Hon. Ken Cheveldayoff: — Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker and colleagues. I’d like all of you to help welcome no stranger to this Legislative Assembly, the former MLA [Member of the Legislative Assembly] for Saskatoon Greystone, Rob Norris. Rob, it’s great to have you here.

Rob’s of course a former minister of Advanced Education, a former minister of Labour. And as we always say, we stand on the shoulders of those who have come before us. And that’s certainly true in the case of Rob. He’s done a great deal to help this government, to help this province. And he’s continuing to do the same, just in a different way.

Rob is on the board of Max Power, a natural hydrogen company — a clean, affordable hydrogen — and it’s one of the burgeoning industries in Saskatchewan. They are working closely through our Vietnam trade office, and I know Rob is helping to make some of those connections there. And I know they have a big day in Moose Jaw tomorrow.

So, Mr. Speaker, through you to all colleagues on both sides of the House, please help me welcome the Hon. Rob Norris to his Legislative Assembly.

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

Brent Blakley: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Just on behalf of the official opposition, I’d also like to welcome Rob Norris to his Legislative Assembly and thank him for his years of service.

We also have a young gentleman sitting at the back here: Maynard Sonntag, who was an MLA for Meadow Lake from 1991 to 2007. And he served this legislature well under very . . . a number of cabinet positions. And he’s also a constituent in Regina Wascana Plains and a very valued member of my constituency executive. So I would like to welcome Maynard Sonntag to his Legislative Assembly.

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

Hon. Terry Jenson: — Well thank you, Mr. Speaker. To you and through you this afternoon, I’d like to welcome a guest that’s joining us in the west gallery: Amy-Louise Roberts. So if Amy can give us a quick wave. Amy is part of the Regina Youth Advisory Team, Mr. Speaker. Her work with the team, along with the other members from across the province, is helping to ensure that young people transitioning out of care are supported to build skills, secure employment, and stay connected to their community, culture, and identity.

Mr. Speaker, recently Amy-Louise played an integral role in developing the newly opened semi-independent living program at nîkikiskamik here in Regina. Mr. Speaker, by sharing her lived experience, she helped identify the need for the home, guided the planning, and played a key role in selecting the YWCA of Regina as the operator.

On behalf of our government, I want to thank Amy-Louise and all the members of the Regina Youth Advisory Team for your leadership and your contributions to your community, to providing improving outcomes for youth not only here in Regina but setting an example for youth right across this province. So I’d ask all members to join me in welcoming Amy-Louise to this, her Saskatchewan legislature.

And while I’m on my feet, Mr. Speaker, in the west gallery we are joined today by 21 grade 4 to 12 home-schooled students from rural Saskatoon, rural route 2, which I believe is north and somewhat east of Saskatoon, if memory serves me correct. They’re accompanied by their teacher Erin Kluthe, as well as parent chaperones Viv Pan, Karen and Mike Livingstone, Rina Fradette, Megan Peter, Darla MacDiarmid, and Carla Ransom.

So you know, to the students that are here today: welcome to this, your Legislative Assembly, and thank you for taking the time to come down today to visit us. And I hope you enjoy what you see today as part of democracy in action. And on behalf of everybody on the floor of this Legislative Assembly, would you please join me in welcoming these 21 students, home-schooled students from rural Saskatoon.

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

Noor Burki: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. To you, through you, there is an amazing couple sitting in your gallery. Mr. Speaker, one of them is my daughter Saadia Burki, and I’m glad that we have a son-in-law. A couple of years he came to Canada. So Mustafa Burki, he’s with them. And a little Daniyal Burki as well is there. He occupied in the morning my seat for a little while, but you know, it’s very amazing, Mr. Speaker.

Saadia is working with Saskatchewan Cancer Agency for many years. I’m very proud of her. When we moved to Canada, at that time she was only three years. So she been teaching me a lot of things, and I learned a lot from her. And she is not only my daughter. I consider her as my fellow, so giving me advice in each and every steps. As you know that I have seven daughters, so she is one of the role models for my seven girls as well.

Mr. Speaker, with that I will respect all members to join me and give them a warm welcome to their Legislative Assembly.

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

Hon. Michael Weger: — Mr. Speaker, I seek leave for an extended introduction.

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

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Hon. Michael Weger: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, it’s National Police Week and it’s also nurses week, and I’d like to touch on both during this introduction. I’ll start with introducing Karamjeet Karam. She’s seated up in your gallery, Mr. Speaker.

Karamjeet entered the justice studies diploma program at Bow Valley College back in 2022. In August of 2024, just weeks after graduating, Karamjeet applied to the Regina Police Service. She advanced through a demanding series of interviews, assessments, and evaluations, earning a formal offer in April of 2025. Karamjeet completed six months of her intensive police training at the Saskatchewan Police College and graduated in December 2025.

Today, Mr. Speaker, Karamjeet proudly serves as the first south-Asian female police officer with the Regina Police Service. Mr. Speaker, this is a remarkable career achievement. It reflects her perseverance, professionalism, and unwavering determination. Karamjeet is committed to building trust with the community she serves and modelling ethical, community-orientated policing in practice. I’d ask all members to join me in welcoming Karamjeet to this, her Legislative Assembly.

Secondly, Mr. Speaker, in recognition of nurses week, I would like to introduce the dynamic duo from Weyburn, Saskatchewan. We have Raquel Carlson and Erin Bell, and they’re seated in the back row of the west gallery.

Mr. Speaker, a little bit about Raquel. She began her career in Weyburn in 2012 as a registered nurse on the medical surgical unit at the Weyburn General Hospital. Shortly after that she transitioned to the ICU [intensive care unit] and then as an ER [emergency room] supervisor. But in 2015 she returned to school to become a nurse practitioner and she graduated in 2017.

Following graduation, with limited opportunities available as a nurse practitioner, she had to do a one-year job-share between Kipling and Lampman, commuting one and a half hours each way to serve those communities, Mr. Speaker. After returning from a maternity leave though she has begun full-time at the Weyburn Primary Health Care Clinic, where she continues to provide care to patients in Weyburn and the surrounding area, including travel to the rural clinic in Fillmore one day a week, which is where Raquel grew up, Mr. Speaker.

Raquel, one other thing I have to mention. She has dedicated much of her time to prioritizing women’s health, Mr. Speaker, speaking at many events about perimenopause and menopause, providing education and laughs to many women around our province. My wife has been fortunate enough to attend one of these events and couldn’t say enough about the information and came home to tell me all about menopause. And I’ll admit, Mr. Speaker, I don’t know enough about menopause, but I know more now than I used to know.

With that, Mr. Speaker, I’d ask everyone to welcome Raquel Carlson to this, her Legislative Assembly.

And seated beside Raquel is Erin Bell. And Erin has a great career in nursing as well, Mr. Speaker, began back in 2006. She’s had various roles throughout our community. She became an RN [registered nurse] in 2012, and since then she has explored many different areas of health care — acute care, public health, emergency nursing, palliative care, and now primary care as a clinic nurse. And last year, Mr. Speaker, she began training to become an additional authorized practice RN, or an AAP, which will . . . She’ll be completing this training in the next coming weeks, Mr. Speaker.

Also fun fact about Erin: she’s a busy mom of five children, Mr. Speaker. And one of those children is her daughter Heidi. Heidi is a very excellent goalie, and I’ve just had the absolute pleasure to have her on many of my hockey teams throughout the years. So I’ll ask everyone to welcome Erin to this, her Legislative Assembly.

Lastly, Mr. Speaker, wasn’t expecting this totally but glad that it worked out. But I’m happy to introduce my daughter Teresa to the Legislative Assembly. Her sisters have stopped in over the last couple of weeks and so she’s making her appearance. And so welcome her to this Assembly. She just finished her third year of business admin at the University of Regina. I am lucky enough, as her occasional roommate, to see the hard work and perseverance she puts into her studies plus her part-time job. And it’ll be a full-time summer job working for Cystic Fibrosis Canada. So thank you for Teresa for coming to visit today.

And beside Teresa is her mom, Cara. And she doesn’t want me to introduce her again, Mr. Speaker, but I did an absolute horrible job on Mother’s Day so I’m making up for it right now. Our Mother’s Day involved me getting her a coffee from Tim Hortons and sharing it in a parking lot of a hockey rink here in Saskatchewan for about a 15‑ to 20‑minute conversation before we parted ways and she went back to Weyburn to begin her week and I stayed here in Regina.

So thank you to my wife, Cara, for everything she does for our family, for me, through this career. And the Premier says it many times: we do not serve alone. It could not be more true in our case, Mr. Speaker. So Cara, happy belated Mother’s Day. I love you. Thank you for everything you do for our family.

And with that I think I’m done, Mr. Speaker, the longest introduction ever. But I’d ask all members to join me in welcoming these individuals to this, their Legislative Assembly.

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

Jared Clarke: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. To you and through you, I’d like to introduce two guests seated in the east gallery. These are two folks that normally watch proceedings on TV, but they thought they would come in and see it live in person today. And that of course is my mom, Ramona Clarke, and my sister Jess.

I just want to say to my mom, thank you for all you’ve done for me over the last 40 years now. My mom has been an amazing supporter through my campaign, through all of my campaigns, and through my life in many, many ways.

And she’s just back from a trip to Portugal and had a blast. But I will say she was a CPA [chartered professional accountant] for her career but now enjoys her role as a fierce grandma, and referred to by her six grandchildren as Meemaw. And I’m forever grateful for her support and protection that she gives those grandkids.

Seated beside her is my sister Jess, a fierce mom as well to two little ones, Kove and Stevie. I don’t want to say favourite nieces and nephews of mine, but . . . Hansard won’t reflect my hand gestures there so we’re all good. But she is an amazing mom and I’m so proud to call her my sister for everything that she does in the world and the person that she’s become. So I ask all members to join me in welcoming these two amazing people to their Legislative Assembly.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of Health.

Hon. Jeremy Cockrill: — Well thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to join with the member from Weyburn-Bengough in welcoming Erin and Raquel to their legislature. We had an opportunity to have a quick discussion before the House today just on how we can continue to improve access to primary care for patients in Weyburn and region.

But I’d also like to take a moment to recognize Teresa Weger joining us today in the legislature. Teresa, as the member mentioned, is seated beside her mother, Cara, up in the west gallery.

[13:45]

Mr. Speaker, May is Cystic Fibrosis Awareness Month, and Teresa has been a strong advocate for people in our province living with CF [cystic fibrosis], creating awareness, speaking at events from the time that she was eight years old. And despite her increasing health challenges with this progressive disease, she continues to inspire her community with her hard work in school, teaching young dancers, and also maintaining a job with Cystic Fibrosis Canada. She continues to be a strong leader in the CF community, sharing her own personal journey to create awareness and advocate for other patients living with CF in our province.

Please join me today, Mr. Speaker, in welcoming Raquel and Erin and Teresa and Cara to this, their legislature.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of Highways.

Hon. Kim Gartner: — Mr. Speaker, to you and through you, I would like to — and to all members — it’s my pleasure to introduce Jason Pilat sitting up in the west gallery. Jason is the administrator for the RM [rural municipality] of Eye Hill in the fabulous community of Macklin.

Jason is in town this week for the annual Rural Municipal Administrators’ Convention. As a former administrator, Mr. Speaker, I can sympathize with Jason on the challenges of being a rural administrator. I fully understand why he’s in town for some education sessions. Jason has contributed greatly though, Mr. Speaker, to the recent changes to The Municipalities Act, working closely with officials towards improving the collection of tax arrears in the energy sector.

And, Jason, I want to thank you for your contributions, and I ask all members to join with me in welcoming Jason to this, his Legislative Assembly.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of SaskBuilds.

Hon. Sean Wilson: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I have a few introductions, so I will start with 13 grade 8 students from the beautiful village of Hyas from the Northstar School. Give the members a wave. They’re accompanied by their teacher Hanley Fehr and seven parent chaperones. I’m looking forward to finally cracking that box of ice cream that I’ve been waiting for since I’ve gotten elected to share with the students. I invite all members to welcome them to their Legislative Assembly.

And in addition to that, finally I have Clarissa here. I have my CA [constituency assistant], Clarissa. Now if we want to stay here till 7 o’clock I could tell everybody here everything she’s done for me. But in the last three years she’s been with me every step of the way. So I appreciate everything that Clarissa’s done for me.

But next to her is our summer student, Lila — no relation — Wilson. And I just want to say a few things about Lila. First of all, I graduated with her mom, Alissa. She was a really good friend of mine. Her dad — National Police Week — at the time her dad was the youngest cadet that graduated from the RCMP [Royal Canadian Mounted Police] Depot here in Regina. I think he was in when he was 19 and he graduated two years after he turned 20. And I knew he was a young graduate, because when he may or may not have pulled me over a few times, it made no sense that there was this guy that looked like he was the same age as me pulling me over.

But one more thing about Lila. I think everyone in this House has been bit by the political bug in one way or another. I have a picture, in 2016, of Brad Wall at the MLA in Canora’s office with this little girl, shaking her hand. And in the background is a much younger Minister of Education as well, but that little girl was Lila. And I’m so fortunate to have her working with us this summer, and I’m very sure this won’t be the last we’ll see of her in the House.

So I invite all members to welcome those two to their Legislative Assembly.

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

Hon. Warren Kaeding: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. To you and through you, to all members of the Assembly, I rise today to recognize a valued member of our team who this will be her last day employed at our TED [Trade and Export Development] office, and that’s Valeria Jaansoo, who is seated at the top side, top end of the west gallery.

Valeria has been a junior admin, bringing with her a very strong background in accounting and a science degree in chemistry from the University of Regina. And originally from Estonia, Valeria came to Canada in 2014, quickly worked her way to Saskatchewan, and certainly has deep roots and hard work, continuous learning.

She’s fluent in multiple languages and certainly brings a very global perspective and a quiet confidence to everything that she does here. Our TED office to Valeria is very . . . recognizes her incredible work ethic, but also her love of coffee, her passion for travel, and her commitment to staying connected with family no matter the distance, Mr. Speaker.

So while we’re sad to see her go, we’re also grateful for her contributions, the impact that she has made during her short time with us, and certainly appreciate the efforts. And she is continuing to stay in Regina but will be working in the private sector.

So I ask all members to thank Valeria for her service and wish her well in her future endeavours. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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

Hon. Jeremy Harrison: — Well thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. A couple introductions. I want to join with members opposite in welcoming Maynard Sonntag to his legislature — a gentleman, somebody who I’ve known for a very long time, and who served with dignity and honour our constituency of Meadow Lake.

Would also like to introduce two folks in the west gallery, Mr. Speaker, one of whom, Tennille Olson, works in our Crown Investments Corporation office as a ministerial assistant. And she is joined by her son Parker Parent.

Parker graduated from Campbell in 2024 in the French immersion program. He’s currently enrolled in the apprenticeship program for mechanics and employed at Bennett Dunlop Ford. He has a passion for politics his entire life. He’s assisted with many campaigns, Mr. Speaker, at every level of government.

I would ask members to join me in welcoming Tennille and Parker to their Legislative Assembly.

Speaker Goudy: — I had a few quick introductions as well. Darla McDiarmid in the west gallery, just a quick word about her family. When I was young, my dad knew a lot of people, and he’d said about her parents, they . . . you know, lots of times people call themselves Christians, but you know, they don’t really follow that very well. But her mom and dad were the best example to us of what that truly embodied. And so her and her family, it’s been a privilege to know them.

Her and her husband live in Saskatoon now. He’s a builder, Paul. He wasn’t able to come here this morning, but she showed up with two of her girls and their friends here. So welcome to your Legislative Assembly.

Quickly to Cara: the introduction, I’d like to clip it from the Minister of Community Safety, because I think a lot of us husbands like to hear when somebody else has a Mother’s Day like that. Not that it’s good, but it says a lot of what their wives put up with — and her husband — so thank you very much for putting up with us and him.

And finally, all of our CAs, we think they’re the best, but mine keeps me organized. So if anybody can trump that . . . So Sherrie Glister is here today with us, and not only a good CA but a good friend. And the more I get to know her, the more I appreciate her. Though she did come into the building today, she walks into the office and she says, where’s the boss? It’s like, oh, wow. So she’s going to tell you that I make her call me Boss, but if it wasn’t unparliamentary to say that’s a lie, I would say that. So I apologize and withdraw for calling you a liar. But we were walking around the building, and so I was introducing her and showing her around. And we walked by the Premier’s office, and I said, now do not call me Boss.

But anyways, Sherrie Glister, welcome to your legislature. And please welcome her and all the members here in the galleries to their Legislative Assembly.

You’re going to introduce? Okay, yes. Member from Saskatoon Chief Mistawasis, yeah.

Don McBean: — I apologize, Mr. Speaker. I see up in the gallery two people that I started crossing paths with when I served as the official of a citizenship ceremony — one of my first duties as a MLA — and I met Kate and Bill Greyeyes. Kate was gaining her Canadian citizenship, and the name Greyeyes was familiar to me, having been in the public school system for as long. We had a lovely conversation that day.

Our paths have crossed so many times since. And there’s a bit of a running joke that I finally learned Bill’s name. Because every time I would see him, it would be in a different context and I wouldn’t know who he was and he would remind me. And so I just wish to have everyone welcome, to their Assembly, Kate and Bill Greyeyes.

PRESENTING PETITIONS

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

Noor Burki: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise today to present a 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 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’s 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, Manitoba, Ontario, and Newfoundland and Labrador have all proclaimed October as Islamic Heritage Month.

We, in the prayer that reads as follows, respectfully 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 Eastview.

Matt Love: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I’m honoured to rise and present a petition to the Legislative Assembly of Saskatchewan calling for financial support for Saskatchewan residents who must leave the province to obtain medically necessary health care that is not available within Saskatchewan. This petition was initiated by Tammy O’Brien, somebody who has come to this Assembly to advocate for the same things that are in this petition.

You see, Mr. Speaker, in June of 2024 Tammy was diagnosed with a rare, benign brain tumour, requiring treatment that is not available here in Saskatchewan. She was referred to Edmonton for this medically necessary procedure. However the Saskatchewan government does not cover out-of-province travel expenses for treatments unavailable within the province.

Those who signed this petition would like us to know that this undermines equitable access to health care, and places undue hardship on patients seeking medically necessary services.

I’ll read the prayer, Mr. Speaker:

We, in the prayer that reads as follows, respectfully request that the Legislative Assembly of Saskatchewan to amend provincial health care policy so that the Government of Saskatchewan provides financial support or reimbursement for reasonable travel-related expenses, including travel, accommodation, meals, and incidentals incurred by Saskatchewan residents who must leave the province to obtain medically necessary treatments or procedures not available within Saskatchewan.

Those who signed the petition are from Saskatoon and Dundurn. I do so present.

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

Don McBean: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise to present a petition to the Legislative Assembly to build a school in White City.

