Barret Kropf: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. It’s an honour for me to be on my feet today to introduce my friend and his granddaughter, Harold Cooper and his granddaughter Lila. Harold’s son is in his second term as the Speaker of the Alberta Legislative Assembly.

And Harold and I crossed paths many moons ago as he was a chaplain for the Saskatchewan Roughriders here in town, a position I later fulfilled and followed in his footsteps. And Harold is now serving in that same capacity in the country of Zimbabwe with the police force over there, and he continues to work and influence lives around the world.

So Harold, we welcome you today to the Legislative Assembly of Saskatchewan, the best Legislative Assembly in the country.

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

Joan Pratchler: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I’d like to request a leave for an extended introduction.

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

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Speaker Goudy: — Agreed.

Joan Pratchler: — I’d like to introduce and celebrate the clients and staff from Phoenix Residential Society here in Regina: Oona, Todd, Andrew, Linda, Bruce, and Alicia are the clients, and two of their support staff, Olu and Nilesh.

These friends are a shining example of courage, resilience, and hope. Courage as mental health clients to show up even when things get hard, very hard; resilience because they have a way of turning life’s stumbling blocks into stepping stones; and that with quality programming, they have hope. They have a reason to get up every day, every week, and start a new day.

Phoenix Residential Society is a charitable non-profit community-based health care organization providing residential services to individuals in Regina with psychiatric disorders, problematic substance abuse, cognitive disorders, individuals with acquired brain injuries, and individuals who are chronically homeless.

Phoenix began in 1979 and they have been doing excellent work in our community for over 45 years. Over the years, Phoenix has been a leader not only in Saskatchewan but indeed in Canada for their standard of excellence in community mental well-being programming and housing. You may recognize some of their programs: Phoenix Oak program, Phoenix apartment program, McEwen Manor, Phoenix intensive program, Eaton intensive program, and their ABI [acquired brain injury] supportive living program, and the newly minted Lovering Place. To date Phoenix serves almost 250 residents.

As a community mental health nurse myself working at Phoenix for the past five years, I can attest to their success. They have a laser focus on a holistic, client-centred approach which is built and lived out daily through their core values of team-oriented passion for integrity and compassion for those they serve.

May I invite everyone to join me in welcoming the staff and clients from Phoenix Residential Society to this their legislature.

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

Hon. Terry Jenson: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I’d like to join in with the member opposite in welcoming the guests we have here today from Phoenix Residential Society. It’s a very valuable CBO [community-based organization] in the city of Regina, and I note 45 years is a long time. And I’m very excited as minister. Over 250 clients from what I understand.

Just in the last few weeks, Mr. Speaker, as the new Minister of Social Services, I’ve been spending quite a bit of time reaching out and having conversations with different CBOs, and Phoenix is going to be one of those ones on my list here very shortly.

So with that I would like to invite everybody to join me in welcoming these guests from Phoenix this afternoon.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the member from Saskatoon University-Sutherland.

Tajinder Grewal: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I’m requesting a leave for an extended introduction.

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

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Speaker Goudy: — Agreed.

Tajinder Grewal: — To you and through you, Mr. Speaker, I’m going to introduce a special guest: my wife, Dr. Ravinder Grewal. Ravinder is working for Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada. We are married for the last 30 years.

Our 30th anniversary was a couple of weeks ago on October the 14th. And, Mr. Speaker, you may ask me how we celebrate our anniversary. I was on the campaign trail, door knocking — whole day — and Ravinder was cooking food for the volunteers.

So our campaign office has five campaigns, and she was delivering food two or three times a week. And people are just waiting for her food. And the last two elections, our campaign office was in our garage. The whole campaign staff and all the volunteers were given lunch and supper every single day. And, Mr. Speaker, sometimes Sask Party volunteers are coming to our office to eat, and the member from Saskatoon Willowgrove can verify that.

We came here to Saskatchewan 25 years ago, and we had lots of dreams and goals. And we achieved most of these dreams and goals, and Ravinder played a very important part in achieving those goals and dreams. I will just talk about one, not all.

We established the Punjabi Cultural Association of Saskatchewan in 2004, and we are doing culture shows for 12 years. And Ravinder was playing a very important role there. She was emceeing; she was performing on stage; and most importantly she was training the ladies and young girls, four- to eight-year girls, Punjabi folk dance. And these 10 to 20 girls in their fancy dresses, they’re performing on stage, and this used to be one of the hit items of the Punjabi show.

I can go on and on and on. But lastly, mostly men when they refer to their wife they say, she is my better half. I always say, she is my two-thirds.

I request all the members to please join me to welcome Ravinder at the Legislative Assembly.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of Advanced Education.

Hon. Ken Cheveldayoff: — Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. I’d like to first of all begin by joining with the member opposite from University-Sutherland in welcoming his wife here. And yes, I can affirm that they tried to bribe our door knockers with some of the best samosas ever, and it almost worked. But thank you very much. The member and I ran against each other in previous elections and share a good friendship.

Mr. Speaker, it gives me great pleasure to introduce to you and through you a former member of the Legislative Assembly, the former member for Saskatoon Greystone, also a former minister of Advanced Education. He is now the CEO [chief executive officer] of Pinehouse power. And he’s a friend of everyone on both sides, I think, and had a hand certainly in helping many on this side to take their seat in the legislature.

Mr. Speaker, I would like to introduce to you Mr. Rob Norris, and thank him for coming to his Legislative Assembly and all that he does for our province. I ask all members to join me. Thank you.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the member from Regina Mount Royal.

Trent Wotherspoon: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. To you and through you, it’s a pleasure to welcome, with the minister here, to welcome Rob Norris back to his Assembly and to thank him for his continued leadership in this province. Rob expanded the vocabulary of the Saskatchewan legislature during his tenure here and he certainly is, you know, a friend to many in this Assembly.

I’d also like to welcome Dan D’Autremont who’s seated at the back of the Assembly beside Rob. And of course Dan served for many many years as an MLA [Member of the Legislative Assembly], as a cabinet minister, as Speaker of this Assembly, Mr. Speaker. He’s an avid hunter and a crooked shot, and I ask all members to welcome them both to their Assembly.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of Agriculture.

Hon. Daryl Harrison: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would also like to welcome my predecessor, Dan D’Autremont, former MLA for Cannington — also known as the republic of Cannington — former Speaker of this House, this Assembly, former minister, and nothing but a straight shooter.

Mr. Speaker, we share the same hometown, and you know, I’m proud to say I’ve known Dan all my life and consider him a friend. And also would ask all members of this Assembly to welcome him back to his Legislative Assembly.

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

Noor Burki: — Thank you. Can I request for an extended introduction?

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

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Noor Burki: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. To you and through you, I have an incredible leader of our community, Ashique Hossain — if you can give us a wave. Thank you very much for your service.

Mr. Speaker, he’s not just a person that he just do his job, but he’s doing extra mile in our communities. He met with me in 2009 when he was my student in driver education. He graduated from Ontario; he came over here with a work permit and working over here. So he has gone through a lot of painful situations the new immigrant students are facing, so he was always talking to me and said, “I will be doing this. I will be doing this. I will be doing this.” And he did it.

