Hon. Mr. McMorris: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, to you and through you to the rest of the Assembly, I’d like to introduce five people seated in your gallery. There’s going to be a member’s statement on WorkSafe Saskatchewan and an amazing award that they received at the 23rd World Congress on Safety and Health at Work, Mr. Speaker.

So first of all, in no particular order, but on the right is Drew Wilby who is the Labour Relations and Workplace Safety DM [deputy minister]; and beside him is Elissa Aitken who is the Labour Relations and Workplace Safety ADM [assistant deputy minister].

I had the opportunity to work a little bit with Elissa for a little while in Government Relations, and she left. So I was really happy when I got to follow her to Government Relations with the shuffle. And, Drew, you’ve been here for a while. We’ve watched your career, and thanks for all your great service to the province.

The other three I want to introduce is Phil Germain, Gord Dobrowolsky, and Kevin Mooney who are seated in your gallery. Gord of course is the Chair of WCB [Workers’ Compensation Board], Phil is the CEO [chief executive officer] of WCB, and Kevin is the VP [vice-president] of prevention and ER [employer] services for WCB.

Just a really quick story. This was many, many years ago. I remember in my constituency office, I used to get an awful lot of WCB casework to do. And it changed quite a number of years ago, and I just really want to say that I want you to keep those calls into MLA [Member of the Legislative Assembly] offices down because there’s been a change of Don at the WC [Workers’ Compensation] minister’s role, and I’d hate for things to change under a new Don, Mr. Speaker.

So I would ask all members to welcome these people and thank them for the great work that they do at Workplace Safety throughout this province. Thank you.

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

Ms. Sarauer: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. It’s my honour to join with the minister opposite in welcoming this illustrious group of officials to their Legislative Assembly. First Elissa and Drew with the ministry, it’s great to see you. Thank you for the work that you do not just for the minister but on behalf of this entire province each and every single day.

And to the officials with WCB — Phil, Kevin, and Gord — it’s a pleasure to see you again today. I’m looking forward to hearing more about your award at the World Congress on Safety. And likewise thank you for everything that you do on behalf of workers and, in particular, worker safety for the people of Saskatchewan and the workers of Saskatchewan.

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

The Speaker: — I recognize the member from Batoche.

Mr. Kirsch: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I’d like to join with the minister and the opposition and welcome my friend Gord Dobrowolsky. We’ve been friends for 20‑some years. And he’s a fantastic gentleman, and I’d ask all people here to join me in welcoming him to his legislature.

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

Mr. Love: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. To you and through you, I’d like to welcome a number of the students who’ve joined us here today in both the east and the west galleries. And I see these young leaders sitting up behind me in the west gallery representing their school pride with their jerseys on. And I understand that they’ve come here today from communities such as Wynyard; Moose Jaw; I think, Davidson — I’m sure that I’m missing — Foam Lake. Maybe missing some, but I want to thank them for being here.

I know as an educator, some of you played a lot of sports in high school like many of us have, as somebody who spent a long time coaching in school during my time as a teacher. We certainly value — and I think this is something that we share in this Assembly — how much leadership is gained through all of this extracurricular work in athletics that you folks engage in.

And I know that you’re here as young leaders, Mr. Speaker, because they care and they’re here exercising their democratic right, and that they care about what’s happening in their schools. I want to thank them for showing that leadership in coming here today. And through you, Mr. Speaker, I’d like to ask all members of the Assembly to join me in welcoming these young leaders to their Legislative Assembly.

The Speaker: — I recognize the Minister of Education.

Hon. Mr. Cockrill: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I’d like to join with the member opposite and welcome these young athletes to this, their legislature. Thank you for coming from all parts of the province. I recognize a number of the jerseys up there. Whether you’re a Toiler or whether you’re a Bear or whether you’re a Raider, thank you.

An Hon. Member: — Viking.

Hon. Mr. Cockrill: — And a Viking as well, of course. Thank you to my colleague there from Arm River.

You know, again as the member opposite said, everyone in this Assembly understands the importance of extracurricular activities and what they mean, not only to your life now as you’re in high school. But I know my basketball career in high school, albeit a short one, it has taught me many lessons that I carry with me to this day now. And I know the same will be true for many of you as you move on from high school eventually and go into your careers.

So I’d just like to thank you for coming from all different communities around the province and coming to your legislature here today. Thank you.

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

Ms. A. Young: — Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. To you and through you to all members, it’s my pleasure to welcome 29 grade 8 students from Regina Christian who are seated in the east gallery alongside their teacher, Erin Signarowski, and parent chaperones Joshua Dun, Amanda Schofield, and George Schofield.

It’s my pleasure to be your local MLA. I hope you have an enjoyable time in question period today, and I look forward to meeting with your afterwards, answering any and all questions you have. And I hope you have a wonderful and enjoyable time here in this, your legislature. Mr. Speaker, I ask all members to join me in welcoming these fantastic young people to this great building.

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

Hon. Mr. Duncan: — Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. I do want to join with the member opposite in welcoming this school group from Regina Christian School, and particularly their teacher, Erin Signarowski, Mr. Speaker.

Erin and her husband, Stu, have become very close, dear friends to Amanda and I over the last number of years, Mr. Speaker. And I do know that this is Erin’s first year back in a classroom in about eight years, as she has been busy with a very young, energetic family, Mr. Speaker. And I can say, Mr. Speaker, knowing Erin as well as I think I do, that these students are certainly very fortunate to have her as their teacher. And so I would ask all members to join with me in welcoming Erin to her Legislative Assembly.

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

Mr. Wotherspoon: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I want to single out one very impressive young leader up in that group of grade 8s, and that’s Ella McDougall that’s joined us here today from Regina Christian School.

I’ve learned from Ella for a long time, and she is an inspiring, resilient young leader. She’s lived her life with cystic fibrosis. She’s a CF [cystic fibrosis] warrior, Mr. Speaker. Her family are just an amazing bunch, but she is remarkable, Mr. Speaker. And because of her efforts and tireless advocacy, she played no small part of having Trikafta covered — a life-saving medication for those with CF, life-changing medication for those with CF, and has made a difference in so many lives by doing so.

It’s been a pleasure to get to know Ella over the years, to learn from her, and to work with her on this front along with her parents. And I ask all members to join with me in giving Ella McDougall the warmest welcome. I should identify as well she also received the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Medal. So well deserved, and she’s going to be on to so many other accomplishments in life. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

You know, Mr. Speaker, just while I’m on my feet, I just want to identify Drew Wilby seated in your gallery. And I just want to . . . I guess a bit of a bone to pick with him, Mr. Speaker. We both coach U11 [under 11] hockey, Mr. Speaker. They’re off to the final here this weekend. I wish the Blues well. But you know, Mr. Speaker, we lined up against them just a couple weeks ago, and I showed up with my ball cap on and a bunnyhug or something like this and repped to our kids on the bench.

He rolled in in a suit, Mr. Speaker. A suit. The kids, our crew, you know, they thought, look at this. This guy’s, you know, from The Show or something here, Mr. Speaker. And they played very well. He coaches an exceptional team.

I want to thank him for his leadership in the civil service as well as all that he gives back through youth sport as a coach in hockey. And I do wish the Blues real well here this weekend. Thanks, Mr. Speaker.

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

Hon. Mr. J. Harrison: — Well thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. I want to join with members in welcoming and, I’m sure, desperately embarrassing one of the students who joined us from the grade 8 class, an international student who has lived with my family for much of the last two years — a couple of months last year, eight months so far this year — and really has become a genuine member of our family, a sibling to Mac and Finn, and a daughter to Alaina and I.

