, Shannon, Sharon, Kristy, Darcy, Donna, Lisa, Rhonda, Rema, Lydia, Jordyn, and Reinetta — they travelled six hours to come to this legislature to hear me read a member’s statement honouring the late Chief Henry Lewis and the work that he’s done for this province, and for the community here in Saskatchewan and across Turtle Island in protecting the inherent and treaty rights.

So this was scheduled weeks ago. And I just want everyone to acknowledge the folks that travelled six hours to their legislature to listen to me read out a member’s statement that was denied, that was scheduled a while ago. So I ask . . . Yeah, before I get everyone to applaud and say, “welcome to their legislature,” I want to read the member’s statement that was scheduled a number of weeks ago and was denied by the opposition’s leadership team today. So with that I’m going to read this member’s statement, Mr. Speaker.

I rise to honour the late Chief Henry Lewis, a leader whose clarity, conviction, and dedication to his nation strengthened the path for all of us working to uphold treaty and constitutional rights in this province. Chief Lewis was one of the strongest voices in Saskatchewan for meaningful duty-to-consult. He understood that consultation is not a procedural courtesy; it is a constitutional obligation grounded in the honour of the Crown. And he never hesitated to remind the province, this province, of that responsibility.

I want to acknowledge today how deeply supportive he was of the work I was doing in this legislature to hold this government accountable to that obligation. At a time when very few people in Saskatchewan were talking about duty-to-consult, and even fewer understood what it truly meant, Chief Lewis stood beside me with unwavering commitment. In partnership with Onion Lake Cree Nation and his steady encouragement, we were able to bring duty-to-consult into the public conversation in a way that never happened before.

Together his nation’s DTC [duty-to-consult] team and I made significant strides in raising awareness across this province about what meaningful consultation requires, why it matters, and how it protects the treaties that bind us together. Chief Lewis was passionate about treaty protection, as I am. He carried that responsibility with integrity, always reminding governments that treaty rights are living commitments that must be honoured in full.

Mr. Speaker, I ask all members of this Assembly to rise and join me in honouring the late Chief Henry Lewis for his steadfast advocacy for treaty rights holders and for his leadership as a treaty defender and for his unwavering commitment to meaningful duty-to-consult. Miigwech.

And while I’m on my feet, Mr. Speaker, I also want to welcome my CA [constituency assistant] Tammy Skilliter here as well. I am grateful that she has decided and chosen to stay with me, and it sure demonstrates the commitment to support me and to ride this next wave of politics with me.

So I just wanted to say that with Onion Lake Cree Nation, thank you so much for driving all this way. And I’m excited to be saying that and also for my commitment to renew the discussions that have been ignored by the official opposition as well as the government when it comes to meaningful duty-to-consult. And I am honoured to work alongside with you and other inherent and treaty rights holders to ensure that the honour of the Crown is respected and inherent and treaty rights are upheld and respected in this legislature. So thank you for travelling this far and always supporting me and demonstrating that you are a force to be reckoned with.

So with that, I ask all members to welcome this group of people to their legislature. Miigwech.

Speaker Goudy: — And I would also like to welcome our friends from Onion Lake Cree Nation and just take that blame upon myself. If there was any offence, I apologize for the proceedings here in the Chamber with the . . . I’m glad the opportunity was there, but please put that on me. I recognize the Minister of Social Services.

Hon. Terry Jenson: — 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. Terry Jenson: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. To you and through you and to all members of the Assembly, I’d like to introduce a group of guests sitting in the west gallery who are joining us today from Saskatchewan’s disability sector.

We have with us — and we’ll just maybe get you to wave when I say your name so that we know who you are — we have Signe Larsen and Linda Boyko from Elmwood Residences in Saskatoon, Christi Knopp and Randine Graf from Cosmo Industries, Jason Gillard and Lana Kincaid from Moose Jaw Diversified Services.

We also have Stacy Lynn Wilkerson-Miller and Lloyd Asensi from Clare Parker Homes. We have Annette Gruending from Gravelbourg Bon Ami, Kyla Nelson-Kletzel and Marilyn Collier from Citizens All. And finally we have Amy McNeil and Melanie Weiss from SARC, the Saskatchewan Association of Rehabilitation Centres.

Mr. Speaker, these folks have come from across Saskatchewan today to attend this week the SARC annual spring conference as well as to celebrate the Disability Service Professionals Week, May 10th to 16th. And we’re going to hear a little bit more about that in a member’s statement.

I had the opportunity to meet with all of these individuals earlier today to learn more about their organizations and the great work that they do on behalf of the clients that they serve, and to thank them for the incredible work they do every day to improve the lives of those with a disability.

Mr. Speaker, the Ministry of Social Services partners with organizations in more than 90 communities around Saskatchewan that provide support to individuals with a disability. And this work would simply not be possible without the dedication and compassion of disability service professionals. These folks show up to work every day and they change lives every day, Mr. Speaker. And for that we owe them all of our thanks.

So with that, Mr. Speaker, I invite all members to join me in thanking these individuals for their continued work in Saskatchewan to make Saskatchewan a more inclusive place for those with disabilities, and welcome them to this, their Legislative Assembly.

And while I’m on my feet, Mr. Speaker, there’s two additional individuals in the west gallery seated in the front row that I would like to introduce. First, we have a person who’s becoming a very fast friend of mine personally. We go to the same barber, and you can probably pick him out in the front row. I’d like to say hello and good afternoon to Chief Robert Duttchen, the police chief of the RM of Corman Park, Mr. Speaker.

Chief Duttchen came to us via Manitoba. He served 25 years in the Winnipeg Police Service as a constable, patrol sergeant, staff sergeant. He was a duty officer. Mr. Speaker, he was the operations manager for the World Police & Fire Games for a period of time. And his distinguished service has been recognized with numerous medals and commendations, Mr. Speaker.

He received the United Nations Forces in Cyprus Medal in 1993 for his service with the 1st Regiment, Royal Canadian Horse Artillery in Cyprus, and followed by the volunteer peace medal in 1995. In 2001, Mr. Speaker, he was awarded the Canadian Forces Canadian decoration.

Mr. Speaker, Chief Duttchen started with the RM of Corman Park Police Service in December of 2025, and has been working very, very hard to really establish the RM of Corman Park as a police service the people in the communities and in the rural area that surrounds Saskatoon within Corman Park can rely on. And so far the work has been very good, and his members are seen out in the community quite a bit.

Joining Rob this afternoon is his wife, Dianne. They’ve been married 28 years, and together they enjoy travelling, exploring new destinations, as well as walking outdoors. Mr. Speaker, Rob is a passionate motorcycle rider. He is an experienced scuba instructor, and he really is all about leadership with purpose and integrity.

So with that, Mr. Speaker, I’d ask everybody in the Assembly to join me in welcoming Rob and Dianne to this, their Legislative Assembly.

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

Brittney Senger: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I’m pleased to join the Minister of Social Services in joining so many incredible folks from the disability service sector. They do incredible work. I’ve had the opportunity to work with so many of these fine folks in advocating for improvements, for more funding, and for ensuring that people with complex needs and people with disabilities have the best support and service possible.

These fine folks receive funding through community living service delivery, and I’ve had the pleasure of working with them in developing a petition and advocating for improvements to CLSD [community living service delivery]. They do incredible work supporting folks and ensuring that people with complex needs have the best support and service possible. It is truly important work. There’s so much that goes into it, so much unseen work. And I’m truly, truly grateful for everything that they do.

I’d also like to join the member opposite in recognizing disability sector week. This is a very important week, and I am so pleased to be joined by these incredible folks and recognizing disability sector week and the incredible, invaluable work that they do. I’d like to invite all members to join me in thanking them for their work and welcoming them to their Legislative Assembly.

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

Hon. Michael Weger: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. To you and through you, I’d like to start by introducing a few guests seated up in the west gallery. We have Jenna Smolinski and Pam Scott, both RM administrators from my constituency, Mr. Speaker. And I think we’re all aware of the hard work and the great work that RM administrators do every day, so thank them for the work that they do in my constituency.

I also have the pleasure, Mr. Speaker, of introducing six students that are joining us also in the west gallery. They are part of the Weyburn Youth Council, and so they volunteer to provide input and feedback to the city of Weyburn, mayor, and council. And I will introduce them. First we have Mariesa Erasmus, Avryelle Molnar, Tim Malyi, Elizabete Sirante, Haroun Mathew, and Bailey Roy. And I thank these students for having a quick visit. It was a bit rushed this afternoon, Mr. Speaker, but I thank them for coming to join us.