We, the undersigned residents of the province of Saskatchewan, wish to bring to the attention the following: that the towns of White City, Emerald Park, and the surrounding communities have seen a sharp increase in population in recent years; that many high schools in the surrounding rural municipalities are at or over capacity; that White City and Emerald Park are the largest communities in Saskatchewan with no high school and the only one with a combined population of 5,000 or more; and that a high school is needed to fulfill the educational needs of the thousands of families that have moved into east Regina, White City, and its surrounding communities who have children attending high school in the next three years.

We, in the prayer that reads as follows, respectfully request the Legislative Assembly of Saskatchewan call on the Government of Saskatchewan to immediately prioritize the building of a high school in White City, with definitive plans to open the doors by the 2028 school year.

The signatories to this petition reside in White City. Thank you.

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

Brent Blakley: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise to present a petition calling on the Legislative Assembly of Saskatchewan for the acceleration of the 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 and that families living in new developments in this area do not have a school in their area to send their children; that the schools’ libraries, dance studios, teachers’ lounge and multi-purpose rooms have all been used as temporary classrooms; that all children have a right to a well-rounded education in a safe environment.

[14:00]

With that, Mr. Speaker, I’ll read the prayer:

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 Nutana.

Remembering Linda Moskalyk

Erika Ritchie: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise today to honour the life and legacy of Linda Moskalyk, a beloved constituent of Saskatoon Nutana who passed away last summer after a courageous battle with cancer. I read from The Last Arborist by Paul Wilson:

Once, in another time,

I believed that souls resided in trees.

For those who knew Linda, that line rings true. She spent her life tracing branches as an arborist, an artist, and an environmental advocate connecting people with the living world around us. Through her work with the city of Saskatoon and as president of SOS Trees Coalition, Linda helped protect our city’s iconic elm trees. She advanced awareness of Dutch elm disease and championed public education through initiatives like the Saskatoon Tree Tour.

Her heart and teaching carried that same purpose. Linda once wrote that she wanted her work to elevate the spirits, inspire thought, and communicate a message. And she did exactly that through every tree she planted, every class she taught, and every piece of art that urged us to look closer and care more deeply. She reminded us that there is so much humanity in the love of trees, forest, and our natural environment.

Mr. Speaker, our community, our province, and our planet are greener because of Linda Moskalyk’s life and work. She will be deeply missed and warmly remembered.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the member from Yorkton.

Concert for Youth Spreads Hope

David Chan: — Mr. Speaker, I’m pleased to recognize an incredible event that took place in Yorkton just yesterday: a concert, free of charge, put on by the Robb Nash Project, inspired by Robb Nash himself.

Robb is a chart-topping musician who has been signed by major record labels. But this wasn’t just any old concert. Years ago Robb made the decision to turn down his burgeoning fame and fortune to instead follow what was in his heart — helping young people struggling with mental health and suicidal thoughts to know they’re not alone, that they matter, and that help is available.

Robb shares powerfully from his personal story of having gone through those very struggles to then finding hope, purpose, and strength. Through his tour, Robb has connected with over 800,000 students and has seen nearly 1,000 young people give up their suicide notes. We heard story after story of young people whose lives had been changed by this project, and were even introduced to some who have now joined Robb on his mission to spread hope.

The Gallagher arena was filled with more than 1,400 students from Yorkton and area. Mr. Speaker, I want to thank and recognize Ron Hanishewsky and the Yorkton Kinsmen for bringing Robb Nash to Yorkton. Their sponsorship, hosting, and volunteering made it possible. And to top it off, the Yorkton Kinsmen donated $80,000 to the Robb Nash Project.

Through it all, the students in the arena were captivated. The music was catchy, but the message is what grabbed their attention. It was real, it was relatable, it was powerful. Thank you to the Robb Nash Project and the Yorkton Kinsmen for letting our youth know that they matter.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the member from Athabasca.

Northern Town Hall Focuses on Finding Solutions

Leroy Laliberte: — Mr. Speaker, northerners know exactly what their needs, challenges, and priorities are. I am proud every day to represent a region where there are many champions capable of bringing about change. This is why, Mr. Speaker, I was proud to organize and host a town hall on January 29th of this year. It was for northern leadership and technicians focused in the areas of community safety, addictions, and mental health and to attend and discuss these solutions.

The RCMP “F” Division joined us in Beauval to present where things were at and we welcomed many community-minded leaders to share what they were faced with. I would like to thank my colleague from Cumberland for attending, and also the former colleague from Saskatoon Centre.

I have much more to say in regarding solutions brought forward by my constituents, Mr. Speaker, but I would like to take the time to acknowledge all of those that helped make the initial conversations a success. On this side of the Assembly, Mr. Speaker, we are focused on finding solutions alongside the very people that elected us. We do find the best path forward for all people in Saskatchewan. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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

Scholarship Recipients Exemplify Academic Excellence

Barret Kropf: — Mr. Speaker, each year our government partners with the University of Regina and the University of Saskatchewan to recognize outstanding graduate and post-graduate students through the Saskatchewan Lieutenant Governor Scholarships. This year, for the first time, our government is awarding four separate $20,000 scholarships.

The recipients of the Saskatchewan Lieutenant Governor Scholarship are Megan Zak and Mehdi Khalaj. Megan is pursuing a Ph.D. [Doctor of Philosophy] in biology at the U of R [University of Regina]. Her research explores the biology of livestock disease and how it’s regulated in agricultural environments. Mehdi is completing a Ph.D. in computer science at the U of S [University of Saskatchewan]. He is focusing on quantum bioinformatics to advance personalized medication.

The recipients of the Saskatchewan Lieutenant Governor Indigenous Scholarships are Christopher Hansen and Katie Tolley. Christopher is pursuing a master’s in energy systems engineering at the U of R. He is researching advanced nuclear fuel technologies that support emissions reduction and strengthen Saskatchewan’s nuclear sector. Katie is completing a Ph.D. in public health at the University of Saskatchewan. Her research examines Métis youth sexual health education to support culturally responsive teaching and policy development.

Mr. Speaker, these four students exemplify academic excellence and research innovation. The future of Saskatchewan sure is bright with them there. I ask all members to join me in congratulating them on this significant achievement. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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

Reaction to Power Generation Plan

Jared Clarke: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. This Premier is cancelling critically needed renewable energy projects so he can pour $26 billion into coal plants from the 1970s. It’s right there in black and white in a briefing note from SaskPower. That note also says that that Premier’s coal catastrophe carries an extreme risk profile, and it will double power rates between now and 2040.

What makes this even worse is that they tried to hide it all. And I want to thank the brave individuals who helped us expose this coal catastrophe. At a time when Saskatchewan should be building towards a cleaner, cheaper, and more renewable energy future, this Premier is fixated on doing anything but that. How out of touch, Mr. Speaker. He’s so comfortable in that, that he thought he could slip a $26 billion spend of Saskatchewan people’s money past them and that no one would notice. Think again, Mr. Speaker.

I want the Premier to know that every member of this caucus is going to take that Premier’s coal plan out on the road this summer. And we will expose him and this catastrophe for what it is — another in a long list of Sask Party boondoggles. This one perhaps worse than all of the others, and that’s saying something, Mr. Speaker.

Saskatchewan, we can fight back. We don’t have to settle for this anymore, and change can’t come soon enough.

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

National Nursing Week

Hon. Sean Wilson: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Today I rise to recognize May 11th to 17th as National Nursing Week to celebrate the incredible nurses across Saskatchewan who keep our health care system moving every single day with professionalism, compassion, and care. This year’s theme, The Power of Nurses to Transform Health, highlights the meaningful difference nurses make each day to put patients first by ensuring the right care is available in the right place at the right time.

Nursing professionals such as licensed practical nurses, registered nurses, registered psychiatric nurses, continuing care assistants, and nurse practitioners all play a vital role in communities big and small across Saskatchewan. Nurses are there for births, emergencies, recoveries, and everything in between. They’re often the calm voice in difficult moments, and the steady hand people count on.

Mr. Speaker, I ask all members to join me in thanking the nurses across Saskatchewan for their care, compassion, and dedication to the health and well-being of people in our province. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the member from Weyburn-Bengough.

New Weyburn General Hospital to Provide Expanded Care

Hon. Michael Weger: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, it’s another great day in Saskatchewan. And it’s a great day in Weyburn, Mr. Speaker, because we have a new Weyburn General Hospital.

Three weeks ago I was proud to join the MLA from Moosomin-Montmartre, the Minister for Rural and Remote Health, the Minister of Health, the Minister Responsible for SaskBuilds and Procurement, Weyburn & District Hospital Foundation members, and other community leaders to tour the new Weyburn General Hospital.

This new 35‑bed facility will provide expanded health care, including 25 acute care beds, 10 in-patient mental health beds, EMS [emergency medical services] ambulance, ambulatory care, a heliport, a social work and allied health workspace, and office space for the Weyburn Hospital Foundation.

Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the Government of Saskatchewan and the people of Weyburn and surrounding communities, thank you to everyone involved in getting this momentous project to full completion. A special thank you to Jeff Hayward and the Weyburn Hospital Foundation team for their advocacy, hard work, and generosity in this project.

While our government committed to over $134 million, the foundation and many generous community donors contributed to additional capital costs, providing funding for the fixtures, furniture, and equipment.

This hospital will serve the people of my constituency and beyond well into the future. Mr. Speaker, in the words of the Minister of SaskBuilds and Procurement, when this government says it’s going to build a hospital, it builds a hospital.

Speaker Goudy: — So just quickly before question period, I want to caution the members. The member from Regina Walsh Acres, it was a member’s statement, but we’re accusing people of covering up, deceiving. I’m going to be cautioning all of us in those personal attacks or personal accusations. So though I didn’t stop you, I think you were offside on that. So with that, question period.

QUESTION PERIOD

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

Power Generation Plan Costs

Aleana Young: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. You know, yesterday I asked the Premier about SaskPower’s own documents that clearly lay out that power rates are going to increase 20 per cent by 2030 and a staggering 95 per cent by 2040. Mr. Speaker, this is basically double, and SaskPower is clear that it’s directly because of this government’s $26 billion coal catastrophe.

Now, Mr. Speaker, yesterday the Premier ignored my question. He laughed it off. But the projections are right there in black and white from SaskPower’s audit and finance committee.

So my question to the Premier: does SaskPower have it wrong, or are you really going to double people’s power bills?

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the member from the Crown Investments Corporation.

Hon. Jeremy Harrison: — Well thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. The only plan to double power bills is from the members opposite.

But I want to just pick up on something that was said earlier in members’ statements, Mr. Speaker. The member referenced going on the road. The first place these members need to go on the road to with their power plan is to Estevan and Coronach. These members need to go and explain to those 1,400 employees in the energy sector who are keeping the lights on every single day in this province and tell them why they believe those 1,400 workers should have a pink slip and be out of work, Mr. Speaker, because . . . You know what? These members are saying, well we have gone there.

They haven’t, Mr. Speaker. IBEW [International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers] have invited these members to go and talk about their plan. They have refused to, Mr. Speaker. I will take the word of our energy workers over them . . .

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

Aleana Young: — Mr. Speaker, clearly the Premier can’t find his feet because he won’t admit to Saskatchewan people that he’s going to double their bill. This is a premier who continues to ignore the experts inside the Crown corporation. What’s he relying on, Mr. Speaker? The doodlings of that minister on the back of a napkin? The same minister who forgot he brought a gun to work? The same minister who didn’t tell his colleagues he was committing $26 billion of Saskatchewan people’s money?

Mr. Speaker, the people of Meadow Lake used to have exceptional representation in this legislature . . .

[14:15]

Speaker Goudy: — Member, that is attacking the hon. member from the government. I would ask you to apologize and withdraw.

Aleana Young: — I apologize and withdraw, Mr. Speaker.

The briefing note also said that extending the life of coal plants at a cost of $26 billion — again of Saskatchewan people’s money — will force SaskPower into “terminating previous corporate commitments related to renewable capacity and emissions reductions.”

To the Premier: how many renewable projects will be cancelled as a consequence of your $26 billion plan?

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of Crown Investments Corporation.

Hon. Jeremy Harrison: — You know, here we go again, Mr. Speaker. Now she’s attacking the voters in Meadow Lake, who I’ve had the honour of representing now for 22 years in elected office. But this is entirely in line with what they do. They come in here; they attack voters. They attack individuals. They attack companies, Mr. Speaker. They attack unions.

And I want to tell you this, Mr. Speaker. IBEW, who have been a great partner to SaskPower and represent our workforce at the company now for many, many years, who have done an amazing job in keeping the lights on . . . Mr. Speaker, their plan would put 1,400 of those workers out of work. That’s the wrong plan for this province, Mr. Speaker.

There’s a reason why our plan has been endorsed across the board, Mr. Speaker, and there’s also a reason that their plan has a grand total of zero endorsements.

Speaker Goudy: — I am going to ask that the ministers remember to address the question and not stir up more debate through the responses.

I recognize the member from Regina South Albert.

Aleana Young: — Mr. Speaker, there’s no answer; there’s no rhetoric. What this is going to mean for members opposite, this is going to mean millions of dollars of sunk costs from industry. This is going to mean the exclusion of significant Indigenous participation in Saskatchewan’s power grid. This is a premier who thinks he can spend $26 billion of Saskatchewan people’s money and refuse to explain it. Good luck, Mr. Speaker.

SaskPower’s audit and finance committee describes the risk profile of this Premier and that minister’s plan as extreme. Why, Mr. Speaker, is the Premier choosing the option that his own SaskPower experts describe as extreme?

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of Crown Investments Corporation.

Hon. Jeremy Harrison: — Well the members opposite demonstrate every single day why they are taken seriously by nobody, Mr. Speaker.

[Interjections]

Speaker Goudy: — All right, I would ask that the members will listen to the response. There are rules, and you know them. I know them. Let’s follow them.

Minister.

Hon. Jeremy Harrison: — Well thank you very, very much, Mr. Speaker. We’ve been very clear what our plan is. It’s an all-of-the-above approach to producing power here in this province and not taking one single megawatt off the grid in doing that, Mr. Speaker. That includes coal. That includes gas. That includes hydro, and it includes renewables as well, Mr. Speaker.

In fact I’ve announced five renewable projects since I’ve been minister, Mr. Speaker, all of which have had Indigenous partnerships as a part of the project. Rose Valley . . . 700 megawatts, in fact, in renewable projects that are under construction right now. That is in addition to the grid capacity that we have right now, Mr. Speaker.

The answer is not what the members opposite are suggesting, which is shut down 1500 megawatts of baseload power and replace it with intermittents. Intermittents have a role to play in the grid, Mr. Speaker, which is why we are adding right now 700 megawatts of intermittent renewables to the grid. They are not a replacement for baseload. Mr. Speaker, that plan, everywhere it has been tried, has been a catastrophe.

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

Aleana Young: — Mr. Speaker, there is no answer that that minister can give because there’s not a good one. This is the option that SaskPower said had extreme risk. It is going to lead to renewables being cancelled going out. And the minister can’t explain because it doesn’t make sense, Mr. Speaker.

This briefing note from SaskPower’s audit and finance committee is like a fire alarm going off, but the fire is a dumpster fire of a cover-up in that Premier’s office. Because, Mr. Speaker, this briefing note, it also goes on. It’s clear that this coal catastrophe is not going to be shared with SaskPower’s own employees. It says that only select pieces of the plan will be shared despite growing concerns — and I’ll quote — will be “strategically incorporated into communications materials.” In other words, Mr. Speaker, this is a conscious cover-up.

Did the Premier really think he could blow a $26 billion hole in the province’s finances and no one would hold him accountable?

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of Crown Investments Corporation.

Hon. Jeremy Harrison: — Well, Mr. Speaker, I would say this. My last answer made very clear we are adding 700 megawatts of renewable projects, Mr. Speaker. Five projects that we have announced just in the last 18 months since I’ve been minister, which play a role on the . . .

[Interjections]

Speaker Goudy: — Member from Regina South Albert, you get to ask your questions. Please listen to the answers.

Minister of CIC.

Hon. Jeremy Harrison: — And I would say as well, Mr. Speaker, their plan — comparing apples to apples — their plan: 20‑plus billion dollars in capital, a $50 billion budget over 25 years. That’s an apples-to-apples comparison. What we have been very clear about: ours is a $2.6 billion capital commitment over 10 years on the life extension of our existing thermal assets. That is compared to over $20 billion of them shutting down those thermal assets and rebuilding brand new ones, Mr. Speaker.

I think everybody in this province knows that our plan is the correct one. It’s the appropriate one. It ensures energy security using Saskatchewan resources from Saskatchewan workers for the Saskatchewan public.

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

Erika Ritchie: — Mr. Speaker, this Sask Party government’s coal catastrophe could bankrupt our province and put the future of SaskPower at risk. And it’s happening because this minister is running our Crowns into the ground without accountability.

The Crown and Central Agencies Committee is supposed to oversee how the government is running our Crowns, but there’s a backlog of three years’ worth of documents to review. This minister has been destroying our Crowns while hiding from committee.

Why is this minister plowing ahead with his coal catastrophe while failing to be accountable to the legislature?

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of CIC.

Hon. Jeremy Harrison: — Well you know, we’re happy to indulge process questions on House procedure, Mr. Speaker. But I can tell the . . .

[Interjections]

Speaker Goudy: — Sorry . . . [inaudible] . . . Member from Regina South Albert, you called it a cover-up twice. I’ve been asking for, like to . . . And now you’re still speaking from your seat. So I would ask that you remain silent and let the 25‑minute question period move forward.

I recognize the minister.

Hon. Jeremy Harrison: — Well thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. We were happy to spend nine hours in committee during the estimates process, and more for statutory consideration after that, talking about the power plan that we have, the energy security strategy, prioritizing our all-of-the-above approach to power generation in this province, energy security being the primary objective along with reliability and affordability, using Saskatchewan resources produced by Saskatchewan workers in Saskatchewan facilities as we bridge to a nuclear future using Saskatchewan uranium, Mr. Speaker.

This is a plan that has been widely supported across the province by unions, by other institutions, Mr. Speaker, by private companies, because they know that this is the right plan forward in comparison to their Grid and Growth Plan, which has received a grand total of zero endorsements.

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

Supports for Foster Families

Erika Ritchie: — Mr. Speaker, today we are joined by Kate Greyeyes and her husband, Bill, who have been foster parents for almost four years now. They know that one of the best ways that we can protect children is to invest in foster care to provide safety, stability, and support.

This is a government that chooses not to invest, making it harder for families to make ends meet and pushing foster parents out of the system, which will mean more pressure on those families who are still fostering. Kate and her family know that more is needed.

Will the minister commit to meeting with them and addressing the concerns they have raised?

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

Hon. Terry Jenson: — Well thank you, Mr. Speaker. And I too would like to welcome Kate and Bill to this, their Legislative Assembly. And you know what, we completely appreciate and really, really do respect the 450 foster families that we have across this province, Mr. Speaker.

