Hon. Mr. McMorris: — Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. To you and to all members of the Assembly, I have a high school group of grade 10 students from the great community of Milestone. Go Cougars. They are accompanied by their teacher of course, Ryan Whalley, and a couple of parent chaperones, Tim Geni and Dave Windecker. As well as Randy Frei. Hi, Randy. We went to school together and actually graduated from Milestone in 19 . . . 2009 maybe. No, it was something about 1999 from Milestone high school.

But anyway, I would like all members to welcome them to their Legislative Assembly. I look forward to meeting with them after QP [question period] probably, if they’re still around, and answer a couple of the questions that they may have after visiting probably this Legislative Chamber for the first time, which can be a bit of a shocker if you haven’t seen the proceedings before. But anyway, I’d like all members to welcome them to their Legislative Assembly.

The Speaker: — I recognize the Minister of Environment.

Hon. Ms. Tell: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. To you and through you and all members of this Assembly, I’d like to introduce someone who is seated with the Milestone School up in the west gallery. His name is Tim Geni, and Tim is the vice-president of Saskatchewan Walleye Trail and a very avid angler. He’s been fishing close to 50 years — sorry about that, Tim — on both open water and hard water all over Western Canada and the US [United States].

I must mention that Tim held the world record catch-and-release walleye after catching an absolute tanker walleye on a PK Spoon. He hooked, landed, and released a walleye that measured 33.75 inches in length and 19.375 inches in girth on January 5th, 2011. He shares great information and tactics for catching walleye and trophy walleye.

Thank you, Tim, for everything you do within the province of Saskatchewan. And I also must mention that Tim is a retired Regina Police Service member. Welcome to your Assembly. Thank you.

The Speaker: — I recognize the member from Regina Rosemont.

Mr. Wotherspoon: — Mr. Speaker, I just want to join with the Minister of Environment for a moment to welcome Tim Geni to his Assembly, Mr. Speaker. Certainly the Saskatchewan Walleye Trail is something we can all be proud of in this province. It showcases our exceptional fisheries, these natural assets, Mr. Speaker, and the dedication and talent of those fishers that get out there to compete. And that walleye trail is a sight to behold, Mr. Speaker.

As a fellow avid fisher, it’s awesome to have Tim Geni here, and that’s a massive walleye that you took through the ice. And important for us to sort of share with the rest of the world that if you want to come fish, you know, there’s no better place than here in Saskatchewan, from the South to the North and anywhere in between. So thank you to Tim Geni for joining us here today.

The Speaker: — I recognize the member from Prince Albert Northcote.

Ms. A. Ross: — I ask leave for extended introduction.

The Speaker: — Leave has been requested for an extended introduction. Is leave granted?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

The Speaker: — Carried.

Ms. A. Ross: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. To you and through you and all members of this Assembly, seated in your gallery I would like to introduce two very strong and accomplished young women, Jennifer Laewetz and Tammy Snook. Both of these young ladies work for Warshield Indigenous consulting firm, which is dedicated to advancing the rights and the interests of Indigenous communities and building mutually beneficial partnerships with industry and government.

Jennifer is originally from Gordon First Nation and she now lives in my constituency. She actually used to live across the street from me, and I first met her when her husband came and very graciously pushed me out of a snowbank when I was stuck in front of my condo. So we’ve been friends since that time. And she is a very, very strong Indigenous voice on social media. She has also, I am told, been published in the National Post, so a very accomplished young woman.

Tammy is very accomplished in her own right. She is a former Miss Newfoundland and a strong voice for women and Indigenous people across her province and across our country.

Please join me in welcoming these two very accomplished young ladies, Jennifer and Tammy, to their Legislative Assembly.

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

Ms. Nippi-Albright: — Miigwech, Mr. Speaker. I would like to join the member opposite in welcoming Jennifer and Tammy here in the legislature.

[The hon. member spoke for a time in Saulteaux.]

I just said, it’s wonderful to see you here to join all of us here in this Assembly. And, Jennifer, I probably grew up with your parents or grandparents from George Gordon, so tell them Betty says hello.

And also, Tammy, thank you for being here. It’s always wonderful to see Indigenous people, especially young Indigenous women, take these positions that they do take to be in the workforce and to promote the work that is needed to advance Indigenous people in the workforce.

So again, it’s wonderful to see you. And say hello to your parents for me, your grandparents. And when you go back to the community say, “Hey, I seen Betty at the legislature,” okay? Miigwech. Welcome to your legislature.

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

Ms. Conway: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. It’s a pleasure to be on my feet and welcome 35 students from Thomson Community School seated in the east gallery. And a shout-out to their teachers, Chas Bonnor and Rebecca Ryan, who I understand was a colleague of the member from Regina Rosemont’s wife, Steph.

I want to welcome this group to their Legislative Assembly. Keep an eye on us during question period. Hopefully we’ll be on our best behaviour. I’m looking . . . But I can’t guarantee it, no. But I’m looking forward to meeting with you all after and answering any questions you might have about the process. The more unexpected the question, the better.

I’m proud to be an MLA [Member of the Legislative Assembly] with so many vibrant school communities in their constituency, and I just want to extend the warmest of welcome to these young people to their Legislative Assembly. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

PRESENTING PETITIONS

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

Mr. Bradshaw: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. We, the undersigned residents of the province of Saskatchewan, wish to bring to your attention the following: whereas the Trudeau Liberal-NDP [New Democratic Party] coalition carbon tax is one of the main causes of affordability issues and inflation in the nation of Canada; that the federal Liberal-NDP government was politically motivated in issuing a carve-out for home heating oil; and that the Government of Saskatchewan’s decision not to collect or remit the carbon tax on home heating in Saskatchewan has led to a drop in inflation; further, that despite the decision not to charge the carbon tax on home heating, Saskatchewan families continue to pay that tax out of pocket at the pumps, grocery stores, and more.

I’d like to read the prayer:

We, in the prayer that reads as follows, respectfully request that the Legislative Assembly of Saskatchewan take the following action: to call upon the Government of Canada to immediately suspend the carbon tax across the nation of Canada and acknowledge its significant impact on affordability and inflation in Canada.

I so submit, and this is signed by the good people of Regina and Balgonie.

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

Ms. Nippi-Albright: — Miigwech, Mr. Speaker. I’m pleased to be on my feet again to present the following petition. And I’ll just read what is said on here.

We, the undersigned residents of the province of Saskatchewan wish to bring to your attention the following: that the survivors of both Ile-a-la-Crosse and Timber Bay schools have been denied the Indian residential school settlements that other sites received on the basis that the schools were run by the province of Saskatchewan.