In 2017 the young people, they established an organization in Regina, Darul Falah Islamic Centre, and that centre is providing a lot of resources, a lot of services to our community. And the list is very long. I will just go quickly with them.

The first program that they have, a kids’ circle. Those parents that, they are studying or they’re doing a job and they don’t have money to put their kids into the daycare, they have a centre over there that they take care of the kids for free. They’re teaching them painting, crafting, and different kinds of activities. They engage kids in healthy activities.

They have youth clubs for both males and females for sports, and they are engaging them in that way as well to make sure that they can make network going on.

They are doing mental counselling, which is one of the biggest achievements. People when they are coming and they are feeling some stress and they are losing a job or something like that, they’re accommodating those people in that area.

And one of the best things that I will say is the seniors; they’re taking care of the seniors. They make food and they bring it on the weekend and they give a tour to them. And they have a sister program as well. They are engaging in the kitchen to make sure they learn from each other from the kitchen how they’re cooking, how different cultures cooking are there. So they’re doing that.

On top of that, one of the good things that they are doing, they started food distribution to those people in need. Every week on Saturday, they distribute about 100 packages of food to the people on the street, and about 150 people. They are getting a bag of groceries for about 150 people. So it’s an incredible job that he is doing. He is the president right now at Darul Falah Islamic Centre. I will request all members in this Assembly to join me and welcome him to his Assembly.

While I’m standing on my feet, I will introduce two incredible guests over here, I would say. Harjinder, as I mentioned him, a young leader in the community, providing legal advice, legal facilitation to the community as well, and thank you very much for coming. With that I will say, Ravinder, thank you very much, Bhabi, to be here and you’ll be a strong pillar behind my brother. Thank you for all the help. Thank you.

[13:45]

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the member from Martensville-Blairmore.

Hon. Jamie Martens: — Thank you so much, Mr. Speaker. To you and through you, I also wanted to welcome the former minister Rob Norris here today. Just a little bit that I’ve learned about Rob in the last few years is that he’s a lover of literature, definitely loves world politics, and has the most energy I’ve ever seen in one person. I wish we could bottle that up.

But one thing that I’ve noticed that has changed since he met me a little over three years ago is that his sense of humour has drastically changed, and for the better, for the better, Mr. Speaker, so that’s a good thing. And I also want to say that Rob has always stated to me, as well as many other candidates, to always remember where we came from as we sit in this House today. But thank you so much. I just would like to welcome Rob to our legislature.

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

Meara Conway: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Just briefly I wanted to find my feet and welcome a couple of volunteers seated in the east gallery — not only volunteers, a couple of smart, engaged, really awesome women.

I want to start with Deirdre Weir Parkin. She was a volunteer during the election campaign with central. She’s a community leader. And I understand she is here with her partner building a life here. She moved here recently, so I want to welcome her.

Seated beside her is Alex Lipp, who is a shining light in all youth initiatives within the NDP [New Democratic Party] and has been for some time. She’s a good friend. She’s an extraordinary baker. And I think I remarked during my Throne Speech when I was thanking her for her role on my campaign as the get out the vote organizer, that she also possesses a rare dry humour always perfectly delivered, Mr. Speaker.

Seated beside Alex is Daisy Bowman. Daisy is someone I met more recently. I think sometimes you just assume you’ve met all of the interesting people in your very near radius. She lives just down the street from the constituency office. She came in one day and I was so charmed and interested and engaged by her, Mr. Speaker, I asked her to join the campaign as my assistant, or perhaps more fitting, my handler. I appreciate everything she did.

She served as a councillor in Mortlach for six years. She has a fascinating history really, Mr. Speaker. And I want to welcome . . . not only thank her for her role on the campaign, her gentle but assertive way with me, but also welcome her as well to this, her Legislative Assembly. So please join me in welcoming these three women seated in the east gallery.

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

Bhajan Brar: — Mr. Speaker, thank you. To you, through you, I would like to welcome 22 grade 6 students from Ethel Milliken School in Regina Pasqua seated in the east gallery. Mr. Speaker, this group of students from Ethel Milliken School are accompanied by their teacher, Kendra.

Mr. Speaker, I truly value and equally respect both teacher and students. Every teacher serves as a reminder for me that they are the reason that I am here today. Not only do they teach children, but also create our future. These teachers are nation builders, and students are our future. It is for this reason that teacher and student alike hold a special place in my heart.

Mr. Speaker, with this I will request all members of this Legislative Assembly to join me in giving a warm welcome to teacher Kendra and our future . . . [inaudible] . . . into their Assembly. Thank you.

And also welcome to my friend, NDP volunteer, and community member, Harjinder Monty, sitting in the east gallery, and Ravinder Grewal, sitting in the Speaker’s gallery — not better half, two-thirds of my colleague, Tajinder Grewal. Please join me to welcome in their legislature too. Thank you.

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

Aleana Young: — Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. To you and through you and to all members, I just wanted to take a brief moment and pop up and add my voice of welcome to everyone in the Assembly, but in particular to Deirdre Weir Parkin who has recently started in my office as a casual CA [constituency assistant].

As was mentioned, she’s an import here from Ontario, which I think is just fabulous; comes from a strong, loving, and progressive family that’s she so proud of; has jumped into Saskatchewan, embracing the community and embracing the good work of public service and politics fully, with both arms and a giant bear hug. She’s thoughtful. She’s articulate. She’s ambitious. She has an attention to detail that is desperately needed by someone like me. And I’m just so pleased that she and her partner have chosen to make their home in Saskatchewan and commit to helping build this province through public service. So I just wanted to add my voice and ask all members to join me one last time in all welcoming Deirdre to this, her legislature.

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

Jacqueline Roy: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I just wanted to join in welcoming Ethel Milliken’s Kendra to our Assembly here today. I would like to note that teacher Kendra was in fact stolen from Hawrylak School where I used to work with her. And unfortunately that did not help me, Mr. Speaker, because she as a teacher has been one of the most innovative ones that we have seen in Saskatchewan, always research-based in her practice, always future oriented, and lots of her own time and her own funds spent on what she brought. So thank you, Kendra, for bringing your students here today. And I’d like all members to join me in welcoming them again.

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

Brent Blakley: — Mr. Speaker, I would also like to welcome the kids from Ethel Milliken, the students. Ethel Milliken School is a school close to my heart. I went there as a grade 7/8 student in 1975. I will let their math skills figure out how long ago that was. But congratulations and thank you for attending today. And I welcome the Ethel Milliken Eagles to their Legislative Assembly. Thank you.

Speaker Goudy: — All right. I have a few introductions as well. Sharon Baldwin. Is she in? Sharon Baldwin in my gallery today, who is retiring after 42 consecutive years of service as a Hansard editor, and I’m sure that it’s had its challenges. Sharon has been editing the verbatim record since 1982. In her time, she has heard the debate of 309 individual members of this Assembly, and I’m sure she has her favourites. And I’m not sure if any of those are here still. She has also worked with and mentored 234 Hansard editors. Thank you.