This is a government that works very, very closely with the foster families association on a very regular basis to not only make sure that what is being provided to those foster families is adequate but improving on those services, Mr. Speaker.

I have officials nearby. We will be arranging a meeting with Kate and Bill. Thank you.

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

Erika Ritchie: — Well, Mr. Speaker, I think those words will ring hollow. Let’s be clear about this government’s record. They refuse to give foster families a break, both by allowing the affordability crisis to spiral out of control but also by refusing to ensure that there is appropriate respite care. They aren’t doing nearly enough to help kids with mental health supports, and a long wait time for services can mean foster families are left managing crises for years without adequate professional help.

The Sask Party says this budget was about protecting Saskatchewan. So why did they refuse to protect foster families and the children who rely on them?

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

Hon. Terry Jenson: — Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. Again we work extremely closely with the Saskatchewan Foster Families Association to improve the foster parent reimbursement process to make it easier, faster, and more transparent, Mr. Speaker. We increase networking, information sharing, engagement sessions for fosters parents to build relationships, address concerns, and look for opportunities for improvement.

Mr. Speaker, in 2024 our government increased respite and babysitting rates so that foster families can receive a minimum of 10 respite days. And for those that care for children with higher needs, that can be up to 30 days per year. And on a case-by-case basis it could exceed that, Mr. Speaker.

This is a government, again, that works very closely with the foster families association to make sure that all children who are in foster homes or could be placed in foster homes are safe and supported. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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

Supports for Emergency Medical Services Workers

Meara Conway: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Everywhere we look in health care, there is another crisis boiling over. Call volume for paramedics has doubled, driven in part by the abject failures of this government. More people than ever need a paramedic, and they need them fast.

But the Paramedic Services Chiefs of Saskatchewan say supply just can’t keep up with demand. There are over 200 vacant primary care medic positions all across the province.

To the minister: what is he doing to ensure that Saskatchewan people aren’t left waiting and wondering if help is coming?

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of Health.

Hon. Jeremy Cockrill: — Well thank you, Mr. Speaker. You know, certainly as part of the patients-first plan and then as well in the budget that followed later on in March, recognizing the important role that EMS services play in our province. A budget increase of nearly 10 per cent towards EMS services in the province. About $6 million to support recruitment and retention of paramedics, Mr. Speaker. Not to mention additional investments to ensure that those on the front line, those EMS folks are supported with their mental health as they deal with what can be a very challenging job as they serve the patients of this province.

Mr. Speaker, again we recognize the importance of the EMS sector here in this province, and we’ll continue investing in those folks.

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

Meara Conway: — I think it’s important for this government to hear this message, especially today on Nursing Week. People need action, not words. Paramedics regularly work 14‑ to 16‑hour shifts. They sit for hours with suffering patients because ERs are too full to take them. They experience mental health strain due to the challenging nature of the work. It’s also physical work. That takes its toll.

And to add insult to injury, they’ve had to watch as leaders in their profession have been fired without cause, like Glen Perchie, for simply speaking honestly about the reality on the ground. This is the result, Mr. Speaker. Paramedics are leaving the field, and everyone’s access to care suffers.

[14:30]

How does the minister expect anyone in the province to feel safe, let alone be safe, if they can’t trust that an ambulance will come for them where and when they need it?

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of Health.

Hon. Jeremy Cockrill: — Well thank you, Mr. Speaker. The member opposite wants to talk about words versus actions. In my first answer I clearly laid out the actions that this budget and this patients-first health care plan take to support EMS folks right around the province. Over the last several years, increasing training seats for paramedics by 66 per cent across the province, Mr. Speaker. Supporting EMS services with additional wage dollars . . . [inaudible interjection] . . . Mr. Speaker, the members opposite have their opportunity to ask questions. I’m trying to communicate what is in our patients-first plan to put patients first and support EMS workers right around the province, Mr. Speaker.

I’m glad the member opposite brought up the mental health strain that is on paramedics across the province. I have the opportunity to be friends with and know many paramedics in communities right around the province. This can be an incredibly taxing job, Mr. Speaker. These are the people who are often first on the scene of very tragic situations, Mr. Speaker. We are proud to provide the funding to support two full-time positions to support the mental health of paramedics right across the province. That’s an investment this government’s proud of and we’ll continue to make.

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

Approval Process for Data Centre

Brittney Senger: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. It’s not just our questions that this government won’t answer, but it’s the entire province of Saskatchewan. We have heard from so many people who have major questions about the new data centre planned for the RM of Sherwood. People are demanding transparency from this government. This project was announced by the provincial government with almost no consultation from the community, and the municipal council saw a flood of resignations.

How does this Sask Party government expect people to believe in this project when they refuse to answer questions about the approval process that got us here?

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of CIC.

Hon. Jeremy Harrison: — Well there we go, Mr. Speaker. They finally officially come out in opposition to the data centre. We knew they would. They were telling stakeholders, “Oh no, we’re good. This is a great project.” But there we go. They are of course opposed to it as they are to every massive investment into this province, Mr. Speaker. Every single investment, these members opposite find a reason to be opposed to it. This is . . .

[Interjections]

Speaker Goudy: — Sorry. I’m going to ask for . . . But, Minister, I’m hoping you’re going to get to the answer to the question before long.

Hon. Jeremy Harrison: — Mr. Speaker, this is the third-largest investment in the history of Canada. This is a $12 billion project that is going to create over 1,000 jobs here in this province, that is going to make generationally significant change for families, for businesses, all of which are being led, most of which is being led by Saskatchewan companies right now, Mr. Speaker.

This is going to result in enormous benefit for our province. And you’re absolutely right. We did work to get this project. We did work with Bell Canada. We did work with the RM, Mr. Speaker. There was a process that we went through. That process has been met by Bell. And this project is going to be a great one for Saskatchewan.

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

Brittney Senger: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Well here we go again, the minister not answering the question. You know, we will continue to demand transparency for the people of Saskatchewan. This is a massive project. The minister wants to play political games while thousands of people have stepped forward to raise legitimate questions.

One of those concerns is the lack of any environmental impact assessment. This process is critical to protect the beautiful lands we call home and maintain public trust in this government, which seems to erode every single day. Clearly this government doesn’t care about transparency.

Why wasn’t an environmental impact assessment done before the data centre was given a green light?

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of CIC.

Hon. Jeremy Harrison: — Well, Mr. Speaker, of course there’s a process laid out. Bell Canada followed that process and was granted approval to move forward, which they are doing right now.

And this is an enormously significant project, Mr. Speaker. And I can tell you this as well: this was a project that was being pursued and chased by provinces right across the country, including Manitoba next door, who were very disappointed at not being able to secure this project. And I can tell you a big part of the reason why we were able to secure this investment is because of our energy security strategy, Mr. Speaker, and having the actual dispatchable power to make available for Bell to make this generationally significant investment.

Thousands of people are going to be employed in this project during construction. Mr. Speaker, there are going to be long-term jobs created. There are great partnerships, including with George Gordon First Nation, with our post-secondary institutions, with our Crown corporations, Mr. Speaker. This is a great project. I wish the opposition would have got behind it.

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

Addressing HIV Rates

Nathaniel Teed: — Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. Manitoba has declared a public health emergency, and this is due to their HIV [human immunodeficiency virus] rates, which have risen to 19.5 patients per 100,000, the highest in Canada.

It caused the Government of Manitoba significant alarm to discover they were the worst in Canada for HIV rates. But it never seemed to bother the Sask Party. Every single year prior, Saskatchewan has always been the worst in Canada. We have a crisis, and it’s killing people.

Earlier today we called for a bipartisan working committee to work on solutions to this crisis. My question is, will the Sask Party work with us on solutions to this public health emergency?

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

Hon. Lori Carr: — Well thank you, Mr. Speaker. Saskatchewan’s HIV rates are too high, Mr. Speaker, and our government is committed to addressing this issue. We have been receiving regular updates through coordinated calls with the SHA [Saskatchewan Health Authority], Indigenous Services Canada, and the Northern Inter-Tribal Health Authority in response to the increased HIV transmission in Saskatchewan.

In the highest areas, new positions have been funded and filled to strengthen local capacity. We’re focused on efforts that are under way to improve the awareness, expand access to testing, offer medication, and support timely initiation of treatment, Mr. Speaker.

In Saskatchewan we listen to the advice of our medical professionals to make informed decisions, not political reactions that risk further stigmatizing those who actually need the support, Mr. Speaker. Thank you.

INTRODUCTION OF BILLS

Bill No. 625 — The Members’ Conflict of Interest Amendment Act

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

Meara Conway: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I move that Bill 625, The Members’ Conflict of Interest Amendment Act be now introduced and read a first time.

Speaker Goudy: — It has been moved by the member from Regina Elphinstone-Centre that Bill No. 625 be now introduced and read a first time. Is it the pleasure of the Assembly to adopt the motion?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Speaker Goudy: — Carried.

Deputy Clerk: — First reading of this bill.

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

Meara Conway: — At the next sitting of the Assembly.

Speaker Goudy: — Next sitting.

Bill No. 626 — The Lobbyists Transparency Amendment Act

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

Meara Conway: — Mr. Speaker, I move that Bill 626, The Lobbyists Transparency Amendment Act be now introduced and read a first time.

Speaker Goudy: — It has been moved by the member from Regina Elphinstone-Centre that Bill No. 626, The Lobbyists Transparency Amendment Act be now introduced and read a first time. Is it the pleasure of the Assembly to adopt the motion?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Speaker Goudy: — Carried.

Deputy Clerk: — First reading of this bill.

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

Meara Conway: — At the next sitting of the Assembly.

Speaker Goudy: — Next sitting.

Bill No. 628 — The Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Amendment Act

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

Meara Conway: — I move that Bill 628, The Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Amendment Act be now introduced and read a first time.

Speaker Goudy: — It has been moved by the member from Regina Elphinstone-Centre that Bill No. 628, The Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Amendment Act be now read a first time. Is it the pleasure of the Assembly to adopt the motion?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Speaker Goudy: — Carried.

Deputy Clerk: — First reading of this bill.

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

Meara Conway: — At the next sitting of the Assembly.

Bill No. 629 — The Child and Family Services (Betty’s Law) Amendment Act

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

Meara Conway: — Mr. Speaker, I move that Bill 629, The Child and Family Services (Betty’s Law) Amendment Act be now introduced and read a first time.

Speaker Goudy: — It has been moved by the member from Regina Elphinstone-Centre that Bill No. 629, The Child and Family Services (Betty’s Law) Amendment Act be now read a first time. Is it the pleasure of the Assembly to adopt the motion?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Speaker Goudy: — Carried.

Deputy Clerk: — First reading of this bill.

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

Meara Conway: — At the next sitting of the Assembly.

Speaker Goudy: — Next sitting.

Bill No. 630 — The Public Health Care Transparency and Accountability Act

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

Meara Conway: — Mr. Speaker, last but certainly not least, I move that Bill 630, The Public Health Care Transparency and Accountability Act be now introduced and read a first time.

Speaker Goudy: — It has been moved by the member from Regina Elphinstone-Centre that Bill No. 630, The Public Health Care Transparency and Accountability Act be now introduced and read a first time. Is it the pleasure of the Assembly to adopt the motion?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Speaker Goudy: — Carried.

Deputy Clerk: — First reading of this bill.

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

Meara Conway: — At the next sitting of the Assembly.

Speaker Goudy: — Next sitting.

ORDERS OF THE DAY

WRITTEN QUESTIONS

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Government House Whip.

Brad Crassweller: — I wish to order questions no. 32 to 53.

Speaker Goudy: — Questions no. 32 to 53 are ordered. I recognize the Government House Whip.

Brad Crassweller: — I wish to order questions no. 54 to 62.

Speaker Goudy: — Questions no. 54 to 62 are ordered.

CONDOLENCE MOTIONS

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Premier.

Hon. Scott Moe: — Mr. Speaker, I would ask for leave to move a number of motions of condolence.

Speaker Goudy: — The Premier has requested leave to move a number of condolence motions. Is leave granted?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

William (Bill) Allen

Hon. Scott Moe: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and thank you to my colleagues. I would move:

That this Assembly records with sorrow and regret the passing of a former member of this Assembly and expresses its grateful appreciation of the contribution that he made to his community, his constituency, and to the province.

William (Bill) Allen passed away on January the 25th, 2026 at the age of 79. He served as a member of this Legislative Assembly from 1975 until 1982, representing the constituency of Regina Rosemont for the New Democratic Party.

Born on August the 12th, 1946, Bill Allen grew up in Regina, attending school there before transferring to St. Peter’s College in Muenster. After his two terms as an elected member, Bill Allen returned to school and obtained an education degree and a Master of Theology from Saint John’s University in Collegeville, Minnesota. He taught in several Regina schools and then later in Prince Albert, and continued to serve as a substitute teacher for many years after retiring from full-time work.

Outside of politics and the classroom, Bill Allen was active in his community. He coached high school basketball, was a member of numerous unions and co-ops, and served on the board of St. Peter’s College and the Special Olympics. During retirement he travelled extensively with his wife.

Bill Allen is survived and is sadly missed by his wife, Teresa; his children Mike and Kelsey; step-children Danica, John, Carla, Joey, and Erica; as well as extended family.

In recording its own deep sense of loss and bereavement, this Assembly expresses its most sincere sympathy to the members of the bereaved family.

I so move.

Speaker Goudy: — Would the House receive the motion as read?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Opposition House Leader.

[14:45]

Nicole Sarauer: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise today to join in on the condolence motion for Bill Allen on behalf of the official opposition. Bill served as an MLA from 1975 to 1982. He served for two terms representing the Regina Rosemont area on behalf of the NDP [New Democratic Party]. He took his role within the NDP quite seriously and served as party president of the Saskatchewan NDP for many years and also did some work with the federal NDP as well. He passed away on January 25th, 2026 at 79 years old and was born here in 1946 in Regina.

As has been mentioned, he spent some time at St. Peter’s College at Muenster, a place that’s near and dear to the heart of my family. It’s been described that his time with the priests there didn’t quell his desire for fun. In fact it instilled in him a deep faith that he carried throughout his life. He gave back to that institution later on by becoming a board member later in life.

He taught in several Regina schools subsequent to him being an MLA — at O’Neill, Riffel, and St. Jerome most specifically — and also had an extensive career coaching high school basketball. In fact he did that for decades. He instilled in his players that the character and determination that they built on the court would serve them throughout their lives. He was also a member of numerous unions and co-ops, served on the board of the Special Olympics, and travelled with his wife extensively.

He will be remembered for his generosity, his ability to connect with others and make everyone feel welcome, as well as his love of a good story. He will be remembered and missed by his wife, Teresa; his children Mike and Kelsey; and his step-children Danica, John, Carla, Joey, and Erica.

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

Meara Conway: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. It’s a real honour and a privilege to speak to this motion that honours Billy Allen. I’m going to maybe touch on some of the aspects of his life that haven’t been mentioned yet, Mr. Speaker. And I have the privilege of serving the community of Rosemont, which Billy served back in the day.

But I’m going to go back even further than that and start with Billy as a kid. I understand he was a bit of a lad when he was young. He got into quite a bit of mischief. But I’m told that his parents couldn’t stay mad at him because anyone who knew Billy knew he was a very charismatic individual, kind and charismatic. And he was charming even as a little boy, I’m told.

He was raised by his dad, Alf, and his mother, Delores, a.k.a. [also known as] Wodgie. It was a childhood nickname that she carried throughout her life. And I’m told that Billy’s mom was the outgoing one in the family, and he inherited that very much from her. His dad was very dedicated to service, Mr. Speaker. Alf was a D-Day veteran. He landed on Juno Beach. He served for the first days of the D-Day battle and then returned home wounded.

He was the sergeant major in the Regina Rifles in charge of stretcher bearers or medics, who treated and removed the wounded from battlefield. And even after his return from the war, Mr. Speaker, Alf served in the army reserve and kept books for the Corps of Commissionaires here in Regina.

Billy had two sisters. Leilani, who was a dedicated CUSO volunteer, worked throughout Africa, finally settled in the States. And he has another sister Carol out west, who has been an active and lifelong foster mother. And I know that one of the leitmotifs throughout this family is their dedication to service, which I’ll touch on a bit more in a moment.

Billy’s first wife, Carol, was not unknown to this place. I’m told she served as an MLA briefly — Carol Yeo, who then went by Allen after they married. She was mom to their two kids, Michael and Kelsey. Billy was a great support to his son, Michael. And of course his daughter Kelsey very much followed in her dad’s footsteps. She is a leader in their family. She’s a leader here in Regina and across the province in education. She’s well known. She’s well loved. She’s well respected. She’s a former teacher, now administrator, and has so much admiration from those who serve around her.

Kelsey’s son, Eli, son to Kelsey and her partner, Mick Panko, who also is a well-known and well-loved teacher, also basketball coach. I had the privilege of being one of his pupils back then when I was even more unruly than I am now, Mr. Speaker, and I’m very indebted to him for that. But they together have a son, Eli, who is Billy’s grandson. And Eli was born two months premature, and he had quite a battle on his hands. And Billy was there to support Eli, and I know that he was a doting and a loving grandfather to Eli.

After the death of Carol — she had a battle with cancer, and she died too young — Billy was fortunate to reconnect with an old friend from his youth, Teresa. He had a chance at second love. And Teresa and he had a long and happy relationship, and she stood by him until the end. And I’m told that Billy very much considered Teresa’s grandkids his own grandkids as well.

Billy dedicated his life to public service, obviously as a politician and then a teacher and then a school administrator. I’m told he was the heartbeat of the family. He was fearless. He was loving, fun. He was full of warmth and mischief even right up until the end, Mr. Speaker. And as I mentioned before, he was charming and charismatic.

He became a Saskatchewan NDP worker and organizer in his 20s, Mr. Speaker, during the heady days of Tommy Douglas. Some recall long, animated sessions in their farm kitchens with him in the ’60s and the ’70s as he discussed plans to bring the party back to power under Allan Blakeney after a long period in opposition under Ross Thatcher, during the Ross Thatcher years. He served, as my colleague mentioned, as president to the party, but he was an effective organizer within the party.

And I know that one of the things that he championed was medicare. He saw first-hand what that would mean to rural communities, to farming families. He saw first-hand the lack of coverage they had. And he was involved through the expansion that we saw of medicare through the ’60s and ’70s and believed very much in that. All of his acts and decisions were driven very much by his care, the care he felt for all the people of Saskatchewan. And I know that he saw, foundational to that care and that treatment and that equality, was access to public health care.

And you know, I did have a conversation with the family, and they mentioned that, you know, Billy died after a battle with cancer. And in true Billy fashion he lived for four years with this cancer after being told he only had two to live. Fearless to the end.

But I’m also told that Billy dedicated his life to improving health care, and sadly he spent one of his last days in a hallway at RUH [Royal University Hospital]. And that was very frustrating for him and, I think, his family. And I think, you know, for someone who has dedicated his life to improving health care, it is an experience that should cause all of us here today to pause and reflect on.