The province of Saskatchewan oversaw 2,000 children attend the school in Timber Bay, which operated in 1952 and 1994. Ile-a-la-Crosse school operated between 1917 and 1995. In 2019 the federal government and the president of the Métis Nation of Saskatchewan signed a memorandum of understanding, committing the parties to exploratory discussions to address the legacy of the Ile-a-la-Crosse boarding school. The province was not involved in the signing although they had been invited.

I’ll read the prayer:

We, in the prayer that reads as follows, respectfully request that the Legislative Assembly of Saskatchewan call on the Government of Saskatchewan to recognize the Ile-a-la-Crosse and Timber Bay schools as provincially run schools and release the records.

The folks . . .

The Speaker: — Another petition. I recognize the member from Regina Douglas Park.

Ms. Sarauer: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise today yet again to call on the government to improve labour laws in Saskatchewan through this petition. Those who have signed this petition wish to bring to our attention the following: that even after the October 1st increase, Saskatchewan’s minimum wage remains the lowest in Canada at $14 an hour. In addition the official opposition has twice introduced paid sick leave legislation since the onset of the pandemic, calling for a minimum of 10 paid sick days each year and 14 days during a public health crisis.

Mr. Speaker, paid sick leave has been proven to save employers money while making workplaces healthier and safer for all workers. Mr. Speaker, the sad statistic shows that 71 per cent of workers in Canada have experienced workplace violence and/or harassment. And much more needs to be done to ensure that workplaces in Saskatchewan are harassment free.

I’d like to read the prayer:

We, in the prayer that reads as follows, respectfully request the Legislative Assembly of Saskatchewan call on the Government of Saskatchewan to improve conditions for Saskatchewan workers by passing legislation to increase the minimum wage, guarantee paid sick leave, limit nondisclosure agreements which could silence survivors of workplace harassment, and require employers to track and report incidents of violence and harassment in the workplace.

Those who have signed this petition come from Prince Albert, Carlyle, and Yellow Grass. I do so present.

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

Ms. Conway: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. It’s a pleasure to again be on my feet calling on this government to open up the over 3,000 vacant social housing units across the province. Homelessness is on the rise across Saskatchewan communities. It doesn’t matter whether you’re in Regina, P.A. [Prince Albert], Meadow Lake, Saskatoon, Swift Current; it’s visible. Homelessness is on the rise, Mr. Speaker.

It’s unconscionable that at that time there are this many empty public housing units that are not serving their purpose, and it is as a result of the fact that this government has over the last 10 years cut the maintenance budget by over 40 per cent. There’s a cost to that, a human cost in terms of unhoused people, and a financial cost. For example, this government’s reliance on emergency hotels has tripled under Premier Moe’s six years alone.

So with that, I call upon the government:

To renovate Sask Housing units that require renovation, make units available and affordable, and ensure that all the currently vacant Sask Housing units are occupied by October 2024.

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

STATEMENTS BY MEMBERS

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

Canadian Blind Hockey Association Provides Memorable Opportunity for Regina Youth

Mr. Keisig: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. If you grew up in Canada, there’s a strong chance you know a little bit, something about hockey. It’s not uncommon for a young hockey enthusiast to grow up dreaming of either meeting their hockey hero or even playing one day in the NHL [National Hockey League] or the WHL [Western Hockey League].

[13:45]

On January 24th a group of blind and partially sighted children in Regina had the opportunity to skate and play hockey with some local heroes. Each year Canadian Blind Hockey partners with local school boards and district vision programs. Children within the community are invited to spend the day at the rink for a fun-filled day of all things hockey. For the most part, in the sport of blind hockey all children have 10 per cent of their vision or less, and the puck is adapted to be larger, and it also makes a noise.

This year’s event included getting a rink tour and having the chance to lace the skates up and play some hockey. Children met with players from the Regina Pats who helped provide the young people with a better understanding of the game, making this year even more memorable.

Mr. Speaker, one young gentleman I’d like to single out is Fletcher. To be given this chance to play hockey alongside the Pats is an incredible opportunity for Fletch, something I’m sure he’ll be talking about for a very long time.

Thank you to all the organizers and community members who helped make this annual event so rewarding and exciting for these young people. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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

Pressures in Health Care System

Ms. Mowat: — Every person in Saskatchewan deserves access to emergency care when they need it. We recently had the opportunity to visit the emergency rooms at Regina Pasqua, Regina General, and St. Paul’s hospitals, and met some amazing health care workers, people who got into this work to help others.

Unfortunately the scenes we witnessed show a system in crisis — waiting rooms full of patients being treated without having a bed, triage nurses treating patients in immensely stressful environments, and emergency departments operating well beyond their capacity on the regular. Jam-packed ERs [emergency room] in Saskatoon and Regina have been given fire code violations because of hallway medicine.

From the escalating mental health and addictions and housing crises to the persistent shortage of family physicians and long-term care spaces, it’s clear that this government’s approach isn’t working. Amidst the chaos of this government’s making, health care workers remain committed to providing care, but they need to know that they have a government that has their backs and is willing to do what they can to help alleviate these pressures.

I extend my sincere gratitude to our resilient health care workers, and I offer the following: if this government isn’t up to the task of fixing health care, we are ready to do the work. Because in the birthplace of medicare, we can do so much better than this.

The Speaker: — I recognize the member from Melville-Saltcoats.

Saskatchewan Continues to Increase Agri-Food Exports to India

Mr. Kaeding: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. We’ve heard the opposition criticize our government’s recent trade mission to India. I’d like to see them criticize our results.

India is one of the fastest growing markets for Saskatchewan’s agri-food and potash exports in the world. When compared to 2022, ’23 saw a 71 per cent increase in volume of agri-food exports being sent to India. And we shipped over 1 million tonnes of potash to India in that same year.

Mr. Speaker, our 2030 growth plan had a target of increasing agri-food exports to a value of over $20 billion. Seven years ahead of schedule, our province has achieved that goal with $20.2 billion in agri-food shipments being delivered to the world markets. Provincial exports have grown by more than 52 per cent since 2013, contributing to Canada’s total exports to India reaching a value of $5.1 billion in 2023.