Sharon has witnessed the transformation of Hansard production from typewriters to digital publishing. Through it all, Sharon has taken great care with every word of debate that crosses her desk. She has a skilled ear for the nuances of language, an expansive understanding of Saskatchewan history and politics, and an unwavering dedication to non-partisan service. It seems like you’d do a really good job in this seat.

And we appreciate all you’ve done. No one has heard or read more of the Legislative Assembly deliberations than Sharon Baldwin. Her expertise, wit, and friendship for her team will sorely be missed on the Hansard team. Congratulations, Sharon, on a remarkable career. Please congratulate her.

And also in the Speaker’s gallery, there’s a special family from the Philippines. Cien and her brother Franz have been working, one in the caucus office and the other in the Minister of Remote and Rural Health’s office, and they have talked a lot about their parents coming, and the anticipation and excitement. So on the 28th of November, her mom and dad arrived, Irma and Ferdie Dela Cruz. You could welcome them. They haven’t spent a Christmas together since 2017. So you look at immigration and all of the benefits that Canada and specifically Saskatchewan has had from the immigration from all the nations over the years.

And Mr. and Mrs. Dela Cruz, we want to thank you for sharing your kids with us and with this province. They were born and raised in Saudi Arabia, two of them. They’re spread out, the three children that they do have. But the first time I ever met Cien, I was with the consul general of the Philippines, Zaldy Patron, at the mall. And there was a young lady full of smiles. And I think you were one of the models for all of the many Filipino dress of the day. So welcome to the Dela Cruz family, and appreciate you being here with us today.

PRESENTING PETITIONS

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

Noor Burki: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. We, the undersigned resident of the province of Saskatchewan, wish to bring to your attention the following: that there were 951 health care closures across rural Saskatchewan between August 2019 and July 2023; that 407 of those closures were in Saskatchewan emergency rooms; that for the first time, an emergency room in one of our major cities shut down due to staff shortage; that Saskatchewan has the longest wait time for knee and hip replacement surgeries; that it is not acceptable that the women in our province are being forced to travel out of province for routine breast cancer and diagnostic care.

The Saskatchewan people deserve, that they have to have adequate and accessible health care where and when they need it.

We, in the prayer that reads as follows, respectfully request the Legislative Assembly of Saskatchewan to call on the Government of Saskatchewan to immediately address the short-staffing crisis in health care and listening to the health care workers on the solution to improve patient care.

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

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

Erika Ritchie: — I rise today to present a petition to the Government of Saskatchewan to protect Duncairn Reservoir Migratory Bird Sanctuary from expansion of irrigation. The undersigned residents wish to bring to your 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 allocations since 1981 due to supply constraints in the Southwest; that Duncairn reservoir was designated a migratory bird sanctuary in 1948 and covered by the migratory birds conservation Act, protecting migratory birds, their nests, and management of those areas.

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 effective monitoring of water allocations and usage is key to Saskatchewan having a sustainable supply of water available, and that the proposed expansion of irrigation would pose a significant threat to the fish and migratory birds.

We, in the prayer that reads as follows, respectfully request the Legislative Assembly call on the government to protect Duncairn Reservoir Migratory Bird Sanctuary from any proposed expansion of irrigation.

It is presented and signed by residents of Swift Current and Wymark. I do so present.

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

Joan Pratchler: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise today to present our petition calling for adequate funding in education. It’s important to note that the year’s failures in education have come after nearly a decade of funding that fails to keep pace with inflation and enrolment, and for years school divisions have described the system as already cut to the bone.

We, in the prayer that reads as follows, respectfully request the Legislative Assembly of Saskatchewan to 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.

Mr. Speaker, the signatures today reside in Regina. I do so present.

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

Hugh Gordon: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise to bring attention to the Assembly a petition to suspend the fuel tax.

We, the undersigned residents of the province of Saskatchewan, wish to bring to your attention the following: Saskatchewan people are struggling to keep up with the increased costs of food, shelter, and other basic necessities as wages have not kept up with the costs of the rate of inflation; that according to an October 2023 Angus Reid poll, more than one-third of people in Saskatchewan are struggling with the cost of living; that the Saskatchewan Party government could provide immediate cost-of-living relief to Saskatchewan families by suspending the 15‑cent-per-litre provincial gas tax; that the Saskatchewan NDP and the Canadian Taxpayers Federation, among others, have been calling for immediate gas tax relief for not only months but for years; and that other jurisdictions such as Alberta, Ontario, Manitoba, and Newfoundland have suspended or reduced their provincial fuel taxes to make life more affordable for residents of their province.

[14:00]

We, in the prayer that reads as follows, respectfully request that the Legislative Assembly of Saskatchewan call on the Government of Saskatchewan to suspend the collection of the provincial fuel tax from gasoline and diesel for a period of six months to help families struggling with the high cost of living.

Mr. Speaker, the signatories of this petition reside in Prince Albert and Saskatoon. I do so submit.

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

Kim Breckner: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise to present a petition calling on the Government of Saskatchewan to implement adequate and equitable SAID [Saskatchewan assured income for disability] rates.

The signatories to this petition would like to bring to your attention the following: that the Saskatchewan assured income for disability program is a program for people with significant and enduring disabilities who have barriers to employment; that current SAID rates mean that individuals who rely on the program live well below the poverty line; that poverty has deepened because the SAID program has not seen an increase in the basic amount in over seven years and does not account for regional realities of the cost of living; that this failure to increase the program represents a decrease of 20 per cent of benefits since 2012; that the provincial government engages in clawback policies that have been found to be discriminatory, such as the policy of requiring individuals to apply early for CPP [Canada Pension Plan] and then clawing it back dollar for dollar.

With that, I will read the prayer:

We, in the prayer that reads as follows, respectfully request the Legislative Assembly of Saskatchewan to call on the Government of Saskatchewan to increase SAID rates to account for inflation; respect the constitutional rights of persons with disability in Saskatchewan by halting discriminatory practices and aligning policies with the Charter of Rights and Freedoms; index the SAID rate’s basic amount to inflation going forward; provide targeted relief to those in deepest poverty, such as single individuals paying market rent.

The signatories of this petition live in Regina. I do so submit.

STATEMENTS BY MEMBERS

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

Former Saskatoon City Councillor Continues to Serve Community

Erika Ritchie: — Today I wish to honour Mairin Loewen, one of my nominees for the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee medal. Mairin was first elected to Saskatoon City Council in 2011 at age 27, becoming the youngest person and woman ever elected. She was re-elected in 2012 and 2016, completing her time on city council in the recent municipal elections.

Raised in Ward 7, she attended Carleton University and the University of Saskatchewan for her B.A. [Bachelor of Arts] and M.A. [Master of Arts] in political studies. Her career includes roles with the province of Saskatchewan, the Saskatchewan Medical Association, and the University of Saskatchewan.