His success and skill within the party as an organizer, as I mentioned, led him to have the backing of the party in a successful election campaign in Rosemont. He was elected in 1975, where he served voters faithfully until his defeat by PC [Progressive Conservative] candidate Gordon Dirks in 1982, who went on to become a cabinet minister under Grant Devine.

Post-politics and now dad to Michael and Kelsey, Billy hunkered down. He studied. He got his education degree. And after he graduated, he embarked on a long and successful and very much admired career as a teacher within the Catholic system, and then a vice-principal in the Catholic school system.

And you know, I think it’s quite beautiful to see Kelsey follow very much in his footsteps. I know that she was proud to be his daughter, and I know that he was proud of the work that she was doing. And I know, as someone who lost my dad this year, what it means to lose a parent that you admire that much. And my heart goes out to Kelsey in particular and her family and all the family members of Billy.

I’m almost done, Mr. Speaker, but we have a bit of a special connection here in the building to Billy. I know that he was excited about the fact that Zoé Beaulieu Prpick, our research and policy officer here in the building, was fourth generation working in this building, if you count her dad who was a legislative reporter for the CBC [Canadian Broadcasting Corporation]. I know that Billy was very proud of her and the work that she continues to do today. And I want to thank her dad for assisting me in learning a bit about Billy and painting a picture of Billy that I know is very much alive in the hearts of all who loved and knew him.

Everyone who met Billy loved him. I had an opportunity to meet him briefly, Mr. Speaker. He was warm. He had such a sparkle in his eye. You could tell he was someone who was known for getting up to no good. You could tell that he was passionate. And I would have met him near the end when he was struggling with cancer, and he was still so full of energy and warmth. And I could see that person described by so many: the master of revels, the head of the family, the good host.

And at every celebration . . . And this is the note that I will be ending on today, Mr. Speaker, because I think it’s fitting. At every celebration at which he was so joyous and, I’m told, would hold court, things would turn serious when he would recite the socialist prayer, the special blessing created by CCF [Co-operative Commonwealth Federation] co-founder J.S. Woodsworth, which I have come to learn was an important part of his philosophy, his guiding philosophy.

So I’m going to end with that. It was created in the depression era, of course, Mr. Speaker, but it is especially relevant for these times:

Let us be thankful for these and all the good things of life. We recognize that they are a part of our common heritage and come to us through the efforts of our brothers and sisters the world over. What we desire for ourselves, [sorry, Mr. Speaker] we wish for all. To this end, may we take our share in the world’s work and the world’s struggles.

Billy, rest in power. Rest in peace.

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

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Speaker Goudy: — Carried. I recognize the Premier.

John Comer

Hon. Scott Moe: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would move:

John Comer, who passed away on November the 6th of 2025 at the age of 80. He was a member of this Legislative Assembly from 1971 until 1975, representing the constituency of Nipawin for the New Democratic Party.

John Comer was born in Pine Falls, Manitoba on November the 30th, 1944. He attended school in Pointe du Bois, Manitoba and Saskatoon before pursuing higher education at the University of Saskatchewan. After completing his education, John Comer moved to Carrot River, where he began teaching at the Carrot River High School. He worked at the school for many years, first as a teacher and later as principal until his retirement in 1998.

John Comer was deeply dedicated to his community of Carrot River and served as a member of the board of directors of the Carrot River and District Credit Union. He spent many years on the Carrot River Town Council and served as the town’s mayor from 1986 until 1992 and from 1995 until 1998. He was a recipient of the Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal in 2023, and this was in recognition of his dedication to public service.

John Comer is survived and sadly missed by his loved ones.

In recording its own deep sense of loss and bereavement, this Assembly expresses its most sincere sympathy to members of the bereaved family.

I so move.

Speaker Goudy: — Would the House take the motion as read?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Speaker Goudy: — Is the Assembly ready for the question? I recognize the Opposition House Leader.

Nicole Sarauer: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise to join in the condolence motion of John Comer on behalf of the official opposition. As has been mentioned, John served as an MLA from 1971 to 1975, representing Nipawin on behalf of the Saskatchewan NDP. Born in 1944 in Manitoba, he passed away on November 6th, 2025 at 80 years of age. He attended school in Manitoba and then moved to Saskatchewan, where he attended the University of Saskatchewan and then arrived in Carrot River in the late 1960s, teaching at Carrot River High School.

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After his time as MLA, he spent many years on the Carrot River Town Council as a councillor and served terms as mayor of Carrot River from 1986 to 1992 and 1995 to 1998. He became the principal of Carrot River High School, where he guided generations of students until his retirement in 1998. He was extremely dedicated to his community in Carrot River, and his dedication and public service was recognized in the recent awarding of the Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal in 2023.

It has been said about him that those who knew him will remember his approachable nature, his respect for others, and his unmistakable sense of humour that often came with a quick, well-timed remark. We send our deep condolences to his loved ones, Mr. Speaker. Thank you.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the member from Carrot River Valley.

Terri Bromm: — Mr. Speaker, I also would like to rise to offer words of condolences. John Comer came to Carrot River as a teacher in the late 1960s and served as a Member of the Legislative Assembly for the Nipawin constituency from 1971 to 1975. John spent many years on town council, including two terms as mayor of Carrot River. He was also principal of the Carrot River school until his retirement in 1998.

John’s dedication to public service was recognized with the Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal in 2023. His commitment to the citizens of Carrot River and the constituency will be remembered by many. I express sincere sympathy to the members of John’s family.

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

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Speaker Goudy: — Carried. I recognize the Premier.

Elwood Cowley

Hon. Scott Moe: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would move:

Elwood Cowley, who passed on June the 21st, 2024 at the age of 79 years. He was a member of this Legislative Assembly from 1971 until 1982, representing the constituency of Biggar for the New Democratic Party. During his time in the legislature, Elwood Cowley served on Executive Council as the minister of Finance, minister of Mineral Resources, and Provincial Secretary.

Born in Saskatoon on August the 2nd of 1944, Elwood Cowley grew up in Kinley, Saskatchewan. He began attending the University of Saskatchewan at 16, and during his time there he served as a member of the Education Student Society Executive, president of the University of Saskatchewan Campus New Democrats, and president of the Saskatchewan Young New Democrats. He earned a Bachelor of Education in 1965 and a Bachelor of Arts in history in 1967.

Outside of politics, Elwood Cowley was a teacher in Assiniboia and Regina and was active in the Saskatchewan Teachers’ Federation. Following his time in politics, he moved to Saskatoon to work as an investment broker, and in 1991 he opened up a consulting firm, which he operated until his retirement. In 1988 he was appointed to the Royal Commission on Electoral Reform.

Elwood Cowley was active in his community, serving on the board of Great Western Brewery and taking part in the care of the Wheatfield Cemetery. He was awarded with a Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal for his contributions to society.

Elwood Cowley is survived and sadly missed by his wife, Delores; his children, Sherry, Carla, and Scott; as well as extended family.

In recording its own deep sense of loss and bereavement, this Assembly expresses its most sincere sympathy to members of the bereaved family.

I would so move.

Speaker Goudy: — Will the Assembly take the motion as read?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Speaker Goudy: — Is the Assembly ready for the question? I recognize the Opposition House Leader.

Nicole Sarauer: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise on behalf of the official opposition to join in on the condolence motion for Elwood Cowley. Elwood served as an MLA from 1971 to 1982, representing Biggar on behalf of the Saskatchewan NDP. He served in many roles at that time, including as minister of Finance, minister of Mineral Resources, and Provincial Secretary.

While reflecting in a family memoir, he noted that some of his biggest political accomplishments included contributing to the formation of the potash corporation SMDC [Saskatchewan Mining Development Corporation] or Cameco, and the Saskatchewan children’s dental plan, something he was particularly proud of.

He passed away on June 21st, 2024 at 79 years of age, peacefully, at St. Paul’s Hospital in Saskatoon, surrounded by his family.

Growing up he participated in many sports, primarily curling and baseball, and was deeply involved in his community. He was a history buff and he loved to read. He attended the United Church in Kinley and was part of the youth group there. He started university at the age of 16 at the University of Saskatchewan.

While at university he served as a member of the Education Student Society Executive, president of the University of Saskatchewan Campus New Democrats, and president of the Saskatchewan Young New Democrats. He graduated with a Bachelor of Education in 1965 with honours and also graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in history in 1967 with distinction.

His first teaching job was in Assiniboia. Then he moved to Regina. He became active in the Saskatchewan Teachers’ Federation, and he also taught at Thom Collegiate. After his time at the legislature, he moved to Saskatoon and became an investment broker and was appointed to the Royal Commission on Electoral Reform in 1988.

He served on the board of Great Western Brewery and contributed to the care of the Wheatfield Cemetery, where many generations of his family are buried. He was also part of the winning team in the Fall North American Bridge Championship in 1989. His love of bridge, Mr. Speaker, spanned throughout his lifetime.

Elwood and his wife, Delores, were high school sweethearts. They married in 1967 and had a marriage that spanned nearly six decades. They shared a love for reading and baseball and were of course avid Blue Jays fans. They were very like-minded about the importance of community and cherished time spent with family and friends.

Elwood will be missed and remembered by his wife, Delores; his children, Sherry, Carla, and Scott; and his sister, Willa.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of Highways.

Hon. Kim Gartner: — I too would like to enter some remarks on Elwood Cowley. Elwood was born in Saskatoon and grew up in Kinley. As previously mentioned, Elwood was a history buff and loved to read. These formative years had an enormous influence on his beliefs surrounding politics, friendship, community involvement, and the importance of friends and family.

He loved to curl and play baseball. He spent many hours playing cards and board games with his cousins and neighbours. He attended the United Church in Kinley and was part of the church youth group. He was also involved in co‑operative school, Scouts, and 4‑H in his youth.

Elwood and Delores, as mentioned, were high school sweethearts. Elwood’s first memory of noticing Delores was when she took dancing lessons at his house. They were married in 1967 and had a marriage that did span almost six decades.

They shared many of the same interests: yes, their love of baseball, being average Blue Jay fans; and a love of reading and playing games. They were like-minded about the importance of community and cherished the time spent with family and friends. Another important part of their lives was the variety of pets they had and had acquired from their many children over the years. They enjoyed travelling to different destinations, but their favourite was Waskesiu, which has now been passed on to the next generation.

Elwood Cowley is survived and sadly missed by his wife, Delores; children, Sherry, Carla, and Scott; and extended family.

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

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Speaker Goudy: — Carried. I recognize the Premier.

Herb Cox

Hon. Scott Moe: — Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. Prior to reading the condolence motion, I’d like to put a few comments on the record of our next individual that we honour, the Hon. Herb Cox. And it’s hard to know where to begin with Herb, also hard to know where to end with Herb, but I would just say this. Herb was a good man — a very, very good man.

And that might seem like a little bit of a simple description for my friend Herb and many in this Assembly’s friend. And it might sound overused at times, but it’s the simplicity of that statement, I think, that just really does describe Herb. No fluff, no bluster, no fancy words. Herb was a good, good man.

He was born and raised in Manitoba, and he went on to receive a degree in economics from the Brandon University. And his work eventually brought him to the community of North Battleford, working in finance. He became a real estate agent for 38 years, and that is where he met the love of his life, Linda.

Mr. Speaker, together they built a life in North Battleford. They raised their children — Dallin, Carla, Calvin — on an acreage outside that community. And he loved teaching his kids, and he talked of it often, how to play ball. He coached their hockey teams. He was a 4‑H leader and spoke glowingly of the times that he had with horses and his children. He loved them. He loved training; he loved riding them. He was an active team penner, as we know.

In 2007 Herb decided to give politics a try, but he was not successful. But he didn’t give up, and I would say that I and many others are so very glad that he did not give up. He was ultimately successful in the 2011 election campaign, and he says he was inspired to run because he was frustrated at seeing the out-migration of Saskatchewan young people to other provinces. Two of his own children were living in Alberta at the time, and he wanted to make his effort to ensure that Saskatchewan was the place to be, not the place to be from.

He wanted his kids to be able to come home, or at least have the choice to come home. And they eventually did, and today all three of his children, their spouses, and their families are here in Saskatchewan. And he was pretty happy about not having to drive to Alberta to spend his weekends with his children and his grandchildren.

Sadly — and I remember this well, Mr. Speaker — just days after his election victory he revealed that he had cancer. But that did not slow him down. With a quiet determination, Herb fought hard. And he overcame and served his constituents and, I would say, served this House well for nine years. He served as minister of Advanced Education, minister of Environment, as well as the Government Whip. And he dove into whatever job that he had the honour to serve in.

We all remember his many speeches in caucus around the cabinet table and in this House. And often they would centre around quagga mussels. Mr. Speaker, he was on a mission to keep our lakes and rivers pristine from the infestation of those little things.

He was a strong representative for the people of his constituency, and one only has to drive to North Battleford and in the area to see some of his work in a very tangible way. He was very proud of the renovation project at John Paul II Collegiate, and I had the opportunity to tour that school with him prior to that renovation, Mr. Speaker.

He was very proud of the Saskatchewan Hospital, that important piece of infrastructure that is providing a much more important service to families in this province. He was proud of the work that was happening at the Battlefords Trade and Education Centre, and he was proud that his government was part of funding improvements and expansions there, again to impact the people that he served.

Herb always had time for you, whoever you were — whether it was one of his MLA colleagues, whether it was staff in this building, whether it was constituents, a stranger that would come up to him in a grocery store and wanted to have a chat.

Herb was not only a good man, he was a very humble man as well. You can tell through every word he spoke during his maiden speech in this Chamber. And I’d like to take a quote from his first speech in this Chamber and from his last.

From his first speech, Mr. Speaker:

“Service is the rent you pay for the space you occupy.” I am 100 per cent committed to serve this Chamber, this great province, and certainly the residents of The Battlefords to ensure my rent is paid fully each and every day that this chair is available to me.

And now, Mr. Speaker, a quote from his final speech, his departing speech in this legislature:

And I’d like to close, Mr. Speaker, with a quote from the poet and civil rights activist, Maya Angelou: “People may forget what you’ve said; they may even forget what you’ve done, but they will never forget how you made them feel.” Mr. Speaker, it’s my wish that my constituents, my colleagues, and indeed citizens of this province feel, firstly that I’ve been worthy of their support; secondly, that I have made a difference while I was here, and that I cared about them, and that they feel I have helped to make this province a better place than I found it.

Mr. Speaker, Herb was my friend. We were both elected together in 2011. We shared a constituency boundary. And you tend to bond with the group that you’re elected with, and it was no different for our class of 2011. Mr. Speaker, Herb was also a humorous fellow on the floor of this Assembly and as well in his constituency when he had the opportunity. And I have very fond memories of walking through a chamber event with him unscripted.

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Some of his time as serving as minister of Environment and then followed, precursed and followed, by some of my time as minister of Environment. Some of our relationships, the ebbs and flows that we had with the federal government as they introduced a carbon tax, Mr. Speaker. The relationship that we had as minister with the federal minister at that time, Catherine McKenna. And it was a very fond, as I say unscripted, chronological order of events that came together. And I have a very fond memory of Herb, and I was very thankful to sit with him and walk through what was a very challenging time for this government and this province that, I would say, has presented this nation with some challenges as well.

I remember, I think it was his final speech on the floor of this Assembly, Mr. Speaker, where he spoke of — I think, in good humour — of some of the reasons that he had ran and some of the advice that his father-in-law had given him. And he talked about getting around to it, or a round tuit, a gift that he had had I guess from his father-in-law, and it was called a round tuit.

And then he talked about all of the different pieces of infrastructure and the needs that they had in The Battlefords area, Mr. Speaker. And he spoke — and I’m not being partisan, I’m quoting, not quoting a friend but paraphrasing a friend in his final speech — he talked about the Saskatchewan Hospital and how at the time the government wasn’t able to get around to it. That’s what “a round tuit” is, Mr. Speaker.

He talked about the seniors’ income plan and the increases that were needed there, and how the government of the day wasn’t able to get around to it. He talked about fixing the highways and how the government of the day wasn’t able to get around to it, Mr. Speaker. And that is Herb. That is Herb, his drawing some humour in essentially, I think, in everything he did. Forming relationships, on this side of the House, Mr. Speaker but also forming relationships with staff, across the floor of the Assembly as well. He was a very, very, very good man.

I would just close my personal comments with what I think is a very telling article and a beautiful article that was written in the paNOW paper after Herb’s passing. And it had quite a nice tribute of a very good man. So I end with paraphrasing that article. Herb’s legacy is not only the many things that he accomplished; his legacy is his character. And I would say it even goes further than that. Herb’s legacy is not only his character; it is the fact that he inspired those around him to improve theirs, each and every day in his service.

Mr. Speaker, with that, I would move the following:

That this Assembly records with sorrow and regret the passing of a former member of this Assembly and expresses its grateful appreciation of the contribution he made to his community, to his constituency, and to the province.

Herb Cox, who passed away on November the 16th, 2025 at the age of 75, was a member of this Legislative Assembly from 2011 until 2020. He represented the constituency of The Battlefords for the Saskatchewan Party. And during that time, Herb Cox served on Executive Council as minister of Environment, minister of Advanced Education, minister responsible for the Saskatchewan Water Corporation, and minister responsible for the Saskatchewan Water Security Agency.

Born in Brandon, Manitoba on August the 21st of 1950, Herb Cox grew up in the village of Justice. After completing high school, he earned a Bachelor of Arts in economics from Brandon University and then began working with a finance company and moved to North Battleford. Shortly thereafter, Herb Cox began a career in real estate. And after more than 35 years in the real estate business, he chose to enter politics.

In his personal life, Herb Cox played and coached hockey. He also rode and trained horses, organizing Terry Fox trail rides. He served on various boards and associations in his community, including the Battlefords Real Estate Board, the Saskatchewan Team Penning Association, the Canadian Team Penning Association, and the Town of Battlefords industrial planning committee. In 2012, Herb Cox was awarded the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal for his contributions to his community.

Herb Cox is survived and sadly missed by his wife, Linda; his children, Dallin, Carla, and Calvin; as well as his extended family.

In recording its own deep sense of loss and bereavement, this Assembly expresses its most sincere sympathy to the members of the bereaved family.

I so move.

Speaker Goudy: — Would the House take the motion as read?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Speaker Goudy: — Is the Assembly ready for the question? I recognize the Opposition House Leader.

Nicole Sarauer: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise on behalf of the official opposition to bring some remarks on the condolence motion on behalf of Herb Cox. Herb was a good man. He was a really good man. I think that’s the best way truly to describe him, as the Premier had described him.

I had a lot of time for Herb. During my first term when I had the pleasure of serving opposite him, I had no children. So I had a lot more free time to attend MLA receptions, which is really, as you know, Mr. Speaker, one of the main opportunities that opposition members and government members have the opportunity to socialize. And I always made sure I had a chance to chat with Herb. He was one of my favourite members on the other side to have a conversation with. There was a group of guys in that term on the government side that I just absolutely adored and always enjoyed my chance to speak with them on many different topics.

