Hon. Mr. Duncan: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, to you and through you to all members of the Legislative Assembly, I’m pleased to welcome 20 public service employees that are seated in your gallery. They’re here as a part of the parliamentary program for the public service. They’ve had an opportunity to tour the building and they’ll be meeting with various officials, I believe, with your office, yourself. And members of the government and the opposition will have an opportunity to meet with them this afternoon.

Participants today come from the ministries of Energy and Resources, Government Relations, Health, the Public Service Commission, SaskBuilds and Procurement, Social Services, and the Legislative Assembly Service. Mr. Speaker, I would ask that all members would not only join with me in welcoming them to their Legislative Assembly but thanking them for the work that they do each and every day to provide services to the people of this province. And so with that I’d ask all members to help me in welcoming them to their Assembly.

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

Mr. Teed: — Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. To you and through you, I’d like to join with the minister and join in welcoming these fine public servants to their Legislative Assembly as they take in the parliamentary program today. I just want to say thank you so much to those folks for all the work that you do keeping our province running every single day. And I look so forward to joining with the minister and hearing all of the thoughtful questions that you have for us and give you an overview about what life looks like as an opposition MLA [Member of the Legislative Assembly].

So with that, I’d like to ask that all members welcome these public servants to their Legislative Assembly.

And while I’m on my feet, Mr. Speaker, I’d also like to make an introduction of someone who is no stranger to the Saskatchewan legislature. In my capacity as the official opposition critic for Parks, Culture and Sport, I would like to introduce and welcome one Don Young up in the galleries here today.

Don is currently serving as the executive director of the Cathedral Arts Festival, and he has taken it upon in his role to ensure that the Cathedral Arts Festival is authentically engaging with the community stakeholders that we have here in Regina, including the Indigenous community, the newcomer community, and the small businesses that are so important to our Cathedral neighbourhood, Mr. Speaker. And so I just want to thank him for that important work.

And I won’t keep you long, but you know, he’s also just a fantastic door knocker, Mr. Speaker. And another time, I will regale our story of being out at minus 30, minus 45, trying to get these two gentlemen elected. Of course we didn’t get to too, too many doors that day, but it was certainly a good time. And I’ve appreciated getting to know him, and sitting with my seatmate here, his daughter. And so, Mr. Speaker, with that, I would like to ask all members to join me in welcoming Don Young to his Legislative Assembly.

The Speaker: — I recognize the Minister of Parks, Culture and youth.

Hon. Ms. L. Ross: — Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. I ask leave for an extended introduction.

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

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

The Speaker: — Carried.

Hon. Ms. L. Ross: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. To you and through you, it is my pleasure to introduce three guests seated in the west gallery from the Saskatchewan Science Centre. Joining us today is Saskatchewan Science Centre CEO [chief executive officer] Sandy Baumgartner. Sandy, give us a wave. Sandy is an advocate for curiosity with more than 30 years of experience in the non-profit science-based education sector. We’re very lucky to have her at our Science Centre since 2008.

And joining Sandy are two board members: Dawn Pratt, a resident of Saskatoon and a member of the Muscowpetung Nation — Dawn has a master’s degree in science and is an expert on Indigenous STEM [science, technology, engineering, and math] education; give us a wave, Dawn — and Charles-Henri Warren, who represents our government on the board. Charles is executive director of the francophonie affairs with the Ministry of Parks, Culture and Sport, which includes the French-language service centre.

These guests are joining us to help celebrate Discovery Week in Saskatchewan and the 35th anniversary of the Saskatchewan Science Centre. The Saskatchewan Science Centre opened on April 25th, 1989 and has since inspired joy and learning across our province.

Mr. Speaker, I want to thank Sandy, Dawn, and Charles and the Science Centre staff and the board for the amazing job they do in creating curiosity in science, technology for people of all ages within our community. Thank you so much, Mr. Speaker.

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

Mr. Teed: — Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. Again to you and through you, I would like to join with the Minister of Parks, Culture and Sport as the opposition critic for Parks, Culture and Sport and welcome these very important guests to their Legislative Assembly.

I would like to welcome CEO Sandy Baumgartner, board members Dawn Pratt and Charles-Henri Warren. And I just want to thank you all so much for the work that you do at the Saskatchewan Science Centre.

As a Saskatoon-born lad, the Saskatchewan Science Centre is a somewhat new experience for me. I showed up just the other day for the eclipse, thinking that there might be some action happening there, and I was at the wrong location, confusing our . . . the museum. Or no, I think, sorry, I showed up at the RSM [Royal Saskatchewan Museum], not at the Science Centre which I was supposed to show up at, because I need to get my Regina locations under control.

But I just want to thank you all so much for the work that you do every day providing something that is so valuable to the Regina community. And congratulations as you celebrate Discovery Week and your 35th anniversary, opening in 1989. It is such an accomplishment and I just hope that you will have another 35 years of success forward.

So at this time I would ask all members to join me in welcoming these folks to their Legislative Assembly.

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

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

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

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

The Speaker: — Carried.

Hon. Mr. Morgan: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Seated in your gallery is Alan Hustak, who is a guest today of myself, the member from Indian Head-Milestone, and Last Mountain-Touchwood. Alan is currently the display curator at the Fort Qu’Appelle Heritage Museum, but he is also — and probably of more interest to the members here — a contributing editor for the Fort Qu’Appelle Times, which is one of the Grasslands News chain.

I first met Mr. Hustak when he was a newscaster at CFQC news in Saskatoon. We had both volunteered for plays being done in Castle Theatre. I would point out that at that time I was a volunteer and I was not old enough to drive, so it was some time ago. In 1967 he went to the Montreal Expo for the weekend and he stayed for some 50 years. During that time he wrote 17 books, including one on Peter Lougheed. He also knew John Diefenbaker. He wrote about Premier Ross Thatcher and a number of other things.

Seven or eight years ago he came back to Fort Qu’Appelle to deal with his mother’s estate, something which should ordinarily take a month or a few weeks. He’s been here for seven or eight years and is not done yet. Mr. Speaker, I want to welcome him back to Saskatchewan even though he’s been here for some years.

One of the reasons why I wanted to do the introduction is that he is now 80 years old, which makes him one of the very few citizens who is actually older than I am. Mr. Speaker, I would ask that all members of the Assembly welcome Alan Hustak to his Assembly.

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

Ms. Beck: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to join with the much older minister opposite and welcome Alan, who I can’t quite see there, to his Legislative Assembly.

One of the first interviews I believe that I gave after becoming the leader was with Alan, and I wasn’t sure quite what to expect. I was out in Southey and we went out back and he had the tape recorder there. He asked me some very difficult questions. I felt like I was being assessed up and down. And then when I found out that he’d written 17 books and had met with so many distinguished leaders from across the country, Mr. Speaker, I’m glad I didn’t know that going in. I would have been much more intimidated.

But Alan is someone who has — even with the absence from this province — a great love of the province, a great love of the communities that he serves, and he does so covering local events and politics with such flair and with such skill. We are indeed very lucky, although sad the circumstances to have drawn him back to our province, and I would like all members to join with me in welcoming Alan to his Legislative Assembly.

The Speaker: — I recognize the Minister of Agriculture.

Hon. Mr. Marit: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Sitting in the west gallery, I’d like to introduce Regina Kowalsky, Kristen Ferguson — I’m trying to keep everybody right here — and Renee Klein, and of course my chief of staff, James Cherewyk.

Renee has just joined our staff last week in the role of senior administrator. And next to her, Kristen will be leaving us next week as she has accepted a position outside of the building. And last but definitely not least, my current senior admin is Regina Kowalsky, who will be leaving us next week as she has decided to take on a new role called motherhood.

So I’d like everybody to please welcome my team to the building and wish them well in their new careers. Thank you.

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

Mr. Burki: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, to you and through you, I would welcome 41 students from Harvest City Christian Academy from Regina Coronation Park. They are sitting in the east gallery, incredible students. Mr. Speaker, this group of students are accompanied by their teachers, great teachers, Ms. Willow Yemba and Ms. Cook. Thank you very much for bringing this class to their Legislative Assembly.

Mr. Speaker, I have a special and a very great memory with this school. When I was doing my driver education training, I did a practicum at a very great school, Harvest City Christian Academy. It is one of the fastest growing, diverse schools in our constituency.

I will meet with these students after question period to take their hard and smart questions, and I will request all members in this Assembly to join me and give a warm welcome to our future faces to their Legislative Assembly. Thank you.

The Speaker: — I recognize the member from Yorkton.

Mr. Ottenbreit: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. You know, it’s always an honour to introduce guests to this Legislative Assembly, and some days are just a little bit more special.

Today in the west gallery I’d like to introduce to the Assembly, Pastor Kevin and Rachelle Sawatsky, good friends from Yorkton. We’ve been friends for over 10 years. In fact Rachelle’s actually worked in our Yorkton constituency office over 10 years as well. Again great friends, they run the DreamCentre in Yorkton. That’s a great outreach for young families there.

And it’s only fitting that they’d be here on administrators’ appreciation day, for all the work that Rachelle does in the office to keep me on the straight and level. But also she just convocated with her master’s in counselling, which also comes in handy dealing with me many days.

So I ask all members to welcome my good friends, my constituency assistant, Rachelle Sawatsky, and Kevin to their Legislative Assembly.

PRESENTING PETITIONS

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

Hon. Mr. T. McLeod: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I wish to present the following petition to the Legislative Assembly.

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 to not collect or remit the carbon tax on home heating in Saskatchewan has led to a drop in inflation; further, that despite the decision to not charge the carbon tax on home heating, Saskatchewan families continue to pay that tax out of pocket at the pumps, grocery stores, and more.

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.

The undersigned are residents of Martensville and Warman. I do so present.

[13:45]

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

Ms. Nippi-Albright: — Miigwech, Mr. Speaker. I’m pleased to present the following petition.

The folks who signed this petition wish to bring to your attention the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada Call to Action no. 47 has called on all levels of government including provincial governments to reform laws, policies, and strategies that rely on the outdated and backwards principle of European sovereignty over Indigenous peoples and lands; the Sask Party government has never addressed cumulative impacts, yet duty-to-consult must consider cumulative effects on the ability to practise inherent and treaty rights before approving projects in Saskatchewan; and that Saskatchewan needs legislation to ensure provincial duty-to-consult is fulfilled and is carried out with the honour of the Crown.

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

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

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

Mr. Burki: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise to present a petition to the Legislative Assembly to address the affordability crisis.

We, the undersigned residents of the province of Saskatchewan, wish to bring to your attention the following: that inflation is the highest it has been more in three decades; that according to Angus Reid, 84 per cent of Saskatchewan people are feeling stressed about money, highest such rate of inflation, financial insecurity in Canada; that half of Saskatchewan residents were living paycheque to paycheque before transportation and food costs skyrocketed in 2022; that the Sask Party government power, PST, and tax hikes makes life more expensive. While other provinces acted, the Sask Party continue to ignore the opposition’s calls for gas relief.

We, in the prayer that reads as follows, respectfully request the Legislative Assembly of Saskatchewan to call on the Government of Saskatchewan to meaningfully address the affordability crisis in Saskatchewan.

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

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

Mr. Clarke: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise today to present a petition calling on the Government of Saskatchewan to protect the Duncairn Reservoir Migratory Bird Sanctuary from expansion of irrigation.

The undersigned residents would like to bring to our attention the following: that water is a valuable resource to be used for the benefit of all people of the province; that the Swift Current Creek Basin has had a moratorium on new water allocation since 1981 due to supply constraints in the Southwest; that the Duncairn Reservoir was designated a migratory bird sanctuary in 1948, covered by the migratory bird conservation Act, protecting migratory birds, their nests, and the management of those areas; and that the Provincial Auditor has pointed out that the Water Security Agency has not taken sufficient steps to monitor and enforce licensed water uses; that the proposed expansion of irrigation would pose a significant threat to the fish and migratory birds.

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 protect the Duncairn Reservoir Migratory Bird Sanctuary from any proposed expansion of irrigation.

Mr. Speaker, the signatories today reside in Val Marie and Swift Current. I do so present.

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

Ms. Sarauer: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise today to present a petition calling for the government to improve labour laws in Saskatchewan. Those who’ve signed this petition wish to bring to our attention the following: that even after the October 1st increase to minimum wage, Saskatchewan’s minimum wage remains the lowest in the country.

Mr. Speaker, in addition, the official opposition has twice introduced paid sick leave legislation calling for a minimum of 10 paid sick days. And it’s well-known now that paid sick leave has been proven to save employers money while making workplaces healthier and safer for all workers. Mr. Speaker, it’s very sad to say that 71 per cent of workers in Canada have experienced workplace violence and/or harassment, and so 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.

Mr. Speaker, all these provisions can be found in our private member’s bill, Bill 613. We do hope the government passes that before the end of this session. Those who signed this petition come from Sturgis and Foam Lake. I do so present.

STATEMENTS BY MEMBERS

The Speaker: — I recognize the member from Athabasca.

Government Commits to Funding Additional RCMP Officers

Mr. Lemaigre: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The Minister of Finance has provided Assistant Commissioner Blackmore of the RCMP [Royal Canadian Mounted Police] with a letter outlining our commitment for additional funding for officers.

Recently at SUMA [Saskatchewan Urban Municipalities Association] convention, Assistant Commissioner Blackmore quoted, saying “The letter of commitment to funding is a game changer for us.”

Should RCMP “F” Division be able to provide more officers to Saskatchewan, our government will immediately fund them. The letter indicated 7.7 million has been set for 50 officers in the first year and is set to increase as officers begin working here in the province. However we will fund as many officers as Assistant Commissioner Blackmore can bring in.

This is in addition to the 228 million for the RCMP in the 2024‑25 budget, and we are providing $21.6 million for the RCMP’s First Nation policing program. Mr. Speaker, this will enhance community outreach and safety in the North and in our urban centres. Staff Sergeant Morgan Buckingham, the director of Prairie region of the National Police Federation said, “Our members will be properly resourced, which will translate to safer communities for Saskatchewan.”

On behalf of the Legislative Assembly, thank you to our dedicated RCMP officers who help keep our communities safe. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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

Royal Canadian Air Force Celebrates 100 Years of Service

Ms. Beck: — Mr. Speaker, 100 years ago this April the Royal Canadian Air Force was formed and in the 100 years since, the women and men of the RCAF [Royal Canadian Air Force] have served all Canadians with distinction. And this century of history is also Saskatchewan history. From the British Commonwealth air training plan in the Second World War through to the present day, Saskatchewan has played a central role in pilot training and in air force operations.

Earlier this year I had the great privilege to tour 15 Wing just south of Moose Jaw, where I had the opportunity to meet with the wing commander, Colonel Daniel Coutts, and the base chief, Chief Warrant Officer Rachel Fox. And I had the tremendous honour to sit in the cockpit of a Snowbirds jet with Regina native and then commanding officer of the Snowbirds, Lieutenant-Colonel Denis Bandet. Getting to meet the people who are working each and every day to train the next generation of pilots for Canada, seeing their simulators and the aircraft up close, well, Mr. Speaker, it was a special day to say the least.

And I ask all members to join me in marking the centennial of the Royal Canadian Air Force and thanking all air force members, veterans, and their families for the sacrifices they make each and every day for all Canadians. Thank you.

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

Saskatchewan Science Centre Hosts Discovery Week as Part of 35th Anniversary Celebration

Mr. Fiaz: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. April 22 to 28 is Discovery Week in Saskatchewan. This week offers the chance to ignite scientific curiosity and discovery in Saskatchewan in celebration of the 35th anniversary of Saskatchewan Science Centre. Our Science Centre is one of the largest family tourist attractions in the province, bolstering our economy in addition to offering year-round educational programming.

The centre is a non-profit educational facility that was created by a visionary group of women who was part of the Junior Service League in 1978. These women recognized the need for public awareness and understanding of science and technology, and their passion is kept alive by the Science Centre’s staff today.

To celebrate this anniversary and in recognition of Discovery Week, the Science Centre will be hosting events, activities, and programming from the archives. The public is encouraged to participate by visiting the Science Centre during its regular operating hours or at Adult Science Night on April 25th.

This government proudly provides 620,000 annually to support operation costs of the Saskatchewan Science Centre, and we are so thankful for the work they do in our province. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of our government, I wish the Science Centre a happy 35th anniversary. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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

Call for Increased Access to Fertility Care

Ms. A. Young: — Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. This week is Canadian fertility week, and during this time we raise awareness about the diverse paths to parenthood and advocate for equitable access to fertility treatments. With British Columbia now moving to cover up to one round of IVF [in vitro fertilization] treatments, Saskatchewan remains only one of two provinces with no support for those struggling.

Mr. Speaker, I want to make it known that one in six people will struggle with fertility, and that IVF treatments can be prohibitively expensive, with Fertility Matters indicating that a cycle can cost upwards of $20,000. Mr. Speaker, the cost of paying for these treatments damages the financial health of families, their ability to invest in their homes, communities, and retirement, which is to say nothing about the mental and emotional toll it takes on individuals.

For members of the 2SLGBTIA+ [two-spirit, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex, asexual plus] community and single individuals, fertility care may be the only means to recognize a dream of parenthood, and that increasing Saskatchewan’s fertility rate will increase our economic health and our outlook, and that provinces like Quebec, with comprehensive childcare and fertility care, see measurable economic positives.

So this week, Mr. Speaker, I reiterate my call on the government to support Saskatchewan families by providing fertility care. Since 2020 we’ve actively been presenting petitions and working with advocates to push for this critical support. Mr. Speaker, this week and all weeks, let’s continue our efforts to ensure that all Saskatchewan people have access to the fertility care that they need here at home.

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

SaskTel’s Rural Fibre Initiative Continues to Improve Connectivity

Mr. Buckingham: — It’s another great day in Saskatchewan, Mr. Speaker. Last week SaskTel announced phase 7 of their multi-year rural fibre initiative. SaskTel is investing another 80 million for phase 7 of this project. This will bring high-speed internet to Saskatchewan residents right across our province, serving most communities with over 300 residents.

Being connected to the internet with lightning-fast download and upload speeds is not just a luxury but important in our daily lives. This investment will help grow business right across our province. The possibilities are endless, Mr. Speaker, when you are connected to the outside world. This will expand access to leading-edge broadband technology and is critical in preparing Saskatchewan for its future.

Mr. Speaker, phase 7 will bring high-speed fibre internet to an additional 61 communities. From Waskesiu to Whitewood and Good Spirit to Glaslyn, this network will criss-cross Saskatchewan, connecting us like never before. Mr. Speaker, when complete SaskTel will have invested over 1 billion to bring high-speed internet to 85 per cent of Saskatchewan residents via the rural broadband initiative.

Mr. Speaker, bringing high-speed internet to 85 per cent of Saskatchewan is an important milestone and a great investment into our future. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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

Kelliher School Hosts Agriculture Day for Students

Mr. Keisig: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Yesterday Kelliher School organized Agriculture Day with the help of grade 11/12 teacher, Mrs. Bailie Shindle. Students from Lipton School were also invited to attend and take part in this exciting learning opportunity.

Special guests, including the Minister of Agriculture, attended the event. Students explored over 30 agriculture-related stations hosted by producers and organizations that presented information about their contributions to the agriculture industry in Saskatchewan.

Generous community members and businesses attended, including Canada Malting, ProSoils, Richardson Pioneer, Eskdale Seeds, Tee Two Land & Cattle Co., and many, many more. Thanks to Dairy Queen and Valley Bake Shop for providing breakfast, snack, and lunch.

Mr. Speaker, I’d like to talk about Mrs. Bailie Shindle. Bailie was raised in Lloydminster and considered herself a city girl until she met a remarkable farmer who grew up near Dysart. Despite having little knowledge about Saskatchewan agriculture at the time, Bailie fully embraced farm life and educated herself about agriculture. Now not only has she started teaching agriculture in a classroom, but she also took on the challenge of organizing Ag Day, and what a phenomenal job she did.

Thank you to Principal Miranda Wenc and all the staff at Kelliher and Lipton schools. Thank them for the fantastic work they did on that day and each and every day. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

The Speaker: — I recognize the member from Lloydminster.

Opposition Relationship with Federal Parties

Ms. C. Young: — Mr. Speaker, the NDP likes to quote from Angus Reid polls. Well, guess what? There’s a new Angus Reid poll out just this morning. It says Justin Trudeau is at 78 per cent disapproval in Saskatchewan. And Jagmeet Singh is at 70 per cent disapproval. So what did the NDP leader do last week? She flew to Ottawa to attend the Trudeau-Singh campaign school.

[14:00]

Mr. Speaker, it just proves the NDP is not on Saskatchewan’s side. But they are on the side of the Trudeau carbon tax. They are on the side of high inflation. They are on the side of shutting down our resource sector and killing thousands of jobs in Saskatchewan, and they are on the side of Trudeau and Singh. It’s no wonder the NDP are Trudeau’s choice for Saskatchewan.

Mr. Speaker, the NDP can be on Trudeau and Singh’s side if they want, but the Saskatchewan Party will always be on Saskatchewan’s side.

QUESTION PERIOD

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

Cost of Living and Affordability Measures

Ms. Beck: — Mr. Speaker, this tired and out-of-touch government has lost the plot, Mr. Speaker. They’re more focused on photoshopped photos of meetings that didn’t happen than they are on actually taking care of the things that matter to people. Things, Mr. Speaker, like health care and education and the cost of living.

Now the Premier has the power to offer families relief today if you want it, Mr. Speaker. The question is, why is he choosing not to? Why won’t he give Saskatchewan families a break at the pump?

The Speaker: — I recognize the Premier.

Hon. Mr. Moe: — Mr. Speaker, as I’ve said many times on the floor of this Assembly, there’s $2 billion in each and every budget, and those remained in this budget that was introduced a couple of weeks ago by this Deputy Premier, our Deputy Premier, the Minister of Finance, Mr. Speaker.

Included in those affordability measures are measures that have increased the number at the level of income at where we pay income tax in Saskatchewan — over $20,000 higher than in Manitoba — removing 112,000 people from the tax rolls, many of them low-income people, Mr. Speaker. And I would say that that matters in the affordability matrix of people in this province, Mr. Speaker.

Certainly what we won’t do, Mr. Speaker, and what we won’t do is support the Trudeau government like the NDP do on the number of policies that they have brought forward that are increasing the inflationary pressures for not only Saskatchewan but Canadian families, Mr. Speaker. We will not attend a Trudeau campaign school to ensure that Mr. Trudeau can stay in power to enact more of those policies that are quite frankly hurting Saskatchewan and Canadian families, Mr. Speaker.

And so it is only due to the strength of a strong and growing and prosperous economy that we are able to keep those affordability measures in place here in Saskatchewan, Mr. Speaker. I’m happy to say with some news releases today that the strength of that economy is really showing through comparatively to other areas of the nation.

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

Health Care Staffing and Provision of Pediatric Care

Ms. Beck: — Mr. Speaker, the Premier’s desperation continues to show. And no wonder, because this tired and out-of-touch government is failing to deliver on the cost of living, Mr. Speaker, and they’re also failing to deliver when it comes to health care.

Now today, Mr. Speaker, we’re joined by the Weber family. Zach is 15 years old and he has a chronic immune condition in his esophagus that causes inflammation and constriction in his throat. And like many kids in this province, he needs to travel out of province to get the treatment that he needs from a pediatric gastroenterologist, or a pediatric GI. Again, Mr. Speaker, this family has to fly to Toronto to get the care that should be available here in Saskatchewan.

What does the Premier have to say to this family about the ongoing shortage of pediatric GIs in our province?

The Speaker: — I recognize the Premier.

Hon. Mr. Moe: — Mr. Speaker, I would welcome the Weber family, Zach and his family, to their Legislative Assembly, Mr. Speaker. And I’m certain that the Minister of Health would be happy to sit down with them and discuss their specific situation, Mr. Speaker. And if there is anything, links that he can make within the Saskatchewan Health Authority to help out that situation, I know that he’d be more than willing to create those avenues, Mr. Speaker.

We have a long-standing, Saskatchewan has long-standing agreements with many other provinces for services that may not be available on a temporary or permanent basis here in the province, that we have agreements with other provinces where we will compensate those provinces for the services, Mr. Speaker.

What we have done over the last number of years is expand those number of services. In particular, pediatric services are offered at the Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital, Mr. Speaker, which is a good environment to attract physicians into with their association with the College of Medicine, Mr. Speaker, and the research opportunities that are there.

However when it comes to pediatric GIs, Mr. Speaker, the Saskatchewan Health Authority through the HHR plan, the health human resources plan that we have, is working very hard to recruit three pediatric GIs into the province, Mr. Speaker. My understanding is they have two that are very close to finalizing some contracts, Mr. Speaker. And it would be our hope that they would be offering services within the province, Mr. Speaker, sooner rather than later.

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

Ms. Beck: — Saskatchewan people, Saskatchewan children should be able to get health care in Saskatchewan, Mr. Speaker. It’s as simple as that. And this Premier’s failure to hire and keep health care workers in our province is driving more people away. The last pediatric GI closed their practice in 2023, leaving families like Zach’s without access to care. And again they’re now forced to fly to Toronto to access care that should be available here at home.

Is it okay with the Premier in any way that this family is forced to spend thousands of dollars to fly out of province when we have a children’s hospital in Saskatoon that isn’t being fully staffed?

The Speaker: — I recognize the Premier.

Hon. Mr. Moe: — Mr. Speaker, no. Most certainly that’s why we’ve invested and invested heavily in a health human resources plan here, Mr. Speaker, that is bringing physicians, nurses, medical professionals to communities right across this province. And yes, is active in recruiting specialists, not only to the Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital, Mr. Speaker, but to other major urban centres as well, Mr. Speaker.

I failed to mention in my first comments that in addition to the Saskatchewan Health Authority being very close to finalizing two of these contracts and working hard to find and recruit a third pediatric GI to the province so that we can offer those services in Saskatchewan, what they have done in the meantime, Mr. Speaker, the interim time, is they’ve secured a rotation locum pediatric GI, a specialist that is on a rotational basis tending to a number of cases here in Saskatchewan.

I know the Minister of Health can have more detailed information on this in a subsequent meeting with Zach and his family, Mr. Speaker. But most certainly it is the intent of this government — and it’s why we’re making the investments — to ensure that we have pediatric GIs to offer those services to families like Zach’s, Mr. Speaker, for years into the future.

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

Ms. Beck: — Mr. Speaker, I’m not sure the Premier understands the timeline here. Since that human resources plan has been in place, we’ve lost two pediatric GIs and have none in the province right now. But this isn’t just a health care issue, Mr. Speaker, it’s also a cost-of-living issue. Zach’s family has applied to Telemiracle and to Hope Air to cover some of the costs. And they’re thankful for that support, but they’re left paying out of pocket, Mr. Speaker, for the rest.

Now the Premier likes to talk about how affordable life is here in Saskatchewan under the Sask Party. What does the Premier have to say to Zach’s family who are paying thousands to access health care in Toronto that should be available here in Saskatchewan?

The Speaker: — I recognize the Minister of Health.

Hon. Mr. Hindley: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. And welcome Zach and his family to their Legislative Assembly here this afternoon. I have a received an email from Zach and his mom and dad, Alyssa and Marc, and I have read through that to better understand his circumstances and their circumstances. And I’d be very pleased to meet with the family here after the proceedings today to talk further about Zach’s case, Mr. Speaker.

As the Premier mentioned, this is a priority for us as a government. We are working very hard through the SHA [Saskatchewan Health Authority], through the new health recruitment agency as well, using every avenue we have to try to secure a pediatric gastroenterologist here for our province.

This is a subspecialty that is in great demand, not just here in Saskatchewan but across Canada. And I have asked our teams to make sure that we put our absolutely best foot forward when it comes to making sure that we have salaries and benefits and incentives to attract those specialists here that we need and to make sure that we have a fully staffed pediatric gastroenterology program at the Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital as soon as possible, Mr. Speaker.

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

Mr. Clarke: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The Webers leave for Toronto — their second trip there — on May 7th, and they don’t know what to expect when they get there. All that they know is that Zachary is going to eventually need surgery. It could be this visit, or they could be sent home and told to make a third trip to Toronto.

They’ve exhausted Telemiracle, Hope Air, and frankly a family shouldn’t have to crowdsource so that their sick kid can get health care. Will the minister work with the Webers and ensure that Zachary gets the health care he needs?

The Speaker: — I recognize the Minister of Health.

Hon. Mr. Hindley: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. And I will sit down and meet with the family after the proceedings here today to talk about their journey so far when it comes to Zach’s medical care and the care that he requires for his quality of life, Mr. Speaker.

We’ll have a look at everything that’s been covered thus far, either through provincial government programs and services, and additional options here as well through charities and other organizations.

Mr. Speaker, I would again just reiterate how important it is for us — and I have had the opportunity to meet with other families as well across this province who have raised concerns — and know how important it is that we do have a fully staffed children’s pediatric gastroenterology care unit at the Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital, Mr. Speaker. And I am confident through our teams that we will hire those, fill those vacancies as quickly as possible so that children can get the care they need as close to home as possible.

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

Mr. Clarke: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. You know, the Webers are travelling two provinces over for health care that they should be able to get here at home. They live in Saskatoon, home to our province’s own children’s hospital, but due to this government’s failure in recruiting and retaining pediatric specialists, our own children’s hospital can’t see our sick kids.

Last time that we brought this up, Mr. Speaker, on April 10th the Health minister said that they had doctors interested. Two days later they reposted two pediatric GI positions on saskdocs.

Question to the minister: how many kids are being sent out of province due to this minister’s inability to recruit and retain pediatric specialists?

The Speaker: — I recognize the Minister of Health.

Hon. Mr. Hindley: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My understanding when it comes to pediatric gastroenterology is that the SHA is currently negotiating on a couple of contracts for a pediatric gastroenterologist. And as soon as those contracts are finalized, we’ll make sure that the public is aware of that, and we’ll communicate that publicly.

Secondly, Mr. Speaker, we are working to fill vacancies across this province. And that includes in pediatrics, and not just specifically at the children’s hospital, but there are some other vacancies that are temporary right now in other parts of the province. Mr. Speaker, the last time I checked, there were 14 pediatrician vacancies. That’s pediatricians across the province, Mr. Speaker, including 4.5 vacant positions at the children’s hospital. However I would say that 6 of the 14 positions are in the act of hiring, and the process right now, Mr. Speaker, we hope to have those filled as quickly as possible.

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

Mr. Clarke: — Mr. Speaker, with so many vacancies at our children’s hospital, it makes you wonder how many more kids are being sent out of province for care that they should be able to be getting here at home. How many more families like the Webers, like the Sorons, are forced to pay out of pocket to ensure their kids are safe and healthy? And what happens when those out-of-province hospitals can’t accept any more of our kids?

Zachary was originally referred to Calgary and Montreal. But just like our own children’s hospital, those hospitals weren’t accepting Saskatchewan’s sick kids either. What is the minister going to do when Toronto can no longer take our sick kids?

The Speaker: — I recognize the Minister of Health.

Hon. Mr. Hindley: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. And that does speak to the challenge that is seen nationally right now when it comes to recruiting and training and hiring pediatric specialists of a variety of areas of subspecialties, not just in Saskatchewan but of course in other provinces as well, Mr. Speaker.

As I said previously, the SHA is, my understanding, is very close to and is in the process right now of finalizing contracts with two pediatric gastroenterologists, Mr. Speaker. I would say this is a significant priority for me as the minister, for us as a government.

I have had the opportunity last month to meet with the new head of pediatrics for Saskatchewan, Dr. Terry Klassen, and I will be meeting with him on a regular basis. I have a meeting set up with him next week. This is one of the items that I have brought to his attention. He has expertise being involved with the children’s health program in Manitoba. He also has experience at the Stollery hospital in Edmonton. And I’m confident, through Dr. Klassen and his team at pediatrics, that they are going to do everything they can to fill the vacancies we have, Mr. Speaker.

[14:15]

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

Contract for Tire Recycling

Ms. Conway: — Mr. Speaker, this government is absolutely failing the people of Saskatchewan on health care. And they’re doing no better when it comes to transparency and accountability. Yesterday when we asked about this government’s decisions that led to a lucrative tire contract going to an American company, no one from that government wanted to touch the question. Barely a peep from the Premier, and no one made available to the media for questions out in the rotunda after.

And I can understand why, Mr. Speaker. The California-based company that got the tire recycling contract hired former Finance minister, Kevin Doherty, as their lobbyist and ended up with the contract. Did the Minister of Environment ever meet with Mr. Doherty on this contract? Yes or no.