[14:00]

And I’ll also thank Weyburn city councillor Kellie Sidloski, and also communications coordinator for the city of Weyburn, Paige Tenbult, for accompanying these students today and arranging this visit. So they have an interest in local politics and I’m happy to see they have an interest in provincial politics today as well, Mr. Speaker.

So with that, I would ask all members to join me in welcoming these guests to their Legislative Assembly.

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

Joan Pratchler: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I too would also like to rise to honour Lorne Plemel, Les Plemel, and the entire extended family of Plemel and Doepker families through St. Gregor and Annaheim and Muenster.

You see, I went to school with Lorne and Les. We were in the same grade. We were just farm kids back then in the late ’70s. We’d drive to school, go to school and do our studies; we’d go home and do our farm work. Extra treat, we might drive into the abbey for orchestra practice or choir practice.

Lorne and Les were honourable gentlemen, good farm boys, and hard, hard workers. Hearts of gold. Doesn’t surprise me that he’s honoured in this way in this legislature. So I want to say thank you to all those hard-working farm people all those years ago. Some of us turned out to be all right, I’d say, eh, Les?

Anyway thank you very much, and I’d like to invite everybody to honour Lorne and his family and extended family again today. Thank you.

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

Hon. Alana Ross: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. 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. Alana Ross: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, joining us today on the floor and seated in the west gallery are guests from the amphibious response safety unit, otherwise known as the ARSU [Amphibious Response Support Unit], based out of Echo Valley Provincial Park.

Joining us today we have John Maczko on the floor, and his amazing K‑9 rescue dog, Gusztav, is with him today. And up in the west gallery we have Adrienn Maczko Kovacs, Robert Krause, Stanislav Snurnytsyn, and Jocelyn Bishoff.

The ARSU team is a valuable asset to our province and helps keep people safe on our waters, as they demonstrated to several of us earlier today. Our government is proud of the work ARSU is doing, which includes specialized water rescue and response education. A number of MLAs and I were able to have that demonstration with the special equipment that this team uses to respond to people in trouble in dangerous waters. My colleague will be having a member statement later today that will explain more about the great work they are doing.

Mr. Speaker, I ask all members to join me in welcoming John and the ARSU team members to their Legislative Assembly. Thank you.

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

Hugh Gordon: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I want to join with the minister opposite and welcome John, Gusztav, and the entire team from the Amphibious Response Support Unit here.

You know, my time in the RCMP [Royal Canadian Mounted Police], I got to dabble a little bit in clandestine lab investigations and got to wear some fancy gear, but I would honestly say, Mr. Speaker, that these folks go where angels fear to tread. The kind of work that they do is not just technical but physically demanding. I’m certain it can be dangerous work, but it’s very important work.

And it’s a kind of support — whether it’s search and rescue, whether it’s ice rescue, whether it’s environmental support, or your K-9 unit — it’s the kind of work and the kind of services that our first responders and people in all the communities in this province have come to depend and rely on. And we’re just very glad and fortunate to have such talented and amazing folks dedicating their lives to this service to their province.

So with that, Mr. Speaker, I would like to ask all members to welcome the members of the ARSU here, along with John and that cute little puppy over there, Gusztav. Thank you.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of Justice.

Hon. Tim McLeod: — 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. Tim McLeod: — Well thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. To you and through you and to all members, today our government is proclaiming May 10th to 16th as Victims and Survivors of Crime Week here in Saskatchewan. This week is a time to recognize the experience of victims and survivors of crime in the province and discuss the issues that victims face in the aftermath of crime.

It’s also a chance for us to thank the over 60 dedicated staff members and 112 volunteer victim support workers and 82 community board members in Saskatchewan who work so hard to support victims and survivors. Earlier today, Mr. Speaker, I had the pleasure of recognizing five dedicated volunteer victim support workers. These individuals have dedicated 10, 20, and 25 years serving their communities through victim services programs across our province.

Joining us in your gallery today, Mr. Speaker, are Dianne Smutt, a 25‑year volunteer from Parkland Victim Services visiting us from Kamsack; Bernadette Lorence, a 20‑year volunteer from Regina Victim Services; Celeste Bridgeman, a 10‑year volunteer from Sask Central Victim Services in Unity; Judy Morris, a 10‑year volunteer from Sask Central Victim Services joining us from Martensville today; and Brenda Shrader, a 10‑year volunteer from Sask Central Victim Services who travelled here from Humboldt, Mr. Speaker. Joining them from the Ministry of Justice and Attorney General is Karen Closs, Roseanne Tkachuk, Kerri Ward-Davis, and Dami Ibitoye.

Mr. Speaker, we publicly recognize the important work and selfless dedication of our volunteers and staff during Victims and Survivors of Crime Week. We want to say how eternally grateful Saskatchewan is for the compassion and the support that they offer to victims and survivors each and every day. Thank you for demonstrating the true volunteer spirit that makes Saskatchewan such an amazing place to call home.

I ask all members to please join me in welcoming these guests to their Legislative Assembly.

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

Nicole Sarauer: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. It’s my absolute honour to join with the minister in honour of Victims and Survivors of Crime Week to celebrate these particular volunteers and thank them for their decades of service. To all those who are serving as victim support workers in our province, we know that you do incredibly important work helping those going through what for them are likely some of the worst experiences of their lives, guiding them through a very difficult circumstance and difficult process, and doing so in a volunteer capacity.

And for you fine individuals up in the gallery, doing it for decades is . . . Words can’t express our gratitude to you for your service. So to Dianne, Bernadette, Celeste, Judy, and Brenda, on behalf of the official opposition, I’d like to join with the minister in thanking you for your dedicated service to these individuals and to the province. And once again I’d ask all members to join me in welcoming them to their legislative gallery.

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

Hon. Ken Cheveldayoff: — Well thank you very much, Speaker, colleagues. I ask for an extended introduction. I ask for leave for an . . .

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

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Hon. Ken Cheveldayoff: — Thank you very much. To you and through you, Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to introduce to you, seated in your gallery, Rosby James. Rosby served as the president of the Saskatchewan Polytechnic Students’ Association for the 2025‑26 term and currently serves as the students’ representative on the Saskatchewan Polytech board of directors. She completed her studies in business and project management at Sask Poly, and through her tenure she has played a key role in advancing student interests, fostering meaningful partnerships, and contributing to major initiatives that enhance the student experience across the institution.

But most recently, Mr. Speaker, Rosby spearheaded a landmark campaign. She raised $2 million on behalf of the Sask Poly Students’ Association, a donation to the Saskatoon’s Time to Rise campaign that members will know that Sask Poly is undertaking right now, reflecting her strong commitment to student growth, campus development, and community impact. I ask all members to join me in welcoming Rosby to her Legislative Assembly.

While I’m on my feet, I would like to introduce to you, seated in your gallery, Mr. Speaker, Darlene Cooper and her grandson Luke France. And Luke’s dad and uncle are well known around the Legislative Assembly.

And Darlene has served on a lot of boards, including the St. Paul’s Hospital Foundation; the Parkland Regional College; and most recently with the famous group out of Foam Lake, Saskatchewan, Breast Friends. Darlene, along with Jacquie Klebeck and Cecile Halyk — who was here in the legislature, introduced a few days ago — have raised over $100,000 for the Children’s Hospital Foundation.

And Darlene wanted to bring her grandson here to learn about the democratic process. So I ask all members to help me welcome Darlene and Luke France to his Legislative Assembly as well.

Just very briefly, Mr. Speaker, I had the opportunity as the Minister of Labour to meet some new friends from the members of the IBEU and the United Mine Workers of America. And we had a chance to talk about many issues throughout the province. And I thank them for being in their legislature today and more importantly for what they do each and every day to make our province a better place. Thank you.

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

Tajinder Grewal: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I join the Minister of Advanced Education to welcome Rosby James, president of the Saskatchewan Polytechnic Students’ Association. Thank you very much for your advocacy and thanks for all the work that you do to bring forward issues that matter most to the students at Sask Polytechnic.

And I’m very pleased to know that you have raised $2 million for the infrastructure at Sask Polytechnic. And sorry I could not attend the ceremony. So I ask all the members to please join me to welcome Rosby to her legislature.

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

Megan Patterson: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I ask leave for an extended introduction.

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

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Megan Patterson: — To you and through you, it is my pleasure to introduce Jared Dormer from Moose Jaw. He’s seated in your gallery. He is the creator of Saskatchewan Retro GameCon.