Often Herb and I were able to chat with each other on our priorities like family and our community. And you could tell in talking with Herb how much he loved his family and how much he cared about his community.

And I can’t believe I forgot how much he cared about quagga mussels because I cannot tell you how many times he spoke about quagga mussels in this Chamber, Mr. Speaker. It shocks me that I forgot that part about him.

One thing that he did have the opportunity to work on during his time as MLA that I do know that he cared about a lot, because we had the opportunity to chat about it, was when he was on a committee on the government side. It was the crime reduction committee that he had the opportunity to chair. And through that work he did some consultations throughout the province. There was a crime reduction report that was created. And I had the opportunity to speak with him many times behind the scenes about the report and the recommendations that came out of the report.

So although I forgot about quagga mussels, I very much remember that report and go to those recommendations quite often, and know that he took the work he did here very seriously. But I would say, as I think the Premier pointed out, he didn’t take himself seriously in that he cared about his work but he found moments of levity within this work and within this Chamber and within each other as colleagues, Mr. Speaker. And I feel very grateful for that and for having the opportunity to serve with him at that time.

I want to add to what the Premier said about Herb’s life. Of course he served in many different roles when he was in government, but he also served as Government Whip, which is a challenging role in and of itself and, I think, needs to be mentioned. In his youth he played hockey with the East End Eagles, I understand, and it was his teammates that introduced him to his wife, Linda. He was very passionate about horses, and he rode horses, trained horses, participated in team penning, and organized and participated in many trail rides, Mr. Speaker.

He also served on numerous boards. As I said, he was very passionate about service to his community, and I think Herb’s own words show that thoroughly. He strived to create opportunities in Saskatchewan to keep the next generation in the province, as the Premier had mentioned, and was very proud that all of his children found careers and started families in Saskatchewan.

I just want to say in response to the Premier’s quoting of Herb’s quoting of Maya Angelou’s comments in Herb’s final speech. If Herb is listening, I want him to know that I may have forgotten what he had said about quagga mussels during his time here, but I never forgot about the way he treated me and the way he treated the other MLAs and staff in this place. He will be lovingly missed by his wife, Linda, and his children, Dallin, Carla, and Calvin.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of Health.

Hon. Jeremy Cockrill: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. It’s really an honour and a privilege to rise and add my words to the condolences for my friend and predecessor, Herb Cox. You know, it was mentioned . . . Actually Herb mentioned it in his maiden speech, that he took a bit of a scenic route to arrive here at the legislature on behalf of the people of The Battlefords.

He had had some contested nominations and lost an election, you know, in 2007. And you know, members, those of us who go through political history on Wikipedia in our evening times will know that in 2007 The Battlefords was a seat that, even though the Saskatchewan Party formed government that year, the NDP actually held onto The Battlefords in 2007. And Herb had just missed it, I think, by about 300 votes in the 2007 election.

And it’s interesting because many of the folks that, you know, support me and have been helpful in getting myself elected in 2020 and then returned in 2024, they were also folks that supported Herb in ’07 and ’11. And they talk about how, you know, Herb got right back to work after that 2007 election and ensured victory in 2011. And for that I’m certainly grateful, and I know our government is grateful for the work that Herb has done.

You know, I think I’ll just start by saying, Herb is missed, I know, very much by Linda and their children, Dallin and Carla and Calvin. Family really was the priority for Herb as I knew him to be.

And something that we talked about often in the lead-up to, you know, kind of that hand-off between MLAs, was really the importance of ensuring not only that Saskatchewan was an attractive place for young people to stay and to live and to move to, but really important that The Battlefords and northwest Saskatchewan continued to be a place that, you know, was attractive for young people to stay and raise their families in.

And you know, the Premier mentioned many things that I know Herb was very proud of. A lot of the work that you do as an MLA, you know, it’s not necessarily visible. People don’t see the work that goes behind the scenes, you know. But oftentimes we notice the things that are built or improved or changed.

You know, certainly the Saskatchewan Hospital being completed was a significant milestone for our community. The Battlefords Trade and Education Centre, Herb was absolutely passionate about the work that happens at BTEC each and every single day for folks living with disabilities in our community. The John Paul II Collegiate renovation, a really significant step forward ensuring that there’s schools well into the future for kids in our community. The Highway 4 passing lanes up to the lake was certainly a priority as well.

But you know, I’ll just share a story. I know one of the projects towards the end of Herb’s time in elected office was the restoration of the pedestrian bridge between Battleford and North Battleford. And you know, this is the old highway bridge — I guess as it’s referred to sometimes — between Finlayson Island and the North Battleford side. As you know, we’ve got two municipalities, and making sure they stay linked is absolutely important for our community.

That project went through the ICIP [Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program] program and eventually was restored. But we weren’t able to cut the ribbon on that project until Herb was done being an MLA. And you know, I remember we had that event. I can’t remember whether it was 2021 or 2022, but you know, I made sure that Herb was at that event because Herb was the one that, at the end of the day, made it happen.

And so, you know, we’re there; we’re getting ready. It’s myself, the mayors, Chief Lorie from Sweetgrass. And we wanted to make sure that Herb had a chance to say a few words. We thought that would be appropriate. And oh boy. So Mayor Leslie in Battleford and I were huddling with Herb: “Hey, we want you to say a few words. You know, you really made this happen,” etc., etc. And oh boy, Herb kind of let us have it before the event started. He said, “You will not be talking about me at this event. I will not be saying . . . Don’t mention my name.” Okay, so Mayor Leslie and I, we tried to comply with that. We were unsuccessful in complying with that and gave Herb the credit that was due for his role on the project, and boy, did we hear about it after. Herb had some colourful words for us.

But you know, that’s really who Herb was in terms of . . . Even though he was one of the people that shepherded that project through and ensured that that investment came to our community so that kids and families and folks can bike and walk across that bridge between our two communities, Herb didn’t want the credit for it. But Herb absolutely deserved the credit for it.

And there’s things today that I’ve been able to cut the ribbon on that Herb deserves the credit for in our community because he’s the one that did the work, that got the ball rolling, that worked with current and previous ministers to get those balls rolling so that things can come to The Battlefords that are going to be meaningful for families to stay there for a long time.

[15:30]

I’ll just say, the Premier already talked about the quote from Herb’s maiden speech about, you know, this chair being on rent to all of us as MLAs, and Herb talking about wanting to make sure that that rent was paid in full each and every single day. I know when I arrived here, those were the words I picked out right away from Herb’s maiden speech.

This is an honour for all of us to be given a seat on behalf of our constituents and residents. I know Herb took that absolutely serious. And that’s something that I think all of us can take an example of and certainly something that is in my mind each and every day when I look at the flags of The Battlefords that I have in my office and thinking about, that’s who I owe everything I do in this place and get to do on behalf of the constituents of The Battlefords.

The Premier said it’s hard to know where to end with Herb, but you know, Herb was a very good man. And we had an opportunity to celebrate his life in late November, and really the number of colleagues current and past that came out to celebrate Herb’s life, I think it was surprising for a lot of folks in The Battlefords to see how many people showed up. The Premier was able to join us and share a few words at that service. I had the opportunity to say a few words. Premier Wall wasn’t able to attend in person, but I know that he did send some words that we were able to share. And I think for folks in The Battlefords it was quite humbling to see the impact that Herb had made.

And you know, since Herb’s passing, it’s interesting the people that I’ve run into — staff in the building who share a Herb story with me or folks who maybe lived in The Battlefords for a time and served there, say with the RCMP or in another role, and talked about how Herb helped them buy their house in The Battlefords or Herb helped them sell their house in The Battlefords.

And you know, the impact of Herb Cox has gone far beyond just his time here in the legislature. It continues to echo and echo and echo.

And to the quote that was shared by the member opposite and the Premier, people certainly remember the way Herb made them feel, and for that we’re very grateful. And I’d like to offer my condolences to Linda and the entire family, and really thank Herb for his service to our community and his impact on my life.

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

Erika Ritchie: — Well thank you, Mr. Speaker. You know, it’s really heartwarming to listen to the words that have been expressed so far in memory of Herb Cox. And it’s an honour to join the Assembly to extend my sincere condolences to his wife, Linda; his children; his grandchildren; and to all those who knew and loved him.

Before entering elected office, I had the opportunity to work with Herb during his time as minister of Environment and in his responsibilities related to the Water Security Agency. As an assistant deputy minister at the time in Environment, I came to know him as a fair, respectful, and decent person and someone who treated public servants with professionalism and courtesy, regardless of position or perspective.

And I am also just filled with, you know, warm memories and feelings about how he interacted with his quick humour and his jovial smile at all times. I think it certainly reflects the comments that we’ve heard here so far today about quagga mussels and other things, that I certainly got to sit in and be a part of the conversation during his time as minister.

One of the major files during Herb’s time as minister responsible for the Water Security Agency in Environment was Saskatchewan’s agricultural drainage framework, a complex and often difficult issue involving producers, municipalities, downstream communities, and environmental concerns. And it was and it continues to be an important policy area for the province.

And Herb approached the work with seriousness and a genuine desire to find practical solutions, and I thank him for that. He understood that good public policy depends on people being able to work together in good faith. And he listened carefully and asked thoughtful questions and approached these difficult files with pragmatism and common sense.

I know that Herb also faced profound personal challenges with remarkable strength as he faced his battle with bone cancer with courage and dignity. And I know that whatever our political differences might be here in the Chamber, moments like this remind us that public service is ultimately about people and about those who choose to dedicate part of their lives to serving their communities and this province. Herb was no exception. He excelled in that area. He served Saskatchewan with honour, and may he rest in peace.

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

Travis Keisig: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I definitely want to get a few words to Herb’s family. I have the privilege of serving as the president of the Pacific NorthWest Economic Region, and it’s a conglomeration of Washington state, Oregon, Idaho, Montana, Saskatchewan, Alberta, British Columbia, Northwest Territories, Yukon, and Alaska. And Herb was incredibly well known in that organization. And one of that organization’s goals is to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species.

And Herb, I mean, he was a champion in that organization on that — spoke at numerous conferences, spoke to caucus, to cabinet, to the Government of Saskatchewan about the importance of that. And the work that Herb did on that file is being built upon till this day. And I really want his family to be aware of the value that he brought into the Government of Saskatchewan.

This spring we were able to host an aquatic invasive species event, so it was very good to know that the work that Herb did is still being built upon till this day. It is something he was very passionate about. And it’s amazing how I travel across the jurisdiction, Mr. Speaker, and I run into people and they still talk about Herb speaking at different functions, attending different events. And he left such a positive impression all across that jurisdiction. And I really want Linda and the family to be very aware of that.

Herb was also a 4‑H leader. And 4‑H is something I’m very passionate about, Mr. Speaker, and Herb was very passionate about it too. And something that we talk often about is the importance that 4‑H brings to the youth. And you know, what you learn about caring for an animal — whatever the project is, Mr. Speaker, caring for animals, doing different projects — you learn bookkeeping, you learn public speaking skills, and everything else. But something that Herb talked about was what you learn about yourself, of being a 4‑H leader, of mentoring youth in your community. It makes you a better person too.

So to Linda, to the family: Herb was incredibly well-known all across Western Canada, United States, spoken of in the highest regard, and he is going to be missed, that the foundations that he’s laid on so many different areas are still being built upon until this day. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Speaker Goudy: — Carried. I recognize the Premier.

Allan Guy

Hon. Scott Moe: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would move:

Allan Guy, who passed away on July the 12th, 2025 at the age of 99. He was a member of this Legislative Assembly from 1960 until 1975, represented the constituency of Athabasca for the Liberal Party. During his time in office, Allan Guy served on Executive Council as minister of Public Works, minister of Municipal Affairs, and minister of Saskatchewan Indian and Métis Department.

Born in the farming community of Senlac, Saskatchewan on May the 18th of 1926, Allan Guy worked on the family farm prior to attending the Saskatoon Teachers’ College at the University of Saskatchewan. After graduation, he taught in Radisson before moving to La Ronge in 1954, becoming a school principal. Throughout his career, he was active in the La Ronge Chamber of Commerce, the Saskatchewan Teachers’ Federation, and the Remote Northern Teachers Association.

Following his time in the legislature, Allan Guy returned to teaching in 1975 and became principal of Prud’homme Central School. He later worked as a property manager for the Remai family in Saskatoon, and in retirement he travelled extensively with his wife, Marjorie.

He is survived and sadly missed by his children: Marcy, Murray, and Maureen, and extended family.

In recording its own deep sense of loss and bereavement, this Assembly expresses its most sincere sympathy to the members of the bereaved family.

I so move.

Speaker Goudy: — Would the House take the motion as read?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Speaker Goudy: — Is the Assembly ready for the question?

Some Hon. Members: — Question.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Opposition House Leader.

Nicole Sarauer: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise on behalf of the official opposition to bring remarks on the passing of Allan Guy, who served as an MLA from 1960 to 1975 representing Athabasca. During that time he acted as the opposition critic for Northern Affairs and Indigenous Issues. As well, he has served on Executive Council as minister of Public Works, minister of Municipal Affairs, and minister of the department of Indian and Métis Affairs. The last one, Mr. Speaker, was a new department that addressed issues of poverty facing First Nations reserves, particularly in northern Saskatchewan. He particularly cited the love of his northern community as his reason for entering politics.

Born on May 18th, 1926, he passed away on July 12th, 2025 at 99 years of age, Mr. Speaker. Before he pursued education, he worked on the family farm in Senlac. Later on in life he moved his family to La Ronge in 1954, Mr. Speaker, to become a school principal which he did for 10 years. After he was an MLA, he returned back to his profession of teaching in 1975 where he served as a principal again, and then later worked as a property manager in Saskatoon.

He was very active in his community. He was active in the La Ronge Chamber of Commerce and the Saskatchewan Teachers’ Federation and in the Remote Northern Teachers Association.

He loved curling, golf, and football and was an avid Roughriders fan as well as a fan of the Green Bay Packers. He had a lifelong love of dogs and often remarked that dogs were his favourite people. He’ll be lovingly missed by his children Marcy, Murray, and Maureen, as well as his extended family.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the member from Athabasca.

Leroy Laliberte: — Well thank you, Mr. Speaker. And it’s my honour to rise and pay tribute to a former Member of the Legislative Assembly who represented the great people that I today have the pleasure to serve in the Athabasca constituency.

As mentioned, the honourable Allan Ray Guy was born in Senlac, Saskatchewan working on the family farm and then gone to Saskatoon for an education degree. Allan taught in Radisson, Saskatchewan as well, meeting his wife, Sylvia Evangeline Harach, in 1951. Together they had three children.

Allan’s love for teaching, the outdoors, I can only assume, Mr. Speaker, judging based on many unique experiences that Allan lived. His love for adventure led him to becoming a teacher and then a principal up in La Ronge in 1954 to 1964. Now during this time Allan must have gained the interest in politics of the North, connecting with the people and the communities, as he was elected the Liberal Athabasca MLA in 1960.

Although Liberals did not form government in that election cycle, Allan served the opposition critic for Northern Affairs, Indigenous issues. In 1967 MLA Guy would get his first opportunity to serve Saskatchewan in cabinet as the minister for Public Works under the premier, Ross Thatcher, later serving as minister for Municipal Affairs and minister of department of Indian and Métis Affairs.

[15:45]

Also in 1967 Allan married Marjorie Pearl Hastings, and reading an excerpt from Hansard, Mr. Speaker, I got to see that Allan was somewhat of a storyteller as well. Evident for his love at teaching, his maiden speech in this Legislative Assembly, humorously referring to the story shared by then premier, Tommy Douglas, Allan read a bit of his own story. He said:

Once upon a time a fox and a bear went fishing. The fox told the bear to stick his tail down through a hole in the ice and he would catch the fish. The bear very foolishly did so and after the hole froze up, he tried to remove his tail, but his tail came off. The moral of this story appeared to be, “Never underestimate the wisdom of a fox.” Or better still, I hope perhaps it would be a tale to end all tales.

Allan Guy, February 16, 1961.

He went on to speak about the North, more especially about the Athabasca constituency, in which he represented at the time.

As I listened the other day to certain Members of this Assembly [he says] boasting the number of votes they received last June, I began to wonder what I might be able to brag about. I am proud, therefore, to be able to [stand and] represent the largest Constituency in this province [he said]. But more important than that, I would like to say that I have in my Constituency the greatest percentage of voters who represent the original inhabitants of Canada and our province. I was thus dismayed to note that so little time and so little was said in the Speech from the Throne concerning our Indian and Métis people.

Allan Guy, February 16th, 1961, Saskatchewan Hansard.

The last excerpt that I include speaks to the issues faced at the time within the province concerning the Indigenous people of this province. I could not help but recognize the relevance that a feeling that Mr. Guy had seems to have seen the case of what’s going on today.

We realized that we were guilty of not demanding our Governments and our representatives in the Government to right these wrongs against our native people. However, this is in the past, we cannot relive these mistakes. Instead we must try to make up for the past . . . [to not have these actions] present . . . [or into] the future, which will show that we are seriously interested the problems of our Indian people and we are determined to proceed with honour and courage to see the equality to which all men have a right . . . [to come to see].

Allan Guy, February 16th, 1961, Saskatchewan Hansard.

So through official record I had had the chance to understand the kind of man that MLA Allan Guy was and gain an understanding of the issues that he had felt at that time, Mr. Speaker. Though he wasn’t an Indigenous man himself, I commend the effort that Mr. Guy showed in trying to be the best representative that he could be for the people of Athabasca with the knowledge he had for the area and for the people that he represented. So with that, Mr. Speaker, I want to thank him.

And after his political career spanning about 15 years from 1960 to 1975, Allan would continue his teaching career and again a principal, as the Premier mentioned, at Prud’homme Central School and then working as a property manager for Remai family in Saskatoon. Upon retirement Allan would pursue his love for travelling the world, cheering on the Saskatchewan Roughriders, caring for animals and pets, and loving life.

Allan sadly passed away on June 12th, 2025 and it’s said that he was at his happy place — according to the obituary in the Grasslands News Group dated August 6th, 2025 — was at the lake of Taylor Beach, where his family and close friends gathered for a celebration of life and a final kickoff. He was survived by his children Marcy, Murray, and Maureen; son-in-law; 10 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren. Thank you to the Guy family for sharing Allan with the North and with the people of Athabasca and with our province. He served well. And may he rest in peace. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Speaker Goudy: — Carried. I recognize the Premier.

Ralph Katzman

Hon. Scott Moe: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Prior to moving the following motion, I would like to put just a few comments on the record, as I serve as the current MLA for Rosthern, and it’s with respect to Ralph Katzman.