Beyond her professional life, Mairin co-founded Girls Rock Saskatoon and has volunteered with CFCR Community Radio, the Open Door Society, and the Heart of the City piano program. She continues to live in Ward 7 with her partner and son, enjoying music and sports in her spare time. Despite the challenges of serving on council as a new parent, Mairin cited her family’s extensive support as key to her work. Her contributions, resilience, and sacrifices resonate deeply, especially in a time when women politicians face unique challenges, particularly on social media.

Thank you, Mairin, for your service and dedication, and all the best in your future endeavours.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the member from Humboldt-Watrous.

Hydroponic Greenhouse Supplies Quality Produce throughout Saskatchewan

Racquel Hilbert: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Golden Eden Produce is a unique producer located near Burr, Saskatchewan. They produce 104 tonnes, which is 208,000 pounds, of vine-ripened and chemical-free cucumbers, tomatoes, and peppers. They have a unique 26,000‑foot hydroponic greenhouse, which enables year-round high-volume production to meet the needs of major grocery store chains, large-scale institutions across Saskatchewan.

They utilize specialized equipment and skilled labour to maximize yield, as well as a sophisticated hydroponic system. They have an advanced climate-control technology that they operate within a wholesale distribution model, relying on intermediates to reach customers.

Workers at Golden Eden Produce require specialized knowledge and skill sets to operate equipment and manage the hydroponic system. Hydroponics is an advanced farming method not fundamentally different from others growing crops in the soil. Golden Eden Produce is pioneering a new era of agriculture which is built upon advancements and innovations.

Mr. Speaker, Golden Eden produce is available in Sobeys, Safeway, Co-op, Save-On Foods, and grocery stores across the province. They also give back to the community by donating extra produce to the Humboldt food bank, Teen Challenge, and local public schools.

Mr. Speaker, I ask that all members join me in thanking Golden Eden Produce.

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

Saskatoon Leader Champions Diversity, Inclusion, and Community Empowerment

Vicki Mowat: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise today to recognize Sadaf Kidwai on founding the Connect Women’s Empowerment Alliance and becoming a champion of diversity, inclusion, and community empowerment in Saskatoon. With over 17 years of experience as a business intelligence consultant and architect, Sadaf has combined her professional expertise with her passion for empowering women, particularly newcomers and under-represented groups.

Through Connect WEA [Connect Women’s Empowerment Alliance], she has provided mentorship, career guidance, and job placement support, helping countless women and families rebuild their lives. Under Sadaf’s leadership, Connect WEA has transformed lives.

Initiatives like the autism knowledge base group, spearheaded by a dedicated mom, have provided resources and support for families and educational assistants. Sadaf is also launching the Star program, a youth development initiative to nurture future leaders, and a communication skills program to help professionals thrive in diverse workplaces.

Sadaf has organized six festive markets, two of which I believe I’ve attended, which are multicultural events that showcase women-owned businesses, providing entrepreneurs with a platform to share their talents, grow their businesses, and celebrate cultural diversity. Her work exemplifies leadership, compassion, and a commitment to empowering others. Thank you, Sadaf.

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

Area Volunteers Fundraise for Playground Equipment at Rose Valley School

Chris Beaudry: — This May three moms of small children from the Rose Valley area decided it was time to upgrade their current playground structure at the Rose Valley School. As it’s the only playground in the community, they decided to look at a bigger structure so it would be accessible for those of all ages. Rose Valley School currently has 131 students from the communities of Archerwill, Rose Valley, Saint-Front, Fosston, Nora, and Yellow Quill First Nation. The playground will be used for years to come as families are growing and moving into the surrounding communities.

In May they received quotes totalling $205,000. This seemed like a big feat for the group as they set a one-year goal to raise the funds. Almost immediately a local Youth in Motion group caught wind and offered them $30,000. Since then the Rose Valley community playground group started grant writing, planning fundraisers, and sending out donation letters. To date, Mr. Speaker, they’ve raised $103,000 — 103,000 in seven months.

A local ag retailer entered the group into the WinField United contest called Raise the Barn. The Rose Valley community playground was selected as regional winners and won $10,000. They’re going to push hard to secure this one-year goal and to start fundraising the final $100,000 in 2025. It’s great to see the amazing Saskatchewan spirit in these local volunteers.

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

Saskatoon Woman an Advocate for Ending Intimate Partner Violence

Don McBean: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. We’ve heard the statistics outlining the prevalence, nay, the epidemic of domestic violence and intimate partner violence. I stand before you today to humbly share an example and inspiration of indomitable spirit in response to unspeakable tragedy.

In 2017 Joan and Mike McDonald, residents of the Saskatoon Chief Mistawasis riding, lived the unspeakable tragedy of their daughter being murdered in an egregiously brutal instance of IPV [intimate partner violence]. To hear their story sears the soul. To imagine how Joan and Mike with the other members of their family, including three young children left without a mother, is unfathomable and nearly impossible to process, except that it is proof of indomitable spirit.

Joan has become a force that’s vowed to spare as many other women and men and children from such experience. She’s evermore present at speaking opportunities, including a luncheon last Thursday hosted by the Soroptimist International of Saskatoon as part of their participation in the United Nations 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence. The shadow minister for the Status of Women and I were gifted the opportunity to hear Joan speak.

Joan is determined to shine as bright a light as possible on this phenomena to bring it out of the dark corners of the unspeakable to something like “together we can stop this.” Joan reached out to me two days after the election to make me aware of her story and latest project.

The shadow cabinet and I look forward to bringing forth a petition for the creative and foundationally transformational practice to make Saskatchewan a leader in this field. Recognizing Joan’s spirit and determination is a very proud first member’s statement. Thank you.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the member from Moosomin-Montmartre.

New Residency Program Brings Family Physicians to the Southeast

Kevin Weedmark: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to recognize a program that’s making a difference in health care education and recruitment in Saskatchewan. The first family physicians to complete the University of Saskatchewan’s southeast family medicine residency program completed their two-year residency this year. The program is based in Moosomin with additional spots in Humboldt and Weyburn, and is already expanding from four to five residency spots with the current intake.

Most training takes place in the base community and rotations include obstetrics, pediatrics, psychiatry, internal medicine, surgery, and anesthesia. Emergency care is integrated throughout so that on completion residents can practise family medicine in communities of any size. There are rotations in smaller communities in the second year including Watrous, Wynyard, Indian Head, Esterhazy, Melville, Redvers, and Strasbourg.

Mr. Speaker, with the first medical residents completing their training through the program this year, it’s already making a difference. Dr. Cara Fallis is one of the first family physicians to complete the program in Moosomin. She grew up in Toronto, and after her medical education chose Moosomin for her residency. Now that she’s completed the program, she and her family are living in Moosomin. They’re loving it and they’re valuable additions to the community.

In addition, Mr. Speaker, Dr. Fallis’s parents have moved from Toronto to Moosomin, bought a home, and joined the local pickleball league.

Mr. Speaker, there are challenges in health care, but this new and expanding program is one step toward meeting those challenges. Thank you.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the member from White City-Qu’Appelle.