The Saskatchewan Retro GameCon is a celebration of all things pop culture with a nostalgic twist. Saskatchewan Retro GameCon was awarded the New Business of the year award at the Moose Jaw Business Excellence Awards. Their aim is to make Moose Jaw a global destination for all video game enthusiasts and to pack local hotels and restaurants in the process.

Retro GameCon hosts pop-ups throughout the province and one large convention each year in Moose Jaw. This year’s convention will be held September 12th and 13th. With over 115 vendors from Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba, there will be retro video game tournaments, national cosplay, and special guests from around the world. More information about this and tickets for this year’s convention can be found at saskretro.com.

Please join me in welcoming Jared Dormer to this, his Legislative Assembly.

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

Hugh Gordon: — Thank you. Mr. Speaker, I would be remiss if I didn’t welcome, on behalf of the official opposition, Chief Rob Duttchen from the Corman Park Police Service and his wife, Dianne; congratulate him on the beginning of his tenure as the chief of police of that fine community; and thank him for his years of service. I’ve got an old friend, Chief Warren Gherasim, who ran that police service for some time, and it’s nice to see his successor here in the Legislative Assembly.

So on behalf of the official opposition, I want to welcome Chief Duttchen to this, his Assembly.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the member from Yorkton.

David Chan: — Mr. Speaker, I’m not asking leave for an extended introduction, you’ll be happy to know.

It’s my pleasure, to you and through you, to welcome a young man, a fine young man sitting in the west gallery, CJ Wlock. He’s a grade 11 student from Yorkton Regional. Shout-out to Yorkton Regional. And he is the grade 11 vice-president of the student council. He won his election in that race. He’s also a lifeguard, son of Dan and Jillian, who are both health care professionals serving our region.

And he came into my office and asked if he could complete his career hours doing an internship. And when a young person takes an initiative like that, it’s hard to say no. So he’s doing an internship with my constituency office, and he’s shadowing me today.

And I want to invite all members to join me in welcoming CJ to his Legislative Assembly.

[14:15]

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

Aleana Young: — Thank you so much, Mr. Speaker. To you and through you, I just want to join in briefly with the member opposite and welcome Jared and congratulate him on all the success with the Retro GameCon. As a member of a household very enthusiastic about new, old video games, board games, RPG [role-playing game] games, thank you for that creativity, for that sense of community, and bringing that to Saskatchewan. A very welcome event and one I’m sure certain members of my household will be very enthusiastic about attending.

And while I’m on my feet, Mr. Speaker, I also wanted to join in with the many recognitions for the Plemel family and give a special recognition to Mickenzie Plemel: grasslands conservation advocate, a horse whisperer, Calgary Stampede Queen, proud pal of Baxter, Camp Chief Hector alumni who spent a month in the Rocky Mountains hiking and canoeing with my little brother who was so excited that she would be here in the legislature today, recognizing and celebrating the remarkable legacy of her dad.

Mr. Speaker, we say often in this legislature that none of us serve alone, and I know that’s true for the Plemel family, even with the remarkable service of Mickenzie’s father, Lorne Plemel, who served his province and his country in so many ways.

So with that, Mr. Speaker, I’d ask all members to join me in recognizing Mickenzie in this, her Legislative Assembly.

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

Hon. Jamie Martens: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. With all of the absolutely amazing guests here today, I’m sure that a lot of them wonder if it usually takes this long for introductions. But they’re absolutely deserving. And I’d also like to introduce a couple individuals that are very important to me that would top off Mother’s Day, and that is my son Anthony and my daughter Arianna.

And like I had mentioned a couple weeks ago when I introduced my other daughter, Katarina, I had said she was a wonderful baby, and I waited till I had three, and the third one, I wasn’t . . . That was enough. So this is the one that definitely gives me a run for my money. And my son is down here from Alberta. He’s a motorhand and works of course with the oil and gas industry.

Can’t be more proud of my son and my daughter, and I’d like everyone to welcome them to their Legislative Assembly.

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

Travis Keisig: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I’ll keep it brief for the world’s shortest introduction session.

I want to join with my colleague the Minister of Public Safety and welcome Jenna and Pam to this, their Legislative Assembly. The Rural Municipal Administrators’ Association convention is on right now, Mr. Speaker, and it’s the ability for administrators to meet and network and take in workshops and better serve the communities of the 296 rural municipalities all across Saskatchewan.

So I want to welcome them to this, their Legislative Assembly, and wish all RM administrators a great convention. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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

Hon. Eric Schmalz: — Well, Mr. Speaker, I would like to request leave for an extended introduction.

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

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Some Hon. Members: — No.

Hon. Eric Schmalz: — Begrudgingly, Mr. Speaker, I have been approved. Thank you.

I rise today and ask all members to join me in welcoming Bonnie Chambers, assistant deputy minister responsible for municipal relations in the Ministry of Government Relations. Joining Bonnie today is Deputy Minister Laurier Donais and executive director Ian Goeres.

Bonnie has decided after a 27‑year career with the Government of Saskatchewan that it is time to retire at the end of May. This will give her much more time to dedicate to her passions: travel, the Toronto Blue Jays, and Blue Rodeo, which . . . Blue Rodeo is okay.

In the time that I have been minister, I’ve appreciated her hard work and dedication, and quite frankly or quite honestly, her frankness. Those who know Bonnie know that she is very expressive. I’ve never had to guess what she was thinking. Furthermore it will come as no surprise to those that are familiar with Bonnie to hear that our exchanges were often peppered with colourful language.

I always appreciated this trait, Mr. Speaker. This directness has enabled us to cut to the heart of the issue when discussing situations impacting municipalities. Managing relationships and issues with municipalities can be challenging, but Bonnie handled it all like a professional, even in the most challenging of circumstances. Now I know that Bonnie’s greatest goal has been to see the formation of a municipal district in Saskatchewan. And although it has not happened yet, I trust that Bonnie will be there cheering from the sidelines when that day comes.

Once again, I would like to thank Bonnie for her dedication and for all that she has done on behalf of the province and its municipalities. You will be missed. Now please join me in welcoming Bonnie, Laurier, and Ian to their Legislative Assembly.

Mr. Speaker, I just want to take a moment to join with the Minister of Justice and the Opposition House Leader in welcoming the volunteers with the victim services groups here, Mr. Speaker. The member for Silverspring and I served with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police prior to engaging in politics, Mr. Speaker, and I can tell you that some of the darkest days on the job were when we would have to knock on someone’s door. And those individuals in your gallery, Mr. Speaker, stood shoulder to shoulder with us in those days, Mr. Speaker. I could tell you that those were not fun times and that how much we appreciate that as retired members, and the members serving today, the work that they do. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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

Erika Ritchie: — Mr. Speaker, I would just like to take a moment to join with the minister opposite and offer my thanks, gratitude, and congratulations to Bonnie for her long service with the provincial government in Government Relations. I didn’t have as long a time to get to know Bonnie in her role but always appreciated her frank and candid responses in committee. And I wish her all the best in her future endeavours. I ask all members to join me in welcoming and thanking her to our Assembly here today.

PRESENTING PETITIONS

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

Noor Burki: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I’d ask today to present our petition to proclaim October of each year as Islamic Heritage Month.

We, the undersigned residents of the province of Saskatchewan, wish to bring to your attention the following: that Islam is the second-most common religion in Saskatchewan, accounting for 2 per cent of the population; that between the 2001 census and 2021 census the Muslim population of Saskatchewan grew elevenfold; that the first Muslim organization in Canada was registered in Regina, Saskatchewan in 1934 by Lebanese immigrants; that Muslims across the province contribute to the Saskatchewan culture, economy, and community; that the Muslim community must currently reapply every year to have October recognized as Islamic Heritage Month; that the governments of Canada, Alberta, Ontario, Manitoba, and Newfoundland and Labrador have all proclaimed October as Islamic Heritage Month.

We, the undersigned residents, pray and read the following:

Respectfully to request the Legislative Assembly of Saskatchewan to call on the Government of Saskatchewan to proclaim October of each year as Islamic Heritage Month.

Mr. Speaker, the signatories of this petition reside in Saskatoon. I do so present.

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

Keith Jorgenson: — Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. I have approximately 25 pages of petitions that I collected in about an hour last week in the beautiful town of Kipling, Saskatchewan, and it is my absolute pleasure to read the first one of those. This is the petition to the Legislative Assembly of Saskatchewan on service disruption maps.