Last month the member from Regina University took to Twitter to tell our government, “Leave trade missions to the exporters and experts.” Mr. Speaker, with an attitude like that . . . will be the reason why that NDP opposition will never form government. And we will never take economic advice from the members opposite, nor will we neglect these important trade partners like the NDP would. With 1.2 billion mouths to feed in India, you bet Saskatchewan’s going to be there to provide the best food, the best fuel, and the best fertilizer. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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

Capital Investment in Saskatchewan Economy

Ms. A. Young: — Why thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. It’s a pleasure to rise today and get to talk about math, specifically Sask Party math. Now there’s been some discussion in this Chamber, Mr. Speaker, regarding the level of capital investment in the Saskatchewan economy in 2023.

And so first, it’s incumbent on me to correct a mistake that was inadvertently made, and that was the statement that Saskatchewan had record capital investment in 2023. Now in 2023, investment was $17.1 billion. And yet, and yet, Mr. Speaker, looking back, just to pick a couple of years, in 2012 it was 18 billion and in 2014 it was 20 billion. Now, Mr. Speaker, I’m not sure how 17 or 18 or 20 . . . 18 and 20, Mr. Speaker, they’re more than 17, unless you’re doing Sask Party math.

And regrettably I need to point out yet another mistake. This government has forgotten to adjust for both population and inflation. Because while we know that a dollar today isn’t the same as a dollar five years ago, members opposite need to be reminded. Adjusting for population and inflation, capital investment here is only 55 per cent of 2014 levels. But, Mr. Speaker, that’s a bit too much nuance for Sask Party math.

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

STARS Provides Critical Neonatal Care

Mr. Bradshaw: — Well thank you, Mr. Speaker. The Shock Trauma Air Rescue Service, or STARS, continues to show why they are one of the most elite critical care services in the world. In December of last year, a Saskatchewan newborn baby needing critical care in a remote part of the province was successfully helped by STARS.

This was their first-ever neonatal transport completed in Saskatchewan, and it’s all thanks to some excellent new equipment used in the mission. Mr. Speaker, the STARS helicopter was equipped with a state-of-the-art incubator and NICU [neonatal intensive care unit] team that could quickly respond to the infant’s distress. STARS was able to successfully transport the incubator and the NICU team to the infant, after which they would return home by ground ambulance.

Mr. Speaker, this is a major accomplishment. Saskatchewan families can rest assured that STARS are able to quickly respond to remote childbirths that occur out of the hospital.

On behalf of the Legislative Assembly of Saskatchewan, thank you to the team at STARS and a special thank you to veteran STARS members Mike Rogers, Greg Chorney, and Ryan MacMillan. Also thank you to our elite NICU specialty team from Regina General Hospital who take on these missions and help our most vulnerable. Thank you.

The Speaker: — I recognize the member from Kelvington-Wadena.

Saskatchewan Experiences Continued Job Growth

Mr. Nerlien: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I can only imagine the opposition’s frustration when they read this Global News headline. “Stats Canada shows Saskatchewan continues to excel in job growth.”

Mr. Speaker, the province added almost 13,000 jobs in January of ’24 compared to January of ’23. Our labour force reached 623,300 in January, a record high for the month and down to a 4.7 per cent unemployment rate from 5.8 per cent last year.

Let’s talk about the demographics of those working. Indigenous employment off-reserve was up 2,600, a nearly 5 per cent increase. Indigenous youth employment was up 3,300, an increase of 33.3 per cent. Both categories have seen four consecutive months of year-on-year increases. Both of our major cities saw employment rise by over 10,000, increase of 7.3 per cent in Regina and 6 per cent in Saskatoon.

Our government is proud of our record in job creation, and we will never apologize for standing up for jobs and workers in Saskatchewan. While the NDP are busy thinking of ways to kneecap our industries, our government is thinking of new ways to bring jobs home, bring manufacturing home, bring trade and opportunities home. Because Saskatchewan families should benefit from our resources, not be penalized for them. Thank you.

The Speaker: — I recognize the member from Prince Albert Northcote.

Teacher Innovation and Support Fund to Enhance Classrooms

Ms. A. Ross: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. In January of this year, our government launched its first-ever Teacher Innovation and Support Fund, with the theme of Shaping the Future Together. The Teacher Innovation and Support Fund is a $2.5 million pilot project which allows teachers to work with their school administration to apply for up to $75,000 to put forward their ideas. The goal of this fund is to have local innovative ideas brought forward to enhance our classrooms in areas such as student achievement, student and teacher wellness, and school safety.

Nine local teacher-led solutions through the new Teacher Innovation and Support Fund have been selected for funding. These nine solutions range from innovative ideas supporting literacy, mental health and wellness, to STEM [science, technology, engineering, and math] and pedagogy. This pilot project builds on the Government of Saskatchewan’s commitment to supporting students, teachers, and classrooms.

Mr. Speaker, the government has previously invested $47 million toward enrolment, complexity, and hiring of more educational assistants as well as more than 300 million in supports for learning and the specialized support classroom pilot announced earlier this year.

Mr. Speaker, our government is proud of our students and teachers and we are committed to building a stronger Saskatchewan together. Thank you.

QUESTION PERIOD

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

Trade Missions, Cost of Living, and Affordability Measures

Ms. Beck: — Mr. Speaker, this tired and out-of-touch government have clearly lost the plot. We see the Premier and his cabinet ministers who seem more interested in picking fights and taking flights than they are in actually delivering for Saskatchewan families here at home. We see the Premier on the most expensive junket in Saskatchewan history to Dubai, and we see that Minister for SaskPower cruising around Paris in a $3,500 Mercedes private chauffeur.

Talk about out of touch, Mr. Speaker. Is this why the Premier can’t deliver any fuel tax relief to people here at home?

The Speaker: — I recognize the Premier.

Hon. Mr. Moe: — Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. Most certainly this is a government that concerns itself and works very hard in finding solutions to some of the challenges that we’re having, not only here in Saskatchewan but across the nation of Canada, Mr. Speaker. In order for us to make those necessary investments, whether they be in education, whether they be in health care, Mr. Speaker, we need a strong and vibrant economy. That is the very grounding of this party, Mr. Speaker, is a strong economy so that we can build a brighter future for Saskatchewan people. And I would say that that very much is in the minds of the majority if not all of Saskatchewan people across this province.

That’s why you are going to find us in international markets so that we can have announcements like we had this morning of record exports to the country of India, Mr. Speaker. That’s why we’re participating in some global nuclear conferences, Mr. Speaker. And I would add the day that the minister returned was the start of the COP [Conference of the Parties] of which I attended, Mr. Speaker, along with a significant delegation from this province and across Canada.