I would like to introduce to the Assembly Suan Koh from Seoul, Korea. Suan, can you wave, please? Sorry, but I want to welcome Suan to the Legislative Assembly.

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

Hon. Mr. T. McLeod: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I just wanted to join with the Minister of Education and the member from Eastview in welcoming all of the students who are joining us here today, particularly the students from Moose Jaw, who I recognize many faces up in the gallery.

I know the Minister of Education identified the Toilers and the Vikings, but he did miss the CCI [Central Collegiate Institute] Cyclones, who of course CCI happens to be the high school where my children attend.

So thank you to all of the students for joining us here today. I certainly hope I have an opportunity to sit down and chat with you after question period today if you’re willing to stick around. And I would just ask all members please welcome these students to their Legislative Assembly.

The Speaker: — I recognize the Minister of Highways.

Hon. Ms. Carr: — Well thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, to you and through you, I would like to introduce two individuals seated in your gallery. Today we have with us — and just give us a wave when I call your name — Candace Kopec who is the executive director of St. Joseph’s Hospital in Estevan. She’s been there for just about a full year now, and I think she’s learning very quickly how passionate the city of Estevan and surrounding area can be and that they don’t let us get away with anything, do they? No.

And as well with her is Lori Gervais who is the executive director of St. Joseph’s Hospital Foundation, so she is the fundraising arm of Estevan and surrounding area. Lori and I go way back. We’re approximately the same age, we have kids the same age, and we worked together for a bookkeeping service way back in the day before we each ventured out on our own journeys.

And so I would just like to thank these women who live in my community and work so hard for our community. And I’d please ask everybody to welcome them to their Legislative Assembly.

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

Mr. Clarke: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I want to join with the minister and welcome Candace and Lori to their Legislative Assembly. From the opposition, thank you for all the work that you do in Estevan with the hospital foundation and with the hospitals. It’s truly invaluable service to our community. And so many people rely on the work that you do, so thank you so much. Welcome. I’d ask all members to join me in welcoming Lori and Candace to their Legislative Assembly.

PRESENTING PETITIONS

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

Ms. Nippi-Albright: — Miigwech, Mr. Speaker. I’m pleased to present the following petition calling for duty-to-consult legislation. The folks who signed this petition wish to bring to your attention that Saskatchewan needs legislation to ensure duty-to-consult is fulfilled and is carried out with the honour of the Crown; that the Sask Party government has voted against duty-to-consult legislation; and that the Sask Party government continues to ignore inherent and treaty rights holders and maintains its position to not address cumulative impacts or effects on treaty rights, making it contrary to developments in the common law and to the requirements contained in both Saskatchewan 2010 and 2023 duty-to-consult policy framework.

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 enshrine the duty-to-consult into law by enacting meaningful duty-to-consult legislation.

The folks who signed this petition reside in Prince Albert. I do so present.

[13:45]

The Speaker: — I recognize the Minister of Justice.

Hon. Ms. Eyre: — 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 major causes when it comes to the affordability crunch and inflation in the nation of Canada, and that’s according to the parliamentary budget officer; that the federal Liberal-NDP government was clearly politically motivated in issuing a carve-out for home heating oil; and that the Government of Saskatchewan’s decision to not collect or remit the carbon tax on home heating in Saskatchewan has led to a drop in inflation; further, that despite the Government of Saskatchewan’s decision to not charge the carbon tax on home heating, Saskatchewan families nevertheless continue to have to pay the carbon tax out of pocket at the pumps, at grocery stores, and across the supply chain.

Mr. Speaker:

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 and acknowledge its significant impact on affordability and inflation in Canada.

Mr. Speaker, the below undersigned are residents of Yorkton. I do so present.

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

Mr. Teed: — Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. It’s a pleasure to be on my feet presenting our petition calling on the government to address the housing crisis in Saskatchewan and call for more affordable homes and tenant protections. Mr. Speaker, the skyrocketing cost of housing in Saskatchewan has been cited as a main contributor to the pressures on family budgets during this generational cost-of-living crisis. The cost of housing is skyrocketing, making it increasingly difficult for many individuals and families to secure stable and affordable housing.

Over the past decade homelessness has surged, pushing people into the streets. Meanwhile the government has made drastic cuts to the housing programs. Monthly rent prices in Saskatchewan have significantly increased while the wages for Saskatchewan families have remained stagnant. As a result, people have been forced to cut back on their groceries and are using the food bank to make up for it. Mr. Speaker, rent has reached 13 per cent increases since 2022 in both Saskatoon and Regina. We are living through a cost-of-living crisis and a housing affordability crisis.

I’ll read the prayer:

We, in the prayer that reads as follows, respectfully request that the Legislative Assembly of Saskatchewan call on the Government of Saskatchewan to immediately implement a comprehensive affordable housing strategy aimed at helping individuals and families in securing stable and affordable housing. The strategy must restore cuts made to the housing portfolio and invest in the development of affordable . . .

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

Ms. Conway: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I’m on my feet to present a petition calling on this Sask Party government to adequately fund education. Budget year after budget year we see cuts to the classroom, Mr. Speaker. We see ourselves now at a juncture of a historical labour dispute where teachers are within 24 hours of withdrawing extracurriculars that could lead to the cancellation of Hoopla, among others.

I was a student athlete myself. I’m in Connaught teaching the Comets there. I see first-hand what extracurriculars mean to these kids and the heart and soul these teachers put into extracurriculars, not because they’re required to, but because they choose to. They donate their time, Mr. Speaker.

But what we’ve seen from this government is, year after year, cuts. Disrespect — disrespect from this government that would sooner put money into a billboard campaign attacking them than send the impasse issue to a neutral third-party decision maker so they can move forward. If this government values the work of teachers, they have to start acting like it.

With that, I will read the prayer:

We, in the prayer, call on the Government of Saskatchewan to adequately and sustainably and predictably offer operating funds to the 27 public and separate school divisions to ensure that schools, teachers, and other caring professionals are able to meet the needs of every student in Saskatchewan.

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

Mr. Burki: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise to present a petition calling on the government to address home support for older adults in Saskatchewan.

The undersigned residents of the province of Saskatchewan wish to bring to your attention the following: that the evidence shows that older adults in Saskatchewan want to age in their own homes and communities; that the factors that drive older adults from their homes often go beyond health needs, and provincially subsidized home support programs could help older adults with practical needs; that providing support for older adults in their own homes comes significantly at a lower cost than providing institutionalized care; that other jurisdictions have successfully implemented the home support program to reduce the strain on the long-term care and improve outcomes for older adults.

I will read the prayer:

We, in the prayer that reads as follows, respectfully request the Legislative Assembly of Saskatchewan to call on the Government of Saskatchewan to work with older adults, stakeholders, and municipalities to design a home support program that allows seniors to age with dignity and autonomy in their own homes in their municipalities.

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

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

Ms. Ritchie: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise today to present a petition to the Legislative Assembly of Saskatchewan calling for pharmacare for Saskatchewan. The undersigned residents of the province wish to bring to your attention the following: that Canada is the only country with a universal health care system that does not include prescription drug coverage and this oversite results in unnecessary illness and suffering. In addition to that, we at this time have a health care system in Saskatchewan that has been brought to the brink by the failures of this government, and the need for access to pharmacare is an important part of the problem.

Over 90 per cent of Canadians agree that we need a national pharmacare program as one in five Canadians don’t fill necessary prescriptions because the medications cost too much. So this is also an affordability issue. And when we cover essential medications, we improve people’s quality of life and save millions in downstream costs.