We, the undersigned residents of the province of Saskatchewan, wish to bring to your attention the following: that Saskatchewan’s hospitals are experiencing hundreds of disruptions in services affecting patient care and putting people’s lives at risk; and that the residents of Saskatchewan deserve to know what care is available and when it is available in their community in real time; and that the SHA [Saskatchewan Health Authority] maintains a service disruption map and a comprehensive list of service disruptions but does not allow the public to access this website.

We, in the prayer that reads as follows, respectfully request that the Legislative Assembly of Saskatchewan call on the Government of Saskatchewan to immediately make public the full list and map of service disruptions.

This petition was signed by the residents of the beautiful town of Kipling. I do so present. And I would say, I’d add, we were talking a lot about signs. I would say this is a sign.

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

Meara Conway: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. It’s a privilege to be on my feet to present a petition calling on this government to fix the crisis in our classrooms. Over the last decade and a half, funding per student has gone up across the nation with the exception of two provinces, one of which is Saskatchewan.

We’ve seen our per-student funding go down. We’ve seen devastating cuts from this Sask Party government. And it’s had a real impact not only on students, but it’s also meant that teachers, EAs [educational assistant], and support staff continue to be overworked and underpaid while students go without the supports that they need.

I will say that the most important investment that we make as legislators and as government, Mr. Speaker, is in education, is in the future of this province. And when we fail to do that, then we fail that pact that we have with the communities that we are elected to serve.

So with that, I’ll read the prayer:

We, in the prayer that reads as follows, respectfully request that the Legislative Assembly of Saskatchewan call on the Government of Saskatchewan to immediately provide adequate funding to public, Catholic, and francophone schools in Saskatchewan and to fix the crisis in our classrooms.

The signatories of this petition reside in Regina. I do present.

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

Brent Blakley: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise in the Assembly today to present a petition calling on the Legislative Assembly of Saskatchewan for the acceleration of construction of the new joint-use elementary and high schools in east Regina.

These residents of the province of Saskatchewan wish to bring attention to the following: that in September 2024 ahead of the provincial election, the Minister of Education promised to build a new joint-use elementary school and high school in east Regina; that there is currently no timeline for the construction and opening of either school, with the most recent government budget causing further delays; that the elementary schools in the east end of Regina are significantly overcrowded; that students in these school jurisdictions are having to be bused to other areas to attend school; that the schools’ library, dance studio, teachers’ lounge, multipurpose rooms have all been used as temporary classrooms; that all children have a right to a well-rounded education in a safe environment.

The prayer reads as follows:

We respectfully request the Legislative Assembly of Saskatchewan call on the Government of Saskatchewan to immediately provide the support needed to complete and open the new joint-use elementary and high schools in east Regina as soon as possible.

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

STATEMENTS BY MEMBERS

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

60 Years of Speed at the Saskatchewan International Raceway

Kim Breckner: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. As the 2026 season got under way this past weekend, it’s my honour to congratulate Saskatchewan International Raceway on 60 years of speed.

SIR [Saskatchewan International Raceway] was formed in 1966 and is the oldest drag strip in Western Canada. In addition to contributing to our economy and entertaining thousands of fans, the track plays an important role in reducing illegal street racing through its Street Legal program, where car and motorcycle owners can test their vehicles in a safe and controlled environment.

SIR is a member-owned organization operated by the Saskatchewan Drag Racing Association. As the first female president of the Saskatchewan Drag Racing Association, I experienced first-hand the passion and commitment of volunteers and members that have helped power this track for decades.

This summer I look forward to getting back behind the wheel and taking in the track’s feature event, the Southwinds Showdown, taking place on August 15th. This adrenalin-fuelled event sees cars speed down the quarter mile at over 200 miles per hour. I hope to see some of my fellow members there.

I want to again congratulate SIR and its 250 members as well as their families, friends, sponsors, fans, and volunteers that have sustained such an iconic track for decades. Thank you.

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

Remembering Lorne Plemel

Blaine McLeod: — Mr. Speaker, a tribute to a truly great Canadian, Major Lorne Benedict Plemel. Lorne was born on the family farm in St. Gregor. He joined the army when he was 17 and served with the gunners of the Royal Canadian Horse Artillery and the Royal Canadian Artillery for 38 years.

During his career he climbed through the ranks from gunner to major, a remarkable feat itself. His service included peacekeeping missions with the UN [United Nations] in Cyprus and the Golan Heights. He also served in Afghanistan with the Allied Action Corps as part of NATO’s [North Atlantic Treaty Organization] international security assistance force.

[14:30]

Major Plemel’s deep dedication to his comrades, unit, and country did not go unnoticed. He received many awards including the Member of the Order of Military Merit medal and the Chief of Defence Staff Commendation. He was a highly decorated soldier; however he never sought accolades. He was outstanding by nature and, it was noticed by all who served with him, respected worldwide but always returning to Saskatchewan to visit family and friends, never forgetting his roots.

We are grateful for Major Plemel’s sacrifices as well as those his family made to keep Canada strong and free. While Lorne has now been laid to rest, he will always be remembered for his amazing personality, love for his country, his friends, his family, and especially his children: Kearstin, Mickenzie, Austin, and Amy.

A real Canadian hero from Saskatchewan. Thank you for your service, Lorne.

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

Remembering Al Luciuk

Matt Love: — Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the life of an educator, a mentor, a role model, Mr. Al Luciuk, who recently passed away just a short time after retiring from his illustrious career in the classroom.

Al was a history teacher with Saskatoon Public Schools, as well as the larger-than-life leader in the Saskatchewan field lacrosse community. Al’s commitment to educating, both in the classroom and on the lacrosse field, were second to none. His engaging teaching style and obvious passion for history and sports created a space where learning came alive and young people flourished.

Al spent over 30 years in the classroom with a pedagogy that was as unique as it was engaging, and it resulted in the kind of lessons and experiences that really stuck with his students. Al was well known in teaching circles for creating the nationally recognized History Study Tour Program which took students out of the classroom and sent them to the places in the world where important historical moments took place: the beaches of Normandy, Vimy Ridge, Flanders Fields.

Al was a dedicated teacher, coach, husband, and trailblazer — a true legend and an inspiration to many. I’d like to ask all members to join me in remembering and celebrating the life and legacy of Mr. Al Luciuk.

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

Disability Service Professionals Week

Megan Patterson: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise today to recognize May 10th to 16th as Disability Service Professionals Week, a week to celebrate the dedicated professionals who deliver critical services to people with intellectual disabilities across our province.

Mr. Speaker, the Ministry of Social Services partners with the community-based organizations in more than 90 communities, offering residential services, day programs, and supported employment programs so that thousands of individuals with intellectual disabilities can build skills, live more independently, and participate fully in their community.

This important work would not be possible without the vital disability service professionals who show up each day with competency, compassion, and a commitment to make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals that they serve.

Mr. Speaker, I would also like to recognize the valuable work done by SARC to support community-based organizations in delivering the services that thousands of individuals with intellectual disabilities rely on each day to live life to their full potential. The impact reaches far beyond programs. It strengthens families, communities, and our entire province.

Mr. Speaker, I invite all members in this Assembly to join me in thanking SARC and the disability service professionals here today for their positive impact on our province. Thank you.

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

Cost of Power Generation Plan

Brittney Senger: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Well we have been overrun with concerns from Saskatchewan people about this Premier’s $26 billion catastrophe. It will bankrupt the province for generations to come.

His minister refused to release details of this disaster to Saskatchewan people. He’s done everything he can to avoid accountability — to duck, to dodge, and to weave from questions from reporters and the general public.

Well we’ve exposed those plans, and people are talking. Families, business owners, farmers, investors, job creators, working people — you name it — they are ticked right off. They’re asking, what kind of government could think they could get away with this? They’re asking, is that Premier really still calling the shots? And should he be Premier any longer?

Mr. Speaker, for those on that side of the House, my message is this: buckle up. We’re just getting started. We will fight back. We will do everything we can to ensure this catastrophe is the last one that occurs . . .

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

Amphibious Response Support Unit Keeps People Safe

Brad Crassweller: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Earlier today we had the opportunity to meet with John Maczko and members of the amphibious safety unit to participate in their mobile marine simulator. Of course you can’t meet John and the team without meeting Gusztav, his Portuguese water dog.