And in those early days of that climate change conference, Mr. Speaker, for the first time ever the nuclear industry was at the conference and 24 countries signed an agreement to triple their nuclear footprint globally, Mr. Speaker. That’s good news for the planet, it’s good news for those 24 countries, and it’s really good news for Saskatchewan and in particular northern Saskatchewan.

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

Ms. Beck: — Mr. Speaker, talk about out of touch: $3,500 for a private Mercedes chauffeur, all while Saskatchewan people here at home lead the country in mortgages in arrears. Now for those that don’t have such trouble, that means they’re in danger of losing their houses.

It’s no wonder, Mr. Speaker, that this tired and out-of-touch government won’t act on the cost of living. Mr. Speaker, I don’t even think they understand how much people here at home are struggling while they’re out flying around the world.

Mr. Speaker, how does that Premier say yes to a $3,500 private chauffeur in Paris, but say no to some tax relief at the pumps for Saskatchewan people struggling here at home?

The Speaker: — I recognize the Premier.

Hon. Mr. Moe: — Mr. Speaker, most certainly, as I have said many times on the floor of this Assembly, there are over $2 billion in each and every budget in this province in affordability measures for Saskatchewan families. That is how we have been able to remove 112,000 people off the tax rolls in this province altogether. We have one of the highest, the highest claim rates, Mr. Speaker, when it comes to the level on where we start paying tax in this province, Mr. Speaker. And I would just add it’s through the strength of our economy that we’re able to actually make those affordability investments, Mr. Speaker.

I’d like to list off a number of countries here, Mr. Speaker, of where government missions have been taken: China three times, Japan, Uganda, France twice, Switzerland, Australia twice, United Kingdom, Sweden, India, Chicago twice, Colorado, Texas twice, New York twice, and Washington, DC [District of Columbia]. This is just a fraction of the 131 trips that the outgoing NDP government took in their last year of office, Mr. Speaker.

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

Ms. Beck: — Mr. Speaker, his list doesn’t quite pay the bills for people here at home who are struggling today, and it’s long past time for this government to offer some relief to the people here at home. Instead of helping people pay their bills, we see this government again picking fights and taking flights.

Mr. Speaker, that is not leadership, and it’s time for a change. The question is, will people have to wait until after the election before they see some fuel tax relief from their government?

[14:00]

The Speaker: — I recognize the Premier.

Hon. Mr. Moe: — Mr. Speaker, nobody in this government is picking fights with anyone. We are standing up on behalf of the Saskatchewan people when fights are being picked with them, Mr. Speaker. And we would thank the NDP for joining us finally in a motion that came to this floor just a little while ago, Mr. Speaker, ensuring that Saskatchewan residents would not have to pay the carbon tax on their home heating, natural gas, or their electricity that they would use for home heat.

Mr. Speaker, after a number of long years they’ve finally seen the light. And we hope they would see the light moving forward as well, Mr. Speaker, because they have a number of members over there that are on the record supporting the Trudeau carbon tax, supporting Jagmeet Singh, and supporting Trudeau in all of those policies that they are bringing forward.

Never mind that, Mr. Speaker. In this province, as I said, every year $2 billion are brought forward in the provincial budget for affordability measures for Saskatchewan families. I think Regina just a week or two ago was rated as one of the most affordable cities in the nation of Canada to live, Mr. Speaker. Part of the reason that is true is because we have the second-lowest utility bundle in the nation of Canada, Mr. Speaker. Part of why that is true is because this is a government that in years of surplus has been able to disburse tax affordability credit cheques, Mr. Speaker, to the people of this province. Part of why that is true, Mr. Speaker, is because we are continuing to look at ways to remove the personal income tax levels on, in particular, those with low income levels, Mr. Speaker, but to remove and lower the personal income tax levels not only for our families and individuals but also our small businesses across the province.

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

Expenses and Itinerary for International Conference

Ms. A. Young: — Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. I’m surprised that this government is so willing to talk about the records of their members.

But, Mr. Speaker, to the matter at hand. People expect their leaders to be honest, to be forthright. And when I asked the minister yesterday if he skipped out of the conference to go sightseeing, he said, and I quote, “Absolutely not, Mr. Speaker. Absolutely not. I didn’t skip out on the conference. I attended all the meetings that were taking place at the convention centre . . .”

Now, Mr. Speaker, what did the minister then say in the rotunda? Another quote: “I did a tour of the museums, spent an hour touring the museum, had lunch there.”

So, Mr. Speaker, a simple question: why did the minister say one thing in the Chamber and another in the rotunda?

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

Hon. Mr. Duncan: — Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I said that because the member was suggesting yesterday in this House that I was missing meetings that I had previously scheduled to do personal things, and that was not the case. Mr. Speaker, our meetings had completed in the morning, Mr. Speaker, and there was time, a few hours’ time in between the morning and the afternoon meetings.

I participated in 15 formal meetings and engagements during three and two half-days while I was in Paris. I participated in a panel discussion with other Canadian provinces. I met with France’s ambassador to Canada; Business France; Canada France chamber of commerce; EDF [Électricité de France], which is an operator of 55 nuclear power plants in Europe; the Czech Minister of Industry and Trade; the Dutch Ministry of Economic Affairs and Climate Policy; the CEO [chief executive officer] of Orlen Synthos Green Energy, which is working to bring the same technology that we’re working on to Poland; the senior vice-president, executive vice-president of the mining business unit of Orano, who is France-based; as well as the director of nuclear energy for the department of Poland’s Ministry of Climate and Environment.

Mr. Speaker, there were additional meetings as well, Mr. Speaker. We play an important role in the nuclear . . .

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

Ms. A. Young: — Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. Let’s be clear. The minister’s own itinerary said that he had work to do at the conference during that time, telling Saskatchewan’s story. And honestly, there wouldn’t be a problem if the minister was taking in the sights during his downtime on his own dime. But, Mr. Speaker, that is not what happened here today.

The private Mercedes chauffeur that taxpayers paid for picked that minister up from his sightseeing tour at Napoleon’s tomb, brought him back to the conference. Mr. Speaker, people of Saskatchewan paid $227 to get that minister back to the conference from the museum.

It is all there in the receipts. How does that minister justify spending $3,500 of taxpayer money on a private Mercedes luxury chauffeur?

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

Hon. Mr. Duncan: — Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, the use of a van service to travel in large European cities like Paris for government business is not unusual, by this government or by the previous NDP government, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, certainly what we use in terms of the van service is provided at a similar cost that has been provided in the past, Mr. Speaker.