We, in the prayer that reads as follows, respectfully request that the Legislative Assembly of Saskatchewan call on the Sask Party government to immediately support the establishment of universal pharmacare so the Saskatchewan patients and advocates for national pharmacare for all Canadians can be established.

This petition is signed by the residents of Moose Jaw. I do so present.

STATEMENTS BY MEMBERS

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

Saskatchewan’s Economic Growth Record

Ms. A. Young: — Well thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. It’s time for another lesson in Sask Party math today, courtesy of a statement of one of the members opposite who said, and I quote, “During the NDP’s time in government, people and businesses were fleeing our province in record numbers.” Now, Mr. Speaker, it’s hard to tell whether the member struggles with history or math, but I’ll do my best to help.

Now if the member or anyone on that side can point to any factual evidence to show that was happening, I would love to see it. But they can’t, because it’s an urban myth, a distraction created to hide something real — their own record, the second-worst in Canada — economic growth of 0.43 per cent. Who exactly does that work for? Does it work for the 19,000 people who have lost their jobs under this government’s tenure?

No, Mr. Speaker, maybe it’s business growth that they’re proud of, but under this Premier 860 businesses have closed their doors, and even more concerningly, 257 in the first 10 months of 2023 alone. Mr. Speaker, they can’t keep jobs, they can’t keep businesses, and they can’t keep their stories straight. But none of that matters, Mr. Speaker, when all you know is Sask Party math.

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

Social Work Week in Saskatchewan

Mr. Friesen: — Mr. Speaker, March 18th to March 23rd is Social Work Week in Saskatchewan. Social workers across the province work in public and private practice and for community-based organizations across health care, education, justice, disability, and child and family sectors. I have met with and speak with these front-line workers on a regular basis. And it’s clear, Mr. Speaker. They have a passion for helping others and a commitment to empowering the most vulnerable among us. Their work aids in building stronger families and communities.

Social Work Week gives us the chance to celebrate all they do for the people of Saskatchewan. Social workers provide crucial supports and services to help people overcome challenges that include addiction, domestic violence, mental health crisis, and intergenerational traumas. Today there are more than 2,700 active social workers registered within Saskatchewan Association of Social Workers.

I want to take a moment to recognize and thank the Saskatchewan Association of Social Workers for promoting and governing the profession of social work in our province. Social work is a challenging but rewarding profession. Please join me in celebrating Social Work Week and thanking all the social workers for all the important work they do. Thank you.

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

Afrocentric Symposium Held as Part of Black History Month

Ms. Nippi-Albright: — Miigwech, Mr. Speaker. I would like to recognize an awesome event I was fortunate to attend and bring greetings to. As part of Black History Month, the Afrocentric Symposium hosted by the forward-thinking community organization, Truly Alive, was held in my constituency on February 8th and 9th.

Mr. Speaker, the Afrocentric Symposium had an amazing lineup which included engaging keynote speakers and insightful panel discussion. The symposium aimed to foster a collaborative space for sharing knowledge and building connections within our community.

Black History Month is an opportunity to learn more about the many accomplishments and contributions made by persons of African Canadian heritage in our province. Not everyone is well educated on the long history of African Canadian culture in this province, but the Truly Alive Youth and Family Foundation is always aiming to change that. As Saskatoon’s only Black-led Black charity, they do incredible work and support education and outreach. They also work hand in hand with Indigenous communities because they understand we will travel down the path to truth and reconciliation together.

I want to thank Truly Alive for a wonderful event, and I ask all members to join me in recognition of this past Black History Month in Saskatchewan. Miigwech, Mr. Speaker.

The Speaker: — I recognize the member from Lloydminster.

Funding Announced for Skilled Trades Training Seats

Ms. C. Young: — Mr. Speaker, this morning my colleague, the Minister of Immigration and Career Training, alongside the member from Martensville-Warman made an important announcement concerning the skilled trades in our province.

Our government announced an additional $1 million to provide 150 new training seats through the Saskatchewan Apprenticeship and Trade Certification Commission. This additional funding brings the total investment into the SATCC [Saskatchewan Apprenticeship and Trade Certification Commission] to 22.4 million in the 2023‑24 year. These seats will be allocated into existing programs through various trades such as electricians, plumbers, sheet metal workers, and many more.

Since forming government in 2007, provincial funding for apprenticeship programs has increased by more than 71 per cent. And investments like this support and reflect our labour market strategy which is our province’s road map to build a workforce for Saskatchewan’s growing labour market. This funding directly addresses the first pillar of our strategy which is to ensure Saskatchewan residents have every opportunity to take advantage of the high-quality jobs being created in our economy.

Mr. Speaker, our province has a bright future and our skilled tradespeople are the ones building it. This investment translates into more infrastructure, more jobs, and more opportunities for the people of Saskatchewan. Thank you.

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

WorkSafe Saskatchewan Receives Vision Zero Award

Hon. Mr. Morgan: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I’d like to start off by joining with the minister in welcoming the officials from Workers’ Compensation Board here today. These were some truly inspired appointments. Mr. Speaker, WorkSafe Saskatchewan is a partnership between the Ministry of Labour Relations and Workplace Safety and the Workers’ Compensation Board. They do vital work in this province to promote safe workplace practices and protect our workers from injuries and illnesses while on the job.

I am pleased to say that this past November, WorkSafe Saskatchewan received a Vision Zero award, not to be confused with Mission: Zero. This was from the International Social Security Association at the 23rd World Congress on Safety and Health at Work. WorkSafe Saskatchewan was one of the first signatories to Vision Zero at the world congress in Singapore in 2017. By supporting Vision Zero, WorkSafe Saskatchewan demonstrated their commitment to action, and in the following years have achieved reductions in injuries and increases in awareness. There is always more work to be done. This award recognizes the international efforts to advance workplace safety, health, and well-being.

At the provincial level we have made progress. We recognize and thank the employers, workers, and safety associations in our province. We thank them, but we recognize that even one workplace injury is one too many.

[14:00]

On behalf of the Legislative Assembly of Saskatchewan, I’d like to say thank you to WorkSafe Saskatchewan for the diligent work they do and congratulate them on receiving this meaningful award.

The Speaker: — I recognize the member from Martensville-Warman.

City Administrator Retires after 37 Years

Mr. Jenson: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. After 37 years, Bob Smith’s career in municipal administration has come full circle as he turns the lights off in his office in Warman city hall later today for the final time. Mr. Speaker, Bob began as an assistant administrator in 1986 in what was then the small, sleepy bedroom community of Warman. He later became the administrator in the town of Nokomis, and also made stops in Assiniboia and Humboldt before settling into Weyburn for 20 years. When Weyburn experienced the massive flood in 2011, Bob was front and centre, helping to manage that city through a very challenging time.

Mr. Speaker, Bob and his wife, Leslie, moved back to Warman seven years ago, and they couldn’t be happier. Bob’s daughters live in Warman and retirement will allow him to spend more time with his grandchildren while having the freedom to now fill in his own calendar.

Mr. Speaker, in Bob’s 37 years in municipal government administration he’s seen a lot change, but considering all the places he’s worked and all the change he has seen in municipal administration, Bob gladly gives credit where credit is due. He gives high praise to all the civic staff that he worked with, saying they work hard behind the scenes to ensure city amenities are functioning, often under difficult circumstances.

Mr. Speaker, Bob Smith has certainly served the citizens of Warman, Nokomis, Assiniboia, Humboldt, and Weyburn very well, and we wish him a very happy and fulfilling retirement. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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

Carbon Tax Collection and Inflation Rates

Mr. Nerlien: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Earlier this year our government made the decision to no longer collect or remit the carbon tax on home heating. This was a decision based on fairness. The opposition won’t want to hear this, but inflation continues to decrease in Saskatchewan following this decision.