Saskatchewan Technology Fund Supports Innovation in Reducing Emissions

Brad Crassweller: — Mr. Speaker, on Friday I was pleased to join the Minister of Environment and the Minister of Trade and Export Development and other colleagues as well as industry leaders to celebrate the inaugural funding recipients of the Saskatchewan Technology Fund. The Saskatchewan Technology Fund is more than just a funding initiative. It’s a clear demonstration of our government’s commitment to protecting the people, jobs, and industries that form the backbone of our province.

Mr. Speaker, in September our government announced more than 25 million in funding for 13 industry-led projects dedicated to reducing emissions through the Saskatchewan Technology Fund. Together these projects will eliminate over 4.5 million tonnes of emissions, the equivalent of taking a million cars off the road for an entire year.

A project like Strathcona Resources’ carbon capture initiative at Meota East Thermal Facility reducing emissions by 200 000 tonnes annually while advancing the frontier of clean energy technology. Or Cameco’s transition to electric drilling, a project that not only reduces emissions but also creates meaningful jobs in northern Indigenous communities. These initiatives represent the very best of the Saskatchewan innovative spirit and are just some of the projects combining cutting-edge technology with practical made-in-Saskatchewan solutions.

Mr. Speaker, with the Saskatchewan Technology Fund, we’re not just reducing emissions; we’re showcasing our leadership in sustainable innovation while enhancing the quality of life for every Saskatchewan citizen. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

QUESTION PERIOD

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

Health Care Staffing and Provision of Care

Carla Beck: — Mr. Speaker, this out-of-touch Sask Party government is failing to deliver the health care that Saskatchewan people need, and every single corner of this province, urban and rural, is impacted.

Let’s take, for example, Oxbow. Their health care facility has the human resources needed to deliver care at home. But Oxbow residents, the mayor, and health care workers report that they have to transport patients to Estevan, Arcola, Regina, sometimes even Swift Current, and often by ambulance.

Mr. Speaker, there seems to be a simple fix. Why won’t the Premier listen to the local people of Oxbow and ensure they can get the care that they need at home?

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Premier.

[14:15]

Hon. Scott Moe: — Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. I can assure the community members in Oxbow and the Leader of the Opposition that the Minister of Rural and Remote Health is reaching out and working directly with the community and with the Ministry of Health and the Saskatchewan Health Authority to see how we can move forward in delivering care that is being requested by the practitioners and by the community members in that town, of which is the model, Mr. Speaker, which we take to each and every community across this province to ensure that the services that are being delivered today are going to be delivered into the future, Mr. Speaker.

We cannot centralize services in our larger centres, Mr. Speaker. We need to ensure that we are preserving the services that we have. That’s why you’re seeing the government invest in the most ambitious health human resource plan in the nation of Canada. That’s why you’re seeing a government, in the most recent Speech from the Throne, commit to ensuring that all Saskatchewan people will have access to a primary health care provider, Mr. Speaker. And that’s why you’re seeing a government that’s investing in the capital needs that are necessary to ensure that our health care system is there for our children and our grandchildren.

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

Carla Beck: — Mr. Speaker, let’s be clear. That out-of-touch Sask Party government has been in power for 17 years. And that means they’ve had 17 years to fix these problems, to reopen acute care in Oxbow, but they have simply failed.

Mr. Speaker, it’s the same old Sask Party government. Saskatchewan people, no matter where they live, deserve access to the health care that they need when they need it. That’s why, Mr. Speaker, later today we’ll move a motion that would see both sides of this House work together to find those needed solutions in health care.

Saskatchewan people expect us and they need us to work together. Will the Premier support our motion and strike a bipartisan health care task force in this Assembly?

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Premier.

Hon. Scott Moe: — Mr. Speaker, in those 17 years we’ve been seeing in excess of 1,000 physicians that are now practising in the province and over 5,000 nurses that are now practising and offering services in a Saskatchewan community like Oxbow, Mr. Speaker, and like the community where I live — for example, Shellbrook — as well as Prince Albert, Saskatoon, Regina, Moose Jaw, and Prince Albert.

And in addition to that, Mr. Speaker, in many of those communities we’ve also invested in new hospitals, Mr. Speaker, including the Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital in the city of Saskatoon, Mr. Speaker. Saskatchewan was one of the provinces — one of the few provinces — in the nation that didn’t have a children’s hospital. That isn’t true today because of the work of the Saskatchewan Party government and, more importantly, the people of Saskatchewan over the last 17 years, Mr. Speaker.

In addition to that, as we look forward, Mr. Speaker, this is not a time for committees. This is a time for action, Mr. Speaker. It’s a time for investment. It’s a time for continued investment, Mr. Speaker, into the health care personnel that are offering services, a continued investment into our College of Medicine. Mr. Speaker, continued investment to ensure that every Saskatchewan resident, regardless of where they live, is going to have access to a primary health care provider.

Every Saskatchewan resident is going to have access to timely surgery, Mr. Speaker. And very shortly we’re going to replicate the urgent care centre that you see working here in Regina, Mr. Speaker, in Saskatoon. And then we’re going to add another in Saskatoon, another in Regina, and move on to Prince Albert, Moose Jaw, and North Battleford, Mr. Speaker.

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

Actions of Former Member and Conflict-of-Interest Legislation

Carla Beck: — Well, Mr. Speaker, it’s clear that the same old talking points aren’t going to get Saskatchewan people the health care that they need.

But I’m going to move on, Mr. Speaker. The Conflict of Interest Commissioner investigated Gary Grewal for breaking conflict-of-interest laws. He found that while he was a sitting member of this Assembly, Gary Grewal broke the law, cashing in on three-quarters of a million dollars in government contracts.

The Premier said following that, Mr. Speaker, and I quote, “I’d say that we accept the findings.” I have a simple question to the Premier. Does he still accept the commissioner’s findings?

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Premier.

Hon. Scott Moe: — I certainly do, Mr. Speaker.

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

Carla Beck: — Well, Mr. Speaker, I’m pleased to hear that. I’m asking, Mr. Speaker, because last week he and his government twice, twice stopped us from even discussing the matter.

Now Saskatchewan’s conflict-of-interest laws currently don’t allow for fines to be imposed on MLAs after they leave office. So a simple question to the Premier: will he commit to fixing this obvious loophole in the Act so that MLAs can be rightly held accountable even after they leave office?

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Premier.

Hon. Scott Moe: — Mr. Speaker, I would say that the conflict-of-interest legislation — of which we all have access to the Conflict of Interest Commissioner to ensure that we are in compliance — that is the expectation, is that people do comply with that piece of legislation that is here quite simply to protect elected members on the floor of this Assembly that serve today and have served over the years, Mr. Speaker.

That Act was brought in in 1993. It’s likely time to have a look at the Act, Mr. Speaker. When you look at what has happened since 1993, I think the very first cell phone in this province was about 1988 or ’89, Mr. Speaker. It didn’t have access to the internet, like what we see on our cell phones here today. You see what is happening with internet access, with social media, all of the above, Mr. Speaker. It’s likely time to have a look at that Act, Mr. Speaker.