Mr. Speaker, the member opposite, in a scrum yesterday, suggested that I walk. Mr. Speaker, our hotel was 35 kilometres from the embassy of Canada where there were at least three events, Mr. Speaker. It’s probably not going to be useful for the people of Saskatchewan, walking about eight hours to get to the embassy, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, we use that same sort of service that’s been used in the past, including by NDP governments.

But, Mr. Speaker, I can tell you this: we had more than 15 meetings and other engagements where we could tell the Saskatchewan story, one that we are very proud of.

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

Ms. A. Young: — Mr. Speaker, it’s not that hard. The minister is using public money to pay for his own sightseeing. Live in the now; this isn’t about NDP governments. You go out on any street corner in Saskatchewan, you try and explain that to people.

But, Mr. Speaker, he should be familiar with this. It isn’t the first time that a minister’s luxury travel has come up on the floor of this Assembly. Nearly 10 years ago today, June Draude was in hot water for hiring a private chauffeur to drive her and Rick Mantey around London for $3,600.

Now, Mr. Speaker, Brad Wall, Brad Wall knew that wouldn’t fly with Saskatchewan people. The dollars were repaid, and Mr. Mantey was moved out of a job. The SaskPower minister was an MLA back then. Will he apologize for wasting $3,500 on a Mercedes chauffeur? Yes or no?

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

Hon. Mr. Duncan: — Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, as I said, we used a van service to travel while we were in Paris, four of us from the Government of Saskatchewan at a similar cost that has been done previously by government, including the NDP government, Mr. Speaker, in fact including in Paris where in 2006 Eric Cline and Lorne Calvert had a van service that for three days cost taxpayers $1,900, Mr. Speaker.

If you put in those 2006 dollars into 2024, that would work out to be about $900 per day, which is less than what we spent a couple of months ago, Mr. Speaker. And on one of those days, Mr. Calvert and Mr. Cline used the car service on a Sunday, which there was no government business, but to partake in a four-hour guided sightseeing tour of Paris which was booked for them by Government of Saskatchewan employees, Mr. Speaker . . .

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

Ms. Beck: — Mr. Speaker, leaders lead. Former premier Wall knew that. That’s why under his watch, Mr. Speaker, public dollars that were wasted on June Draude’s private chauffeur service were repaid.

Now, Mr. Speaker, if the minister won’t apologize for a $3,500 private Mercedes chauffeur service, the Premier should. That’s what Brad Wall would have done, Mr. Speaker. Now clearly those days are gone. Will the Premier find his feet and do it today?

The Speaker: — I recognize the Premier.

Hon. Mr. Moe: — Mr. Speaker, this was a shuttle service for the shuttle of not just the minister around to the 19‑plus meetings he had over three days but to shuttle around a delegation, Mr. Speaker, at a world nuclear conference, of which I would say the results were quite immediate, with 24 countries signing on the very next week at COP28, signing on to triple their nuclear footprint, Mr. Speaker. I would say that this investment was a strong investment on behalf of the people, the industries, and the industries that people work with across Saskatchewan, in particular in northern Saskatchewan.

We’ve seen a number of accusations, Mr. Speaker, questioning the integrity of a member on the floor of this Assembly come across here today, Mr. Speaker. The member from Weyburn I would say is a member that approaches his elected position on behalf of his constituents in Weyburn and surrounding area, as well as the broader Saskatchewan residents as a minister, Mr. Speaker, with some of the greatest degree of effort that I have seen, some of the most respectful approaches that I have seen, Mr. Speaker. He approaches his position, he doesn’t take it lightly. He displays a tremendous amount of integrity and, most of all, honesty in all that he does, Mr. Speaker.

Understanding we are all hon. members on the floor of this Assembly, and understanding that this government, and myself as leader, have had to make some very difficult decisions at times, Mr. Speaker, will the Leader of the Opposition do the same?

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

Access to Breast Cancer Care

Ms. Mowat: — Mr. Speaker, the government rolled out its announcement on breast cancer care yesterday, but Saskatchewan people have zero faith in the Sask Party’s ability to fix a system they broke. Remember, the Cancer Agency is doing 1,000 fewer scans today than it was before the pandemic.

I spoke with another woman today, a cancer survivor, who has been told she needs to wait until March 2025 to get a mammogram. She’s supposed to receive a mammogram annually, but it will be 2.5 years between her appointments.

This government’s plan will take more than a year to roll out. What’s the plan for women waiting right now for breast cancer care? Will they have to keep driving to Calgary for the care that they deserve to get here at home?

The Speaker: — I recognize the Minister of Health.

Hon. Mr. Hindley: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. First I would like to say thank you to the patients, the women of Saskatchewan who I have met with and who have met with a number of government MLAs and with our officials on this very important topic.

Also, Mr. Speaker, thank you to the health care teams at the ministry and the SHA [Saskatchewan Health Authority] who helped us, in collaboration with the patients that we were working with, on yesterday’s announcement which builds on the November announcement of the temporary initiative that’s provided for a number of diagnostic scans in Calgary, but yesterday’s very, very significant announcement of a new breast health centre here for Regina and all of southern Saskatchewan.

Also the expansion of the breast cancer screening age, lowering that from 50 down to 40 starting next year, Mr. Speaker. And it will be done so in a phased approach so that we’re able to staff up and accommodate the increase to patients who’ll be seen then for that particular part of the program, Mr. Speaker. And we continue to work very closely on building up our capacity, building up our human resource capacity to make sure that women are able to access the screening and the mammograms and the diagnostics they need as quickly as . . .

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

Ms. Mowat: — Mr. Speaker, the minister didn’t even attempt to provide an answer to the question. The question was about women who are waiting today. What is the plan to get them immediate care today, Mr. Speaker? Expanding capacity here at home, getting all hands on deck — that’s the work that should have been happening over the past year, Mr. Speaker.

This minister wants a pat on the back for his plan, but his government is the one who allowed this crisis to unfold. The challenges in breast cancer care have the same root cause as all other problems in health care, Mr. Speaker, a chronic shortage of trained and experienced health care staff. The minister’s plan isn’t making things better. They’re actually five radiologists short in Regina right now.

When will the minister actually work with those on the front lines to recruit and retain the health care workers we need?

The Speaker: — I recognize the Minister of Health.

Hon. Mr. Hindley: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. We have been working with those on the front lines. As a matter of fact, yesterday at the announcement we had Dr. Sarah Miller there joining us for this very significant announcement. And she says, and I quote for the member opposite, Mr. Speaker, “I want to sincerely thank the ministry as well as the SHA for listening to our concerns and continuously working hard to address them.” Mr. Speaker, that is from somebody who works on the front lines.