Mr. Speaker, immediately after this government made the move, Statistics Canada confirmed what we already knew, that the carbon tax is driving inflation. Mr. Speaker, our inflation rate dropped to 1.9 per cent in January from 2.7 per cent in December, and February’s inflation rate shows a further drop to 1.7 per cent. An entire percentage point has been shaved off our inflation rate in just two months after we rejected Ottawa’s unfair price on home heating.

Our province is more than a full point lower than the national inflation rate of 2.8 per cent. If the federal government also wants to meet their goal of getting inflation down to 2 per cent, they should remove the carbon tax entirely.

Now 7 out of 10 premiers are calling for suspension of the carbon tax increase set to increase again in April. Mr. Speaker, we remember when our government was the only one fighting this tax, and now the rest of Canada is catching on. Even the NDP opposition is trying to hop on the bandwagon, but Saskatchewan people aren’t having anything of it. Thank you.

QUESTION PERIOD

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

Fuel Tax and Affordability Measures

Ms. Beck: — Mr. Speaker, this tired and out-of-touch government is failing to deliver any cost-of-living relief for Saskatchewan families. Saskatchewan currently leads the nation in mortgage arrears, in child poverty, and in the number of people who are struggling just to pay their bills, and it’s time for that Premier to finally deliver some relief.

Why won’t the Premier listen to the people of the province and finally give Saskatchewan families a break at the pump? Why won’t he cut his fuel tax today?

The Speaker: — I recognize the Premier.

Hon. Mr. Moe: — Mr. Speaker, as I say many times and going to continue to say on the floor of this Assembly, there’s over $2 billion in each and every year’s budget in affordability measures for Saskatchewan families.

I suspect in about 24 hours when the Deputy Premier rises to her place, right here tomorrow, that we are going to see not only those $2 billion reconfirmed in this year’s budget — affordability measures for Saskatchewan families — but you may even see a few of them enhanced over the course of the next year, Mr. Speaker, to ensure that Saskatchewan remains to lead the nation when it comes to affordability measures that are in place.

In fact Regina, the city of Regina was just assessed as being one of the most affordable cities to live in in the nation of Canada, Mr. Speaker. And the fortunate thing about living in Saskatchewan, with almost 20,000 jobs added just this past year, is you’re going to be able to find a career here as well, Mr. Speaker.

This is how we collectively, on this side of the House, Mr. Speaker, have focused on continuing to strengthen our economy while we’re keeping life affordable for Saskatchewan residents so that we can ensure that we are building a brighter future for all.

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

Health Care Staffing

Ms. Beck: — So affordable, Mr. Speaker, that we have four times the national average of mortgage arrears. This tired and out-of-touch government clearly isn’t listening. They’re not listening on affordability, and they’re not listening to those who are ringing alarm bells, Mr. Speaker, about the state of our health care system.

Now let’s look at the report that the minister released yesterday. Since this Premier came to office in 2018, six years ago, we have lost 14 family doctors from the province. How does the Premier defend that record — his record — of losing family physicians from this province?

The Speaker: — I recognize the Premier.

Hon. Mr. Moe: — Mr. Speaker, as always you need to ensure that we are checking the work that comes to the floor of this Assembly. I would say that when the members opposite are referencing the addition of 14 doctors, Mr. Speaker, what they’re referencing is active physicians. That includes active physicians that are doing fee-for-service. So it does not include any of the salaried physicians across the province.

So I would say that those salaried physicians, the six or eight that work in my community, they count too, Mr. Speaker. They count. And when you include all of the physicians added over the last four years in this province, Mr. Speaker, it’s over 200 physicians into communities across Saskatchewan — 89 of those are general practitioners; 109 more specialists — offering services to Saskatchewan families.

That is due to the most ambitious health human resource plan in the nation, Mr. Speaker, has been enacted by these two ministers. It continues to show successes in our rural communities, in our larger centres in the way of fewer disruptions and a shorter surgical wait time. That, Mr. Speaker, is ensuring . . . and that is possible due to the strength of the economy that we have in this province, and it’s helping make a brighter future for all.

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

Ms. Beck: — Mr. Speaker, the Premier can check in with his lines and his spin, but I will listen to the people of this province where one in six cannot find a primary care provider in this province today. That is his record. People in this province don’t have access to a doctor. And when they don’t have that access, Mr. Speaker, they wait for care in walk-in clinics or in overcrowded emergency rooms.

Mr. Speaker, this isn’t simply about numbers. It’s about people and it’s about their health care. How does that Premier, how does that Premier defend his record of increasing wait times and decreasing family docs and service in this province?

The Speaker: — I recognize the Premier.

Hon. Mr. Moe: — Mr. Speaker, for a party that would actually like to form government, how can you trust the fact that they can’t even interpret a document let alone generate one? Over 200 physicians added, Mr. Speaker.

And in addition to that, as people across this province — and we were at the SARM [Saskatchewan Association of Rural Municipalities] convention and heard this loud and clear — as people across this province look for access to medical professionals, they also advocate for access to nurse practitioners, nurse practitioners, of which have increased 236 per cent since we’ve moved the members across the floor here, Mr. Speaker, over to the opposition side.

That’s being supported — I would go back to our health human resources plan, the most ambitious plan in the nation of Canada — through student loan forgiveness programs, through graduate retention programs, through income tax credits that are available, through clinic placements and bursaries that are available, and through the most recent announcement of scope expansion and allowing nurse practitioners to practise on their own just this past week, Mr. Speaker.

Mr. Speaker, there are more physicians practising in the province of Saskatchewan thanks to the most ambitious health human resources plan in the nation. There are more nurse practitioners practising in Saskatchewan communities and offering services to Saskatchewan families than there was last year and a whole lot more than there was under the members opposite.

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

Ms. Beck: — Mr. Speaker, I will take no lessons from a premier who blew his budget by $2 billion and brought our health care system to its knees in this province. They’re failing across the board, but nowhere are they failing more than when it comes to women’s health in this province. Since that Premier came to office, we have seen a 6 per cent decrease in OB/GYNs [obstetrician-gynecologist] in our province.

It’s a lack of access to doctors and specialists that means longer wait times for people, for Saskatchewan women, Mr. Speaker. And when the Premier does come around to doing something about it, what’s his plan? To send women to a donor in Calgary at 10 times the cost for what we pay here at home.

Mr. Speaker, will that Premier, will he accept . . . He wants to get up and spin his lines, Mr. Speaker. Will he accept any responsibility for the damage he’s done to women’s health in this province?

The Speaker: — I recognize the Premier.

Hon. Mr. Moe: — I do apologize. I thought the Leader of the Opposition was finished, so I do apologize honestly for standing up too early. But the fact of the matter is, Mr. Speaker, when it comes to all Saskatchewan residents’ health, in particular women’s health in this province, it most certainly is a focus of this government. And I think in fairness it’s a focus of everyone on the floor of this Assembly and everyone across the Saskatchewan Health Authority.

I would point more . . . I look at the offer for women to go for breast treatment, Mr. Speaker, in Calgary in a little bit different way. Those that choose to go most certainly can, and it shortens the list here in Saskatchewan. That is one way that we’re able to lower the wait-list that not only we had in Saskatchewan but was present across Canada, Mr. Speaker.

And I would also point to the more recent investment, Mr. Speaker, the announcement of the breast health centre of excellence right here in Regina, going to greatly streamline, greatly streamline the diagnostics, mammograms, all of the services that are required by women on an annual basis. Greatly streamline it not only from the patient’s perspective, but also from the physician’s perspective, Mr. Speaker.