With Safe Boating Awareness Week taking place May 16‑22nd, today’s demonstration is a timely reminder of the important role ARSU plays in keeping people across Saskatchewan safe on, in, and near the water. Mr. Speaker, ARSU is a Saskatchewan-based, volunteer-led organization that provides specialized water rescue response, training, and public education to support safe recreation on our lakes and rivers.

Operating out of Echo Valley Provincial Park, located in the best constituency in the province, ARSU is the first and only unit of its kind in our province, supporting emergency services with open-water, ice, and cold-water rescue; flood response; and search operations. Their hands-on training tools include the simulator, rescue vessel and of course the canine, Gusztav, help prevent emergencies before they happen and strengthen response when they do.

Mr. Speaker, I’d like to recognize John Maczko, founder of ARSU and director of operations, for his leadership and dedication to water safety in Saskatchewan. Every year for the past 25 years, the Canadian Safe Boating Council recognizes individuals and organizations across Canada with Canadian Safe Boating Awards, the CASBAs, who have made significant contributions in boating safety.

ARSU is the first such organization in Saskatchewan to receive this award. Thank you, John and your team, for the great work that you do in our parks. Thank you.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the member from Estevan-Big Muddy.

Unions Comment on Opposition’s Energy Policy

Hon. Lori Carr: — Mr. Speaker, the NDP cannot be taken seriously on energy policy. Last week IBEW Local 2067 and the United Mine Workers of America 7606 publicly called out the rhetoric coming from the members opposite. These are workers who help keep the lights on. IBEW was very clear in its letter. The union wrote:

Our members deserve honesty, stability, and a realistic path forward for Saskatchewan’s energy future, not political theatre built on misleading numbers and ideologically driven narratives.

Mr. Speaker, they went on to directly challenge the NDP’s cost claims, stating:

Their numbers appear to include capital, maintenance, and operating costs for decades to come. To portray these investments as costs as exclusive consequences of the Sask Party’s plan is deliberately misleading Saskatchewan people.

United Mine Workers of America echoed those concerns. They also cautioned against treating workers as political props, writing:

Opposition politicians speak out about coal as numbers on a balance sheet instead of recognizing them as highly skilled Saskatchewan men and women supporting families in communities across the province. Workers should not become political pawns in partisan debates designed to generate headlines.

The Leader of the Opposition responded by suggesting she would write workers cheques.

Mr. Speaker, energy workers are not asking for charity. They’re asking for respect. She can do the right thing right now and apologize to them. Will she do it? We’re about to find out.

QUESTION PERIOD

Power Generation Plan Costs

Carla Beck: — “We know what it costed 20 years ago, which was zero. We know what it costs today, which is zero. We know what it will cost 20 years from now, which is zero.” Of course that’s a quote from the CIC minister talking about his coal plan on a podcast just a year ago.

11.4 billion for capital; 13 billion for fuel; $1.4 billion for transmission. Mr. Speaker, that adds up to $26 billion.

How did we get from zero to $26 billion?

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Premier.

Hon. Scott Moe: — Mr. Speaker, may I just begin by acknowledging those folks in Estevan and Coronach and other areas of the province that have provided energy security for families and for industries for generations now. And might I just say, as we find our way to a nuclear future in this province, them, their children, their grandchildren are going to continue to provide energy security for families and for industries in this province for generations into the future as well.

Mr. Speaker, providing affordable, reliable power today and into the future should not be a political issue. And what we see are the members opposite, after a very challenging week or two where they have members running from their caucus, Mr. Speaker, making accusations, politicizing something that is not political in nature.

We have a plan, Mr. Speaker. The capital portion of that plan is $2.6 billion to refurbish our existing assets to ensure that we can have that affordable, reliable power into the future. We have a plan, Mr. Speaker, that is going to ensure that we can continue to attract investment here, over $60 billion at current, so that the entirety of this province is going to be powered by these individuals, their children, and their grandchildren for generations to come. We will not give them a pink slip and write them a cheque as the Leader of the Opposition indicates.

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

Carla Beck: — The Premier is right. These workers that have joined us here today, all people in this province deserve a plan, and they deserve a path forward to affordable power in this province.

Now the documents have been tabled, Mr. Speaker. And I know that the Premier has reviewed them because I saw him do that last week in the Chamber. It’s pretty clear. The price tag is $26 billion.

However it wasn’t the Premier, it wasn’t that minister that revealed the true costs. No, that took a leaked document from SaskPower for the truth to come out for the people of this province. Now we’re left to wonder, what did the Premier know, and when did he know it?

Mr. Speaker, I have two questions. Has the Premier known this $26 billion cost all along? And if not, will he fire that minister from CIC for keeping the truth from the people of this province?

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Premier.

Hon. Scott Moe: — As said on the floor of this Assembly many times last week — and it’s about to be said again — the capital cost of utilizing our existing assets into the future is $2.6 billion, Mr. Speaker.

Mr. Speaker, I use the analogy of buying a car. And what the NDP have done is not only included the cost of buying that car, but all of the fuel, all of the oil changes . . .

[Interjections]

Speaker Goudy: — So I’m going to ask that during these questions-and-answer period, we ask good questions, listen while they’re asking questions, give good answers, listen while they’re giving the answers. It’s not too much to ask.

Please keep our comments to ourself. If you’re going to be asking a question, you have a chance to ask that in the 25‑minute period.

Premier.

Hon. Scott Moe: — Let’s make it an electric car. Mr. Speaker, all of the maintenance of that car, all of the tires, all of the maintenance of that car over 25 years is not what Saskatchewan people consider as the capital cost to that car. It’s the same when we refurbish our electricity generation assets in this province, Mr. Speaker, as we find our way to producing nuclear power in this province — reliable, affordable power today and into the future.

And I just once again want to say to the individuals that have joined us, thank you to them and their forefathers for providing reliable, affordable electricity, energy for our province and the industries and the families for generations past. And thank them in advance because I know, Mr. Speaker, this is our nuclear future. This is the workforce that is going to ensure that we have reliable, affordable power into the future and can continue to attract those investments that are creating jobs for the broader population of our province, Mr. Speaker.

We’re not going to give them pink slips like the Leader of the Opposition indicated. We’re not going to try to cut them cheques like the Leader of the Opposition indicated. That’s the Justin Trudeau plan, Mr. Speaker. That’s not the Saskatchewan Party government plan.

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

Aleana Young: — Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. If the Premier just wants to talk about capital costs, let’s compare apples to apples: $2.6 billion; $11.4 billion. That is still $8.8 billion more than this Premier and this government have disclosed to the people of Saskatchewan. There is no accountability. There is no transparency. $26 billion of public money, Mr. Speaker. That ought to mean something.

[14:45]

SaskPower was 250 days past the legal FOI [freedom of information] deadline, and 1,500 pages of documents related to this decision were nearly entirely redacted. That is not evidence that there’s nothing to see here. Mr. Speaker, those are not the actions of an accountable and a transparent government.

The minister again today confirmed, this $26 billion figure, that’s SaskPower’s own number. So will this government be accountable and transparent and release all of those documents fully today?

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Premier.

Hon. Scott Moe: — Very pleased to talk about accountability and transparency, Mr. Speaker, when the Leader of the Opposition has yet to take responsibility for hate-inspired emails talking about individuals that have chosen to serve on the floor of this Assembly, Mr. Speaker.

Very happy to compare apples to apples, Mr. Speaker. A $2.6 billion capital plan to ensure that we can utilize existing assets, work with our workforce to ensure that not only are they producing reliable, affordable power today but are going to be able to produce that reliable, affordable power for generations into the future, Mr. Speaker.

By using the NDP’s very same metrics: their plan? Over $50 billion, Mr. Speaker. When will you become accountable and transparent with the people of the province when you ask for their vote? We have a choice in this province, Mr. Speaker. We have a choice. Affordable, reliable power, Mr. Speaker, or an opposition that still thinks LNG [liquefied natural gas] is the answer.

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

Aleana Young: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. What a desperate reply. Let’s not forget, up until very recently it was that Premier and this government who were committed to shutting down coal. That was their plan for 15 years. And now they’re claiming they’re different? Like, what changed, Mr. Speaker? Was it Bronwyn Eyre holding you guys back from saving the coal plants? Was it Dustin Duncan, Mr. Speaker? I don’t know.

This Premier has a lot to say, but none of it addresses the question. Because again SaskPower was 250 days past the legal FOI deadline. Fifteen hundred pages nearly entirely redacted. Cost of power, capital costs, long-term projections — all simply gone.