In addition to that, Mr. Speaker, Dr. Miller also said yesterday to the media, “I firmly believe that this centre will help with the retention of current breast specialists, aid in the recruitment of these specialists, and most importantly improve care for our patients.”

The people that are working in our health care system, who are to be congratulated for the work that they do, are doing some excellent work. We’re grateful to be working with them. We’ll continue to work with these leaders like Dr. Sarah Miller, Mr. Speaker.

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

Coverage under National Pharmacare Plan

Ms. Mowat: — Mr. Speaker, this tired and out-of-touch government’s record on health care speaks for itself. They broke it, and the people of Saskatchewan have no faith that they will be able to fix it.

It’s the provincial government’s job to run the health system. It’s also their job to deal with the feds. The federal government has announced it’s working on a plan to provide insulin and contraceptives at no cost to all Canadians. This would be a game changer for Saskatchewan people who are struggling with the cost of living.

We know the Premier and the SaskEnergy minister won’t pick up the phone to get a deal on home heating. Will the Health minister do his job and get a deal to cover these drugs for Saskatchewan people?

[14:15]

The Speaker: — I recognize the Minister of Health.

Hon. Mr. Hindley: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I have been engaged with the federal government, spoke to the federal Minister of Health as recently as a couple of weeks ago, and we’ve had a number of meetings and conversations about a number of issues, one of them being the national pharmacare plan, Mr. Speaker. We are awaiting additional details from the federal government on how that could potentially help Saskatchewan residents.

I would say this, Mr. Speaker: that Saskatchewan’s drug formulary is one of the best in the country when it comes to the coverage that is provided for our residents and our patients in this province. We want to ensure that any deal that we sign with the federal government is good for the people of Saskatchewan. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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

Ms. Mowat: — Mr. Speaker, a national pharmacare plan would be good for all Canadians. Saskatchewan New Democrats have supported this for years. It’s time for the Sask Party to get on board. Of course it’s important to stand up to the feds when they’re wrong, but surely this tired and out-of-touch government realizes that better drug coverage for all Canadians is a good thing.

Will the Sask Party work with the feds for once and make this a reality, or are they going to oppose it all the way just because it was a federal idea?

The Speaker: — I recognize the Minister of Health.

Hon. Mr. Hindley: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. You know, the member opposite likes to talk about plans and signing on to plans with the government, the federal government, of which she should know well about, considering the plan that they have and the agreement they have between the NDPs and Liberal parties for the federal government, Mr. Speaker. So they might want to talk to their federal leader about how this would actually benefit Saskatchewan, Mr. Speaker.

As I said previously, the NDP would walk into this. They would sign on the dotted line without ever even looking at the details because that’s how they would operate, Mr. Speaker. They wouldn’t answer any questions, nor do they have any ideas other than saying, we’ll just sign right away; we trust the federal government all the time.

Mr. Speaker, we have one of the best drug formularies in the country here in Saskatchewan providing coverage for high-cost drugs such as for cancer care, Mr. Speaker. We want to ensure that whatever contract or deal we sign with the federal government is good for the people of this province, Mr. Speaker.

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

Social Services’ Policies on Emergency Hotel Stays

Ms. Conway: — Mr. Speaker, we know that this tired and out-of-touch government would rather not have us ask questions about their choices, their ways, their million-dollar junkets, their limo receipts, and they’d rather we not ask questions about hotels connected to Sask Party MLAs. But it’s our job, and we still have so many unanswered questions about the Sunrise Motel.

The Sunrise Motel used to get 282 bucks from the Ministry of Social Services. But we now know the motel received over 220,000 after the member from Northeast was elected and then started sharing a constituency office with the minister himself. So does the Minister of Social Services . . . can he explain that massive hike in the amount of money he handed over to the Sunrise hotel?

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

Hon. Mr. Makowsky: — Mr. Speaker, we’ve been over this many times before. The Ministry of Social Services works very hard with all our community partners to find placements for individuals who are in a difficult situation, whether that’s on the income assistance side, when the emergency shelters are full, those fleeing domestic violence. There was a fire in their apartment for example, Mr. Speaker.

And so we work hard to ensure the safety of those individuals, Mr. Speaker. We work with hotels when there is an overflow situation, Mr. Speaker, all throughout the province. And, Mr. Speaker, the caseworkers, whether it’s within the ministry or within our after-hours emergency receiving, work on that to try and ensure that happens. That will continue, Mr. Speaker, with a new policy. We previously used the NDP policy, Mr. Speaker. A new policy is announced; the RFP [request for proposal] started March the 1st, Mr. Speaker. We hope we get a good uptake from that.

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

Overdose Deaths and Treatment for Addictions

Ms. Mowat: — Mr. Speaker, there were a record-setting 477 people who died by overdose last year, preventable deaths that have impacted hundreds of families and thousands of people across our province. We see this crisis in our biggest cities and in our smallest towns. This government isn’t investing in evidence-based solutions; instead they’re taking the supports away that keep people alive.

When will the Sask Party come up with a plan that will prevent overdoses and save the lives of Saskatchewan people?

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

Hon. Mr. T. McLeod: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. And of course this government has a plan that was . . . explained the plan to the opposition members many times. That plan is to protect lives in this province, Mr. Speaker.

We have a plan to treat addictions, to avoid overdoses, Mr. Speaker. It’s our mental health and addictions action plan. It has been rolled out since October of last year, and we’re already expanding capacity for addictions, Mr. Speaker, so that individuals who are battling addiction have more treatment spaces available, they have an easier path to get to those addictions treatment spaces, Mr. Speaker. And when they’re there, we’re wrapping around supports for those individuals so that we can provide recovery-oriented systems of care. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

ORDERS OF THE DAY

GOVERNMENT ORDERS

ADJOURNED DEBATES

SECOND READINGS

Bill No. 148

[The Assembly resumed the adjourned debate on the proposed motion by the Hon. Ms. Eyre that Bill No. 148 — The Film Content Information Act be now read a second time.]

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

Mr. Wotherspoon: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I’ll enter in fairly briefly today with respect to Bill No. 148. I’ve already spoken to this bill with respect to film content, Mr. Speaker.

But I think any time we talk about film in this Assembly, Mr. Speaker, I think Saskatchewan people really recognize the tremendous loss that was the last decade for this important industry in this province because of the choice of that Sask Party government to gut the film industry, Mr. Speaker, to cancel the film tax credit and to drive away so many families and workers, to drive away investment in jobs, Mr. Speaker, and to cause Saskatchewan people to suffer economic losses as a result as well as the vibrancy that comes with this creative industry, this cultural industry, Mr. Speaker.