It’s going to help us attract, it’s going to help us attract professionals into the community of Regina to service all the women in southern Saskatchewan, Mr. Speaker, and it certainly is going to help when it comes to the quality of service and the quantity of service that is offered to women in the southern half of this province.

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

Mr. Clarke: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. This tired and out-of-touch government is failing to deliver on health care. The report clearly shows this government is failing to keep new medical grads here in our province. The report shows only 43 per cent of psychiatric grads stayed in Saskatchewan; anesthesia, 38 per cent; surgery, only 17 per cent. The worst retention in new medical grads — 14 per cent of pediatric specialists stayed in Saskatchewan after completing their training.

Why isn’t the Sask Party doing anything at all to keep these grads here to provide care for Saskatchewan people?

The Speaker: — I recognize the Minister of Health.

Hon. Mr. Hindley: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and I’d like to begin by thanking all the health care workers — the doctors, the nurses, the specialists — that work in our hospitals and health care facilities across this province for the amazing work that they are doing supporting Saskatchewan’s health care system.

Mr. Speaker, as the Premier alluded to, we have taken some very aggressive steps when it comes to recruitment and retention of health care workers in this province and implementing new initiatives when it comes to working to recruit additional specialists into this province.

As an example, we are actively recruiting for a number of more anesthesiologists right across Saskatchewan, for cities like Regina, like Swift Current, like Prince Albert, Mr. Speaker. We now have an anesthesiology recruitment and retention incentive of $200,000 over five years, Mr. Speaker, tied to return-for-service.

These are some of the initiatives that we are implementing in this province to make sure that we are doing everything we can in a very competitive field across Canada when it comes to recruiting health care specialists here in our province.

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

Mr. Clarke: — Mr. Speaker, they’re failing to keep new grads here and they’re failing to keep doctors in rural Saskatchewan.

Now they don’t like it when we talk about rural Saskatchewan, but that’s their record. Now when the Premier came into office, there were only 265 rural family doctors. Now there’s only 257. That’s a loss of more than one doctor per year every year, gone from rural Saskatchewan. No wonder people can’t find a family doctor.

Why, why are there fewer rural doctors working today than when Brad Wall was premier of this province?

The Speaker: — I recognize the Minister of Health.

Hon. Mr. Hindley: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. More positive quotes from the opposition about the former premier of Saskatchewan.

I’d like to say a couple of things, Mr. Speaker. We have 1,000 more doctors in this province than we did back in 2007. The NDP at that time, the NDP opposition in their time in government, had the worst recruitment and retention record in all of Canada when it came to physicians, when it came to nurses, Mr. Speaker.

[14:15]

Earlier this winter, Mr. Speaker, we signed a new agreement with the Saskatchewan Medical Association. This is fairly new. The member for Regina Elphinstone might want to pay attention to it in case she missed it the first time. A $245 million agreement with the SMA [Saskatchewan Medical Association] where . . . And we’ll listen to quotes from the president of the Saskatchewan Medical Association, Dr. Annette Epp, who said, and I quote:

Our goal was to reach an agreement that recognizes the critical role physicians play in our health care system and provide the support they need to deliver high-quality, accessible patient care. I firmly believe that this new agreement acknowledges and values Saskatchewan physicians.

Mr. Speaker, that’s a quote from the president of the SMA.

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

Mr. Clarke: — Mr. Speaker, this tired and out-of-touch government’s record is one of fewer doctors and longer waits. That is a fact.

Now tomorrow the Premier and the Health minister will roll out some lofty rhetoric about hiring more doctors in rural Saskatchewan, but that’s not their record. I’m told that the best predictor of future behaviour is past behaviour, and this Premier’s past behaviour is losing rural doctors every year. Those are the facts, Mr. Speaker.

What does the Minister of Health say to rural people in his riding who can’t see a family doctor because the number of rural doctors has decreased under this Premier’s watch?

The Speaker: — I recognize the Minister of Health.

Hon. Mr. Hindley: — Mr. Speaker, lots of huffing and puffing from the member from Regina Walsh Acres. What you’ll see tomorrow, Mr. Speaker, is you’ll see this Minister of Finance stand up tomorrow and table a document that talks about one of the biggest investments we’ve ever seen in the areas of care, communities, and other areas . . . [inaudible interjection] . . . classrooms, Mr. Speaker. Thank you to the member for Indian Head-Milestone.

And a very significant investment into health care, Mr. Speaker, building on our previous record. And the member opposite wants to talk about the record. How about 550 more training seats across this province in a variety of different health designations; last week’s announcement of expansion of nurse practitioner services, 25 more nurse practitioner positions to start as well as a couple of independently operated, publicly funded nurse practitioner clinics; more pilot projects around physician-led primary care clinics in this province; a pilot project around expanding the scope of practice for pharmacists in this province, so they can deliver more care to people across this province. You’re going to see more of that in tomorrow’s budget, Mr. Speaker.

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

Contract Negotiations with Teachers

Mr. Love: — Mr. Speaker, the clock is ticking for this tired and out-of-touch government to get a deal with Saskatchewan teachers, and that’s exactly what students and parents are asking this minister to do. Teachers deserve so much more than the utter disrespect shown by that minister. They deserve a deal that addresses class size and complexity, and it is that minister’s job to do that. Why won’t the minister do his job, get a deal on class size and complexity today?

The Speaker: — I recognize the Minister of Education.

Hon. Mr. Cockrill: — Mr. Speaker, over the last several days I’ve heard from parents, from teachers, from students and athletes around the province, who are in a frustrating situation, having their provincial basketball championship and other extracurriculars taken away by the decision of the Saskatchewan Teachers’ Federation leadership to place sanctions, a decision, quite frankly, that lies directly with the STF [Saskatchewan Teachers’ Federation] leadership.

Mr. Speaker, you have seen several, several areas of movement from the government trying to get a deal done to ensure that kids can be in the classroom and on the court of play.

Mr. Speaker, the union leadership wants to say that this is all about the kids. That’s what the union leadership wants to say. But now it’s kids who are paying the price for the STF’s job action. It’s not too late for the STF leadership to reverse that decision and allow extracurriculars to continue going on, Mr. Speaker. I’m calling on the STF leadership to reverse that decision and let them play.

[Interjections]

The Speaker: — Order. Order. I recognize the member from Saskatoon Eastview.

Mr. Love: — Mr. Speaker, responsibility for this dispute falls at the feet of one person in this province, and it’s that minister sitting right over there. He alone has the power to make labour action go away. He alone has the power to keep Hoopla and school trips going.

The two sides are so clearly at an impasse, Mr. Speaker. They should listen up. All he has to do is send the issue of class size and complexity to arbitration and the job action will end. That’s all he has to do.

Why won’t the minister get out of the way, send this to arbitration so a deal can be struck today?

The Speaker: — I recognize the Minister of Education.

Hon. Mr. Cockrill: — Mr. Speaker, I remember being a coach, a basketball coach, a high school basketball coach in North Battleford in 2020, when the STF made a similar decision to impose sanctions on extracurriculars, and it took away our regional tournament for my Vikings boys’ team that was supposed to be heading off to Weyburn for that regional tournament.

Mr. Speaker, I will remind members, I will remind students and parents and coaches around the province that the STF have the power to declare job sanctions and the power to choose which specific dates. What the STF leadership are doing are targeting specific extracur activities, which affect kids coming from Moose Jaw and Wynyard and communities in all areas of the province, Mr. Speaker.