Ralph was born in Prince Albert in 1940, and his family later moved to Saskatoon in 1946. And that’s where he met his beloved wife, Lucille, and they chose to make a life together and to raise a family near Dalmeny. They owned a mixed farming operation there, and they were blessed with two daughters, Sharon and Gwen.

And Ralph had a love for his community — family, community — volunteering in so many different areas: coaching the Dalmeny Diggers hockey team; president of the Fort Carlton Hockey League. I had the opportunity to play a game or two in that league myself, Mr. Speaker. A volunteer with the Saskatoon Blades Booster Club. And he continued with that very public service by seeking election in 1975, where he served as the MLA for Rosthern from 1975 until 1986.

Our maiden speeches in this Chamber usually highlight what is important to us as individuals but also to us as we begin our service as MLAs. And I read through Ralph’s maiden speech from March of 1976, and honestly it didn’t take that long. It was a relatively short speech, but it showed what was important to Ralph. And it was right to the point.

He talked about his support for labour and for workers, about how a government’s job was not to pit workers against employers. And I quote from that speech from Mr. Katzman: “It is time that labor and management work together for the betterment of this province.” He gave credit to our farmers, to our agricultural producers for their immense contribution to our provincial economy. He also decried the NDP’s government’s desire to take over and nationalize our resource sector.

Never one to sit still, even in his retirement he continued to volunteer his time with the Saskatoon Optimist Club. Ralph was very proud of his Jewish faith. He volunteered as a caretaker at the Agudas Israel Cemetery in Saskatoon. The Ralph and Lucille Katzman Fund was established to help maintain that cemetery, ensuring that it was a beautiful place for families to visit their loved ones.

For his work in his community and sport and his synagogue, he received the Queen Elizabeth II Golden Jubilee Medal in 2002. Ralph very much had a heart for service, and I wish to offer my personal condolence to his daughters Gwen and Sharon and their families. And may his memory be a blessing to them and many others.

So with that, Mr. Speaker, I would move the following motion:

That this Assembly records with great sorrow and regret the passing of a former member of this Assembly and expresses its grateful appreciation of the contribution that he made to his community, to his constituency, and to the province.

Ralph Katzman, who passed away on June the 13th, 2025 at the age of 85, was a member of this Legislative Assembly from 1975 until 1986. He represented the constituency of Rosthern for the Progressive Conservative Party.

Ralph Katzman was born in Prince Albert on May the 13th, 1940 and he moved to Saskatoon in 1946. After attending public school in Saskatoon, he studied at the University of Saskatchewan School of Agriculture. Ralph Katzman eventually moved to an acreage near Dalmeny, where he and his wife, Lucille, raised their daughters and operated a family farm. Outside of his political career, he worked for the parks and recreation department of the city of Saskatoon, and after his retirement, he served as the caretaker for the Agudas Israel Cemetery.

A long-time hockey fan, Ralph Katzman played the sport for many years, winning the Saskatoon Minor Hockey Association title and the northern Saskatchewan championship in 1957. In addition to his time as a player, he spent many seasons coaching and volunteering, most notably with the Dalmeny Diggers, the Fort Carlton Hockey League, and the Saskatoon Blades Booster Club. He was also a dedicated volunteer, involved with the Saskatchewan Quarter Horse Association, the Saskatchewan exhibition 4‑H, and the Saskatoon Optimist Club. In 2002 he was awarded the Queen Elizabeth II Golden Jubilee Medal.

Ralph Katzman is survived and sadly missed by his daughters, Sharon and Gwen, and many extended family.

In recording its own deep sense of loss and bereavement, this Assembly expresses its most sincere sympathy to members of the bereaved family.

I so move.

Speaker Goudy: — Will the House take the motion as read? Is the Assembly ready for the question? I recognize the Opposition House Leader.

Nicole Sarauer: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise on behalf of the official opposition to enter some remarks regarding the passing of Ralph Katzman.

As the Premier had mentioned, he served as an MLA from 1975 to 1986, representing Rosthern on behalf of the Progressive Conservative Party. He was born in Prince Albert in 1940, passed away on June 13th, 2025 at 85 years of age.

He attended public school in Saskatoon and studied at the University of Saskatchewan School of Agriculture. He then moved to an acreage near Dalmeny to operate a farm and raise a family. He worked for the parks and recreation department of the city of Saskatoon, and after retirement he served as the caretaker of the Agudas Israel Cemetery.

He was a long-time hockey fan, Mr. Speaker, and he played hockey and won the Saskatoon Minor Hockey Association title and the northern Saskatchewan championship in 1957. He also spent many seasons coaching and giving back to the sport. He coached the Dalmeny Diggers. He was president of the Fort Carlton Hockey League. And he was a volunteer with the Saskatoon Blades Booster Club.

He also gave back to his community in many other ways, including volunteering with the Saskatchewan Quarter Horse Association, the Saskatoon Exhibition 4‑H, and the Saskatoon Optimist Club.

He will be lovingly missed by his daughters Sharon and Gwen.

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

Hon. Terry Jenson: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I’m honoured to join with the Premier and the Opposition House Leader to pay tribute to Ralph Katzman, a long-time MLA in this legislature who served the constituents of Rosthern as well as the people of Saskatchewan from 1975 until 1986 with the Progressive Conservative Party.

The constituency of Rosthern that Mr. Katzman so ably served for 11 years is now split into seven different current constituencies, and my constituency of Warman would be the largest geographical area from the old Rosthern constituency.

While I didn’t personally know Mr. Katzman, Mr. Speaker, I know many people in Saskatchewan did, including my father who was a campaign manager in 1982 in Saskatoon. I spoke to my father last night, recalling some stories from that 1982 election, and the one thing that stuck out to my dad was Ralph’s, his selflessness during that campaign. He would come in, visit the campaign office in Saskatoon when he could have been campaigning in his own constituency, Mr. Speaker.

Mr. Katzman and his late wife, Lucille, who predeceased him in 1992, have a fund in their name with the Saskatoon Community Foundation. In the foundation documents, Mr. Katzman was always actively involved in his community before, during, and after serving in this Assembly. Whether it was building a rink, helping organize and work a pancake breakfast in his community, or chairing a Quarter Horse Association meeting, or even just planning an event for the Saskatoon Blades, Ralph always put his community first.

After retiring from politics, Mr. Katzman returned home to his acreage near Dalmeny on a full-time basis and took great interest in helping maintain the Agudas Israel Cemetery, where he is laid to rest. The Ralph and Lucille Katzman Fund was established at Saskatoon Community Foundation as a means of sustaining that cemetery. Ralph said at the time, and I quote, “After doing some research, I found that endowing the donation then using the income for charitable uses really appealed to me.”

As a proud and practising member of the Jewish community, Mr. Speaker, Ralph believed in performing mitzvah, which is the responsibility of each person to do for others what they cannot do for themselves. Mr. Katzman served the people of his community, his constituency, and his province selflessly, and he will be missed.

[16:00]

It is with great sympathy that we express our condolences to his family, friends, and all of those who knew and loved Ralph Katzman.

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

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Speaker Goudy: — Carried. I recognize the Premier.

Eldon Lautermilch

Hon. Scott Moe: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would move:

Eldon Lautermilch, who passed away on February the 9th, 2026 at the age of 76, was a member of this Legislative Assembly from 1986 until 2007. He represented the constituencies of Prince Albert-Duck Lake and Prince Albert Northcote for the New Democratic Party. Eldon Lautermilch served on Executive Council as minister of the following portfolios: Natural Resources, Rural Development, Energy and Mines, Economic and Co‑operative Development, Industry and Resources, Intergovernmental Affairs, Aboriginal Affairs, Highways and Transportation, Property Management, and the Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Authority.

Eldon Lautermilch was born on September the 9th, 1949 in Lafleche, Saskatchewan. He trained in electronics at the Saskatchewan Technical Institute, then moved to Prince Albert in 1970. He worked in radio and television repair before taking over the family business, Old Fashion Foods. After his time in politics, he worked as a realtor in Regina before retiring in 2020.

In 2002 Eldon Lautermilch was awarded a Queen Elizabeth II Golden Jubilee Medal, and in 2023 the city of Prince Albert unveiled the Eldon Lautermilch Park, named in recognition of his community leadership.

Eldon Lautermilch is survived and sadly missed by his wife, Loretta; his children Rae, Stacey, and JoAnne; and his extended family.

In recording its own deep sense of loss and bereavement, this Assembly expresses its most sincere sympathy to members of the bereaved family.

I so move.

Speaker Goudy: — Would the House take the motion as read?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Speaker Goudy: — Is the Assembly ready for the question? I recognize the Opposition House Leader.

Nicole Sarauer: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise on behalf of the official opposition to enter some remarks of condolence on the passing of Eldon Lautermilch. I think many members on our side of the House have had the opportunity to engage with and interact with Eldon over the years and can attest to what an incredibly kind, wonderful, and passionate individual Eldon was. He cared about politics very deeply and cared about his community very deeply right until the end.

I know he helped a lot of us and guided us as a mentor, someone who served in the past and was able to usher us along. I know when I was first elected in 2016, he reached out to me shortly thereafter. And it was a time, I will say, where we were going through a bit of transition. There were only 11 MLAs who were elected at that time, and not quite the same amount of support that you would have as an MLA that perhaps joined our caucus more recently.

And Eldon reached out in the kindness that he always showed and helped me with the basic logistics of setting up as an MLA: here are the things that you’re going to need; here’s what you’ve got to do; let me help you find some office space. As has been mentioned, he was a very successful realtor as a career post-politics, and I know I always appreciated when he reached out. I always appreciated his thoughts and the debate that we would often have with each other. And I know many members on this side can say the same.

Eldon served as an MLA from 1986 to 2007 representing Prince Albert-Duck Lake and Prince Albert Northcote on behalf of the NDP. He served in a ministerial capacity in many different ways, Mr. Speaker, more portfolios than I even knew before his passing. He was minister of Natural Resources, minister of Rural Development, minister of Energy and Mines, minister of Economic and Co‑operative Development, minister of Industry and Resources, minister of Intergovernmental Affairs, minister of Aboriginal Affairs, minister of Highways and Transportation, minister of Property Management, and minister of Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Authority.

He was most proud, Mr. Speaker, that he successfully facilitated an agreement for Indigenous-operated gaming in the province, which was the first of its kind in Canada.

He was born in 1959 in Lafleche, passed away on February 9th, 2026 at 76 years of age, shortly after being diagnosed with ALS [amyotrophic lateral sclerosis].

He was both musical and handy. He was ready to play or repair almost anything on a moment’s notice, surrounded by instruments and tools throughout his entire life.

Eldon and his wife, Loretta, spent lots of time with family at their cabin on Emma Lake. Loved ones often said that Eldon collected people. He had a wide circle of friends, family, and colleagues that meant the world to him. But as was said in his obituary, and I’ll quote, “Above all he cherished Loretta and would not have had the life he did without her boundless support.”

As had been mentioned by the Premier, in honour of his service, the city of Prince Albert named a park after him, the Eldon Lautermilch Park.

Eldon will be lovingly missed and remembered by his family: his wife, Loretta, and his children Rae, Stacey, and JoAnne.

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

Hon. Alana Ross: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. As the current MLA for Prince Albert Northcote, I rise today to pay tribute to Eldon Lautermilch who passed away at the age of 76 shortly after being diagnosed with ALS.

Although I didn’t know Eldon personally, I have spoken to many who did, and all reflected on his love of family, his love of friends, and especially his love of the community of Prince Albert. They expressed gratitude for the many, many contributions that Eldon made to Prince Albert including his involvement with the twinning of Highway 11, the building of the E.A. Rawlinson Centre, the Alfred Jenkins Field House, the Prince Albert forestry centre, and the creation of the provincial agreement for Indigenous gaming — a first in Canada.

Eldon was also the mentor to many people who were interested in the political world in Prince Albert. In 2023 the city honoured Eldon by naming a park that runs along the North Saskatchewan River and the Rotary Trail in his honour, and also erecting a monument that stands there and will stand there for many, many years to come.

Mr. Speaker, I express my sincere condolences to Eldon’s wife, Loretta; his children Rae, Stacey, and JoAnne and their families; and Eldon’s many extended family members and many, many friends. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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

Brent Blakley: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I just want to put a few words on the record with regards to Eldon Lautermilch. I would first like to welcome Maynard Sonntag, up in the gallery. He was a very good friend and legislative colleague of Eldon’s. And also Eldon’s family is up there today — wife Loretta; children Stacey, Rae, and JoAnne — and I’d like to welcome them today.

As was already said, Eldon held a number of cabinet positions in his time here. I’m not going to go repeat a bunch of the things that were already said, but I have a few comments to put on from some other people who I talked to.

He had many positions in cabinet. He never lost his ability to define the issue and offer the practical political solution. It says he was a great House leader because he lived and breathed politics, and he was a performer in the House for that same reason. As one person said, he could give better than he got — always. It was also said he had a unique blend of street smarts. A soft, caring, compassionate side. And none of us will forget his smile and the sound of his huge belly laugh, so I appreciate that.

Once he retired he again, as it was said, he embarked on a second career as a realtor. But after his retirement from politics he mentored many, many people, offering armchair advice to our leaders and our caucus. Eldon was one of the first people I visited when I was seeking nomination for Regina Wascana Plains. He invited me in to his doorstep. As I embarked on this political career, he was a great source of support for me — encouragement and advice. He put me in touch with other former MLAs, colleagues of his, and I greatly appreciate his input, his wisdom, and his experience.

Again as was said, there is a park in P.A. [Prince Albert] named after him. And it’s just blocks away from where him and Loretta raised their family, so that’s very appropriate. Just to end on that, Mr. Speaker, we are all thankful for the life and contributions of Eldon Lautermilch.

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

Hon. Eric Schmalz: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. It’s an honour and privilege to rise in the House today and provide a few personal comments about Eldon Lautermilch, put them on the record in the presence of his family. Deeply an honour.

Mr. Speaker, growing up in Prince Albert, I knew Eldon from when I was a small child. He may have been born and raised in Lafleche, Mr. Speaker, but he was “quintessentially P.A.” My father was the president of the German Canadian club in Prince Albert, the Waldhorn club, and a lot of our fondest memories in our formative years were attending the Oktoberfest celebrations at the exhibition centre in Prince Albert.

The member opposite mentioned Eldon’s loud belly laugh, Mr. Speaker. He and my father spent a lot of time at those events, having fun, celebrating our culture and our heritage, Mr. Speaker. While they had diverging political beliefs, Mr. Speaker, they could come together around those two topics.

Mr. Speaker, the constituency of Saskatchewan Rivers now encompasses a portion of what was once Prince Albert Northcote, and I have the honour to serve in that constituency. I also have the honour to serve in what is known as Government Relations, the Ministry of Government Relations as the minister, and what was formerly known as Intergovernmental Affairs.

Mr. Speaker, I want to express my sincere condolences to his family, and how much I appreciated Eldon’s spirit. And his fond memory remains in my mind from those days of my youth. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Speaker Goudy: — Carried. I recognize the Premier.

Edward (Ted) Malone

Hon. Scott Moe: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would move the following motion:

Edward (Ted) Malone, who passed away on July the 31st, 2025 at the age of 88, was a member of this Legislative Assembly from 1973 until 1978. He represented the constituency of Regina Lakeview for the Liberal Party and served as the Leader of the Opposition from 1976 until 1978.

Born in Regina, Saskatchewan on July the 17th, 1937, Ted Malone attended Campion High School before studying law at the University of Saskatchewan. And following his graduation from the College of Law in 1962, he began practising law in Regina, appearing in all courts of Saskatchewan as well as the Supreme Court of Canada.

After his time in office, Ted Malone resumed his career in law and was appointed a judge of the District Court of Saskatchewan in 1980. In 1981 he was appointed to the Court of Queen’s Bench, where he served until his retirement. He also served as a judge of the Court Martial Appeal Court of Canada.

Ted Malone is survived and sadly missed by his wife, Penny; children Paul, Sean, Peter, and Nancy; and extended family.

In recording its own deep sense of loss and bereavement, this Assembly expresses its most sincere sympathy to the members of the bereaved family.

I would so move.

[16:15]

Speaker Goudy: — Would the House take the motion as read?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Speaker Goudy: — Is the Assembly ready for the question? I recognize the Opposition House Leader.

Nicole Sarauer: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise on behalf of the official opposition to enter some remarks regarding the passing of Ted Malone. Ted served as an MLA from 1973 to 1978. He represented Regina Lakeview and also served as the leader of the opposition from 1976 to 1978.

His public service was genetic, Mr. Speaker. In reading his maiden speech earlier, I noted that he mentions that his grandfather, the late James Grassick, also served in public service, Mr. Speaker. His grandfather held public office first in Regina in 1888. And he was mayor of the city on numerous occasions after that as well as sitting briefly as a member in the 1930s, Mr. Speaker. So it’s a long lineage of public service that Ted Malone comes from. And although I did not know Ted, I do know one of his sons: Paul. That lineage continues on in terms of passion for serving one’s community.

Ted was born on July 17th, 1937 and passed away on July 31st, 2025 at 88 years of age, two weeks after his birthday and a month before his 65th wedding anniversary. As noted, after he left politics he was appointed judge of the District Court of Saskatchewan in 1980 and then later was appointed to the Court of Queen’s Bench in 1981, where he served until retirement.

He was also a lifelong Regina Public Library card holder. He loved reading, especially Canadian history, Canadian politics, and fiction. And throughout his busy career he made sure to stay as connected to his family as possible, and ensured a strict schedule of weekly phone calls. It had been noted that his great-grandchildren were the light of his later years. And in his obituary about him they said, “Ted’s laughter, sense of humour, and gentle wisdom will be sorely missed and always cherished.”

Ted will be missed and remembered by his family: his wife, Penny; and his children Paul, Sean, Peter, and Nancy.

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

Bhajan Brar: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise here today to join with the Premier as well as my colleague, the MLA for Douglas Park, to pay tribute to Ted Malone and condolence with his family.

Ted passed away peacefully with family present two weeks after his 88th birthday and a month before his 65th wedding anniversary. He was predeceased by his parents, J. Cyril Malone and Marion (Grassick) Malone, and his brothers John and James.

He is survived by his loving wife, Penny; son Paul; grandson Patrick; great-grandchildren Flannery, John, and Michael; and grandson Fr. Daniel; son Sean (Lorna); and granddaughters Roisin and Maeve; son Peter; and daughter Nancy.

He is fondly remember by his sister-in-law Nancy Steiner and her family in Toronto, and sister-in-law Berniece Malone and family in Edmonton, as well as friends and colleagues in the legal and judicial communities. He was also predeceased by his wife’s sister Keturah Brown and is survived by her family in the United States.

Born and raised in Regina, Ted was fiercely proud of his family’s prairie roots. He attended Lakeview School and Campion high school. Apart from his university years, he grew up, helped raise a family, pursued a career, and retired while always residing in the Lakeview neighbourhood.