A choice by that government for this province to be less instead of more, Mr. Speaker, for them to limit opportunity, to limit investment, to send jobs away, Mr. Speaker, instead of saying, you know, come make that investment here in Saskatchewan. Come build your lives here in Saskatchewan, Mr. Speaker.

And what we saw over the last decade, Mr. Speaker, of course that weakened our economy, Mr. Speaker. We see that in the results of this government, Mr. Speaker. And at the same time we saw that investment flow to jurisdictions, frankly, right across Canada, Mr. Speaker, neighbouring jurisdictions like Manitoba with an industry that was built to a couple hundred million dollars a year. Next door in Alberta, half a billion dollars, Mr. Speaker.

And those are real dollars, real investment, real jobs, Mr. Speaker, that were being extended while we had, you know, an ideological decision here in Saskatchewan, a short-sighted and damaging decision by that Sask Party government to do in the film industry, Mr. Speaker, one that provides pride for this province, excitement for this province, vibrancy for our communities, and of course jobs, Mr. Speaker.

We see recently some movement, some progress finally by this government to recognize the error in their ways and to work with the . . . to rebuild a bit of that film industry, Mr. Speaker, a fair number of half measures, Mr. Speaker. We really have to decide that we want to build industries like this, Mr. Speaker, and that’s what a Saskatchewan NDP government would be committed to making happen, Mr. Speaker, so that opportunity could be realized across the province, Mr. Speaker.

As we talk about films as well, I want to just, you know, identify the incredible talent in this industry, Mr. Speaker — the entrepreneurs, the creative individuals, the workers, Mr. Speaker, across this sector that do that work with pride, that have such incredible talent. And you know, to the filmmakers in this province that toughed it through as they had a government do a real number on their industry and that found their livelihood, Mr. Speaker, and that continued to find a path here in Saskatchewan, I just want to say thank you so very much. We’re hopeful for those brighter days ahead with a thriving, booming film industry in this province, Mr. Speaker, along with so many other sectors of this economy, making sure we can be firing on all cylinders economically, Mr. Speaker, and delivering an economy that works for everyone and jobs that people can count on, Mr. Speaker.

With that being said, I don’t have much more to say on this film bill today. I’ve spoken to it already. Our critic will be following up at the committee and bringing forward our consultations, and I would invite still any stakeholders, any experts in the field, anyone with perspective and lived experience to reach out to us and our critic. Certainly it’d be our aim to make sure that we not only build that thriving film industry but make sure we strengthen every piece of legislation that touches that very important industry.

With that being said, I don’t have anything else to say with respect to Bill No. 148, The Film Content Information Act.

The Speaker: — The question before the Assembly is the motion by the minister that Bill No. 148 be now read a second time. Is it the pleasure of the Assembly to adopt the motion?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

The Speaker: — Carried.

Clerk: — Second reading of this bill.

The Speaker: — To which committee shall this bill be committed? I recognize the Government House Leader.

Hon. Mr. J. Harrison: — To the Standing Committee on Intergovernmental Affairs and Justice.

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

Bill No. 150

[The Assembly resumed the adjourned debate on the proposed motion by the Hon. Ms. Eyre that Bill No. 150 — The Securities (Saskatchewan Investors Protection) Amendment Act, 2023 be now read a second time.]

The Speaker: — I recognize the member from Saskatoon University.

Ms. Bowes: — Thanks, Mr. Speaker. I’ll be happy to weigh in today on Bill 150, The Securities (Saskatchewan Investors Protection) Amendment Act, 2023. I’ll say in terms of the bill summary, Mr. Speaker, essentially what we’re seeing here is that the Sask Securities Commission, the commission can designate independent dispute resolution service, and the dispute resolution service will set its own standards.

The commission can also make orders as it’s noted in the public interest. We don’t have much of a definition there. Quite vague language. And so I’d like to see that more clearly defined, certainly.

The dispute resolution service can order a registrant to change or conduct practices to explain reasons for actions, to pay fees, forgive debts, waive contracts, meet insurance claims, and compensate complainants. They can also correct information and credit ratings.

And so we see as well here that the resolution service is subject to confidentiality only when on SSC [Saskatchewan Securities Commission] business. The main, in my view, the most substantial change that’s seen here is that the maximum administrative penalty has been increased from 100,000 to 1 million. It’s certainly good to see that, as I understand that is in line with other jurisdictions across Canada. So it’s good to see that brought up to best practices.

As I said, good to see a more meaningful penalty scheme for violations of Saskatchewan’s security laws and more serious repercussions for white-collar crime. I think that’s something that everyone can agree with, that it’s a good move.

Also it’s positive to see greater oversight, Mr. Speaker, and greater decentralization from the minister’s office — quite the opposite of what we’re used to seeing from this government, where we see more and more centralization of control and power in multiple, multiple different ways. Not least of which would be, you know, the situation we’ve seen here in recent times with the change to the legislative security services over the former Sergeant-at-Arms’ bipartisan service that we saw in this legislature, you know, also a new policing service that we’ve seen this government bring forward, the marshals service. So this is a departure from that theme that we’ve been seeing.

We do have some concerns, Mr. Speaker, that this oversight body doesn’t have the means to enforce. So if they don’t have the teeth to enforce, then you know, you wonder what the efficacy will be, if there will be issues there. We also understand there is no appeals process, which as you can clearly see is also going to be likely problematic.

So I know that our critic continues to meet with stakeholders to go over the bill, to go over these amendments that are being made, that are being proposed, and to seek input from relevant stakeholders. So the critic will continue their work on this front, and today I will adjourn debate on Bill 150, The Securities (Saskatchewan Investors Protection) Amendment Act, 2023.

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

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

The Speaker: — Carried.

[14:30]

Bill No. 152

[The Assembly resumed the adjourned debate on the proposed motion by the Hon. Ms. Eyre that Bill No. 152 — The Protection From Human Trafficking (Coerced Debts) Amendment Act, 2023 be now read a second time.]

The Speaker: — I recognize the member from Saskatoon University.

Ms. Bowes: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Weighing in here on Bill 152, The Protection From Human Trafficking (Coerced Debts) Amendment Act, 2023.

In terms of the bill’s summary, we see here that the court can order return of money and property that has been obtained as part of a coerced debt. Very promising, you know. Good to see that. They can’t subtract that money from any monetary awards for damages.

We also see coerced debts can be removed from credit reports and they can’t be used as a reason to deny a victim financial services, for example, with loans. It’s positive to see that as well.