Mr. Speaker, that member opposite wants to talk about my role in this, in bargaining. I’ll tell you what I’ve done. I have brought forward a renewed mandate with a reasonable salary offer. We’ve brought forward the largest-ever school operating increase in the history of the province, Mr. Speaker. We want to get a deal done.

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

Mr. Love: — Mr. Speaker, the fact is this government has taken power away from teachers, power away from boards, and they’ve given the power to that minister. He’s the one who has the power to get a deal done and he won’t do it. Saskatchewan people are tired of the arrogant antics from that minister. We see that arrogance day in and day out.

If he believes in his numbers, then he can prove it and send it to an independent arbitrator. Mr. Speaker, if he believes in his facts, if he believes in his own words, then he can prove it today. He can stand in his place, send this to an independent arbitrator to get a deal done. He can prove it. Does he believe in his own words? If he does, stand, take his feet, commit this to arbitration, end this dispute right here today.

The Speaker: — I recognize the Minister of Education.

Hon. Mr. Cockrill: — You know, Mr. Speaker, what I have heard loud and clear around the province, having been on the phone with members of the organizing committee of the Hoopla tournament, with coaches, with players, with parents, with students around the province: they want to play basketball this weekend in Moose Jaw. That’s what they’re hoping to do. But the only thing standing in the way of that is the STF’s decision to declare sanctions on extracurricular activities around the province, Mr. Speaker, that targets this specific tournament.

Mr. Speaker, I would actually challenge the STF leadership to put it to their membership. Do they want to coach this weekend? Do they want their students to be playing basketball this weekend? It is time for the STF leadership to stop taking this opportunity away from students and coaches, and let them play.

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

Government’s Fiscal Management

Ms. Conway: — Mr. Speaker, if that Minister of Education values the work of teachers, he better damn well start showing it to the people of Saskatchewan.

Mr. Speaker, we’ve asked about their record on health care and education. The Sask Party doesn’t like it. Yesterday we asked about their record of debt, and they really didn’t like that, Mr. Speaker. Let’s talk about how we got to the point in Saskatchewan where this Premier has accumulated more debt than Grant Devine.

It’s because of their sweetheart deals, mismanaged projects. That is a fact. Two hundred and forty million on AIMS [administrative information management system], a computer system that still doesn’t even work. How does the Premier justify spending $240 million — adding that 240 million to Saskatchewan debt — on a computer system that still doesn’t work?

The Speaker: — I’d just like to caution the member to watch your language. I recognize the Finance minister.

Hon. Ms. Harpauer: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I want to read a quote from a news release that went out in the province a few years ago, but I’ve been here for a few years now. And it is, I quote, “407.3 million capital budget, our largest ever.” That is the news release that came from the NDP 2007 budget. Mr. Speaker, $407.3 million of a capital budget.

In just a few more hours, you’re going to see a capital spend 10 times that amount, Mr. Speaker, because this government is investing in roads; it’s investing in hospitals; it’s investing in schools, in schools. The NDP never invested in any of that. They closed schools. They closed hospitals. They let the highways crumble. We’re planning for growth, Mr. Speaker, and they did nothing but sit on a decline in this province.

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

Ms. Conway: — Mr. Speaker, that Minister of Finance needs to start living in the now. Speak to her record — 17 years of Sask Party government, and the list of mismanaged projects and special deals is long. That’s how this tired and out-of-touch government added more debt to Saskatchewan than Grant Devine. Special deals like the one we saw in Wascana Park, $11.6 to settle a lawsuit with one of the Sask Party’s biggest corporate donors, all to make sure that all the dirty details of that deal didn’t see the light of day, Mr. Speaker, and all while running a deficit.

How does the Sask Party justify adding 11.6 million to the debt to keep the details of this deal under wraps?

The Speaker: — I recognize the Minister of Finance.

Hon. Ms. Harpauer: — You know, I love what the member opposite said: you’ve got to live in the now. Live in the now. Well quite frankly, Mr. Speaker, I’ve been in this House a lot of years — this fall will be 25 years — and even I didn’t serve under Grant Devine, and that’s who she brought up. So who’s really not living in the now, Mr. Speaker?

You know, Mr. Speaker, they also are . . . [inaudible] . . . of saying, you know, the best predictor of future behaviour is past behaviour. Let’s just talk, let’s just talk for a minute about what the child care system was under that NDP government.

They had paper files of children in our care. I can’t express enough how awful that was. If a child moved from one community to another, the paper file may or may not go with them. You could track a library book better in the province than you could the children in our care under the NDP, and yet they criticize getting an IT [information technology] system, Mr. Speaker. That was the NDP when they were in government, and we should never, ever, ever forget it.

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

Overdose Deaths and Treatment for Addictions

Mr. Teed: — Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. So far this year we’ve seen 74 families lose loved ones to the overdose crisis — 74 families. Last year 476 families lost a mother, a father, a spouse, a sibling, a friend, or a colleague. So many families are scared and worried that their loved one could be next. The fact is, there are few families left in this province untouched by this crisis. We are in a crisis, and this government is choosing not to listen.

Mr. Speaker, I ask, how many families must go through this senseless loss before the government will listen, listen and implement an evidence-based plan that will save lives?

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

Hon. Mr. T. McLeod: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. As I’ve said before and I will say again, every loss of life due to an overdose is a tragedy. And that’s why our government is focused on treatment and recovery of individuals who are battling addiction.

We are sending the message to these individuals that no illicit drugs are safe. Providing individuals who are battling addiction with crack pipes and instructions on how to use drugs, Mr. Speaker, sends those people the wrong message.

We are focused on treatment and recovery, Mr. Speaker. We are sending the message to these individuals that we value their health and their life and their safety too much to allow them to continue to live in a life of addiction. And the message that we are sending these individuals is that there is hope for recovery and there is help available in treatment. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

PRESENTING REPORTS BY STANDING AND SPECIAL COMMITTEES

The Speaker: — I recognize the Chair of the Standing Committee on Human Services.

[14:30]

Standing Committee on Human Services

Ms. A. Ross: — Mr. Speaker, I am instructed by the Standing Committee on Human Services to report Bill No. 138, the workmen’s compensation (extending firefighter coverage) amendment Act, 2023 without amendment.

The Speaker: — When shall this bill be considered in Committee of the Whole on Bills? I recognize the Minister of Labour Relations and Workplace Safety.

Hon. Mr. McMorris: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I request leave to waive consideration in Committee of the Whole on this bill and that the bill now be read a third time.

The Speaker: — The minister has requested leave to waive consideration in Committee of the Whole on Bill No. 138, The Workers’ Compensation (Extending Firefighter Coverage) Amendment Act, 2023, and that the bill be now read a third time. Is leave granted?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

The Speaker: — The minister may proceed to move third reading.

THIRD READINGS

Bill No. 138 — The Workers’ Compensation (Extending Firefighter Coverage) Amendment Act, 2023

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

The Speaker: — It has been moved by the minister that the bill be now read the third time and passed under its title. Is the Assembly ready for the question?

Some Hon. Members: — Question.

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

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

The Speaker: — Carried.

Deputy Clerk: — Third reading of this bill.

PRESENTING REPORTS BY STANDING AND SPECIAL COMMITTEES

The Speaker: — I recognize the Chair of the Standing Committee on Human Services.

Standing Committee on Human Services

Ms. A. Ross: — Mr. Speaker, I am instructed by the Standing Committee on Human Services to report Bill No. 143, The Child Care Amendment Act, 2023 without amendment.

The Speaker: — When shall this bill be considered in Committee of the Whole on Bills? I recognize the Minister of Education.