And so what I will be asking and have asked the Minister of Justice to do over the course of the next year is to have a look at our conflict-of-interest legislation, Mr. Speaker, and with an eye to updating the Act to what would be needed by today’s standards.

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

Meara Conway: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Sorry, did I just hear the Premier say the next few years, Mr. Speaker? I’m struggling to understand the logic here. The Conflict of Interest Commissioner stated that Mr. Gary Grewal participated in government contracts and “I therefore find that Mr. Grewal has breached section 15(5) of the Act.”

He broke the law. He continued to do it after he was told he was offside.

Speaker Goudy: — I apologize. I allowed the Government House Leader to have questions on policy and the government’s direction. And you know, there is rules concerning speaking of people who are outside of the Chamber who have no opportunity to speak for themselves. So I would ask us to move along on the Gary Grewal comments and questioning, unless you have something concerning policies or procedures for our Social Services ministry.

I recognize the member from Regina Elphinstone-Centre.

Meara Conway: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My question for the government: will the Sask Party commit to fixing our laws so that penalties under The Members’ Conflict of Interest Act apply to both current members as well as former members who broke the law while sitting government members?

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Premier.

Hon. Scott Moe: — Well we had said over the course of the next year, Mr. Speaker. And the goal would be to modernize an Act that was brought in in 1993 and has not had any significant modernization since that point in time.

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

Health Care Staffing and Provision of Care

Vicki Mowat: — Mr. Speaker, this tired and out-of-touch government won’t take any accountability, and they certainly can’t manage our health care system. Oxbow residents aren’t the only ones outraged at this government’s total health care mismanagement. Residents from Yorkton are as well.

Angela Prokopetz lost her family doctor in July after he and three other doctors up and left her primary care clinic in Yorkton. What does it say about this government when four doctors leave the same clinic at the same time?

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of Health.

Hon. Jeremy Cockrill: — Mr. Speaker, the Premier spoke to this in earlier questions in today’s question period about our Throne Speech commitment to find every Saskatchewan family a primary care provider. Mr. Speaker, that’s this government’s commitment to the residents of Saskatchewan whether they live in Oxbow, whether they live in Yorkton, whether they live in Saskatoon, or right here in the capital city of Regina, Mr. Speaker.

That’s exactly why we have the nation’s leading health human resources action plan, Mr. Speaker. We have brought in over 218 physicians into this province over the last two years, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, we will continue to work with the Saskatchewan Medical Association, the Saskatchewan Health Authority, and our community partners, Mr. Speaker, to recruit and to retain family physicians. Thank you.

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

Vicki Mowat: — Well that Throne Speech commitment is light on the details, Mr. Speaker. It ignores the fact that family doctors are leaving this province.

Mr. Speaker, Angela wrote to the minister when she learned that this group of doctors was leaving her clinic. And the minister replied, admitting that another clinic in Yorkton had also lost doctors after closing its doors. To quote the minister: “I understand that the closure of Yorkton Alliance health care clinic has put pressure on other clinics as well as the Yorkton Regional Health Centre’s emergency department.”

That’s a minimum of five family doctors leaving Yorkton around the same time, Mr. Speaker, and we know that the hospital has experienced 72 closures since March 2022. What are families like Angela’s supposed to do when they lose their family doctor?

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of Health.

Hon. Jeremy Cockrill: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. You know, Mr. Speaker, what was light on details was the NDP’s platform on health care. They want to talk about these challenges that we see in some of our communities — whether that’s accessing primary care, whether that’s timely waits for surgeries, Mr. Speaker — but there’s no plan from that side. Mr. Speaker, in contrast, this government actually has a plan, the nation-leading health human resources action plan.

Mr. Speaker, as I said, 218 physicians recruited into this province, Mr. Speaker. I know for a fact, Mr. Speaker, that we just have had a SIPPA [Saskatchewan international physician practice assessment] doc land in Yorkton not too long ago, Mr. Speaker. I remember the member statement from earlier today, Mr. Speaker, talking about our family residency program in the Southeast.

Mr. Speaker, it’s initiatives like that that this government has committed to, to make sure that there are family physicians and other primary care providers available in rural communities for all families.

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

Vicki Mowat: — Mr. Speaker, our plan was another billion dollars into the health care system. Their plan was continued cuts to health care.

To the minister: how many doctors have left Yorkton in the last year?

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of Health.

Hon. Jeremy Cockrill: — Mr. Speaker, you know, they talk about another billion dollars for health care. They forgot to cost their platform, Mr. Speaker. So again, in order to have a plan, you actually have to have a costed plan, which is what this government has. Again, Mr. Speaker, when it comes to communities all over the province, including Yorkton, we are committed to recruiting doctors . . .

Speaker Goudy: — I just wanted to remind everyone that when we’re asking questions, speak; when we’re giving answers, speak. But when we’re not, that we need to listen. But I would ask the members on the government side that when questions are asked, we need to focus on the questions as well. So thank you.

I recognize the member from Saskatoon Fairview.

Vicki Mowat: — Mr. Speaker, all talking points from this minister, zero acknowledgement of what it’s like for families like Angela’s to lose their family doctor.

Mr. Speaker, we are ready to work together to find solutions in health care. The people of this province and the health care staff, they deserve that. Angela deserves that. She’s a cattle farmer near Yorkton and relies on her health. Not having access to a family doctor means many end up seeking treatment in hospitals, that is if there are hospitals nearby that are not experiencing ER [emergency room] closures, Mr. Speaker.

Will the Sask Party support our motion for a health care task force to help fix problems in Yorkton and across our province?

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of Health.

Hon. Jeremy Cockrill: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, the Premier said it well earlier today in question period. This time right now, Mr. Speaker, this is a time for action, and that’s exactly what this government is focused on, Mr. Speaker. We will continue to double down and focus on our health human resources action plan, Mr. Speaker.

Mr. Speaker, I had the opportunity to meet with the Saskatchewan Union of Nurses last week, Mr. Speaker, to talk about a patient-focused task force that I’d like to form with the Saskatchewan Union of Nurses, our three health care provider unions, and other stakeholders in the sector to make sure that we can address some of the challenges that we see in health care.

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

Vicki Mowat: — Mr. Speaker, we’ve heard a lot about this task force, but no action has been taken from this minister yet. Angela couldn’t be here today because of the roads. Will the minister commit to meeting with her to hear her concerns about health care in Yorkton?

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of Health.

Hon. Jeremy Cockrill: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I’d absolutely commit to that meeting, Mr. Speaker. I hope that we can find a time where the member from Yorkton, myself, and Angela can all speak. Thank you.

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

Provision of Educational Facilities

Hugh Gordon: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, not only is the health care system in Saskatchewan in crisis, so is the education system. We hear story after story of children having classes in libraries, gyms, and even staff rooms because they do not have classrooms. Clearly something needs to be done.

During the 2024 election we on this side committed to building the following: a new elementary school in Moose Jaw, a new high school in Emerald Park-White City, a new school in Buffalo Narrows, and a new school in Sandy Bay. Which of these schools will the minister commit to building today?