Mr. Speaker, the Premier’s heckling from his seat about a carbon tax. He might want to check with the Minister of Environment who admitted — on April 1st, no less — that her government is bringing it back on SaskPower. Maybe, Mr. Speaker, he’s hiding it from the Premier like the CIC minister is hiding the true costs of this plan.

If there’s nothing to hide and SaskPower’s numbers are true, will they make all of these documents fully public today?

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of CIC.

Hon. Jeremy Harrison: — Well the members opposite demonstrate literally every day why nobody in this province takes them seriously, Mr. Speaker. They come in here attacking everybody, disparaging everybody, Mr. Speaker, whether it be private companies, whether . . .

[Interjections]

Speaker Goudy: — It’s getting hard to hear, and I’d just appreciate that we listen when the responses are given. And remember yesterday . . . The back-and-forth gets a little harsh, so let’s be appropriate with our language. Thanks.

Hon. Jeremy Harrison: — Well this is what they do, Mr. Speaker, and I’m glad that the folks in the gallery get to see it first-hand today. They come in here and they disparage and they attack, whether it be individuals, Mr. Speaker, whether it be companies.

And now, Mr. Speaker, it’s the workers up here in the gallery, who they literally dismissed and disrespected by saying, “Well who cares. We’re going to cut them a cheque. They can go away.” I can tell you first-hand from having the opportunity to spend the morning with these hard-working representatives from our miners and from our SaskPower employees, Mr. Speaker, that they do feel disrespected, that they do feel dismissed. And those are real feelings.

Mr. Speaker, they have an opportunity right now to do the right thing: apologize to these members. That’s what they need to do. I’ll give them the opportunity to do that right now.

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

Joan Pratchler: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I’d like to walk through a few numbers for the Minister of SaskPower. First he said it was $900 million, then $2.6 billion, and now we have $26 billion — that’s with a “b” — price tag.

Let’s talk about the financial impact of that. Mr. Speaker, that’s almost like 15 Regina bypasses, for heaven’s sakes. What a waste that would be.

Can the minister explain to me how many child care spaces he could fund with $26 billion from now till 2050?

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of CIC.

Hon. Jeremy Harrison: — There they go again, Mr. Speaker. What that member is saying . . . Because of the fact that they’re conflating capital and operating, what they are saying is that the salaries that we are paying these hard-working folks — whether they be at Boundary dam, whether they be at Coronach, whether they be at Shand, Mr. Speaker — what they are saying is that is a waste of money.

This is the sort of complete disrespect and entirely dismissive attitude that the NDP have towards 1,400 people who literally are dedicating their lives to keeping the power on in this province and doing the work that none of us would necessarily want to do when it’s minus 40 outside to keep the power on. They owe them an apology, Mr. Speaker.

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

Joan Pratchler: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I don’t need my words twisted. Mr. Speaker, there’s no question that we need to invest in power generation in Saskatchewan. Of course we do. But choosing the most expensive option leaves less money for things that our families and children need.

If that money was spent in a different way, we could fix our crumbling schools. We could hire more teachers, more EAs, more health supports. These are choices about priorities.

How many more schools could we build even faster with $26 billion over the next 25 years, hmm?

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of CIC.

Hon. Jeremy Harrison: — So, Mr. Speaker, we need to be very, very clear on an apples-to-apples comparison here. Our capital expenditure for the life extension of our existing thermal coal facilities is $2.6 billion. That work has been done by these folks sitting up in the gallery, Mr. Speaker, along with our outside consultants.

Their capital plan by their own admission, Mr. Speaker, is $21 billion . . .

[Interjections]

Speaker Goudy: — Order, please.

Hon. Jeremy Harrison: — So being very clear, Mr. Speaker, their capital plan by their own admission in their plan is $21 billion. Then they said we have to add in the maintenance, the operating, the salaries, the fuel costs. Apples-to-apples comparison, Mr. Speaker, done by SaskPower — not done by the government; done by SaskPower — the apples-to-apples comparison, the low end of their estimate is $50 billion, Mr. Speaker.

They need to be forthright with the people of this province. And, Mr. Speaker, they need to be forthright and apologize to these folks sitting up in the gallery who have literally dedicated their lives to serving this province, Mr. Speaker.

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

Cost of Rental Housing

April ChiefCalf: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I’d just like to take a moment to remind the legislature that I was once a hard-working educator in northern Saskatchewan. Nine years ago I received a pink slip when the government defunded the northern teacher education program.

Shifting gears, Mr. Speaker: people are falling further and further behind just trying to pay for the basics. The new national rent report is out, and while most provinces saw a decrease in what they pay for rent, Saskatchewan saw the second-worst rent increases. Families are being pushed past their breaking point. They can’t afford to see their rent go up and up and up.

There’s one week left to make this right, Mr. Speaker. Will that minister and his fellow members support renters in this province and vote for Bill No. 608, The Rent Control Act?

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of Finance.

Hon. Jim Reiter: — Mr. Speaker, we’ve debated this issue on the floor of this Assembly many, many times over the last few months. The member is right. The May Rentals.ca . . . the monthly report is out. But what she forgot to mention is even though they’ve increased, Saskatchewan still has the lowest average rents in the country, Mr. Speaker.

Just compare them to provinces that have rent control like the NDP are proposing, Mr. Speaker. Average rent in Saskatchewan: 1,383. NDP Manitoba with rent control: 1,640.

And NDP British Columbia, where just a few weeks ago the members opposite tried to convince the people of Saskatchewan that it was cheaper to live in Vancouver than Saskatchewan. Mr. Speaker, the people of Saskatchewan are very smart. They saw right through that. In NDP BC [British Columbia], with rent control: 2,336. Mr. Speaker, we will not be supporting that bill.

[Interjections]

Speaker Goudy: — Member from . . . moved over but still . . .

I recognize the member from Saskatoon Westview.

April ChiefCalf: — Mr. Speaker, the minister is choosing to laugh off an issue that keeps his constituents awake at night. Over the past three years, Saskatchewan has seen the highest rent increases in the country. Rents have gone up 26 per cent. Surely the minister doesn’t think that’s an increase that the average working household can just absorb.

To the minister: how many of his constituents have seen their wages increase by 26 per cent over the last three years? And how many renters in his hometown can afford those rent increases?

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of Finance.

Hon. Jim Reiter: — Mr. Speaker, I’m certainly not laughing it off. Inflationary pressures are a very real issue across this country and in this province, Mr. Speaker, but the fact of the . . .

[Interjections]

Speaker Goudy: — Please, there’s a lot of members that are speaking. We got four days left; I don’t know if that’s part of it. But please, let’s show some courtesy to the person that’s giving the response.

I recognize the Minister of Finance.

Hon. Jim Reiter: — Mr. Speaker, that’s why over two and a half billion dollars’ worth of affordability measures in this budget across a wide range. Specific to rent, that’s why the secondary suite incentive, because it’s helping to put more units on the market, Mr. Speaker, which will keep rental rates down.

And again, Mr. Speaker, the members opposite cherry-pick numbers. The fact is, the lowest average rents in the country are in Saskatchewan. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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

Legislation regarding Availability of Emergency Health Care

Keith Jorgenson: — Thank you so much, Mr. Speaker. That minister, that Premier voted against transparency in rural health care — transparency that would save lives. Bill 606 would have provided life-saving information when every single second counts, Mr. Speaker.

And I’ve been visiting people in rural Saskatchewan. And let me tell you, Mr. Speaker, I’ve been getting feedback. The mayor of Kipling endorses Bill 606 and even joined me in downtown Kipling collecting signatures pressuring this government to do the right thing.

Mr. Speaker, if this minister won’t listen to us in the opposition, will he listen to the people in Kipling and the rest of rural Saskatchewan?

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of Health.

Hon. Jeremy Cockrill: — You know, Mr. Speaker, I’ll take the opportunity to thank Mayor Jackson in Kipling for her continued advocacy for health services in her community and really her whole region of the province. I know myself and my colleague the Minister of Rural and Remote Health have had the opportunity to speak with Mayor Jackson at different points over the last several years, Mr. Speaker.

Mr. Speaker, what we are focused on is our patients-first health care plan, which again ensures that patients can get the right care at the right time and as close to home as possible. That’s what we’re focused on — filling chronic nursing vacancies, training more physicians, training more nurse practitioners, and improving outcomes for all patients in this province.