And human trafficking victims can apply for certificates, like interpersonal violence victims, to end life leases, so we’re happy to see that same protection offered to victims of human trafficking. And the other part of that is that the person who authorizes the certificate cannot be compelled to testify in court about any information obtained.

So overall, Mr. Speaker, you know, positive changes. Don’t see any argument on this side of the House here. But I will say it was, you know, quite interesting to see the timing of this legislation being introduced on the heels of, as we all know, a high-profile human trafficking sting here in the city of Regina.

So yes, you know, good overall changes to see. Timing of it suspect, insufficient changes overall, but a move in the right direction. So we definitely would expect to see more, far more substantial investment from this government in terms of fighting human trafficking, as opposed to, you know, a few tweaks, a few amendments here and there, and rather than seeing, you know, an off-the-cuff damage control introduction of legislation which it would appear that this was designed to, at least in part, be.

So, Mr. Speaker, I think for today I will adjourn my remarks on Bill 152, adjourn debate on The Protection from Human Trafficking (Coerced Debts) Amendment Act, 2023.

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

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

The Speaker: — Carried.

Bill No. 153

[The Assembly resumed the adjourned debate on the proposed motion by the Hon. Mr. McMorris that Bill No. 153 — The Miscellaneous Municipal Statutes Amendment Act, 2023 be now read a second time.]

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

Ms. Conway: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. It’s a pleasure to be on my feet to provide some brief comments on Bill No. 153, The Miscellaneous Municipal Statutes Amendment Act, 2023.

I understand this legislation makes a number of changes to the Act. One of the changes is that boards are now accountable to municipal councils, not the minister as was previously the case. Boards of revision are now appointed by municipal councils, are certified and coordinated by the registrar, and can set deadlines for withdrawing appeals and codes of conduct, justify an expulsion of persons from meetings.

Organized hamlets under this particular bill are demoted after one year of inactivity, not two, so that’s a change. They must have agreement with an RM [rural municipality] to be established. The RM can ask the ministry to order a reversion of that status and the ministry can make defunct the OH [organized hamlet] special service area for tax purposes.

A couple of other changes I noted in the bill that in establishing wards, the allowable population variance among wards is moved to the regulations. It’s no longer under the Act, so I suspect our municipal critic will have some questions about that. Of course changes under a bill require more scrutiny. I also would note that changes under this bill . . . Another one that caught my eye, Mr. Speaker, is the amendment that clarifies that a member of council, municipal employee, or school board member can now serve on a district board of revision provided they do not hear appeals from their own municipality. So I understand that’s a change and I suspect the critic may have some questions in committee about that.

And then finally another change that did catch my eye is the changes that establish video connection as the standard for meetings but that the bill requires that municipalities ensure that they continue to provide a physical place for people to gather and listen and view the meeting as it’s occurring, which is likely a reflection on the continued lack of connectivity across rural Saskatchewan.

We do hope to consult more with our stakeholders on this bill. I know that the lead critic, the member from Saskatoon Nutana, will do an extensive job on this, as she does on all things that she undertakes. And so with that, I did note a few things that I suspect we’ll have some questions about. We are wondering who, in particular, was calling for the reduction in board terms, and specifically what kind of oversight there will be to boards now that they’re not accountable to the ministry.

So I’m sure that the critic will have questions along these lines and of course others. And with that I am content to move . . . move to adjourn debate on Bill No. 153, The Miscellaneous Municipal Statutes Amendment Act, 2023. Apologize for stressing out the Clerks there for a moment.

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

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

The Speaker: — Carried.

Bill No. 154

[The Assembly resumed the adjourned debate on the proposed motion by the Hon. Ms. Tell that Bill No. 154 — The Management and Reduction of Greenhouse Gases Amendment Act, 2023 be now read a second time.]

The Speaker: — I recognize the member from Regina Rosemont.

Mr. Wotherspoon: — Thanks, Mr. Speaker. It’s a pleasure to enter in with respect to Bill No. 154, The Management and Reduction of Greenhouse Gases Amendment Act, 2023.

Mr. Speaker, this is an important piece of legislation and an important space that we really need to make sure that the impacts and the consequences of this bill are properly thought out and that proper consultation has occurred, Mr. Speaker. This — you know, to be kind, Mr. Speaker — hasn’t been a strong suit of this Sask Party government when it comes to consulting with those that are directly impacted, Mr. Speaker, in industry and in the communities, Mr. Speaker. So it’s critical that that happens when you’re talking about a piece of legislation that touches such important areas and industries, Mr. Speaker.

We’ve had a government, Mr. Speaker, that really has failed if you think of the opportunities that have been presented to create jobs and drive down costs, Mr. Speaker, and hand in hand to reduce emissions in practical ways over the last number of years, Mr. Speaker, that really could be paying dividends for the people of Saskatchewan right now.

Those jobs of course would be valued with a stronger, more diverse economy, Mr. Speaker, and strengthen communities across and economies across this province to extend opportunities by way of livelihoods, but importantly to reduce those costs as well, Mr. Speaker. Because this is where there’s this wonderful confluence in some of these areas where, if you’re looking energy efficiencies retrofits, Mr. Speaker, or if you look at some of the economic projects around renewables, Mr. Speaker, where there is the opportunity of course to create jobs, to reduce costs for families and businesses, and to reduce emissions in practical ways, Mr. Speaker.

But it’s critical that this piece of legislation is built through consultation, Mr. Speaker. I invite all stakeholders in these important industries, all with expertise in these areas to engage with our critic on this front, who will engage in a constructive way to make sure that we have legislation that’s in the best interests of our province. We’ll look at every opportunity to strengthen legislation if those present, Mr. Speaker. And so I would invite that participation, Mr. Speaker.

And with that being said, at this point in time I will adjourn debate with respect to Bill No. 154, The Management and Reduction of Greenhouse Gases Amendment Act, 2023.

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

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

The Speaker: — Carried. I recognize the Government House Leader.

Hon. Mr. J. Harrison: — I move that this House do now adjourn.

The Speaker: — The Government House Leader has moved to adjourn the House. Is it the pleasure of the Assembly to adopt the motion?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

The Speaker: — This House now stands adjourned until 10 a.m. tomorrow.

[The Assembly adjourned at 14:40.]

Published under the authority of the Hon. Randy Weekes, Speaker

Disclaimer: The electronic versions of the Legislative Assembly's documents are provided for information purposes only. The content of the documents is identical to the printed record; only the presentation differs unless otherwise noted. The printed versions are the official record for legal purposes.