Ted graduated from law school at the University of Saskatchewan in 1962 and practised law in Regina. He appeared in all the courts of Saskatchewan and Supreme Court of Canada. His legal background and sense of service to his community led him into politics. He was elected and served as a Member of the Legislative Assembly for Regina Lakeview from 1973 to 1978 and leader of the opposition from 1976 to 1978.

He was appointed a judge of the District Court of Saskatchewan in 1980 and Court of Queen’s Bench in 1981, serving until his retirement in 2012. He also served as a judge of the Court Martial Appeal Court of Canada. Ted presided over more than 30 jury trials during his career on the bench.

Until the very end, Ted, a lifelong Regina Public Library cardholder, was a voracious reader with a particular love for Canadian history, Canadian politics, as well as fiction.

Above all, Ted had a profound love for his family. He closely followed the activity and achievements of his wife, children, daughters-in-law, grandchildren, through frequent visits, a strictly regimented weekly phone call schedule, email, and text messages via Penny’s cell phone. His great-grandchildren were the sunshine and delight of his later years.

His love was reciprocated in turn by Penny and three generations of children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Ted’s laughter, sense of humour, and gentle wisdom will be sorely missed and always cherished. I’m thankful for all he did for the province, and give condolences to his family. Thank you.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of Justice.

Hon. Tim McLeod: — Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. I too would like to offer a few words of condolence, not only on behalf of the members of this Assembly but also on behalf of the Saskatchewan legal community, Mr. Speaker.

As we’ve heard, Edward Cyril Malone, known to many as Judge Malone or Ted, served as a member of this Legislative Assembly from 1973 to 1978, representing the constituency of Regina Lakeview. During his time in this Chamber he served with distinction as the leader of the opposition from 1976 to 1978.

Judge Malone graduated from the College of Law, University of Saskatchewan, in 1962 and established a respected legal practice in Regina. Throughout his years as a practitioner, he appeared before all levels of Saskatchewan courts and the Supreme Court of Canada, a testament to the quality of his legal work and the confidence that his clients placed in their legal counsel.

In 1980 Judge Malone was appointed to the District Court of Saskatchewan, and the following year to the Court of Queen’s Bench, where he served with honour until his retirement in 2012. As was indicated by the Premier, Mr. Speaker, beyond the courts of Saskatchewan, Judge Malone also served as a judge of the Court Martial Appeal Court of Canada. During his three decades on the bench, Judge Malone presided over more than 30 jury trials, bringing to each case the same thoughtfulness, legal acumen, and commitment to the administration of justice that defined his career.

Mr. Speaker, as the Attorney General, I’d like to recognize Judge Malone’s significant contribution to our province’s justice system. To dedicate nearly 50 years of his life as both a lawyer and a judge is a profound commitment to justice and service to the people of Saskatchewan.

And so on behalf of all members of this Assembly and the Saskatchewan legal community, I wish to extend our sincere condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of the Hon. Judge Ted Malone.

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

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Speaker Goudy: — Carried. I recognize the Premier.

Anthony (Tony) Merchant

Hon. Scott Moe: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Prior to making the next motion, I would like to enter a couple of comments on the record with respect to Tony Merchant.

Born in Yorkton in 1944, in Tony’s youth he joined the Naval Cadets and was later commissioned as an officer, serving as a reservist for two decades. He attended the University of Saskatchewan, where he studied arts and law, and later the University of Regina. He was admitted to the Saskatchewan bar in 1968, the Alberta bar in 1976, and the British Columbia bar in 1977.

Tony practised law for many years and founded the Merchant Law Group right here in Regina. In addition to his legal work, he was active in public affairs and political life. Anyone that knew Tony knew that. He contributed to campaigns at provincial and federal levels.

And I want to spend a few moments talking about that political career, Mr. Speaker, which I think is appropriate on the floor of this Assembly. Tony was not new to politics. In his family, politics was very much a tradition. His grandfather Vincent Smith was an MLA under James Gardiner. His mother, Sally Merchant, was an MLA under Ross Thatcher.

And I’ve noted in speaking about other former MLAs, their maiden speeches can help us learn a lot about an individual: why they ran, what they wanted to see changed, what their vision for their constituency and for their province truly was. And Tony was no different.

And if you have not had the opportunity to read Tony’s maiden speech, I urge all to have a look at it. Mr. Speaker, it’ll be of interest to you. He started his speech by talking about decorum in this very place, on the very floor of this Assembly. And 50 years later, at times we still have that discussion. So, Mr. Speaker, you’re not alone in your efforts to oversee what Tony called, and I quote, “childish” and “impish” behaviour. He noted that senior members behaved worse than the new ones. I’m not sure about that, Mr. Speaker.

Tony was very clear about what he wanted to accomplish on the floor of this Chamber for the province, whether it was championing women’s rights or understanding that the best rent control was increasing supply through construction of new units. But he spent a good deal of time on — at the time as a Liberal MLA — he spent a great deal of time on the NDP’s plan to nationalize the Saskatchewan potash industry. And again I quote: “My first reaction was abhorrence, abhorrence to the takeover, abhorrence of a government that will kick anyone in the teeth.”

He said that that nationalization was irreversible, and I would say luckily what we see today for the people of this province that he was wrong on that front, and today we have an incredibly successfully privately owned potash industry across the board.

Tony was pragmatic even in the face of government action that he may have disagreed with, very pragmatic. He still hoped that Saskatchewan would always be okay, and he never gave up that hope. Again I quote: “If you want to roll the dice for the future of Saskatchewan like a river boat gambler, then I hope that the dice come up sevens.”

Mr. Speaker, 50 years ago inflation was an issue in this province and across the nation, and I would say even a greater issue than what we see today. Inflation in 1975 was in the double digits. Tony understood that government had a role to play to make Saskatchewan stronger. And again I quote Tony Merchant:

The country floats in a malaise without consistent or constructive government policies to encourage sound growth and least of all consistent and constructive policies from this government to encourage sound growth. It is not this week’s problem, it is not yesterday’s problem. It has been coming for years . . . this government has been fanning the inflationary . . . [flames] of this province to a white hot pitch.

Tony definitely had a way with words, and if you met him, you knew that. He took clear, concise, common-sense approaches to issues facing his constituents and facing the province and dare I say facing the nation as well.

Tony was always good at speaking his mind. And again if you met him, you knew that. Before entering politics he hosted a talkback, an open line, a public affairs radio program on CJME. And he was a freelance radio commentator for CBC Regina as well as in Saskatoon.

In 1995 Tony Merchant was appointed Queen’s Counsel. In recognition of his work on behalf of First Nations, he was twice awarded Eagle Feathers, and in 2008 he was made an honorary chief of the Blackfoot Confederacy. Over the course of his career, he received several honours: the Queen Elizabeth II Golden, Diamond, and Platinum Jubilee Medals; and the Saskatchewan Centennial Medal; and the Decoration of Honour in Silver from the Republic of Austria. He was also involved in various community organizations, including the YMCA, the Queen City Track Club, the Midwest Karate, the Saskatchewan Civil Liberties Association, and the Austrian Edelweiss Club.

Tony Merchant is sadly survived by his wife, a former senator, Pana; children Evatt, Joshua, Matthew; as well as extended family.

[16:30]

Mr. Speaker, I would move the following motion:

That this Assembly records with sorrow and regret the passing of a former member of this Assembly and express its grateful appreciation of the contribution that he made to his community, to his constituency, and to the province.

Anthony (Tony) Merchant, who passed away on October the 13th, 2025 at the age of 80. He served as a member of this Legislative Assembly from 1975 to 1978, representing the constituency of Regina Wascana for the Liberal Party of Saskatchewan.

Born in Yorkton in 1944, Tony Merchant was raised in Saskatoon. In his youth he joined the Naval Cadets and was later commissioned as an officer, serving as a reservist for two decades. He attended the University of Saskatchewan, where he studied arts and law, and later the University of Regina. He was admitted to the Saskatchewan bar in 1968, the Alberta bar in 1976, and the British Columbia bar in 1977.

Tony Merchant practised law for many years, and he founded the Merchant Law Group here in Regina. In addition to his legal work, he was active in public affairs and political life, contributing to the campaigns at the provincial and federal levels. He also hosted Talk Back, an open-line public affairs radio program on CJME, and was a freelance radio commentator for CBC in both Regina and Saskatoon.

In 1995 Tony Merchant was appointed Queen’s Counsel. In recognition of his work on behalf of First Nations, he was twice awarded Eagle Feathers and in 2008 was made an honorary chief by the Blackfoot Confederacy. Over the course of his career, he received several honours, including the Queen Elizabeth II Golden, Diamond, and Platinum Jubilee Medals; the Saskatchewan Centennial Medal; the Decoration of Honour in Silver from the Republic of Austria. He was also involved in various community organizations, including the YMCA, the Queen City Track Club, Midwest Karate, and the Saskatchewan Civil Liberties Association, and the Austrian Edelweiss Club.

Tony Merchant is sadly missed by his wife, Pana; children Evatt, Joshua, and Matthew; and extended family.

In recording its own deep sense of loss and bereavement, this Assembly expresses its most sincere sympathy to the members of the bereaved family.

I so move.

Speaker Goudy: — Would the House take the motion as read?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Speaker Goudy: — Is the Assembly ready for the question? I recognize the Opposition House Leader.

Nicole Sarauer: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise on behalf of the official opposition to give some remarks of condolence with respect to the passing of Tony Merchant.

Tony served as an MLA from 1975 to 1978 representing Regina Wascana on behalf of the Liberal Party of Saskatchewan. And like the Premier, I took the opportunity to read Tony’s maiden speech, and I think he described it accurately. Tony enjoyed using colourful language, I will say, and did it in a debate that he brought up about decorum. He was quite well known for his ability to . . . and his love of words and language. And I think it’s quite well spelled out, the type of passionate individual he was, in his maiden speech.

I had the opportunity to reach out to someone who served with him at that time, and he was described as being very vigorous and often had many colourful contests with other individuals and other political parties. And at times he may have been a bit provocative, but it was unquestionable, his love for this province and this country, Mr. Speaker.

I knew him more in his prominent role as a member of the Saskatchewan legal community and more specifically a member of the Regina Bar, where he had quite a large personality there as well. And had the opportunity to watch him in court many times when I was practising and can say that he was well known for his strength in terms of oral debate in that forum as well.

He was born in Yorkton in 1944 and passed away on October 13th, 2025 at 80 years of age, passed away at his home in Regina on Thanksgiving. He studied at the University of Saskatchewan as well as the University of Regina. But at the U of S he captained the debate team, wrote for the university paper, and his pet husky actually became the Huskies’ team mascot.

As had been mentioned, he founded Merchant Law Group in Regina, a very well-known legal firm that now has offices in BC [British Columbia], Ontario, Alberta, Quebec, and Manitoba. Mr. Speaker, during his service to the legal community, he was known as Canada’s class-action king. He took on a lot of class actions, I would say a lot of plaintiff-side class actions that I would say not a lot of other people were willing to take on, and often spoke as representing David in a David-and-Goliath-type situation, Mr. Speaker.

He was most well known for his firm’s representation of former students of residential schools in a class-action lawsuit against the Canadian government. And that agreement reached in 2006 resulted in the Canadian government agreeing to pay nearly $2 billion to survivors, which is one of the largest class-action settlements in Canadian history. In fact, Mr. Speaker, he is probably known as one of the most well-known Saskatchewan lawyers. Upon his passing, a colleague of his had remarked, “It’s going to be far less interesting without him.”

He received many awards during his life, including being appointed Queen’s Counsel in 1995 and being made honorary chief by the Blackfoot Confederacy in 2008. He also received awards from the Saskatchewan Action Committee for the Status of Women and a community service award from the Knights of Columbus. I’m not sure when he found the time, but he also served in a volunteer role with a lot of organizations within the city, including the YMCA, the Queen City Track Club, Midwest Karate, and the Saskatchewan Civil Liberties Association.

He will be lovingly missed by his wife, Pana, and children Evatt, Joshua, and Matthew.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of Justice and Attorney General.

Hon. Tim McLeod: — Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. Once again on behalf of the Saskatchewan legal community I’d like to offer some words of condolence and appreciation for the contributions made by Anthony Merchant, K.C. [King’s Counsel].

Born and raised in Saskatchewan, Mr. Merchant chose to build his life and his career here in our province. He became a prominent lawyer within Saskatchewan’s legal community, establishing himself as one of the most active litigators in all of Canada.

His career encompassed a broad range of practice and demonstrated his willingness to take on very complex and challenging files. As was noted by the Opposition House Leader, I think Mr. Merchant’s representation could be described as “zealous advocacy,” which is what many lawyers strive to do, Mr. Speaker. This included substantial involvement in class-action proceedings. He is often recognized for his role in representing survivors of residential schools in what was the largest class-action lawsuit in Canadian history.

Beyond his practice though, Mr. Speaker, Mr. Merchant was actively involved in Saskatchewan’s business community. And he also made significant contributions to community service.

Mr. Merchant’s time in this Assembly was marked by his straightforward manner and his commitment to the constituents of Regina Wascana. Those who worked with Tony recall his strong advocacy for issues that he championed and his dedication to all of those that he represented.

Mr. Speaker, I wish to extend our sincere condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of Mr. Tony Merchant, K.C.

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

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Speaker Goudy: — Carried. I recognize the Premier.

William (Bill) Stodalka

Hon. Scott Moe: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would move the following motion:

William (Bill) Stodalka. He passed away on March the 6th, 2025 at the age of 93. He served as a member of this Legislative Assembly from 1975 until 1978, representing the constituency of Maple Creek for the Liberal Party.

Bill Stodalka was born on November the 9th, 1931 in the village of Richmound. He spent his early career teaching in Regina and Webb, later returning to Richmound as principal. In the 1960s, Bill Stodalka obtained a Bachelor of Education and a Master of Arts in educational administration. And in 1972, he moved with his wife, Jo, and their children to Maple Creek to become the director of the school division.

In addition to his work as administrator, Bill Stodalka served as the first president of Saskatchewan’s League of Educational Administrators, Directors, and Superintendents. He worked with the University of Saskatchewan’s College of Education to improve school division administration across the province, and in 1985 he received a service award from the Canadian Association of School Administrators.

In his personal life, Bill Stodalka was a renowned baseball player in the SaskAlta league, and he was eventually inducted into the Saskatchewan Baseball Hall of Fame. He was also a long-time member of the Knights of Columbus.

Bill Stodalka is survived and sadly missed by his children Tim, John, Murray, and Kathy, as well as extended family.

In recording its own deep sense of loss and bereavement, this Assembly expresses its most sincere sympathies to members of the bereaved family.

I so move.

Speaker Goudy: — Would the House take the motion as read?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Speaker Goudy: — Is the Assembly ready for the question? I recognize the Opposition House Leader.

Nicole Sarauer: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise on behalf of the official opposition to enter in some remarks of condolence with respect to the passing of Bill Stodalka who served as an MLA from 1975 to 1978. He represented Maple Creek. In fact, Mr. Speaker, his uncle Alex Cameron had been the MLA for the area previously, from 1948 to 1971. He served on behalf of the Liberal Party of Saskatchewan.

He was born on November 9th, 1931 in the village of Richmound and passed away on March 6th, 2025 at 93 years of age. His first teaching job, Mr. Speaker, was at Sacred Heart in Regina in 1951. He was 19 years old at the time.

After they married, William and his wife, Josephine, both taught in Webb, Saskatchewan. They moved back to Richmound in 1958, where he became the principal of Richmound’s grade 1 to 12 school. In the 1960s he obtained a Bachelor of Education degree after taking some summer school courses. He then took a one-year sabbatical in 1967 and moved to Calgary to get his Master of Arts in educational administration from the University of Calgary.

He then moved to Maple Creek with his wife, Jo, and their children in 1972 to become the director of the Maple Creek School Division. He served as the first president of Saskatchewan’s League of Educational Administrators, Directors, and Superintendents. He worked with the University of Saskatchewan’s College of Education to improve school division administration across the province.

He was also a renowned baseball player in the SaskAlta league. He played for the Richmound Rockets, Mr. Speaker, as a pitcher and was inducted into the Saskatchewan Baseball Hall of Fame. He was also a long-time member of the Knights of Columbus.

Most importantly though, he was married to his wife, Josephine, for more than 70 years. After her death in 2020, Bill continued to work in their flower garden as a tribute to her. He will be lovingly missed by his children Tim, John, Murray, and Kathy.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the member from Cypress Hills.

Doug Steele: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I’d like to take a couple minutes here to acknowledge Bill and Bill’s history and his legacy here in the legislature and in the Southwest. From some of the research that I had — I didn’t have the opportunity to know Bill — but he’s an amazing individual. Grass didn’t grow under his feet. He was always there to help his communities and work with people to better things as we move on.

A little story I heard. Like in southern Alberta and Saskatchewan his name is well known across both provinces in the southwest corner. Bill grew up in Richmound, and his wife moved there where they went to school. And Bill and Jo went to school for the first year together, but as it used to happen, the girls in that area would move to the academy in Prelate. So meanwhile, as the story goes on, Jo was moved to the academy going there, but she lasted one year. Bill did not last grass and he moved back to Richmound, and they met. And it was mentioned here just a little bit earlier, 70 years later the story has ended.

[16:45]

But like I didn’t have the opportunity, but you know, the roots grew deep for Jo down there. And when you think of the history, working in the school in Webb, working in Maple Creek, you know, he was an individual that could . . . From what they say, he gained a lot of respect from his students and the communities and the people because he was there for everyone.

His later years, as it seems to happen, he lived in Medicine Hat, and that’s where he lived until passing. But you know, like I say, I won’t go on much longer, but most of his history has been mentioned. But it was a real honour to have the time and to be aware of what his accomplishments were and how he was well respected in the Southwest. And I think that would be the same to be said here. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Speaker Goudy: — Carried. I recognize the Premier.

William (Bill) Sveinson

Hon. Scott Moe: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would move the following motion:

William (Bill) Sveinson passed away on December the 17th, 2020 at the age of 74. He served as a member of this Legislative Assembly from 1982 until 1986, representing the constituency of Regina North West for the Progressive Conservative Party, the Liberal Party, the Western Canada Concept Party, and as an independent.

Bill Sveinson was born on July 7th, 1946 in Wadena. He accepted a hockey scholarship at the Royal Military College in Kingston, Ontario before attending the University of Saskatchewan, where he played on the hockey team and obtained a Bachelor of Science in pharmacology.

An entrepreneur, Bill Sveinson owned several businesses throughout his life, including a real estate company in Regina. He was a member of the Downtowners Optimist Club of Regina and Ducks Unlimited. In his personal life, he was an avid golfer and a poker player.

Bill Sveinson is survived and sadly missed by his wife, Marilyn; children Daryl and Sherrie; as well as extended family.

In recording its deep sense of loss and bereavement, this Assembly expresses its most sincere sympathy to the members of the bereaved family.

I would so move.