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

Keith Jorgenson: — My word, Mr. Speaker. It is so obvious that the Minister of Health is listening to no one. People in rural Saskatchewan deserve to know the most up-to-date information about emergency rooms. The mayor of Kipling agrees and even joined me in collecting signatures for our petition.

Literally every single person that we spoke to in downtown Kipling is on board with Bill 606, yet this government opposes it. And I simply do not understand why the government would vote against providing real-time information about emergency disruptions. And no one in rural Saskatchewan understands that either.

[15:00]

Will the government reverse their decision today and join with the people of Kipling and their mayor in endorsing Bill 606?

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of Health.

Hon. Jeremy Cockrill: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. As all members in the House are aware, last week we directed the Saskatchewan Health Authority to increase the frequency that they’re updating where we may have temporary service disruptions to at least twice a day or as soon as practically possible. We continue to work with the Saskatchewan Health Authority, again to provide accurate and up-to-date information to patients that’s accurate, Mr. Speaker. That’s the key point, is ensuring that there’s accurate information that’s being provided to patients.

But, Mr. Speaker, you know, last week the members opposite had four health critics and zero ideas. Now they have three health critics and zero ideas. What we have, Mr. Speaker, is a patients-first health care plan focused on 50 next steps for patients. That’s what we’re going to stay focused on.

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

Safety of Delivery Workers

Vicki Mowat: — Mr. Speaker, earlier today we stood with brave delivery workers in Saskatoon who walked off the job amid concerns about unsafe and unreasonable working conditions. They work incredibly long hours, use their own vehicles, and pay out of pocket for their expenses. They say they’re being paid per package delivered, meaning they’re being pressured into working beyond what’s reasonable, even when they’re sick.

Does the Minister of Labour think that these working conditions are appropriate?

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

Hon. Ken Cheveldayoff: — Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. All members will recall that last week in the legislature we had WorkSafe Saskatchewan here, and emphasize that this topic is indeed top of mind.

Our government is firmly committed to protecting workers and ensuring that workplaces are safe, inclusive, and supportive. If there is an instance where workplace conditions are unsafe, I would encourage people to raise these concerns with the occupational health and safety so they can look into the matter.

Currently gig workers, as they’re referred to, are generally considered to be independent contractors and not employees. This is the case in most jurisdictions across Canada.

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

Funding for Policing in the North

Hugh Gordon: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. This very hour my colleague and the member for Athabasca is standing with Birch Narrows Dene Chief Jonathon Sylvestre and calling for more policing and front-line resources. This call comes after a young mother — just 21 years old — was shot and killed early Saturday morning in Turnor Lake.

A young mother has lost her life. A child has lost his mother. A family is grieving, and an entire community is mourning.

Will the government commit right now to investing in the supports that the chief and the community have been calling for?

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

Hon. Michael Weger: — Mr. Speaker, our government is deeply saddened by the tragic event that took place in Turnor Lake, and we extend our heartfelt condolences to the friends, family, and loved ones of those affected during this incredibly difficult time.

Mr. Speaker, this government takes community safety very seriously. And we’re committed to continuing open, respectful, and constructive conversations on policing needs in First Nations communities while working closely with the RCMP community leadership to ensure policing remains responsive and effective.

And, Mr. Speaker, Saskatchewan in partnership with the federal government is also undertaking a $3 million pilot project that offers a tiered policing approach through the addition of community safety officers on First Nations. And this year’s budget expanded this First Nations community safety officer program to include First Nations such as Birch Narrows Dene Nation.

Mr. Speaker, community safety is a shared responsibility. We are committed to continuing to work with First Nations as well as Public Safety Canada and the RCMP to find the best path forward.

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

Rates of Interpersonal Violence

Nicole Sarauer: — Mr. Speaker, on April 14th we tried to bring a motion to this Assembly to declare that there is a domestic violence epidemic in Saskatchewan. The Sask Party government blocked it.

Mr. Speaker, we have the worst rates in the nation. Women and children continue to die. Why does this government refuse to declare that domestic violence in Saskatchewan is an epidemic?

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

Hon. Alana Ross: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Our government realizes that interpersonal violence is an issue in our society, and we all bear responsibility for this challenging issue. That is why we continue to invest in supports across our province through our interpersonal violence strategy. We coordinate these services through our community partners under the three pillars of the provincial strategy of prevention, intervention, and accountability.

Mr. Speaker, our government is committed to working with our community partners to protect all people of Saskatchewan and rid Saskatchewan of this abhorrent issue. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of Justice.

Hon. Tim McLeod: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise to request leave to move a motion regarding committee membership for the Standing Committee on Intergovernmental Affairs and Justice.

Speaker Goudy: — Is leave granted?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

MOTIONS

Committee Membership

Hon. Tim McLeod: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and thank you to the Assembly. I would move:

That the name of Tajinder Grewal be added to the membership of the Standing Committee on Intergovernmental Affairs and Justice.

I now so move.

Speaker Goudy: — The Minister of Justice has moved:

That the name of Tajinder Grewal be added to the membership of the Standing Committee on Intergovernmental Affairs and Justice.

Is it the agreeance of the Chamber?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Speaker Goudy: — Agreed? Carried.

Oh, sorry. I recognize the member from Saskatoon Westview.

Second Reading of Bill No. 608

April ChiefCalf: — Mr. Speaker, notwithstanding the government’s agenda and what’s published in the Orders of the Day today, I request leave to move the following motion:

That the Assembly immediately consider second reading of Bill No. 608, The Rent Control Act.

Speaker Goudy: — Is leave granted?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Some Hon. Members: — No.

Speaker Goudy: — Leave is not granted.

Can I just do something real fast? This may be a little offside. My daughter’s here. Didn’t get to introduce her at introductions and I’m late. Her class is leaving.

Could I ask, would the Minister of Education, the best minister, the member from Melfort, mind going and saying hi to my daughter and her class as the Education minister? I just can’t leave the Chair, and they’re leaving the building. Would you mind? They already got their ice cream.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of Education.

Hon. Everett Hindley: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker, for this very unconventional intervention that we’re having today in question period. Mr. Speaker, on your behalf I’d be happy to introduce guests in the gallery here. They’re gone . . . [inaudible interjection] . . . Oh, go out and talk to them? Mr. Speaker, I’d be happy to go and chat with the guests today. If there’s any other unexpected guests you’re expecting tomorrow, perhaps a heads up, but I’m happy to introduce them. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Speaker Goudy: — They’re at the front door. All right.

ORDERS OF THE DAY

GOVERNMENT ORDERS

Deputy Clerk: — Committee of Finance.

Speaker Goudy: — I do now leave the Chair for the Committee of Finance. So I guess I can go.

COMMITTEE OF FINANCE

Motions for Supply

Chair B. McLeod: — The items before the committee are the appropriation resolutions. I recognize the Minister of Finance.

Hon. Jim Reiter: — I move the following resolution no. 1:

Resolved that towards making good the supply granted to His Majesty on account of certain charges and expenses of the public service for the fiscal year ending March 31st, 2026, the sum of $654,878,000 be granted out of the General Revenue Fund.

Chair B. McLeod: — The Minister of Finance has moved resolution no. 1:

Is the committee ready for the question?

Some Hon. Members: — Question.

Chair B. McLeod: — Is it the pleasure of the committee to adopt the motion?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Chair B. McLeod: — Carried. I recognize the Minister of Finance.

Hon. Jim Reiter: — Mr. Chair, I move the following resolution no. 2:

Resolved that towards making good the supply granted to His Majesty on account of certain charges and expenses of the public service for the fiscal year ending March 31st, 2027, the sum of $18,958,410,000 be granted out of the General Revenue Fund.

Chair B. McLeod: — The Minister of Finance has moved resolution no. 2:

Is the committee ready for the question?

Some Hon. Members: — Question.

Chair B. McLeod: — Is it the pleasure of the committee to adopt the motion?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Chair B. McLeod: — Carried. There being no further business before the committee, I would invite a member to move that the committee rise, report progress, and ask for leave to sit again. I recognize the Government House Leader.

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

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

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Chair B. McLeod: — Carried.

[The Speaker resumed the Chair.]

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Chair of Committees.

[15:15]

Blaine McLeod: — Mr. Speaker, the Committee of Finance has agreed to certain resolutions, has instructed me to report the same, and to ask you for leave to sit again.

Speaker Goudy: — When shall the resolutions be read the first time? I recognize the Minister of Finance.

FIRST AND SECOND READINGS OF RESOLUTIONS

Hon. Jim Reiter: — Mr. Speaker, I move that the resolutions be now read the first and second time.