[14:30]

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of Education.

Hon. Everett Hindley: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. This is the government that since 2008 has committed over $2.6 billion towards 101 major school infrastructure projects across this province, 69 new or replacement schools, 32 major renovation projects in Saskatchewan.

And, Mr. Speaker, just last week we announced the latest steps with respect to the Harbour Landing School here in Regina, Mr. Speaker, which will provide for spaces for 500 Regina public students and 350 students from the Catholic school division, Mr. Speaker, along with a number of other schools right across this province.

And this is a commitment that this government has made in previous budget cycles, and we’ll continue to invest in our education capital projects right across Saskatchewan, Mr. Speaker.

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

Hugh Gordon: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, the question wasn’t which of the already announced capital projects are needed; all of them are needed because schools in this province are full. That’s also why we need the four schools I just listed. Emerald Park and White City are the only communities with a population of 5,000 that have to bus high school students out of town. Twin Lakes Community School in Buffalo Narrows needs to be replaced.

These communities need new schools. This is not a matter for debate. Why won’t the minister commit to building them?

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of Education.

Hon. Everett Hindley: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Further to what I had said previously in this government’s commitment to investing in new school capital projects, the other thing that is important as part of this process is to make sure that we are engaging with school divisions and consulting with the school divisions and school boards right across this province and what their various needs are, whether it’s new schools or significant renovation projects in their communities, Mr. Speaker.

This is a government that is going to be making sure that we are consulting with school divisions, talking to our partners, talking to front-line educators, the teachers, those that are working in the classroom, Mr. Speaker, and making sure that we’re working closely with the school divisions so that we can work with the school divisions to be able to identify what their priorities are in their school divisions when it comes to capital projects now and into the future. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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

Mental Health and Addictions Supports

Joan Pratchler: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. As a community mental health nurse, sadly I have first-hand experience in this government’s failure in addressing the mental health and addictions crisis in our communities. It’s no secret that this government is failing when we have the worst rates of suicide and self-harm and toxicity deaths among the provinces. We don’t need more reactionary policies, Mr. Speaker. We need prevention, prevention, prevention.

When will this government get to work and ensure that we have a comprehensive plan that will save lives?

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

Hon. Lori Carr: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, every loss of life due to suicide is a tragedy, and I extend my condolences to those who have lost a loved one under such difficult circumstances.

Mr. Speaker, our government is striving to ensure that there are services available to those who need them in the right place at the right time. We’re investing in in-patient beds across the province that are dedicated to patients with intensive mental health issues, as well as transitional beds for those who might be transitioning out, Mr. Speaker. Other resources that are available but are not limited, are rapid-access counselling. We have the HealthLine 811, police and crisis teams which are right in the communities, Mr. Speaker.

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

Joan Pratchler: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. According to the Canadian Mental Health Association, Saskatchewan has the highest rates of mood and anxiety disorders amongst the provinces, yet we have the second-lowest number of psychiatrists per capita. As we continue to hear of people who seek mental health care but are turned away, there are solutions out there, Mr. Speaker, which could see people succeed in our communities. This could save lives.

Will the minister strike a bipartisan health care task force and work with us to find solutions today for an effective and comprehensive plan for mental wellness?

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

Hon. Lori Carr: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I believe the Premier and the Minister of Health have talked about that earlier in their answers today in question period, Mr. Speaker.

But, Mr. Speaker, what our government is trying to do is to ensure that there are services available for those that are trying to reach out. And one of the services I’d really like to try and highlight is the HealthLine 811 service. This is a number that’s available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The line is staffed by experienced and specially trained registered nurses, registered psychiatric nurses, and registered social workers.

Mr. Speaker, this line is confidential so that those who do choose to call can be assured that what they choose to share will stay in confidence. And as I mentioned, this line is staffed by professionals. Their goal will be to give advice to help manage the situation and to get a connection to supports and resources they may need. And it would go without saying that if there is any immediate danger, Mr. Speaker, that they should call 911.

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

Joan Pratchler: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. These are not new issues, but these are serious issues. So I’ll ask it again. When will this government stop choosing the ideology of only recovery but add prevention to the plan and come up with a real plan that will save lives?

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

Hon. Lori Carr: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. We speak about this in the House often, and we are moving towards a recovery-oriented system of care, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, this is a holistic program that looks at each individual person, not just maybe a 28‑day program and then supports. Depending on individual circumstances of a person, we focus on their recovery. We don’t enable them using because we believe all drugs, illicit drugs, are not good for an individual and do not help them out, Mr. Speaker.

So we’re more focused on that recovery. And whatever that length of time is, we spend that time with them in our facilities. And then we have those out-patient services, Mr. Speaker, that help them live healthy lives in recovery.

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

Joan Pratchler: — Mr. Speaker, this minister wants to talk about 811 and virtual beds while people continue to suffer and even die. We need solutions, solutions like the one put forward by our former member from Cumberland. When will we see a comprehensive plan?

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

Hon. Lori Carr: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, this issue doesn’t just touch adults, Mr. Speaker, it also touches youth and children. And we take the wellness of those youth and children very seriously in our government. It is a priority. We have a strategy for children and youth that spans across the government, and it involves collaboration between ministries, agencies, and community-based organizations. The strategy has 15 areas of focus.

We have several examples of programs right across the province, Mr. Speaker. We’ve got one in the North specifically. It’s called Roots of Hope, and it’s a suicide prevention plan, Mr. Speaker. It’s a community-led initiative in northern Saskatchewan. It’s grounded in knowledge and experience of local community leaders to develop, build on, and implement sustainable, culturally appropriate components, Mr. Speaker. Thank you.

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

Monitoring Conditions in Group Homes

Brittney Senger: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, there’s just no excuse. Every single person in this province deserves access to care and to safe, stable housing. But last year the ministry inspected less than 37 per cent of group homes supporting adults with intellectual disabilities. The people living in these homes often aren’t capable of advocating for themselves, their safety, or their dignity. That’s what the inspections are for. Why did the minister fail to inspect two-thirds of these group homes?

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

Hon. Terry Jenson: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Again I’ll reference back to last week with the auditor’s report as it pertains to this issue. And just to let the Assembly know that this is an issue we take very seriously, and it’s going to be one that we will be working on into the future to ensure that we have residents that are being kept safe and secure. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Deputy Leader of the Government House. Wow, that’s . . .

TABLING OF DOCUMENTS

Hon. Lori Carr: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I am tabling an addendum to the supplementary estimates no. 1 that were tabled on Thursday, December 5th, 2025 as sessional paper no. 44.

Due to administrative errors, the following corrections should be made: page 5 and 6, the second occurrence of “Government Relations” is changed to “Health”; page 5 and 6, the second occurrence of “Information and Privacy Commissioner” is changed to “Ombudsman and Public Interest Disclosure Commissioner.” Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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

Vicki Mowat: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Prior to orders of the day, I seek leave to move a motion under rule 61.

Speaker Goudy: — Sorry, yeah. Orders of the Day isn’t here. Bills . . .