Hon. Mr. Cockrill: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I request leave to waive consideration in Committee of the Whole on this bill and the bill now be read a third time.

The Speaker: — The minister has requested leave to waive consideration in Committee of the Whole on Bill No. 143, The Child Care Amendment Act, 2023 and that the bill be now be read the third time. Is leave granted?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

The Speaker: — The minister may proceed to move third reading.

THIRD READINGS

Bill No. 143 — The Child Care Amendment Act, 2023/Loi modificative de 2023 sur les garderies d’enfants

Hon. Mr. Cockrill: — I move that the bill be now read a third time and passed under its title.

The Speaker: — It has been moved by the minister the bill be now read the third time and passed under its title. Is the Assembly ready for the question?

Some Hon. Members: — Question.

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

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

The Speaker: — Carried.

Deputy Clerk: — Third reading of this bill.

PRESENTING REPORTS BY STANDING AND SPECIAL COMMITTEES

The Speaker: — I recognize the Chair of the Standing Committee on Crown and Central Agencies.

Standing Committee on Crown and Central Agencies

Mr. Cheveldayoff: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I’m instructed by the Standing Committee on Crown and Central Agencies to report Bill No. 142, The Miscellaneous Statutes (Utility Line Locates) Amendment Act, 2023 without amendment.

The Speaker: — When shall this bill be considered in Committee of the Whole on Bills? I recognize the Minister Responsible for Crown Investments Corporation of Saskatchewan.

Hon. Mr. Duncan: — Mr. Speaker, I request leave to waive consideration in Committee of the Whole on this bill and that the bill now be read a third time.

The Speaker: — The minister has requested leave to waive consideration in Committee of the Whole on Bill No. 142, The Miscellaneous Statutes (Utility Line Locates) Amendment Act, 2023 and that the bill be now be read the third time. Is leave granted?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

The Speaker: — The minister may proceed to move third reading.

THIRD READINGS

Bill No. 142 — The Miscellaneous Statutes (Utility Line Locates) Amendment Act, 2023

Hon. Mr. Duncan: — Mr. Speaker, I move that the bill be now read the third time and passed under its title.

The Speaker: — It has been moved by the minister that the bill be now read the third time and passed under its title. Is the Assembly ready for the question?

Some Hon. Members: — Question.

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

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

The Speaker: — Carried.

Deputy Clerk: — Third reading of this bill.

PRESENTING REPORTS BY STANDING AND SPECIAL COMMITTEES

The Speaker: — I recognize the Chair of the Standing Committee on the Economy.

Standing Committee on the Economy

Ms. C. Young: — Mr. Speaker, I’m instructed by the Standing Committee on the Economy to report Bill No. 154, The Management and Reduction of Greenhouse Gases Amendment Act, 2023 without amendment.

The Speaker: — When shall this bill be considered in Committee of the Whole on Bills? I recognize the Minister of Environment.

Hon. Ms. Tell: — I request leave to waive consideration in the Committee of the Whole on this bill and that the bill be now read the third time.

The Speaker: — The minister has requested leave to waive consideration in Committee of the Whole on Bill No. 154, The Management and Reduction of Greenhouse Gases Amendment Act, 2023 and that the bill be now read the third time. Is leave granted?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

The Speaker: — The minister may proceed to move third reading.

THIRD READINGS

Bill No. 154 — The Management and Reduction of Greenhouse Gases Amendment Act, 2023

Hon. Ms. Tell: — I move that the bill be now read the third time and passed under its title.

The Speaker: — It has been moved by the minister that the bill be now read the third time and passed under its title. Is the Assembly ready for the question?

Some Hon. Members: — Question.

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

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

The Speaker: — Carried.

Deputy Clerk: — Third reading of this bill.

PRESENTING REPORTS BY STANDING AND SPECIAL COMMITTEES

The Speaker: — I recognize the Chair of the Standing Committee on Intergovernmental Affairs and Justice.

Standing Committee on Intergovernmental Affairs and Justice

Mr. Dennis: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I am instructed by the Standing Committee on Intergovernmental Affairs and Justice to report Bill No. 140, The Miscellaneous Statutes Repeal Act, 2023 without amendment.

The Speaker: — When shall this bill be considered in Committee of the Whole on Bills? I recognize the Minister of Justice and Attorney General.

Hon. Ms. Eyre: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I request leave to waive consideration in Committee of the Whole on this bill and that the bill be now read the third time.

The Speaker: — The minister has requested leave to waive consideration in Committee of the Whole on Bill No. 140, The Miscellaneous Statutes Repeal Act, 2023 and that the bill be now read the third time. Is leave granted?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

The Speaker: — The minister may proceed to move third reading.

THIRD READINGS

Bill No. 140 — The Miscellaneous Statutes Repeal Act, 2023

Hon. Ms. Eyre: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I move that the bill be now read the third time and passed under its title.

The Speaker: — It has been moved by the minister that the bill be now read the third time and passed under its title. Is the Assembly ready for the question?

Some Hon. Members: — Question.

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

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

The Speaker: — Carried.

Deputy Clerk: — Third reading of this bill.

PRESENTING REPORTS BY STANDING AND SPECIAL COMMITTEES

The Speaker: — I recognize the Chair of the Standing Committee on Intergovernmental Affairs and Justice.

Standing Committee on Intergovernmental Affairs and Justice

Mr. Dennis: — Mr. Speaker, I am instructed by the Standing Committee on Intergovernmental Affairs and Justice to report Bill No. 141, The Statute Law Amendment Act, 2023 without amendment.

The Speaker: — When shall this bill be considered in Committee of the Whole on Bills? I recognize the Minister of Justice and Attorney General.

Hon. Ms. Eyre: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I request leave to waive consideration in Committee of the Whole on this bill and that the bill be now read the third time.

The Speaker: — The minister has requested leave to waive consideration in Committee of the Whole on Bill No. 141, The Statute Law Amendment Act, 2023 and that the bill be now read the third time. Is leave granted?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

The Speaker: — The minister may proceed to move third reading.

THIRD READINGS

Bill No. 141 — The Statute Law Amendment Act, 2023

Hon. Ms. Eyre: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I move that the bill be now read the third time and passed under its title.

The Speaker: — It has been moved by the minister that the bill be now read the third time and passed under its title. Is the Assembly ready for the question?

Some Hon. Members: — Question.

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

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

The Speaker: — Carried.

Deputy Clerk: — Third reading of this bill.

PRESENTING REPORTS BY STANDING AND SPECIAL COMMITTEES

The Speaker: — I recognize the Chair of the Standing Committee on Intergovernmental Affairs and Justice.

Standing Committee on Intergovernmental Affairs and Justice

Mr. Dennis: — Mr. Speaker, I’m instructed by the Standing Committee on Intergovernmental Affairs and Justice to report Bill No. 144, The Police (Miscellaneous) Amendment Act, 2023 without amendment.

The Speaker: — When shall this bill be considered in Committee of the Whole on Bills? I recognize the Minister of Corrections, Policing and Public Safety.

Hon. Mr. Merriman: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I request leave to waive consideration in Committee of the Whole on this bill and this bill now be read a third time.

The Speaker: — The minister has requested leave to waive consideration in Committee of the Whole on Bill No. 141, The Police (Miscellaneous) Amendment Act, 2023 and that the bill be now read the third time. Is leave granted?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

The Speaker: — The minister may proceed to move third reading.

THIRD READINGS

Bill No. 144 — The Police (Miscellaneous) Amendment Act, 2023

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

The Speaker: — It has been moved by the minister that the bill be now read the third time and passed under its title. Is the Assembly ready for the question?

Some Hon. Members: — Question.