Speaker Goudy: — The minister has moved that the resolutions be now read the first and second time. Is it the pleasure of the Assembly to adopt the motion?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Speaker Goudy: — Carried.

Deputy Clerk: — First and second reading of the resolutions.

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

Hon. Jim Reiter: — Next sitting, Mr. Speaker.

Speaker Goudy: — Next sitting. Pursuant to rule 32(1), the Minister of Finance shall move first reading of the appropriation bill. I recognize the Finance minister.

APPROPRIATION BILL

Bill No. 60 — The Appropriation Act, 2026 (No. 1)

Hon. Jim Reiter: — Mr. Speaker, I move that Bill No. 60, The Appropriation Act, 2026 (No. 1) be now introduced and read the first time.

Speaker Goudy: — The Minister of Finance has moved that Bill No. 60, The Appropriation Act, 2026 (No. 1) 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? I recognize the Minister of Finance.

Hon. Jim Reiter: — Mr. Speaker, I request leave to move the second and third reading of Bill No. 60, The Appropriation Act, 2026 (No. 1) immediately.

Speaker Goudy: — The Minister of Finance has requested leave to move second and third reading of Bill No. 60, The Appropriation Act, 2026 (No. 1) immediately. Is leave granted?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Speaker Goudy: — Leave has been granted. The minister may proceed.

Hon. Jim Reiter: — Mr. Speaker, pursuant to rule 32(1)(e), I move that Bill No. 60, The Appropriation Act, 2026 (No. 1) be now read a second and third time.

Speaker Goudy: — The Minister of Finance has moved second and third reading of Bill No. 60, The Appropriation Act, 2026 (No. 1). Is the Assembly ready for the question?

Some Hon. Members: — Question.

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

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Some Hon. Members: — No.

Speaker Goudy: — Call in the members.

[The division bells rang from 15:17 until 15:20.]

Speaker Goudy: — All those in favour of the motion please stand.

[Yeas — 32]

Moe

Gartner

Kaeding

Marit

Cockrill

Reiter

Hindley

Harrison, J.

Cheveldayoff

Schmalz

Jenson

Weger

Keisig

Martens

Wilson

Rowden

Ross

McLeod, T.

Carr

Crassweller

Steele

Young, C.

Harrison, D.

Weedmark

Kropf

McLeod, B.

Patterson

Bromm

Hilbert

Chan

Thorsteinson

Kasun

Speaker Goudy: — Would all those opposed to the motion please stand.

[Nays — 23]

Beck

Ritchie

Burki

Clarke

Mowat

Wotherspoon

Love

Young, A.

Gordon

McPhail

Conway

Sarauer

Breckner

Blakley

Grewal

ChiefCalf

Jorgenson

Brar

McBean

Pratchler

Housser

Senger

Roy

Clerk Assistant: — Mr. Speaker, those in favour of the motion, 32; those opposed to the motion, 23.

Speaker Goudy: — I declare the motion carried.

Deputy Clerk: — Second and third reading of this bill.

Committee of the Whole on Bills.

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

COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE ON BILLS

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

Clause 1-1

Chair B. McLeod: — Pursuant to rule 89, the Assembly has committed Bill No. 43, The Municipalities Modernization and Red Tape Reduction Act to this committee. Before we begin I would like to remind members of the procedures for Committee of the Whole on Bills pursuant to rule 90.

When a bill is committed to a Committee of the Whole on Bills pursuant to rule 89, the following procedures shall apply:

Two hours will be allocated to Private Members for questions and comments.

Private Members may be recognized more than once but must yield the floor after 20 minutes; should the list of speakers be exhausted before the two hours are up, Members who have already spoken may be permitted to speak again.

No time limits shall apply to the Minister of the Crown who is responsible for the bill while responding to questions.

Once the time allocated for questions and comments has expired and upon the completion of the Minister’s responses, the Chair shall put every question necessary to report the bill to the Assembly.

Minister, you have already indicated to me that you have no officials, and so we will dispense with the introductions. No officials present; I’ll correct myself.

By practice, the committee holds a wide-ranging debate during consideration of clause 1. The debate may include the principal and details of all clauses of the bill. Once clause 1 is voted on, the debate is limited to the clause under consideration.

Clause 1, short title. No opening statement. Any comments or questions on the bill? Seeing none, we will proceed to the vote on the clauses. Clause 1, short title, is that agreed?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Chair B. McLeod: — Carried.

[Clause 1-1 agreed to.]

[Clause 2‑1 agreed to.]

Clause 2‑2

Chair B. McLeod: — Clause 2‑2, is that agreed? I hear a no, so I’ll be calling for a voice . . . Those in favour of clause 2‑2 as written please say aye.

Some Hon. Members: — Aye.

Chair B. McLeod: — Those opposed to clause 2‑2 as written please say no.

Some Hon. Members: — No.

Chair B. McLeod: — I think the nos have it. Clause 2‑2 is not agreed. The clause is defeated.

[Clause 2‑2 not agreed to.]

[15:30]

[Clauses 2‑3 to 2‑33 inclusive agreed to.]

Clause 2‑34

Chair B. McLeod: — Clause 2-34, is that agreed?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Some Hon. Members: — No.

Chair B. McLeod: — I hear a no, so I will be calling for a voice vote. Those in favour of clause 2-34 as written, please say aye.

Some Hon. Members: — Aye.

Chair B. McLeod: — Those opposed to clause 2-34 as written, please say no.

Some Hon. Members: — No.

Chair B. McLeod: — The nos have it. Clause 2-34 is not agreed. The clause is defeated.

[Clause 2-34 not agreed to.]

[Clauses 2‑35 to 2‑38 inclusive agreed to.]

Clause 2‑39

Chair B. McLeod: — Clause 2‑39, is that agreed?

Some Hon. Members: — No.

Chair B. McLeod: — I hear a no, so I will be calling a voice vote. Those in favour of clause 2‑39 as written, please say aye.

Some Hon. Members: — Aye.

Chair B. McLeod: — Those opposed to clause 2‑39 as written, please say no.

Some Hon. Members: — No.

Chair B. McLeod: — I think the noes have it. Clause 2‑39 is not agreed. The clause is defeated.

[Clause 2‑39 not agreed to.]

[Clauses 2‑40 and 2-41 agreed to.]

Chair B. McLeod: — There we go. That’s the place where I wanted to be. This bill has over 100 remaining clauses. Is the committee in agreement that we review the rest of the bill by parts?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

[Clauses 3‑1 to 6-1 inclusive agreed to.]

Chair B. McLeod: — His Majesty, by and with the advice and consent of the Legislative Assembly of Saskatchewan, enacts as follows: Bill No. 43, The Municipalities Modernization and Red Tape Reduction Act.

I recognize the Minister of Government Relations.

Hon. Eric Schmalz: — I move that the committee report the bill with amendment.

Chair B. McLeod: — It has been moved that the committee report Bill No. 43, The Municipalities Modernization and Red Tape Reduction Act with amendment. Is that agreed?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

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

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

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

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Chair B. McLeod: — Carried.

[The Speaker resumed the Chair.]

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Chair of Committees.

Blaine McLeod: — Mr. Speaker, I’m instructed by the committee to report Bill No. 43, The Municipalities Modernization and Red Tape Reduction Act with amendment.

Speaker Goudy: — When shall the amendments be read a first time? I recognize the Minister of Government Relations.

FIRST AND SECOND READINGS OF AMENDMENTS

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

Hon. Eric Schmalz: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I move that the amendments be now read a first and second time.

Speaker Goudy: — It has been moved by the minister that the amendments be now read a first and second time. Is it the pleasure of the Assembly to adopt the motion?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Speaker Goudy: — Carried.

Deputy Clerk: — First and second reading of the amendments.

Speaker Goudy: — The minister may move third reading.

THIRD READINGS

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

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

Speaker Goudy: — It has been moved that Bill No. 43, The Municipalities Modernization and Red Tape Reduction Act be now read the third time and passed under its title. Is the Assembly ready for the question?

Some Hon. Members: — Question.

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

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Speaker Goudy: — Carried.

Deputy Clerk: — Third reading of this bill.

Speaker Goudy: — When shall this committee sit again? I recognize the Government House Leader.

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

Speaker Goudy: — Next sitting. I recognize the Government House Leader.

Hon. Tim McLeod: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I move that the Assembly do now adjourn.

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

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

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

[The Assembly adjourned at 15:50.]

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

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