INTRODUCTION OF BILLS

Bill No. 8 — The Child Care (New Facilities) Amendment Act, 2024/Loi modificative de 2024 sur les garderies d’enfants (nouveaux établissements)

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of Education.

Hon. Everett Hindley: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I move that Bill No. 8, The Child Care (New Facilities) Amendment Act, 2024 be now introduced and read a first time.

Speaker Goudy: — It has been moved by the Minister of Education that Bill 8, The Child Care (New Facilities) Amendment Act, 2024 be now introduced for the first time. Is it the pleasure of the Assembly to adopt the motion?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Speaker Goudy: — Carried.

Deputy Clerk: — First reading of this bill.

Speaker Goudy: — When shall the bill be read the second time? I recognize the Minister of Education.

Hon. Everett Hindley: — Next sitting of the Assembly.

Speaker Goudy: — Next sitting.

Bill No. 9 — The Traffic Safety Amendment Act, 2024

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of SGI [Saskatchewan Government Insurance].

Hon. Jeremy Harrison: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I move that Bill No. 9, The Traffic Safety Amendment Act, 2024 be now introduced and read a first time.

Speaker Goudy: — It’s been moved by the Minister of SGI that Bill 9, The Traffic Safety Amendment Act, 2024 be now introduced and read for the first time. Is it the pleasure of the Assembly to adopt the motion?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Speaker Goudy: — Carried.

Deputy Clerk: — First reading of this bill.

Speaker Goudy: — When shall the bill be read the second time? I recognize the Minister of SGI.

Hon. Jeremy Harrison: — Next sitting.

Speaker Goudy: — Next sitting.

Bill No. 10 — The Miscellaneous Statutes (Public Registries Enhancement) Amendment Act, 2024

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of Justice.

Hon. Tim McLeod: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I move that Bill No. 10, The Miscellaneous Statutes (Public Registries Enhancement) Amendment Act, 2024 be now introduced and read for the first time.

Speaker Goudy: — It has been moved by the Minister of Justice that Bill No. 10, The Miscellaneous Statutes (Public Registries Enhancement) Amendment Act, 2024 be now introduced and read for the first time. Is it the pleasure of the Assembly to adopt the motion?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Speaker Goudy: — Carried.

Deputy Clerk: — First reading of this bill.

Speaker Goudy: — When shall the bill be read the second time? I recognize the Minister of Justice.

Hon. Tim McLeod: — Next sitting of the Assembly.

Speaker Goudy: — Next sitting.

Bill No. 11 — The Miscellaneous Statutes (Public Registries Enhancement) Amendment Act, 2024 (No. 2)/Loi modificative diverse (amélioration des registres publics) de 2024 (n° 2)

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of Justice.

Hon. Tim McLeod: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I move that Bill No. 11, The Miscellaneous Statutes (Public Registries Enhancement) Amendment Act, 2024 (No. 2), bilingual, now be introduced and read for the first time.

Speaker Goudy: — It has been moved by the Minister of Justice that Bill No. 11, The Miscellaneous Statutes (Public Registries Enhancement) Amendment Act, 2024 be now introduced and read for the first time. Is it the pleasure of the Assembly to adopt the motion?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Speaker Goudy: — Carried.

Deputy Clerk: — First reading of this bill.

Speaker Goudy: — When shall the bill be read the second time? I recognize the Minister of Justice.

Hon. Tim McLeod: — Next sitting of the Assembly, Mr. Speaker.

Speaker Goudy: — Next sitting.

[14:45]

STATEMENT BY THE SPEAKER

Question of Privilege

Speaker Goudy: — This morning, at 10:26 a.m., I received a letter from the Deputy Government House Leader in which she raised a question of privilege under the provision of rule 12 of the Rules and Procedures of the Legislative Assembly of Saskatchewan. The Opposition House Leader has been informed of the details of the case and the proposed question of privilege, and the Deputy Opposition House Leader has provided me with a written reply in accordance with rule 12(4).

It’s my responsibility as Speaker to carefully examine the case in the context of the Assembly’s practices and precedents to determine whether a prima facie case of privilege has been established, and as I have now not had sufficient time to do so, I would ask that you allow me to defer my ruling until tomorrow.

I recognize the member from Saskatoon Fairview.

MOTION UNDER RULE 61

Call for Special Committee on Health Care

Vicki Mowat: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I seek leave to move a motion under rule 61.

Speaker Goudy: — Leave has been requested. All right. Will the member briefly state the purpose of the motion and read the text of the motion.

Vicki Mowat: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. This is an important motion that I hope we can all be united on to form a special bipartisan committee to look at the health care crisis and to come up with some solutions.

If leave is granted, I would propose the following motion:

That a special committee on Saskatchewan’s health care system be created to examine issues related to short-staffing, recruitment, retention, and wait times; and further,

That the committee will engage with community stakeholders, health care workers, families, and experts to address the issues facing our health care system and propose solutions.

Speaker Goudy: — The member for Saskatoon Fairview has requested leave to move without notice a motion of urgent and pressing necessity under rule 61. Is leave granted?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Some Hon. Members: — No.

Speaker Goudy: — Leave has not been granted. Next item of business.

ORDERS OF THE DAY

WRITTEN QUESTIONS

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Government Deputy Whip.

Kevin Weedmark: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I wish to table question no. 1.

Speaker Goudy: — Question no. 1 is tabled.

Deputy Clerk: — Question no. 2. MLA Nippi-Albright.

Sean Wilson: — I wish to order the question.

Speaker Goudy: — Ordered.

Okay, I’ll move on. Oh, I recognize the Government House Leader. Or is this the Minister of Justice? Government House Leader.

GOVERNMENT ORDERS

MOTIONS

Recess of Assembly

Hon. Tim McLeod: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I move:

That pursuant to rule 9, the Assembly immediately recess for the Standing Committee on Crown and Central Agencies to conduct its business; and further,

That the Assembly resumes immediately following the adjournment of that committee.

Speaker Goudy: — It has been moved by the Government House Leader that pursuant . . . Order.

That pursuant to rule 9, the Assembly immediately recess for the Standing Committee on Crown and Central Agencies to conduct its business; and further,

That the Assembly resumes immediately following the adjournment of the committee.

Is it the pleasure of the Assembly to adopt the motion?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Speaker Goudy: — Carried. This Assembly stands recessed.

[The Assembly recessed from 14:49 until 16:48.]

Speaker Goudy: — This Assembly will now resume proceedings.

PRESENTING REPORTS BY STANDING AND SPECIAL COMMITTEES

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

Standing Committee on Crown and Central Agencies

Doug Steele: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I am instructed by the Standing Committee on Crown and Central Agencies to report that it has considered certain estimates and present its first report which includes the 2024‑25 supplemental estimates no. 1. I move:

That the first report of the Standing Committee on Crown and Central Agencies for the thirtieth legislature be now concurred in.

Speaker Goudy: — It’s been moved by the Chair:

That the first report of the Standing Committee on Crown and Central Agencies for the thirtieth legislature be now concurred in.

Is the Assembly ready for the question?

Some Hon. Members: — