Hon. Mr. Moe: — Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. And thank you to my colleagues for granting leave. I have a couple of introductions here, a number of people actually that I would ask through you and to the members of this Assembly to introduce here today. Seated in our Speaker’s gallery are a number of ovarian cancer survivors and family members, Mr. Speaker. There’s going to be more information that will be provided in a member’s statement very shortly.

Saskatchewan Ovarian Cancer Survivors, or SOCS, is a support group founded by 26‑year ovarian cancer survivor Anne Chase. It was founded nearly 20 years, nearly 20 years ago, Mr. Speaker. And many in this Assembly, many former Health ministers will know Anne and know her very well with her advocacy on behalf of ovarian cancer survivors, but I think on behalf of research in the area and space of ovarian cancer.

The Saskatchewan Ovarian Cancer Survivors support group, they support women and families as they battle through what is a very trying time when ovarian cancer is diagnosed. And it is the most fatal of all gynecological cancers, Mr. Speaker. The group meets monthly. They fundraise for critical research and work with Ovarian Cancer Canada. They host events and seminars to advocate for also additional government funding, Mr. Speaker, which this government does participate in significant research funding in the space of ovarian cancer.

So through you, Mr. Speaker, to all members of the Assembly, I introduce — and wave when I call your name, please — Kathy Szarkowicz; Debbie Clark, who is also a board member with Ovarian Cancer Canada. We have Brenda Smith. We have Brenda Tunstead. We have Gwen Cowie. We have Heather Stirling; Shirley Muhr. We have Cindy Rottenbucher. We have Bridget Keeler. We have Maureen Baker, Priyanka Sharma, and Caroline and Lauren Tuer; and Lara Horak. And with Ovarian Cancer Canada, the national program director, Stephanie Gosselin, has joined us as well. So I would ask all members to join me in welcoming these members to their Legislative Assembly.

Mr. Speaker, I have two other individuals that I will just make mention of. One maybe a little bit more because I think they’re going to be made mention of by their grandma very shortly. But, Mr. Speaker, Makenna and Emryk Harpauer-Matechuk have joined us here today. Their grandmother is the Finance minister, Mr. Speaker.

Makenna is quite the athlete. I get the photos of some of the sports that she is playing and doing quite good at, I understand. And Emryk is a 10‑year-old. He’s in grade 5. Both are . . . When we see them here in the legislature it’s usually on budget day, Mr. Speaker, when they are here to observe grandma do the budget — or as we refer to her, the Deputy Premier — deliver her budget on the floor of the Assembly.

And Emryk and I, we work pretty hard together. First of all, Emryk is a math wizard. He understands numbers very much like our Deputy Premier does, Mr. Speaker. But the budget speeches can get a little long and sometimes Emryk can get a little slouchy in his chair and maybe even get close to dozing off every now and again. And it’s my job to keep eye contact with Emryk and make sure that he’s paying attention to the very important speeches going on.

And so, Mr. Speaker, through you to all members of this Legislative Assembly, I would like to just make mention of Makenna and Emryk Harpauer-Matechuk that have joined us here today. I think there’ll be a couple more comments in another introduction in a couple of minutes.

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

Ms. Mowat: — Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. I’d like to join in with the Premier in welcoming these guests from ovarian cancer survivors and patients, and Anne Chase, and thank them for their leadership, for their advocacy not just on behalf of themselves but on behalf of other families across the province who are struggling. We know that research is so critical in this area, and support can be something that is make or break for families. So I want to thank them for the work that they are doing in our communities and welcome them to their legislature today.

The Speaker: — I recognize the Minister of Finance.

Hon. Ms. Harpauer: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. It is my pleasure today to welcome someone who accompanied my favourite grandson who’s in the Assembly, Emryk, and his sister Makenna. They brought their mom with them — my daughter, Shannon Harpauer — and their aunt, Lindsay Root, and the newest member to our family, little baby Joy. Would all members help me welcome them to their Assembly.

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

Mr. Clarke: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. To you and through you I’d like to introduce Greg East in the Speaker’s gallery here. Greg is from Creighton. He has lived in northern Saskatchewan for the last 51 years and he chairs the North East Saskatchewan Cottage Association, which represents over 1,000 lease holders in the North. He’s here to talk today to the government, hopefully, about concerns over Crown land leases. And he’s looking for fairness from this government. I’d ask all members to welcome Greg to his 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: — Mr. Speaker, I have the honour of introducing a delegation of eight international diplomats joining us today from Jordan, Switzerland, Ghana, Kenya, Tanzania, Guatemala, and Türkiye.

It is my pleasure to welcome Her Excellency Sabah Al Rafie, ambassador of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan to Canada; Thomas Schneider, consul general of Switzerland in Vancouver; Simon Atieku, the Minister of Political, Economic and Diaspora Affairs of the High Commission of Ghana to Canada; Confidence Eyram Sokro, minister counsellor at the High Commission for the Republic of Ghana to Canada; Stella Musembi, minister counsellor at the Kenya High Commission in Ottawa; Charles Faini, chargé d’affairs in the High Commission for the United Republic of Tanzania in Canada; Marcia Méndez, Trade, Investment and Tourism counsellor in the embassy of Guatemala in Canada; Omer Al-Katib, honorary consul general of the Republic of Türkiye.

These distinguished guests have joined us in Regina this week to attend the Food, Fuel, Fertilizer Global Summit hosted by the Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce, as well as an economic mission. The food, fuel, and fertilizer summit was the perfect event to showcase Saskatchewan’s innovation and our role as a sustainable supplier of food, fuel, fertilizer, and critical minerals as the world needs.

On their economic mission the delegation will meet with elected officials, business leaders, academic and research institutions, and participate in tours throughout the province to see Wanuskewin Heritage Park, the synchrotron, and Saskatchewan Research Council’s rare earth processing facility among their many stops. International delegations like theirs are a result of Saskatchewan’s international engagement efforts, which are driving economic and academic opportunities in the province.

I’d like to share my appreciation to the delegation for being here today. I’d like to apologize for the names that I might have mispronounced. I hope they enjoy the rest of their time in Saskatchewan and would ask all members of the Assembly to join me in welcoming them today.

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

Ms. A. Young: — Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. To you and through you, on behalf of the official opposition I would like to join the member opposite, secretary to the Premier, in welcoming this international delegation here to this legislature. Thank you so much for your presence here in Saskatchewan, your interest in our economy and in the political happenings here in the legislature today.

I really want to share our appreciation of you and to you for joining us and seeing this beautiful showcase of our province, hopefully experiencing the warmth of our people and just how stunning Saskatchewan is in spring and the innovation that we have here in Saskatchewan. Thank you for your presence. You are very welcome to this province.

So on behalf of the official opposition I’d ask all members to join us once more in welcoming this absolutely remarkable international delegation here today.

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

Hon. Ms. L. Ross: — Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. I request 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. Ms. L. Ross: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. To you and through you, it is my pleasure to introduce some extraordinary guests seated in the west gallery. Joining us we have players from Regina Rebels U18 [under 18] hockey team who recently took home gold at the 2024 Esso Cup. Give us a wave. On April 27th in Vernon, BC [British Columbia] the Regina Rebels beat Ontario’s North York Storm 2 to 1 — good job, girls — in the gold medal game making them national champions. After winning the bronze medal last year in Prince Albert, the team made it back to the Esso Cup but this year they finished gold.

Mr. Speaker, the Regina Rebels are amazing ambassadors for our province and role models for an increasing number of young girls picking hockey as their sport. They showcase the talent and sportsmanship that Saskatchewan is well known for.

Alongside the Rebel players I’d like to welcome some important guests: Regina Rebels manager, Stacey Gottselig; head coach, Kim Perepeluk; assistant coach, Kelsey Graham. To all who contributed to the success of the Rebels at the Esso Cup, from coaches to staff, representatives, players, your hard work certainly paid off. Mr. Speaker, please join me in congratulating these incredible ambassadors for the province of Saskatchewan. Thank you very much, girls.

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

Mr. Wotherspoon: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. It’s a pleasure to join with the minister opposite to welcome these champions to their Assembly. This Regina Rebels U18 AAA team was dominant throughout their season. They’re an incredible group of hockey players, an incredible team, Mr. Speaker. And seeing them go on to success and earning that national title at the Esso Cup in Vernon, BC was nothing short of inspiring for us all and makes this whole province so very proud.

I want to give just a couple shout-outs there. And I don’t know if she’s here today but MVP [most valuable player] Stryker Zablocki . . . Not here today. I think she’s from Prince Albert, right, so she’s probably working hard here today. And Berlin Lolacher, who was the top forward of the tournament. I think 11 points from Berlin along with Stryker. And of course goaltender Hannah Tresek — is Hannah here today? — only let one in in the final, Mr. Speaker.

This is an impressive team. I want to thank and recognize Kim Perepeluk as well, head coach, for his leadership to this squad here, this team. I want to welcome the manager, Stacey Gottselig, as well as Kelsey Graham, assistant coach that’s here today. And I want to wish assistant coach Kai Leggett all the best as they take the reins next year as the head coach of this powerhouse in the country, Mr. Speaker.

I ask all members to join with me in welcoming the Regina Rebels U18 AAA national champions to their Assembly.

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

[13:45]

Hon. Mr. Duncan: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, it’s my honour as Minister Responsible for the Public Service Commission to welcome 21 public servants who are seated behind me in the east gallery. They are here as a part of the public service parliamentary program where they have an opportunity to tour the building, meet with various officials, including yourself, as well as a member from the opposition. And I’ll be meeting with them after question period ends. They’ll have the opportunity to take . . . watch, not take part in, but watch the proceedings this afternoon.

And they are from the following ministries: Energy and Resources, Environment, Finance, Immigration and Career Training, Health, the Public Service Commission, the Public Safety Agency, SaskBuilds and Procurement, Social Services, the Speaker’s office, as well as the Legislative Assembly Service.

So, Mr. Speaker, I would ask that all members join with me in not only welcoming them to their Legislative Assembly but thanking them for the work that they do each and every day in supporting the people of this province and providing services to them. And so I’d ask all members to join with me in welcoming them.

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

Mr. Teed: — Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. To you and through you, it is an honour to join with the minister opposite in welcoming these 21 public servants to their Legislative Assembly through the parliamentary program for public service.

I will be filling in for my colleague today, so I’m hoping to get some really good questions. I think it’s the educator in me that truly enjoys when we can help engage the public and you hard-working civil servants who work so hard for the people of Saskatchewan. It’s exciting to me to help you engage with this, what sometimes can be quite an esoteric system that we have here. So I’m looking forward to all the questions later on today. And I hope that you enjoy the tour, and I hope that you enjoy your time here in the Chamber. And so I’d ask all members to join me in welcoming these 21 public servants to their Legislative Assembly.

And while I’m on my feet, Mr. Speaker, I would like to join with the Minister of Parks, Culture and Sport and my colleague from Regina Rosemont in welcoming these truly inspiring national champions to their Legislative Assembly. Echo the words of the minister — you are truly inspiring ambassadors for the province of Saskatchewan, and it’s so exciting to see the gold medals that you’re wearing here in the Chamber today. I know that you will be role models for future generations of girls looking to get involved in sport.

Enjoy this moment, enjoy this time, and it’s just an honour for me to be on my feet and welcoming you. So I would ask all members again to welcome these champions to their Legislative Assembly.

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

Mr. Kaeding: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. To you and through you and to all members of the Legislative Assembly, I would like to welcome a good family friend of mine, Kaitlyn Sauser, seated in the Speaker’s gallery. Kaitlyn’s dad, Sheldon, was our key man in our seed operation. Her mom, Tamara, is a lifelong teacher at Saltcoats School and Suncrest College, and her brothers, Bryce and Mitchell, are cattle ranchers in the Churchbridge area.

Kaitlyn just recently graduated with a B.S.A. [Bachelor of Science in Agriculture] in agribusiness with distinction. She was also a Minister of Ag Scholarship award winner. She is now pursuing her Master of Science in ag economics, and I expect one day may be sitting in this very seat here, Mr. Speaker. She has served many volunteer roles as an agro, even convincing the Premier, Minister of Ag, and I pushing a bed up a cold highway in the middle of winter for TeleMiracle. She has served many positions in the Sask Party Youth Organization.

But her most current responsibility is a high-performance hockey official. She has refereed many games in the PJHL [Prairie Junior Hockey League], U18 AAA, and travels nationally with Hockey Canada as a high-performance referee. And we will get into a little more detail in my upcoming member statement. I would like all members to welcome Kaitlyn Sauser to her Legislative Assembly.

While I’m on my feet, Mr. Speaker, I’d also like to introduce, seated in the Speaker’s gallery, teacher Shayna Zubko. And alongside Shayna are eight grade 11 and 12 law students from Esterhazy High School and their student teacher, Hana Giddings from the University of Saskatchewan, formerly from Moose Jaw. Shayna participated in the Saskatchewan Teachers’ Institute on Parliamentary Democracy. She’s a team lead on the steering committee for several years and is now president of the Social Studies Saskatchewan. Shayna is very active in her school as volleyball and basketball coach and helping coordinate the awards program at school council. On top of that, she is a reporter for the Moosomin World-Spectator newspaper. I would like to welcome Shayna, Hana, and the Esterhazy High School students to their Legislative Assembly.

The Speaker: — I would also like to welcome Shayna and her class and thank her for her dedication to the SSTI [Saskatchewan Social Sciences Teachers’ Institute on Parliamentary Democracy] program. The steering committee, in close collaboration with my office, Social Studies Saskatchewan, and the Ministry if Education works tirelessly to host the SSTI conference, a testament to our shared commitment to education and democracy. Please join me in welcoming Ms. Zubko and her group to their Legislative Assembly.

I recognize the member from Saskatoon Churchill-Wildwood.

Ms. Lambert: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I’d like to join with the member from Melville-Saltcoats and welcome Kaitlyn Sauser. I got to know Kaitlyn when she lived in my constituency of Saskatoon Churchill-Wildwood. So in addition to her busy life as the member’s stated, as a student and a volunteer and a hockey official, Kaitlyn also served as the treasurer for my constituency association. So I want to congratulate her on her academic success and her high-performance refereeing, and wish her all the best as she continues on to her master’s degree.

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

Hon. Ms. Eyre: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Request 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. Ms. Eyre: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. It is my absolute privilege today to introduce a group in the west gallery, 14 women from the Catholic Women’s League of Canada — If you could each give a wave.

We have Marion Laroque, Janette Rieger, Lynn Jones, Lois Stadnyk, Tanya Marie Kenny, Maureen Kwasnicki, Sharon Bergerman, Patricia Linfoot, Anne Marie Florizone, Marie Ann Stimson, Yvonne Wiesner, Wendy De Sa, Tillie Aessie, and Marlene Schnell.

Mr. Speaker, today Bill 152, The Protection From Human Trafficking (Coerced Debts) Amendment Act, 2023 will receive Royal Assent. It is an additional and crucial tool to cut financial dependency ties between traffickers and trafficked. This group has been vocal in their outspoken support of this bill, which we certainly appreciate. And they remain steadfast advocates for prevention of human trafficking in this province.

Mr. Speaker, just yesterday I joined the Minister Responsible for the Status of Women and other colleagues to unveil another effort that our government is undertaking to combat this issue. We were joined by stakeholders to introduce outreach posters which will be placed in high-profile spots across the province — gas stations, restaurants, bars, public libraries — to raise awareness and connect potential victims, most importantly, to support services. Such supports are not abstract. They help people, Mr. Speaker.

Mr. Speaker, this past February, Catholic Women’s League members held a flag-raising ceremony and a silent walk to raise awareness on Human Trafficking Day in Saskatoon. In their work with Hope Restored and the I’m Worth It Now initiative, touchingly the Catholic Women’s League provides backpacks to new residents and brand new items — a change of clothes, toiletry items, a journal, handwritten card, and a bracelet. And a matching bracelet is given to a volunteer prayer giver as a valuable counterpart to support someone wanting to escape human trafficking through prayer.

Mr. Speaker, I thank the Catholic Women’s League for all your valuable work and welcome them to their Legislative Assembly.

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

Ms. Sarauer: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. It’s my honour to join with the minister in welcoming this esteemed group of women to their Legislative Assembly from the Catholic Women’s League of Canada, a very important organization doing lifelong work supporting justice movements, helping those who are most vulnerable in our community. My mom is a lifelong member of the Catholic Women’s League, so it’s an organization that means a lot to me.

As the minister has stated, very much grateful for the work that you’ve done in advocating for survivors of human trafficking. We’re very supportive of the government’s bill, and thank you for the advocacy that you’ve done behind the scenes in making this bill become a reality. We all know we have so much more work to do in Saskatchewan to help survivors of gender-based violence.

I also want to thank you for the work you’ve done with Hope Restored. I have had the opportunity to see first-hand those backpacks that you provide to those survivors, and it’s such a huge thing to those survivors to know that there is a community who wants to support them and see them move on with their lives in a safe and supportive way. So thank you for all that you do. Thank you for being here. And once again I ask all members to join me in welcoming them to their Assembly.

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

Ms. Lambert: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I’d like to join with the Minister of Justice and Attorney General and the member opposite and welcome the guests here from the Catholic Women’s League of Canada. My mother, Marilyn Wilchuck, was a volunteer with the CWL [Catholic Women’s League] all her adult life. You were an important part of her life. And I know all the good work that you do in the community. So thank you and welcome to your Legislative Assembly.

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

Mr. Buckingham: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I have some family here today that I’d like to introduce. Kayla and Lyndon Block — yeah, if you guys could give a wave there — Madden and Ava, it’s nice to have you guys down here today and share this day with us. You know, we don’t serve here alone. The Premier often says that, that we don’t serve here alone. You know, it takes a family at home to keep things together. And so thank you to you guys.

And I want to also give a shout-out to Kayla and Lyndon for making the decision for Kayla to walk away from a six-figure income to raise those two beautiful children between them there. I just think that deserves recognition, so proud to have you here today and welcome to your Assembly. Thank you.

The Speaker: — I recognize the member from Arm River.

Mr. Skoropad: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Well what a great day. All these introductions, all these guests. I’ve got one more here. So to you and through you, Mr. Speaker, I’d like to introduce here, seated in the west gallery, Reece Tastad. Reece is a constituent of mine from the Loreburn area, but she also is the classmate of a young man who works in this building, works in Agriculture, Derek Griffin.

And she is also a U of S [University of Saskatchewan] political studies student, and I’d like to say most importantly, she is also my newest constituency assistant working in our office in Davidson. She is bright. She is talented. She has got a keen sense of learning. And she is incredibly tolerant of me, and I thank you for that. And so with that, I would ask all members to help me to welcome Reece to her Legislative Assembly.

The Speaker: — I recognize the member from Cannington.

Mr. D. Harrison: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. To you and through you, I’d like to welcome His Worship Kevin Kay, the mayor of Wawota, to his legislature today, and I’d ask my colleagues to welcome him as well. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

The Speaker: — I recognize the member from Yorkton.

Mr. Ottenbreit: — Mr. Speaker, it’s my honour in the west gallery to introduce to members of the House, Wayne Hove. He’s the president of the Lutheran Collegiate Bible Institute. He’s in attendance today to witness the Royal Assent of The Lutheran Collegiate Bible Institute Act, Bill 906. I invite all members to welcome Mr. Hove to the Legislative Assembly, but also to thank him and LCBI [Lutheran Collegiate Bible Institute] for the great work that they do and their contribution to our great province.

PRESENTING PETITIONS

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

Mr. Steele: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. We, the undersigned residents of the province of Saskatchewan, wish to bring to your attention the following: whereas the Trudeau Liberal-NDP [New Democratic Party] coalition carbon tax is one of the main causes of affordability issues with inflation in the nation of Canada; the federal Liberal-NDP government is politically motivated in issuing a carve-out for your 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 in Saskatchewan; further, that despite the decision to not charge the carbon tax on home heating, Saskatchewan’s families continue to pay the 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 below undersigned reside from communities: Pilot Butte, Regina, Regina, Regina, North Battleford, Regina, and Rosetown.

[14:00]

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

Mr. Love: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. It’s my honour to again present a petition to the Legislative Assembly of Saskatchewan calling for adequate funding for education. Those who’ve signed this petition, Mr. Speaker, know what it means to have classrooms that are crowded and full of complex needs. And when we talk about adequate funding, we’re talking about funding those needs of our kids, the children who come into classrooms across this province with needs that are going unmet due to nearly a decade of falling per-student funding in Saskatchewan.

That falling per-student funding has led to a situation where over the last number of years we’ve got over 15,000 new students in our schools, but only one additional full-time teacher to serve 15,000 students. That means that school divisions have been put in very difficult decisions to meet the needs of their students: students that are coming in new to the English language, students coming in with complex medical needs and needs that are going unmet in our schools due to this government’s record of underfunding.

Mr. Speaker, I will 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 provide adequate, sustainable, and predictable operating funds for our 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.

Today’s petition is signed by residents of Moose Jaw. 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 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 in more than three decades; that half of the Saskatchewan residents were living paycheque to paycheque before the transportation and the food costs skyrocketed in 2022; that the Sask Party government’s 32 new taxes and fee hikes makes life even more expensive and unaffordable, all while harming struggling industries like tourism, culture, and fitness. While other provinces acted, the Sask Party government ignored the opposition’s calls for a gas price relief plan.

We, in the prayer that reads as follows, respectfully request the Legislative Assembly of Saskatchewan to call on the Government of Saskatchewan for a meaningful addressing of the affordability crisis in Saskatchewan.

The signatory of this petition resides in Regina. So I do present. Thank you.

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

Ms. Ritchie: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. It’s an honour to present a petition today calling on the Government of Saskatchewan to protect Duncairn Reservoir Migratory Bird Sanctuary from expansion of irrigation.

This petition has been signed by over 100 concerned citizens who wish to bring to your attention the following: 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 to protect migratory birds, their nests, and management of those areas; that the Provincial Auditor has pointed out that the Water Security Agency has not taken sufficient steps to monitor and enforce licensed water users; and that the proposed expansion of irrigation would pose a significant threat to fish and migratory birds.

I want to especially thank and acknowledge the work of Dwight and Carol Lemon for their efforts in drawing attention to this issue and preparing this petition for submission, which reads as follows:

We call on the Government of Saskatchewan to protect the Duncairn Reservoir Migratory Bird Sanctuary from any proposed expansion of irrigation.

This petition is signed by the residents of Aberdeen, Moose Jaw, Swift Current, Morse, Gull Lake, Simmie, Waldeck, Central Butte, Shaunavon, Assiniboia, Wymark, Elrose, and Eastend. I do so present.

STATEMENTS BY MEMBERS

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

Working Together to Advance Ovarian Cancer Treatment and Research

Ms. Lambert: — Thank you. Mr. Speaker, May 8th is World Ovarian Cancer Day. We all have women in our lives whom we love dearly, and this disease tragically affects too many of them. Although there is currently no proven method to screen for ovarian cancer in women, we know that when it is found in its early stages, treatment is most effective.

This year the Ministry of Health is providing Ovarian Cancer Canada with $1 million to continue ovarian cancer treatment, research, and clinical trials here in Saskatchewan. Building on our $1 million investment in 2020, funding is being used to support various research and initiatives led by our own Saskatchewan specialists to make improvements to how women are diagnosed and treated in the province.

The main research project is one aimed at genetic analysis of cancer tissues to improve our ability to screen patients for cancer mutations and allow us to better treat ovarian cancer patients with effective new drugs. Our progress reports show that we are on track to build capacity for further tumour testing, including the launch of real-world clinical trials in Regina and Saskatoon. We look forward to seeing further results of these initiatives and improving the lives and the outcomes for women facing this challenging diagnosis.

Mr. Speaker, I want to thank Ovarian Cancer Canada and Saskatchewan Ovarian Cancer Survivors for offering resources and a sense of community for patients, their families, and caregivers. We can accomplish so much when we work together. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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

YMCA’s New Chief Executive Officer Inspires Positive Change

Ms. Ritchie: — Mr. Speaker, DeeAnn Mercier was recently hired as the CEO [chief executive officer] of the Saskatoon YMCA after serving for over seven years as the executive director of the Saskatoon Broadway Business Improvement District.

DeeAnn started at the BID [business improvement district] in 2016 just as the Broadway area was coming out of a major water and sewer line replacement project which saw Broadway Avenue closed for an entire summer, impacting businesses, festivals, and events. As the ED [executive director] she worked closely with the city of Saskatoon, the Nutana Community Association, other BIDs, festival organizers, and others to promote and bring out the best of the Broadway area. In DeeAnn’s time, the Broadway business area and its members have seen major changes as some long-standing businesses have closed, making way for new building projects and of course COVID.

The BID’s loss of DeeAnn and her skills and passion are a huge gain for the YMCA. She will continue to use her skills and knowledge to strengthen and help shape our community and inspire positive change across the city. With a young family, she understands the need for affordable child care and many other programs the YMCA provides throughout Saskatoon.

Please join me in thanking DeeAnn for the work with the BID and wish her all the best in her new role with the YMCA.

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

Regina Rebels Win Gold at the U18 Women’s National Championship

Mr. Kaeding: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Congratulations to the Regina Rebels U18 female hockey team that won gold at the 2024 U18 Women’s Esso Cup National Championship in Vernon, BC. The game, televised nationally on TSN [The Sports Network], saw the Rebels beat the North York Storm 2 to 1 in an exciting final game for their first-ever national championship.

Pilot Butte’s own Berlin Lolacher was named top forward of the tournament, while the tournament’s most valuable player award went to Prince Albert’s Stryker Zablocki. Rebels goaltender Hannah Tresek had a near shutout, stopping 26 of 27 shots on goal. These players come from Regina, Prince Albert, Weyburn, Moose Jaw, Saskatoon, Balgonie, Emerald Park, Bjorkdale, White City, and Birch Hills.

The Rebels had a controversial start to their season but persevered and ended up with a 26‑3‑1 record and went through the playoffs without a loss. Head coach Kim Perepeluk and staff had them firing on all cylinders by the time they got to the national championship. The coaches, parents, and fans spoke highly of the commitment and determination that these young women had shown towards their goal of winning the national championship. And I’m certain we’re going to see many of these players play professionally as a number of them have already signed scholarships throughout North American colleges.

In the gold medal game was also more Saskatchewan content as Kaitlyn Sauser from Churchbridge was a head referee for the game. She assured me there was no favouritism, as Regina had twice as many penalties as their opposition.

I ask all members to congratulate the Regina Rebels U18 hockey team and their national championship victory.

The Speaker: — I recognize the member from Cut Knife-Turtleford.

New Project Showcases Small-Town Golf Courses

Mr. Domotor: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Two friends from Unity and Wilkie who have been best of friends and golf buddies since they were young have embarked on a new project called Grid Road Golf. Grid Road Golf, Mr. Speaker, aims to promote and showcase small-town golf courses.

Unity’s Cory Wildeman and Wilkie’s Devan Bertoia have always had a love for the game of golf and lately have reconnected in their hometown course of Unity. Mr. Speaker, for now they are working on a social media following and have created a source for golfers to tune in to, as well as discussions regarding apparel. They are also looking into a possibility of a buy-in-type promotion for golf courses. The main goal of course is to provide an audience for small-town golf courses. Everyone is welcome to check out Grid Road Golf on Instagram and Facebook, #golfsmall.

Cory and Devan are hoping to appeal to golf enthusiasts just like themselves. Mr. Speaker, their tag line on social media reads, “Golf is our passion, Saskatchewan is our playground. Sharing experiences on the most underrated golf courses in the province.”

Mr. Speaker, I ask that all members of this Assembly join me in congratulating Cory Wildeman and Devan Bertoia on their great small-town Saskatchewan golf adventure. Thank you.

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

Early Childhood Educator Appreciation Day

Mr. Fiaz: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Today is Early Childhood Educator Appreciation Day in Saskatchewan. On this day we celebrate the contributions of over 3,000 early childhood educators, ECEs, in Saskatchewan and recognize the important work they do for our youngest residents.

Mr. Speaker, ECEs help build the foundational skills our children need for their childhood and success in their schooling and beyond. And to support this work and the child care sector in our province, Mr. Speaker, the 2024‑25 provincial budget invests a record amount, 408.7 million, and will fund wage enhancement for ECEs of up to $7.50 per hour, provide tuition-free post-secondary education for ECE accreditation, fund bursaries to support child care facilities whose staff upgrade their ECE accreditation, expand access for $10‑a-day child care spaces. And the list goes on, Mr. Speaker.

This government is focused on supporting our children, educators, students, and families. And on behalf of our Government of Saskatchewan, thank you to all the early childhood educators for the important role they play in supporting our great province. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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

Sikh Khalsa Parade a Staple of Regina’s Multicultural Community

Mr. Buckingham: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. This Saturday the Sikh Khalsa of Regina annual parade will take place. The parade begins at the Gurudwara Sahib at 11 a.m. and will reach the legislative grounds at around 12:30.

The event is open to all residents to attend. The local Sikh community will be providing free vegetarian food for all attendees, and if anyone is interested, they will be given the opportunity to try on a Sikh turban. The Sikh community, or Khalsa, have been hosting this annual parade for years, and it has become a staple of Regina’s growing multicultural community.

Mr. Speaker, the Sikh community does so much to contribute to the province of Saskatchewan. From hosting free meals to helping other newcomers become situated in the province, they truly are committed to making Saskatchewan a better place for all residents.

Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the Government of Saskatchewan, thank you to the Regina Sikh Khalsa for opening this parade up to the community and for all they do to help residents. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

The Speaker: — I recognize the member from Kindersley.

International Trade Offices Promote Saskatchewan Producers and Businesses

Mr. Francis: — Mr. Speaker, nearly a year ago our government opened our international trade office in Berlin. And since doing so, we’ve seen our exports to Germany grow by nearly 250 per cent. In 2022, exports to Germany were valued at $152 million; in 2023 exports had increased to a value of nearly $515 million. Those numbers speak for themselves, Mr. Speaker.

Our international trade office network facilitated numerous trade and investment activities in Q4 [fourth quarter]. This included supporting missions, events, and webinars in countries such as Japan, Germany, and the United Arab Emirates. These had over 30 Saskatchewan exporters represented and resulted in an estimated 190 trade deals, with sales over $7 million. When the members opposite talk down our trade offices and our trade missions, it’s crystal clear whose side they’re on. And it’s not Saskatchewan’s; it’s the Trudeau-NDP coalition government’s.

Mr. Speaker, our partners know that the products they’re getting are the highest quality and most sustainable they can get, and that’s reflected in the incredible increase we’re seeing in trade with nations just like Germany. And we will never apologize for promoting our producers and businesses internationally. No matter what the room is, we’re promoting and we’re saying the same thing — our producers are simply the best in the world. Thank you.

[14:15]

QUESTION PERIOD

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

Provincial Fuel Tax and Affordability Measures

Ms. Beck: — Mr. Speaker, this tired and out-of-touch government has failed to deliver any cost-of-living relief for people. They didn’t include anything in the budget to help with the cost of living, so we gave the Sask Party the chance to vote on some much-needed relief. But, Mr. Speaker, the Sask Party voted that down. So I’ll ask the Premier the same question that he asked me: how could you do that to Saskatchewan people?

The Speaker: — I recognize the Premier.

Hon. Mr. Moe: — Mr. Speaker, time and time again on the floor of this Assembly, in the rotunda, it gives me great pride to speak to the opportunity that we have in Saskatchewan through the strength of a strong and vibrant and growing economy to ensure that we can have the $2 billion in affordability measures yet again in this year’s budget, affordability measures that are making Saskatchewan communities some of the, if not the most affordable communities to live in across Canada. And that again is included in the budget documents, Mr. Speaker.

I want to read in a quote, Mr. Speaker:

I think we have one hell of a story to tell in this province about the quality of life, about the opportunity that’s here. We need to be telling that story. In an affordability crisis, we have some of the best rates as a province, the most affordable housing in the country.

That’s from September the 13th, 2022 and it’s the Leader of the Opposition.

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

Supports for Students with Complex Needs

Ms. Beck: — Mr. Speaker, I think that was before they hiked power bills three times. Mr. Speaker, not only are they failing to deliver on the cost of living, they’re failing miserably when it comes to providing supports for kids with complex needs.

Mr. Speaker, we’re joined today by two moms who have kids with complex needs. One of them is B-J Diduck. B-J has three autistic children. One of her twins, Lucas, attends John Dolan School in Saskatoon. Her daughter Lexi attends a functional life skills support classroom also in Saskatoon. Now B-J knows that teachers and staff do everything they can to provide supports for kids with complex needs, but this province is not providing enough support.

What does the Premier say to B-J about the lack of supports in classrooms for kids with complex needs?

The Speaker: — I recognize the Premier.

Hon. Mr. Moe: — Mr. Speaker, I would say to B-J and to his family that have joined us here today, this is a government that is investing most certainly in the supports for our province’s, our communities’ children, our families’ children that may require additional supports whether that be in the school. And we’ve discussed that funding level on the floor of this Assembly, the increase mid-year last year, added to in this most recent budget again.

That increase of 9 per cent in operational funding, which includes over $350 million in supports right in our classrooms, in particular in those elementary grades, Mr. Speaker, is only possible due to the strength of the economy that we have here in Saskatchewan.

In addition to that, and what we’ve seen in this year’s budget yet again, is continued funding, individualized funding, Mr. Speaker, for parents and families and children that need additional supports. But I would say this, I would say this to B-J and to others across this province, is we need to continue having this conversation and continue to look at how we can best fund those supports that are needed for families right across this family, whether they be in our schools or whether they be in our homes or whether they be in our communities, Mr. Speaker. And that’s a conversation that this government and various ministers are always open to have.

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

Ms. Beck: — Mr. Speaker, he doesn’t get an E for effort when he’s failing our kids. And B-J isn’t the only one here today. Katie Emde lives in Midale and she has two children with autism. And her son hasn’t been able to attend school for 10 months because the supports that he needs simply aren’t available at their local school. The lack of supports in local schools didn’t happen by accident, Mr. Speaker. It’s a direct result of that Premier’s underfunding of our education system.

Does the Premier think that it’s acceptable that Katie’s kids don’t have the supports that they need in their local hometown school?

The Speaker: — I recognize the Minister of Education.

Hon. Mr. Cockrill: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. As the Premier said, we welcome both these families to their legislature today. Just first on the previous question, I had the opportunity myself to tour John Dolan School earlier this year and to see the incredible work that Saskatoon Public Schools is doing at that specific school, in that specific school community, for many of the most vulnerable kids in our province, Mr. Speaker.

But when it comes to supporting kids all across the province, Mr. Speaker, the Premier referenced a 9 per cent increase in educational operational funding across all 27 school divisions. But when it comes to classroom supports funding, that budget has increased 14 per cent this year, Mr. Speaker.

We know there’s more work to continue doing, Mr. Speaker. That’s why we’ve signed a multi-year funding agreement with the 27 school divisions so that we can continue having these important discussions on how we support students in all corners of the province. Thank you.

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

Mr. Love: — Mr. Speaker, these parents should be able to get the supports that their families need, but they can’t because of this government’s record of underfunding our education system. Now when school divisions try to provide the needed supports, they aren’t fully funded by this government, and nowhere is that more clear than at John Dolan School in Saskatoon Eastview.

John Dolan is an amazing school with fantastic teachers and staff, and they serve some of the most high-needs students in the province. But the Sask Party government doesn’t fully fund those supports. Saskatoon Public Schools actually runs a $2.3 million shortfall to keep the doors open at John Dolan School.

These parents who have joined us today — along with the teachers, the staff, and division leaders — all understand the value of investing adequately in the supports that their complex learners need. Why doesn’t the Sask Party value and fund those supports?

The Speaker: — I recognize the Minister of Education.

Hon. Mr. Cockrill: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. As I said in my previous answer, I did have the opportunity to tour John Dolan back in January and speak with teachers in that school. It’s a conversation that I have regularly with Kim Stranden, the board Chair of Saskatoon Public, as well as board trustees and board administration at Saskatoon Public Schools, Mr. Speaker.

As I said in my previous answer, we have increased classroom supports funding significantly across the province in this year’s budget, Mr. Speaker. We understand there’s more work to do, Mr. Speaker, and we’re committed to having those conversations, both with Saskatoon Public and any other division anywhere else in the province. Thank you.

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

Mr. Love: — Mr. Speaker, I’m glad that the minister was there to see John Dolan School for himself. I know that the minister before him was in John Dolan School, and the minister before him was in John Dolan School. And the former Health minister was in John Dolan School, and I believe the Minister for Social Services was in John Dolan School as well. Doesn’t that say enough about the complexity of the needs that all those ministers have been there? But nothing has changed after those visits.

John Dolan is a great school and it serves 60 students with very complex needs, but there’s also a long wait-list to get in. There are 18 families on the wait-list for John Dolan School and many more in the province who cannot access the supports that their children need. What does the minister say to families who can’t find a school that offers the supports that their children need?

The Speaker: — I recognize the Minister of Education.

Hon. Mr. Cockrill: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The member opposite just said that nothing has changed. I beg to differ. As I have outlined in my couple previous answers, there’s been significant funding increases over the last several years, Mr. Speaker.

Since 2018 operational funding has increased 24 per cent to Saskatoon Public school division. Saskatoon Public received additional funding through the complexity dollars that we added in last year’s budget as well, Mr. Speaker, and in this year’s budget, a significant increase to the operational funding available to Saskatoon Public. And then Saskatoon Public, like any other school division, makes decisions on how those dollars are allocated in their school division to different school communities and to different programs that are offered to families in their community, Mr. Speaker.

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

Mr. Love: — Mr. Speaker, that minister isn’t disagreeing with me; he is disagreeing with Saskatoon Public Schools. Then he’s the one who asked them to speak up.

Now due to Sask Party underfunding, Saskatoon Public Schools spends $10 million more on supports for complex needs than they receive from that province each and every year. That means that that division has to pull dollars from other programs to fund those supports. The division has warned, and I quote, “This deficit has a significant impact on the division’s ability to address issues of classroom size and complexity.” Class size and complexity, Mr. Speaker, is the issue in schools today.

How can that minister say that this budget is adequate if just one school division is being shortchanged more than $10 million this year?

The Speaker: — I recognize the Minister of Education.

Hon. Mr. Cockrill: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. As I have already outlined to the member opposite, over the last six years operational funding has increased to Saskatoon Public Schools 24 per cent whereas enrolment has increased 16 per cent, Mr. Speaker.

Even in this year’s budget, Mr. Speaker, the percentage across the province is 9 per cent increase of operational funding, but in Saskatoon Public, it’s over 10 per cent.

Mr. Speaker, I find the question from the member opposite very interesting. Would he leave it up to individual school divisions to make decisions on how to support classrooms or would he put that in a collective agreement?

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

Travel Expenses and International Exports

Ms. A. Young: — Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. This tired government and this out-of-touch minister are failing education. And speaking of unapologetic, Mr. Speaker, let’s talk about their travel, some of the most expensive travel in the history of this province.

Mr. Speaker, the Minister of Energy and Resources spent over $8,000 on just three heady nights in Toronto, and meanwhile the Minister for CIC [Crown Investments Corporation of Saskatchewan] spent $3,500 more on ground travel than any other minister in his government on one chauffeured limousine tour around Paris, all on top of a million-dollar week in Dubai.

Mr. Speaker, how does the Sask Party justify this indulgence when people in Saskatchewan are struggling?

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

Hon. Mr. J. Harrison: — Well I can tell you, Mr. Speaker, this government is proud of our record of international engagement and the export growth that has come along with it over the course of the last 17 years. Mr. Speaker, exports in this province in their last year were $16 billion. I can say they spent a million dollars in travel that year, three times more than we have ever spent in a single year on this side of the House. We have grown those exports to over $50 billion on a GDP [gross domestic product] of $78 billion, meaning we are exporting nearly 70 per cent of every single dollar that is produced here in this province.

We are going to be out there working with our job creators, working with our employers, working with our companies to sell those products around the world and attracting investment back here to Saskatchewan, Mr. Speaker. Conversely when they spent a million dollars travelling the world, they spent Saskatchewan taxpayers’ dollars making terrible investments and losing that money.

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

Use of Revenue Collected by SaskPower

Ms. A. Young: — Mr. Speaker, this is a minister that spent a million taxpayer dollars on a single week in Dubai. He hates talking about his record. And you know what else this government hates talking about, Mr. Speaker? Their carbon tax.

Now, Mr. Speaker, in this year’s budget alone there are $280 million in revenues from the OBPS [output-based performance standards]. But I’m going to call it what it actually is, Mr. Speaker — the Sask Party carbon tax. Combined with the money from last year, this means that the Sask Party is sitting on $568 million of ratepayer money. Hoarding these dollars like Scrooge McDuck might help the Sask Party budget, but it doesn’t help the budgets of the people of Saskatchewan. It doesn’t help families struggling to pay their bills.

So, Mr. Speaker, a question for the minister: why is he sitting on these dollars instead of providing cost-of-living relief today?

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

Hon. Mr. Duncan: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The simple answer is, is because if we did that the federal government would take them back. Is the member opposite, is it her position that those dollars would be better spent by Ottawa? That those dollars would be better sent to Ottawa for them to decide? For the Liberal-NDP coalition in Ottawa — their friends in Ottawa that they go to campaign schools for — that those dollars should stay in Ottawa, Mr. Speaker, and be spent by the federal Liberal-NDP coalition?

We’ve taken the position, Mr. Speaker, that the people of Saskatchewan first and foremost shouldn’t be paying those dollars, but because they’re forced to by the federal government, that we’re going to make decisions in terms of how those dollars are spent. We’re going to use those dollars to keep rates as low as possible. And we’re going to use those dollars, Mr. Speaker, in the event that we do make an investment in small modular reactors.

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

Ms. A. Young: — Well thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. We heard it here first. That minister is trying to say that the feds — I don’t know if it’s Justin Trudeau; maybe it’s Steven Guilbeault — the feds are preventing him from using his Sask Party carbon tax slush fund to help people.

[14:30]

He says, Mr. Speaker, he’s ready to go to carbon tax jail over the home heating exemption, yet somehow he’s handcuffed by this deal that he signed with the feds to take over carbon taxing SaskPower. Does the minister really expect anyone in the province to believe him that his deal with Justin Trudeau is stopping him from helping people today? And will he release that deal today?

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

Hon. Mr. Duncan: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Again we’re seeing pretty clearly the Leader of the Opposition a couple weeks ago went to a Justin Trudeau campaign school, a Liberal campaign school in Ottawa. And we’re hearing more from the member a couple seats away from her, Mr. Speaker.

Mr. Speaker, the reality is, is that we think that the best solution for these dollars is first and foremost that they not have to be collected from the people of Saskatchewan. Short of that, we think that the best use of those dollars are use by Saskatchewan residents for Saskatchewan residents and decided by the duly elected Government of Saskatchewan, Mr. Speaker.

That’s why we are going to use those dollars to help keep rates affordable. That’ll be a decision that we make, not Ottawa, Mr. Speaker. And we’re also setting aside dollars in the event that we do build small modular reactors in this province, Mr. Speaker, so that we can ensure that rates are affordable and that we have reliable power well into the future.

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

Ms. A. Young: — Well thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. That government had to photoshop a picture of my leader to make it look like she was standing next to Justin Trudeau. But we do not need any Photoshop for a picture of that carbon-tax-loving SaskPower minister standing next to the godfather of the carbon tax, Stéphane Dion.

Now, Mr. Speaker, that minister didn’t feel constrained by the law when he took the carbon tax off of home heating. But again apparently he is handcuffed by the deal he signed with the feds when it comes to SaskPower’s carbon tax dollars and using those to help people today. It’s unbelievable, Mr. Speaker. Not only that, it’s completely hypocritical. People in Saskatchewan hate the carbon tax but they also hate hypocrisy.

So, Mr. Speaker, to the minister: does he really believe that anyone in this province thinks that these dollars are better off padding their Sask Party budget rather than helping people with cost-of-living relief today?

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

Hon. Mr. Duncan: — Mr. Speaker, the reality is, is that if we don’t follow that agreement, the federal government will cancel the agreement and then there will be no dollars to return back to the people of Saskatchewan like she’s asking for.

Mr. Speaker, the reality is, is that hopefully the Leader of the Opposition has gotten off of hold with Jagmeet Singh’s assistant and that if she would only stop going to campaign schools to re-elect the Liberal government, Mr. Speaker, that we can have a change in this country so that we don’t have to pay the carbon tax anymore. Thank you.

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

Ms. A. Young: — Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. Now this might be a little esoteric for the backbench over there, but they don’t have to take my word for it. It’s right there in black and white on page 48 of their own budget: half a billion dollars of carbon tax padding their budget. All the while 57 per cent of Saskatchewan people can barely afford groceries. They can’t blame Justin Trudeau for this one, Mr. Speaker. These are their carbon tax dollars and this is their Sask Party budget. These are their choices.

So, Mr. Speaker, a simple question: are we really going to vote off a budget today with half a billion dollars of carbon tax dollars and not a single penny of cost-of-living relief?

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

Hon. Mr. Duncan: — Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. I’ll just remind that member opposite and all the people of Saskatchewan that it was just a little bit more than six years ago to the day that this government launched its carbon tax challenge all the way to the Supreme Court. And the members opposite, they will recall that their response to that was that it was a pointless crusade. So I don’t think they have any ground to stand on when it comes to their support for the Jagmeet Singh-Justin Trudeau carbon tax, Mr. Speaker.

Mr. Speaker, the reality is, without this agreement, then Ottawa chooses how those dollars are spent. And it’s obvious the position of that member opposite is that she would prefer Justin Trudeau and Jagmeet Singh deciding on how Saskatchewan people’s dollars are spent. We disagree with that every day of the week.

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

Crown Land Leases in Northern Saskatchewan

Mr. Clarke: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, Greg East lives in Creighton and he’s frustrated by the changes the Sask Party has made to Crown land leases in the North. He’s travelled a long way to be here today and he wants to meet with the Environment minister to have his concerns heard by the Sask Party government.

Will the minister meet with Greg after question period today and hear his concerns?

The Speaker: — I recognize the Minister of Environment.

Hon. Ms. Tell: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I’d like to welcome Mr. East to the gallery, and of course I will meet with him following question period.

The Speaker: — I recognize the member from Saskatchewan Rivers.

Population Growth and Public Services

Ms. Wilson: — Mr. Speaker, that government is very proud of the population growth that they are overseeing. As they aptly point out, Saskatchewan is seeing the highest population growth and immigration rates in over a century. Mr. Speaker, they will say this record increase of people is great for the economy, but in reality it’s overburdening our public services. They can’t keep up with the demand. Hallway health care and record wait times are now the norm. Crime rates are out of control and classrooms are overcrowded, understaffed.

Mr. Speaker, why is the government so committed to this record population growth when our province is struggling, struggling to keep up and provide for the residents we already have?

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

Hon. Mr. J. Harrison: — Well I can tell you, Mr. Speaker, that we are happy to talk about the population growth in this province, record population growth. Over 200,000 people have made Saskatchewan their home over the course of the last 17 years, something I would note that that member used to be very proud of and speak about at least twice a year in this House in budget replies and Throne Speech replies, Mr. Speaker. Obviously that has changed now that she has been sitting on the other side of the floor.

That being said, this population growth has led to very, very significant economic growth in the province, record economic growth in fact, Mr. Speaker. We’re going to continue to work with partners across the province to make sure that that population growth is sustainable, and we believe that it is.

The Speaker: — I recognize the member from Saskatchewan Rivers.

Ms. Wilson: — Mr. Speaker, it’s undeniable that Saskatchewan’s public services are overburdened. We have some of the highest, highest health care wait times in Canada. Education scores are suffering, as we hear every day, and student grade level performance is dropping. Our police services are struggling to keep up dealing with a record-low officer per capita ratio. Mr. Speaker, last year international migration accounted for 93 per cent of the province’s population growth.

Will this government commit to reducing these immigration rates until our public services stabilize and improve for Saskatchewan citizens?

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

Hon. Mr. J. Harrison: — You know, I didn’t hear the whole question, but what I think I heard was pretty troubling, Mr. Speaker, pretty troubling.

This is a province whose motto is “from many peoples, strength” — whether they be Indigenous Canadians who have been here from time immemorial, to those who have moved and made this province their home fleeing Russian oppression in the early 20th century, to those who again are fleeing Russian invasions in Ukraine today, Mr. Speaker.

This is a place that welcomes those from around the world who are fleeing those sorts of terrible, horrible things and have contributed so much to our province, whether it be in the last 10,000 years, whether it be in the last 100 years, or whether it be in the last three months. We’re going to continue that, Mr. Speaker, whether that member and that party like it or not.

The Speaker: — I recognize the member from Saskatchewan Rivers.

Government’s Energy Policies

Ms. Wilson: — Mr. Speaker, have I said before in the Assembly, the rural municipalities have been very clear about their position on CO₂. It is not a pollutant, and net zero is destructive to our province. Ninety-five per cent of RMs [rural municipality] voted for a resolution stating exactly that.

Will this government find some common sense and stand with the people of this province against net zero? Or will they continue to slide with their globalist friends, promoting this destructive net zero agenda?