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

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

The Speaker: — Carried.

Deputy Clerk: — Third reading of this bill.

PRESENTING REPORTS BY STANDING AND SPECIAL COMMITTEES

The Speaker: — I recognize the Chair of the Standing Committee on Intergovernmental Affairs and Justice.

Standing Committee on Intergovernmental Affairs and Justice

Mr. Dennis: — Mr. Speaker, I am instructed by the Standing Committee on Intergovernmental Affairs and Justice to report Bill No. 145, The Funeral and Cremation Services (Legal Decision-Maker Protection) Amendment Act, 2023 without amendment.

The Speaker: — When shall this bill be considered in Committee of the Whole on Bills? I recognize the Minister of Justice and Attorney General.

Hon. Ms. Eyre: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I request leave to waive consideration in Committee of the Whole on this bill and that the bill be now read the third time.

The Speaker: — The minister has requested leave to waive consideration in Committee of the Whole on Bill No. 145, The Funeral and Cremation Services (Legal Decision-Maker Protection) Amendment Act, 2023 and that the bill be now read the third time. Is leave granted?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

The Speaker: — The minister may proceed to move third reading.

THIRD READINGS

Bill No. 145 — The Funeral and Cremation Services (Legal Decision-Maker Protection) Amendment Act, 2023

Hon. Ms. Eyre: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I move that the bill be now read the third time and passed under its title.

The Speaker: — It has been moved by the minister that the bill be now read the third time and passed under its title. Is the Assembly ready for the question?

Some Hon. Members: — Question.

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

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

The Speaker: — Carried.

Deputy Clerk: — Third reading of this bill.

PRESENTING REPORTS BY STANDING AND SPECIAL COMMITTEES

The Speaker: — I recognize the Chair of the Standing Committee on Intergovernmental Affairs and Justice.

Standing Committee on Intergovernmental Affairs and Justice

Mr. Dennis: — Mr. Speaker, I am instructed by the Standing Committee on Intergovernmental Affairs and Justice to report Bill No. 146, The King’s Bench Consequential Amendments Act, 2023 without amendment.

The Speaker: — When shall this bill be considered in Committee of the Whole on Bills? I recognize the Minister of Justice and Attorney General.

Hon. Ms. Eyre: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I request leave to waive consideration in Committee of the Whole on this bill and that the bill be now read the third time.

The Speaker: — The minister has requested leave to waive consideration in Committee of the Whole on Bill No. 146, The King’s Bench Consequential Amendments Act, 2023, that the bill be now read the third time. Is leave granted?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

The Speaker: — The minister may proceed to move third reading.

THIRD READINGS

Bill No. 146 — The King’s Bench Consequential Amendments Act, 2023

Hon. Ms. Eyre: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I move that the bill be now read the third time and passed under its title.

The Speaker: — It has been moved by the minister that the bill be now read the third time and passed under its title. Is the Assembly ready for the question?

Some Hon. Members: — Question.

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

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

The Speaker: — Carried.

Deputy Clerk: — Third reading of this bill.

PRESENTING REPORTS BY STANDING AND SPECIAL COMMITTEES

The Speaker: — I recognize the Chair of the Standing Committee on Intergovernmental Affairs and Justice.

Standing Committee on Intergovernmental Affairs and Justice

Mr. Dennis: — Mr. Speaker, I am instructed by the Standing Committee on Intergovernmental Affairs and Justice to report Bill No. 148, The Film Content Information Act without amendment.

The Speaker: — When shall this bill be considered in Committee of the Whole on Bills? I recognize the Minister of Justice and Attorney General.

Hon. Ms. Eyre: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I request leave to waive consideration in Committee of the Whole on this bill and that the bill be now read the third time.

The Speaker: — The minister has requested leave to waive consideration in Committee of the Whole on Bill No. 148, The Film Content Information Act and that the bill be now read the third time. Is leave granted?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

The Speaker: — The minister may proceed to move third reading.

THIRD READINGS

Bill No. 148 — The Film Content Information Act

Hon. Ms. Eyre: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I move that the bill be now read the third time and passed under its title.

The Speaker: — It has been moved by the minister that the bill be now read the third time and passed under its title. Is the Assembly ready for the question?

Some Hon. Members: — Question.

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

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

The Speaker: — Carried.

Deputy Clerk: — Third reading of this bill.

PRESENTING REPORTS BY STANDING AND SPECIAL COMMITTEES

The Speaker: — I recognize the Chair of the Standing Committee on Intergovernmental Affairs and Justice.

Standing Committee on Intergovernmental Affairs and Justice

Mr. Dennis: — Mr. Speaker, I’m instructed by the Standing Committee on Intergovernmental Affairs and Justice to report Bill No. 153, The Miscellaneous Municipal Statutes Amendment Act, 2023 without amendment.

The Speaker: — When shall this bill be considered in Committee of the Whole on Bills? I recognize the Minister of Government Relations.

Hon. Mr. McMorris: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I request leave to waive consideration in Committee of the Whole on this bill and that this bill be now read a third time.

The Speaker: — The minister has requested leave to waive consideration in Committee of the Whole on Bill No. 153, The Miscellaneous Municipal Statutes Amendment Act, 2023 and that the bill be now read the third time. Is leave granted?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

The Speaker: — The minister may proceed to move third reading.

THIRD READINGS

Bill No. 153 — The Miscellaneous Municipal Statutes Amendment Act, 2023

Hon. Mr. McMorris: — I move that this bill be now read a third time and passed under its title.

The Speaker: — It has been moved by the minister that the bill be now read the third time and passed under its title. Is the Assembly ready for the question?

Some Hon. Members: — Question.

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

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

The Speaker: — Carried.

Deputy Clerk: — Third reading of this bill.

The Speaker: — I am advised that His Honour the Lieutenant Governor is here for Royal Assent. All please rise.

[At 14:45 His Honour the Lieutenant Governor entered the Chamber and took his seat upon the Throne. His Honour then gave Royal Assent to the following bills.]

ROYAL ASSENT

His Honour: — Pray be seated.

The Speaker: — May it please Your Honour, this Legislative Assembly in its present session has passed several bills which, in the name of the Assembly, I present to Your Honour and to which bills I respectfully request Your Honour’s assent.

Clerk: — Your Honour, the bills are as follows:

Bill No. 138 — The Workers’ Compensation (Extending Firefighter Coverage) Amendment Act, 2023

Bill No. 143 — The Child Care Amendment Act, 2023/Loi modificative de 2023 sur les garderies d’enfants

Bill No. 142 — The Miscellaneous Statutes (Utility Line Locates) Amendment Act, 2023

Bill No. 154 — The Management and Reduction of Greenhouse Gases Amendment Act, 2023

Bill No. 140 — The Miscellaneous Statutes Repeal Act, 2023

Bill No. 141 — The Statute Law Amendment Act, 2023

Bill No. 144 — The Police (Miscellaneous) Amendment Act, 2023

Bill No. 145 — The Funeral and Cremation Services (Legal Decision-Maker Protection) Amendment Act, 2023

Bill No. 146 — The King’s Bench Consequential Amendments Act, 2023

Bill No. 148 — The Film Content Information Act

Bill No. 153 — The Miscellaneous Municipal Statutes Amendment Act, 2023

His Honour: — In His Majesty’s name, I assent to these bills.

The Speaker: — Please rise for the departure of His Honour.

[At 14:48 His Honour retired from the Chamber.]

The Speaker: — Please take your seats. I recognize the Government House Leader.

Hon. Mr. J. Harrison: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. 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 1:30 tomorrow.

[The Assembly adjourned at 14:49.]

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.