Speaker Goudy: — Would the House take the motion as read?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Speaker Goudy: — Is the Assembly ready for the question? I recognize the Opposition House Leader.

Nicole Sarauer: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise on behalf of the official opposition to provide some remarks with respect to the passing of Bill Sveinson. He served as an MLA from 1982 to 1986, representing Regina North West. He was born on July 7th, 1946 in Wadena and passed away on December 17th, 2020 at 74 years of age.

He was offered many American hockey scholarships, Mr. Speaker, but he had opted to accept one that would allow him to stay in Canada. He then attended the Royal Military College in Kingston, Ontario on a hockey scholarship, and later attended the University of Saskatchewan, where he played hockey and obtained a Bachelor of Science in pharmacology, majoring in biochemistry and physiology.

He owned several businesses, including a real estate company in Regina. He was a member of the Downtowners Optimist Club of Regina and Ducks Unlimited. He was an avid golfer and poker player, Mr. Speaker. In fact he won the Canadian Texas Hold ’Em championship in 2005. He was a lover of nature, animals, woodcarving, hockey, sports, golf, fishing, and hunting.

He is lovingly missed and remembered by his wife, Marilyn, and his children Daryl and Sherrie.

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

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Speaker Goudy: — Carried. I recognize the Premier.

Kim Thorson

Hon. Scott Moe: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would move the following motion:

Kim Thorson passed away on January the 7th, 2026 at the age of 93. He was a member of this Legislative Assembly from 1956 until 1960 and from 1971 until 1975, representing the constituency of Souris-Estevan, first for the Co‑operative Commonwealth Federation and then the New Democratic Party. In his second term, he served as minister of Mineral Resources and minister of Industry and Commerce.

Kim Thorson was born in Macoun, Saskatchewan on March the 2nd, 1932. After graduating from the University of Saskatchewan with a Bachelor of Science in agricultural economics, he was awarded a World University Service scholarship and travelled to England and Africa. On his return, he undertook post-graduate studies in economics and then was hired as a research economist for the provincial government.

At the time of his election in 1956, Kim Thorson was the youngest legislator in Canada. Following his first term as a Member of the Legislative Assembly, Kim Thorson returned to university and earned a law degree. He practised law for many years in Estevan, in Regina, and Weyburn, including as a partner at Griffin, Beke and Thorson. He was appointed Queen’s Counsel in 1974.

Kim Thorson was an active community member. He served on a number of corporate boards and community organizations, including IPSCO, Cameco, Estevan School Board, Saskatchewan Centre of the Arts, and Weyburn’s Chamber of Commerce, Co-op, Humane Society, United Way, and Hospital Foundation. He was a long-time member of the Masonic Lodge and the Rotary Club, and a founding member of the Regina Scandinavian Club. In 2014 he received the Golden Spike Award for his contributions to the community of Weyburn.

Kim Thorson is survived and sadly missed by his children Eric, Janet, and Vanessa as well as extended family.

In recording its own deep sense of loss and bereavement, this Assembly expresses its most sincere sympathy to the members of the bereaved family.

I so move.

Speaker Goudy: — Would the House take the motion as read?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Speaker Goudy: — Is the Assembly ready for the question? I recognize the Opposition House Leader.

Nicole Sarauer: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise on behalf of the official opposition to enter in some remarks of condolence with respect to the passing of Kim Thorson.

Kim served as an MLA from 1956 to 1960. He was actually, Mr. Speaker, the last surviving member of the Tommy Douglas government caucus. He then served in the legislature later from 1971 to 1975. He was in government, in fact, and served as a cabinet minister under Allan Blakeney during that time.

When he was first elected though in 1956, he was the youngest legislator in Canada. He represented Souris-Estevan, first for the CCF and then for the Sask NDP. In his second term as an MLA, he served as minister of Mineral Resources and minister of Industry and Commerce. He was responsible for SaskPower and the Economic Development Corporation.

Mr. Speaker, he said once when he ran for re-election in 1975 — and he unfortunately lost that time — he said, “I had four election disasters in my life: twice when I was defeated and twice when I was elected.” I think we can all relate to that.

He was born in Saskatchewan on March 2nd, 1932 and passed away on January 7th, 2026 at 93 years of age. He graduated from the University of Saskatchewan with a Bachelor of Science in agriculture economics and was awarded a World University Service scholarship and travelled to England and Africa. Once he returned though, Mr. Speaker, he began post-graduate studies in economics. He was hired as a research economist for the provincial government.

After his first term as an MLA he returned to university, and then he earned a law degree. He took a summer job working with the Medical Care Insurance Commission as medicare was introduced to Saskatchewan and Canada. After politics he practised law for many years in Estevan, Regina, and Weyburn, and was a partner at Griffin, Beke, and Thorson. He was appointed Queen’s Counsel in 1974.

He also served on multiple corporate boards and community organizations, including IPSCO, Cameco, the Estevan School Board, the Saskatchewan Centre of the Arts, Weyburn’s Chamber of Commerce, Co-op, the Humane Society, United Way, and the Hospital Foundation. He was also a long-time member of the Masonic Lodge and the Rotary Club, and was a founding member of the Regina Scandinavian Club. He received a Golden Spike Award for his contributions to the community in Weyburn in 2014.

He is lovingly remembered by his children, who miss him greatly: Eric, Janet, and Vanessa.

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

Hon. Lori Carr: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise today to pay tribute to the life and service of a former MLA and cabinet minister, Kim Thorson, and to extend my deepest condolences to his family, friends, and all those around him.

Kim was born in Macoun, Saskatchewan on March 2nd, 1932, the son of Miles Thorson and Mary Ethel Sinclair. From an early age his life was shaped by a strong sense of community and public service, values that would define his career.

He was first elected to the Saskatchewan legislature in 1956 at the age of 24, making him the youngest member of Tommy Douglas’s Co‑operative Commonwealth Federation government. He served the people of Souris-Estevan for four years before returning to university to study law and went on to establish a legal practice. He dedicated much of his professional life to community, contributing not only through his work as a lawyer, but also those of the involvement in the local organizations including years of service to the Estevan Rotary Club.

But he wasn’t done with provincial politics yet. He returned to the legislature in 1971 as a member of the New Democratic Party, serving under Premier Allan Blakeney. During this time he was appointed minister of Mineral Resources, minister of Industry and Commerce, where he served from May 16th, 1972 to July 1st, 1975.

Throughout his time as an elected official, Kim Thorson held a clear belief as showcased on page 13 of Hansard from February 15th, 1960. Kim stated, “. . . the proper role for a democratic government is to enhance the quality of life of all of the people whom it represents and to whom it is responsible.” A principle that I’m sure many of us can agree on, and one that guided his work both in this Assembly and in his community.

Even after leaving provincial politics, he remained deeply engaged in public service. He was a strong advocate for the health care in the region and served as Chair of the Weyburn & District Hospital Foundation, continuing to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.

Mr. Speaker, Kim Thorson passed away on January 7th, 2026 at the age of 93. He leaves behind a legacy of service, dedication, and a lifelong commitment to his community and to the people of Saskatchewan.

I ask all members of this Assembly to join me in expressing our sincere condolences and honouring the life and contributions of Kim Thorson. Thank you.

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

Aleana Young: — Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. It’s a privilege to have the opportunity to enter a few words of condolence, recognizing the passing of Kim Thorson who, has been noted, was the last surviving member of the Douglas government here in Saskatchewan. Truly the end of an era here in this province, Mr. Speaker.

As has been noted, Kim Thorson served as a member of the CCF as a young 24‑year-old elected, and then again in 1971 under Allan Blakeney with the Saskatchewan New Democrats, where he served as the minister of Industry, among other roles.

And there’s been much discussion of Boundary dam in this Assembly this week, Mr. Speaker. And every time I’ve had the opportunity to be in that facility, I’ve always made a point of giving a pat to the plaque in the plant which bears Kim Thorson’s name, along with the others responsible for the construction of that very important facility, Mr. Speaker.

Following his time in politics — of course this has been canvassed — Kim continued to serve his community through his legal work and also his lifetime of dedication to health care, as has been noted by others, specifically with the Weyburn & District Hospital Foundation.

[17:00]

He also continued to serve his party, Mr. Speaker, and was well known to many, and to ministers in both the Romanow and the Calvert governments. And I understand he continued to watch question period for the duration of his life. And while he may not have been known directly by all members in this Assembly, they were known very well to Kim Thorson.

I had the privilege, Mr. Speaker, along with some of my colleagues, of witnessing what was likely his last public speech in 2019 at a gala evening that was hosted by the Saskatchewan NDP, celebrating the 75th anniversary of the election of the Douglas government in 1944. And Mr. Thorson, as at that point the last surviving member of the government, gave what can only be described as a riveting speech to a room of current and former legislators from Saskatchewan and across progressive politics in Canada.

He spoke — no notes — at length about the fight for medicare, about the fight against the establishment, about the Douglas government, yes, and about the important work of Woodrow Lloyd in making that a reality, and the struggles that they had inside and outside as they moved Saskatchewan forward. He spoke about the importance of those real, material changes that governments can make in the lives of Saskatchewan people and the importance of progressive politics continuing to deliver that real, substantive improvement to the lives of people here in Saskatchewan and around the world.

Doing some quick math on my feet, Mr. Speaker, which is risky, I think at that point he would have been 86, maybe 87 years old and stood for the duration of the speech — again, without a note — and really gave what can only be described as a speech of yore, one of those speeches from generations past that, despite any of our best efforts in this Chamber, we probably can’t hold a candle to, Mr. Speaker.

I want to extend my condolences of course to his children: Eric, Vanessa, and Jan, who’s known specifically to many on this side of the Assembly, Mr. Speaker, and to his grandchildren as well, specifically his granddaughter Katie, who I’ve had the opportunity to meet. Remarkable family, Mr. Speaker. A remarkable life of service. I saw him described as a fine man, and I can’t think of a better tribute.

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

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Speaker Goudy: — Carried. I recognize the Premier.

Vaughn Solomon Schofield

Hon. Scott Moe: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Prior to reading in and moving this motion, I would also like to enter in just a few comments on our former Lieutenant Governor, Her Honour Vaughn Solomon Schofield.

I recently delivered remarks in this legislature to mark Vaughn’s passing, and I ended those remarks with a quote from her. And today I would like to begin with that same quote:

It’s one simple word — giving. I was raised to appreciate what I had and to give back at every opportunity. Community service is my mantra — always has been, always will be.

Vaughn’s life, every board that she served on, every community she was involved with, every time she stepped foot on an Armed Forces base, she stepped up to volunteer for what she viewed as a very worthy cause, and I think in fairness what we all viewed as very worthy causes.

Anyone that understood Vaughn . . . And she received many accolades and acknowledgements of her community work: the Saskatchewan Volunteer Medal, the Saskatchewan Order of Merit, the Canadian Forces Medallion for Distinguished Service. But anyone that knew her understood that she did not do the work that she did for those awards. She did the work that she did because of her undying commitment to her community, to her family, to her friends, to the Armed Forces members that have served. Everything she did was not about receiving awards; it was about making this world better.

I got to know Vaughn quite well when I was Advanced Education minister, and I had mentioned that earlier. We attended many events together, sat on a stage for hours at length at times at post-secondary convocation ceremonies, and it really provided me with an opportunity to get to know our former Lieutenant Governor, the Hon. Vaughn Solomon Schofield. And I got to know her as Vaughn. And I got to know just what a wonderful person and a wonderful woman she was.

She always had a smile on her face, and you always felt better after having a visit with Vaughn. And she always left you with some piece of information that certainly was impactful. But she smiled, she made you feel comfortable. She made you feel better. And she always, always, always had the nicest shoes on in the room. Vaughn had a definite dignity and style about her that was unmatched. It was truly unmatched.

It was in 2018, and this was important to me personally, that Vaughn swore in myself to this position in our first cabinet. It was a momentous occasion and one that I will forever remember. And it mattered that she did it. She will forever be a part of my memories, a part of the history of this province and the history of this place. She was an exceptional representative for this province, for our nation, an exceptional representative of our Commonwealth. She made her province and country a better place each and every day, whether she was Lieutenant Governor or in everything she did.

To her children once again, to Whitney and George, and to her grandchildren, who spoke so elegantly and so lovingly of their grandmother at her funeral, I want to thank them for sharing Vaughn with this province and this nation. Vaughn’s life was a life well lived. It was a life of leadership; and it was a life that left a legacy. And I’m sure she would be the first to agree with me when she said that her greatest legacy is not the life that we experienced at all, but it is her children and her family. May her memory be a blessing to everyone.

Mr. Speaker, I would like to move the following motion:

That this Assembly unite in paying tribute to the memory of the Hon. Vaughn Solomon Schofield, the 21st Lieutenant Governor of the province of Saskatchewan, who died on April the 8th of 2026.

Born in Regina in 1943, she pursued education at the University of Saskatchewan’s Regina campus before studying fashion merchandising at the Ray-Vogue School in Chicago.

Her Honour dedicated her career to business administration, corporate governance, education, crime prevention, and the support for the Canadian Armed Forces. She chaired the Board of Crime Watch throughout the 1980s, helping to establish Crime Watch groups throughout North and South America. She was appointed the Saskatchewan Chair of the Canadian Forces Liaison Council in 2006. She also served as president and CEO of Western Group of Companies, a business real estate organization.

A dedicated volunteer and an advocate for civic engagement, Her Honour was involved with many organizations in Regina, holding roles with the Hospitals of Regina Foundation, St. John Ambulance, the Assiniboia Club, and the Royal United Services Institute of Regina. And she was also involved with the boards of the MacKenzie Art Gallery, Opera Saskatchewan, Salvation Army, RCMP Heritage Centre, and the Regina Airport Authority, among many others.

The Hon. Vaughn Solomon Schofield received numerous honours for her many accomplishments, including the Canadian Forces Medallion for Distinguished Service, the Saskatchewan Order of Merit, the Saskatchewan Volunteer Medal, the Saskatchewan Centennial Medal, the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal, and the King Charles III Coronation Medal.

On March the 22nd, 2012 Her Honour was sworn in as the 21st Lieutenant Governor of Saskatchewan. It was during her tenure that she focused on Canada’s military, creating the Lieutenant Governor’s Military Service Pin of which she presented to over 8,000 Saskatchewan military members. And in 2025 she became the Honorary Colonel of 15 Wing Moose Jaw, a role she previously held for the 10th Field Artillery Regiment and both the 16th and 38th Service Battalions. That same year she received an honorary Doctor of Laws from the University of Regina.

The Hon. Vaughn Solomon Schofield is survived and sadly missed by her children Whitney and George, her grandchildren, and extended family.

In recording its own deep sense of loss and bereavement, this Assembly expresses its most sincere sympathy to the members of the bereaved family.

I so move.

Speaker Goudy: — Would the Assembly take the motion as read?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Speaker Goudy: — Is the Assembly ready for the question? I recognize the Opposition House Leader.

Nicole Sarauer: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise on behalf of the official opposition to bring some remarks with respect to the condolence motion for the Hon. Vaughn Solomon Schofield, the 21st Lieutenant Governor of the province of Saskatchewan.

Like the Premier, I had the opportunity to spend time with Vaughn often during her tenure as Lieutenant Governor at many events, but in particular the events that were hosted by the Royal United Services Institute of Regina which she was a regular supporter of and attended the events that they hosted, not just during her time as our LG [Lieutenant Governor] but also subsequent to her service.

Her service, as has been mentioned, extended well before her time as Lieutenant Governor but also after. She was a passionate advocate for the Canadian military and dedicated a lot of time to supporting the troops, Mr. Speaker. And I think that was quite evident at the funeral, the state funeral that was held for her, and those who came to show their support for her and her family at that event.

A very strong military presence, and that was thanks to her for the support that she showed to them during her lifetime. Most recently after her time as Lieutenant Governor, she became the Honorary Colonel of 15 Wing Moose Jaw just last year in 2025. She had also previously held this role for the 10th Field Artillery Regiment and the 16th and 38th Service Battalions.

But even prior to that she had dedicated her life to public service. She chaired the Board of Crime Watch throughout the 1980s, which helped to establish Crime Watch groups throughout North and South America.

She was born in Regina on October 25th, 1943 and passed away on October 8th, 2026 at 82 years of age. She pursued education at the University of Saskatchewan’s Regina campus before studying fashion merchandising at the Ray-Vogue School in Chicago.

She had many, many volunteer roles, Mr. Speaker. Too many, I would say, to be able to list here, but some of them were with the Hospitals of Regina Foundation, St. John Ambulance, the Assiniboia Club, and the Royal United Services Institute of Regina, as I had already mentioned.

She was also involved with many boards including the MacKenzie Art Gallery, Opera Saskatchewan, Salvation Army, RCMP Heritage Centre, and the Regina Airport Authority.

She was the recipient of many honours as well, Mr. Speaker. But I think what was evident in her funeral and the eulogies that were presented by her family was that her most important role and her most important honour, as had been mentioned by the Premier, was her role as grandma. And we heard many stories from her grandchildren about the time she spent with them at Regina Beach which they grew to love and adore, in the pool in particular, Mr. Speaker.

And we also heard some very eloquent words from her children and her sister who told some pretty fantastic stories, I will say, about the Vaughn that we may not have had the opportunity to see in her formal role. And it was so endearing and lovely to hear the many sides of the person and the family life, the very full family life that she had. You could tell that she was surrounded by a lot of love and a lot of fun as well too, Mr. Speaker. She will be lovingly remembered by that surviving family, and in particular her children, Whitney and George.

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

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Speaker Goudy: — Carried. I recognize the Premier.

Hon. Scott Moe: — Mr. Speaker, just prior to this motion, I would just like to make a comment thanking yourself and all members of the Assembly, through their House leaders, the House leadership teams, for ignoring the clock for a brief period of time so that we are able to properly commemorate and properly speak to the public service of a number of individuals that have served this province and served this province well in years gone by.

[17:15]

Mr. Speaker, and second again to all members that have spoken today — and again through the House leaders of both respective parties on the floor of this Assembly — I say thank you to those individual members for standing up and speaking, and speaking in an honourable way of individuals that have chosen to serve this province in years gone by and to honour them properly and appropriately on behalf of their families.

Mr. Speaker, with that I would request leave to move a motion of transmittal.

Speaker Goudy: — The Premier has requested leave for the motion of transmittal. Is leave granted?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Speaker Goudy: — Carried.

TRANSMITTAL MOTION

Hon. Scott Moe: — Thank you again to the members of the Assembly for leave. I would move the following motion:

That notwithstanding rule 8(2) of the Rules and Procedures of the Legislative Assembly of Saskatchewan, the Speaker on behalf of the Legislative Assembly transmit copies of the official records of the tributes to the bereaved families in memory of the deceased members.

I would so move.

Speaker Goudy: — The Premier has moved:

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. It being past the regular time of adjournment, this House stands adjourned until tomorrow at 10 a.m.

[The Assembly adjourned at 17:17.]

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

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