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

Hon. Mr. Duncan: — Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. Over the coming years we are going to ensure that we have reliable and affordable power for the people of Saskatchewan. We’re going to be doing so by taking an all-of-the-above approach when it comes to how we’re going to generate that power, and that will include some form of electricity generation that is net zero or non-emitting in terms of small modular reactors and some renewables that’ll be in the system. I think, Mr. Speaker, that’s certainly the plan going forward.

And I think I would, you know, just invite the member opposite if she does have another question, Mr. Speaker, whether or not she is in support of adding nuclear into the generation mix for this province. I’d be interested in knowing the position of the member opposite.

The Speaker: — I recognize the Opposition House Leader.

Ms. Sarauer: — Point of order, Mr. Speaker.

The Speaker: — Please state your point of order.

POINT OF ORDER

Ms. Sarauer: — Mr. Speaker, during question period when the member for Saskatoon Eastview was asking questions about supports for children at John Dolan School, the Minister of Justice yelled “not true” across the floor.

Mr. Speaker, you’ve ruled on that type of language before. I’d ask that you find that unparliamentary and that she apologize and withdraw.

The Speaker: — I recognize the Government House Leader.

Hon. Mr. J. Harrison: — Mr. Speaker, I’ve canvassed members around. I don’t think that that would appear in Hansard. I’d invite the Speaker to review the record.

The Speaker: — I will review the record and get back. I recognize the Government Deputy House Leader.

Hon. Ms. Carr: — Point of order, Mr. Speaker.

The Speaker: — Please state your point of order.

Hon. Ms. Carr: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, during question period, the member from Regina University referred to the Minister of CIC as “unbelievable” and “hypocritical.”

Mr. Speaker, there’ve been rulings in this House with regards to this in the past. I would refer to the rulings from February 21st, 1961, as well as February 22nd, 1961. And I know there have been much more recent rulings than that.

I would ask that the member from Regina University stand in her place, withdraw her comments, and apologize.

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

Ms. A. Young: — Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. I apologize and withdraw.

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

Mr. Fiaz: — Request leave for an extended introduction.

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

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

INTRODUCTION OF GUESTS

Mr. Fiaz: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I do like to welcome special guests joining us from around the world today. This group is made up of international student recruitment agents that partner with our post-secondary institutions and have successfully completed the Saskatchewan agent training program.

This program is a part of our international education strategy, helping agents build their knowledge of Canadian laws and immigration as well as benefits of studying, living, and working in Saskatchewan. Agents who have completed the program are better able to provide a high-quality level of service to prospective international students, supporting them with consistent Saskatchewan-based instruction and resources.

This group of people join us today thanks to our post-secondary education institutions. A province-wide tour was set up by University of Regina, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatchewan Polytechnic, Southeast College, Great Plains College, North West College, and Suncrest College.

The tour will provide these agents with first-hand experience of what Saskatchewan has to offer, helping them to promote the province and our post-secondary institutions to prospective international students.

Our guests are seated in Speaker’s gallery, Mr. Speaker, and I practised a lot before I say their names, Mr. Speaker — Daniel Cuenca, Alvis Tsui, Emily Santos, Surachadaporn Pasukcharoeynying, Obianuju Akpo-Ede, Esther Obot, Sawinder Sing, Huong Ngan Nguyen, Ben Ryan Ybanez, and Phuong Ly. These individuals serve many international markets including Brazil, China, India, Japan, Nigeria, and Philippines, Vietnam, and many more.

[14:45]

We also lucky to have representatives here from our post-secondary institutions — Steven Sung with the University of Regina, Sheena Onrait from Southeast College, Courtney Schroeder from University of Saskatchewan, and Andrea Maldonado from Saskatchewan Polytechnic. I do like to extend a special thank you to each of these institutions for coordinating this tour.

This initiative is strongly aligned with one of the principles under Saskatchewan’s international education strategy, that institutions, government, and agencies work collaboratively to promote Saskatchewan as a destination of choice for international students. We are proud of Saskatchewan and our high-quality post-secondary education, and I know that pride will shine through as this tour moves around the province.

Please join me in thanking our institution representatives for being here today and in providing the warm Saskatchewan welcome to our visiting agents. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

PRESENTING REPORTS BY STANDING AND SPECIAL COMMITTEES

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

Standing Committee on Public Accounts

Mr. Wotherspoon: — Mr. Speaker, I’m instructed by the Standing Committee on Public Accounts to present its fourth report which reflects the work of the committee for the period of May 10th, 2023 to May 8th, 2024. Of course the focus of the Public Accounts is that of scrutiny to ensure accountability, to protect public and public resources, and to improve government performance.

I want to thank the members of the committee. I want to thank the committee Clerks. I want to thank the Provincial Auditor of Saskatchewan along with her dedicated team, and I want to thank all the public servants, the ministries, and the audit entities that interact with this committee and that are focused on this work every day.

With that I move:

The fourth report of the Standing Committee on Public Accounts be now concurred in.

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

That the fourth report of the Standing Committee on Public Accounts 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

SPECIAL ORDER

SECOND AND THIRD READINGS

Bill No. 161 — The Appropriation Act, 2024 (No. 1)

The Speaker: — I recognize the Minister of Finance.

Hon. Ms. Harpauer: — Pursuant to rule 32(1)(e), I move that Bill No. 161, The Appropriation Act, 2024 (No. 1) be now read a second and third time.

The Speaker: — The Minister of Finance has moved second and third reading of Bill No. 161, The Appropriation Act, 2024 (No. 1). 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.

Some Hon. Members: — No.

The Speaker: — Those in favour of the motion say yea.

Some Hon. Members: — Yea.

The Speaker: — Those opposed say no.

Some Hon. Members: — No.

The Speaker: — I see that the yeas have it. I declare that the motion is carried.

Deputy Clerk: — Second and 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 14:51 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. 149 — The Franchise Disclosure Act

Bill No. 150 — The Securities (Saskatchewan Investors Protection) Amendment Act, 2023

Bill No. 152 — The Protection From Human Trafficking (Coerced Debts) Amendment Act, 2023

Bill No. 156 — The Tobacco Tax Amendment Act, 2024

Bill No. 157 — The Income Tax Amendment Act, 2024

Bill No. 159 — The Revenue and Financial Services Amendment Act, 2024

Bill No. 158 — The Saskatchewan Commercial Innovation Incentive (Patent Box) Amendment Act, 2024

Bill No. 160 — The Immigration Services Act

Bill No. 906 — The Lutheran Collegiate Bible Institute Amendment Act

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

The Speaker: — May it please Your Honour, this Legislative Assembly has voted the supplies required to enable the government to defray the expenses of the public service.

In the name of the Assembly, I present to Your Honour:

Bill No. 161 — The Appropriation Act, 2024 (No. 1)

to which bill I respectfully request Your Honour’s assent.

His Honour: — In His Majesty’s name, I thank the Legislative Assembly, accept its benevolence, and assent to this bill.

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

[At 14:54 His Honour retired from the Chamber.]

The Speaker: — Please be seated. 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: — Carried. The House now stands adjourned until tomorrow at 10 a.m.

[The Assembly adjourned at 14:55.]

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.