The Speaker: — I recognize the Minister of the Environment.

Hon. Ms. Tell: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The answer is no.

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

Ms. Conway: — Well, Mr. Speaker, I don’t get to say this very often: I thank the member opposite for the answer.

Mr. Speaker, the Sask Party wants to push this all onto the tire stewardship agency, the TSS [Tire Stewardship of Saskatchewan], but it’s the Sask Party government that’s responsible. The regulations are clear. It’s that minister who’s responsible for the recycling program in the province. She should be able to answer questions about the changes made to this government, to the rules that led to the contract going to this Newport Beach, California-based company, which led to a net loss of Saskatchewan jobs.

How did we end up with a contract that sends value-added manufacturing out of Saskatchewan to other places? Because the TSS report laying out the business case for this is fully redacted, Mr. Speaker.

The Speaker: — I recognize the Minister of the Environment.

Hon. Ms. Tell: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Tire Stewardship of Saskatchewan is an industry, retail-led, independent board. Both northern and southern recycling tire, recycling operations were chosen through an RFP [request for proposal], Mr. Speaker. The southern processor was chosen through a legitimate, bona fide process.

What the member is actually talking about, Mr. Speaker, they’re belittling the fact that this CRM [Crumb Rubber Manufacturers] was chosen over a few other proponents that responded to the RFP. CRM has an outstanding reputation within the industry, Mr. Speaker, and we appreciate the economic . . . Over $10 million of investment by this particular company and employment of dozens — dozens, if not 15 or 20 — employment benefits that they bring to the community of Moose Jaw, Mr. Speaker. CRM was chosen through a process that is . . .

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

Ms. Conway: — The minister was answering a question I didn’t ask. She has 100 per cent contradicted what the Premier answered yesterday on who applied for that RFP. It sounds like there wasn’t one applicant. It sounds like there was more than one.

Mr. Speaker, people deserve answers about how this deal went down, and my question was about the business case for breaking this up between a southern and northern region. We haven’t heard anything about that, especially when they see a former Sask Party Finance minister registered to lobby for the California-based company that got the contract. The lobbyist registry shows that Kevin Doherty started lobbying for that company back in 2022, right at the same time that this out-of-country company got the contract.

Why did the Sask Party make the changes that led to that decision? And what role did Mr. Doherty play in pulling the strings?

The Speaker: — I recognize the Minister of Environment.

Hon. Ms. Tell: — Mr. Speaker, those members opposite and their crackerjack researchers over there. Tire stewardship 2022 annual report, it’s all hidden in an annual report: “TSS Board of Directors approved a motion to proceed with negotiating a contract with CRM as the southern processor for the province on June 6th, 2022.” Now . . . [inaudible interjection] . . . I’m actually not talking to you. Mr. Doherty was not hired by CRM until November 2022.

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

Ms. Conway: — Wow, Mr. Speaker. There are so many unanswered questions about this deal.

Why did the province choose an out-of-country company at a time when a Saskatchewan-based recycler operating here in Saskatchewan existed? What role did Kevin Doherty have in bringing about the changes that led to this deal? And why is the minister pretending she has no control over the file when the law is clear who’s responsible?

When, Mr. Speaker, will the minister shed some light on how yet another contract ended up going to an out-of-province, private company with a well-connected former Finance minister for a lobbyist? Why, what, when? Will the minister answer today?

The Speaker: — I recognize the Minister of Environment.

Hon. Ms. Tell: — Mr. Speaker, Mr. Speaker, the member opposite just has it completely wrong. There are two RFP processes — one for southern, one for northern. The southern one is what you are talking about right now. It went through an RFP process. The proponent who responded to that RFP was chosen through Tire Stewardship of Saskatchewan.

The Government of Saskatchewan had no involvement in that particular . . . in choosing the proponent. Obviously the economics made sense, the investment that was provided to the city of Moose Jaw and surrounding area and the jobs in southern Saskatchewan, Mr. Speaker. The process, you say one minute, go to RFP; don’t use the RFP and that there’s something wrong with it. We’ve had enough of you.

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

Ms. Conway: — Mr. Speaker, what was the business case that led to the decision to post those two RFPs? What was the business case? The minister is responsible. What was the business case? Because the report is fully redacted.

The Speaker: — I recognize the Minister of Environment.

Hon. Ms. Tell: — Mr. Speaker, the decisions made by the Tire Stewardship of Saskatchewan are exactly that, Mr. Speaker. They are the ones that decided how to split, how to divide up the province, that it was obviously something that that industry-led board decided to do, Mr. Speaker.

And I don’t know what the member is getting at, but Mr. Doherty was not hired by CRM until November ’22 — six, a couple of months later. Couple of months earlier, that’s when they were awarded the contract, Mr. Speaker. It’s absolutely ridiculous what’s going on over there.

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

Minister of Education and Support for the Education Sector

Mr. Teed: — Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. People in Saskatoon have a lot of unanswered questions about that shady tire deal. But everybody I talk to knows that this Education minister has got to go. This minister has sown chaos in our classrooms and has overseen more cuts to per student funding and the longest teacher job action in Saskatchewan history. It’s time for this minister to resign. Why won’t he do that today?

The Speaker: — I recognize the Minister of Education.

Hon. Mr. Cockrill: — You know, Mr. Speaker, as I said yesterday, when the NDP don’t actually have real criticisms of the policy or decisions, they get personal, Mr. Speaker.

Now, Mr. Speaker, if you look at the record of the NDP while they were in government, in terms of their investments in education versus the record of this government, when it comes to investing in pre-K to 12 [pre-kindergarten to grade 12] education, Mr. Speaker, it’s two totally different stories, Mr. Speaker. We have an NDP that closed 176 schools, Mr. Speaker. Meanwhile, on this side of the House, we have a government that has invested in over 100 major capital projects all around the province, Mr. Speaker.

Mr. Speaker, they fired 400 teachers during their time in government, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, just in the last five years, Mr. Speaker, we have hired over 850 EAs [educational assistant]. We hired more support staff; we hired more teachers every year, Mr. Speaker. This is a government that invests in education, takes it seriously, Mr. Speaker, compared to the members opposite.

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

Overdose Deaths and Treatment for Addictions

Ms. Nippi-Albright: — Miigwech, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, the overdose crisis continues to take lives in our province. We set a record for overdoses last year, and we’re on track to set another grim record this year. The vast majority of these deaths are Indigenous peoples, even though we are only 17 per cent of the population in this province.

We need more access to supports that incorporate Indigenous ceremonies and Indigenous world views to keep people alive. When will we see a plan from this government to offer those supports and expand them, like the supports at Poundmaker’s Lodge?

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

Hon. Mr. T. McLeod: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. As I’ve said many times in the House, the mental health and addiction action plan that we unveiled last October, one of the key pillars of the plan is to expand capacity by more than 500 treatment spaces across the province, Mr. Speaker, including in-patient treatment, including out-patient treatment. We have detox spaces. We’re going to have transitional or supportive living spaces, Mr. Speaker.

Five hundred additional spaces added to the province, to every corner of the province to address the needs of individuals who are battling addiction across the full continuum of care. Mr. Speaker, those spaces, some of which have already been announced at Poundmaker’s Lodge in North Battleford, offering an Indigenous perspective from addictions treatment, Mr. Speaker.

We are now making it easier for individuals to access those spaces and we are wrapping supports around individuals, meeting them where they’re at, Mr. Speaker, with a recovery-oriented system of care focused on treatment and recovery so that we can save lives, heal families, and strengthen communities. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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 that it has considered certain estimates and to present its seventh report, which includes the 2024‑25 estimates and the 2023‑2024 supplementary estimates no. 2. I move:

That the seventh report of the Standing Committee on Human Services be now concurred in.

The Speaker: — It has been moved by the Chair:

That the seventh report of the Standing Committee on Human Services be now concurred in.

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.

ORDERS OF THE DAY

GOVERNMENT ORDERS

ADJOURNED DEBATES

SECOND READINGS

Bill No. 158

[The Assembly resumed the adjourned debate on the proposed motion by the Hon. Mr. J. Harrison that Bill No. 158 — The Saskatchewan Commercial Innovation Incentive (Patent Box) Amendment Act, 2024 be now read a second time.]

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

Ms. A. Young: — Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. Having paid close attention to the debate thus far on Bill No. 158, The Saskatchewan Commercial Innovation Incentive (Patent Box) Amendment Act, 2024, at this stage I’m prepared to allow it to move forward onto its next stages.

The Speaker: — The question before the Assembly is a motion by the minister that Bill No. 158 be now read a second time. Is it the pleasure of the Assembly to adopt the motion?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

The Speaker: — Carried.

Deputy Clerk: — Second reading of this bill.

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

Hon. Ms. Carr: — I designate this bill be committed to the Standing Committee on Economy.

The Speaker: — This bill stands committed to the Standing Committee on the Economy.

Bill No. 160

[The Assembly resumed the adjourned debate on the proposed motion by the Hon. Mr. J. Harrison that Bill No. 160 — The Immigration Services Act 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 speak to Bill 160, The Immigration Services Act. I understand that this is an Act that increases investigative powers and fines that can be issued against bad-acting recruiters, bad-actor employers. It’s a bill to protect newcomers, temporary foreign workers. In general I would say that, you know, we’re looking forward to asking some questions about this bill at committee, but I would say that a number of the mechanisms that exist under this Act are welcome to the opposition.

[14:30]

We do have some questions around what kinds of data is driving these changes. Is the Sask Party government hearing that there are more abuses? Are they tracking those in any way? Are they going to be transparent about what they’re hearing out there in terms of the issues that are arising? Because we know that these specific workers face unique vulnerabilities and unique abuses.

So we are looking forward to delving a bit more into this bill and the reasons that the Sask Party government has felt that they need to strengthen some of the mechanisms under that bill. I think those are very important issues and a conversation we need to be having. We also have questions about why this Act was moved from, for example, the Minister of Labour, from the Ministry of Labour to Immigration, and why some of these changes weren’t introduced on other existing pieces of legislation.

So I know that the critic, the member for Coronation Park, is going to be delving into this a bit deeper at committee, and I have full faith in him. So with that I’d be pleased to move that this . . . allow the bill to move to its next stage. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

The Speaker: — The question before the Assembly is a motion by the minister that Bill No. 160 be now read a second time. Is it the pleasure of the Assembly to adopt the motion?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

The Speaker: — Carried.

Deputy Clerk: — Second reading of this bill.

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

Hon. Ms. Carr: — I designate this bill be committed to the Standing Committee on the Economy.

The Speaker: — This bill stands committed to the Standing Committee on the Economy. I recognize the Government Deputy House Leader.

Hon. Ms. Carr: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I move that this House do now adjourn.

The Speaker: — The Government Deputy 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: — Carried. This House now stands adjourned till 10 a.m. tomorrow.

[The Assembly adjourned at 14:33.]

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.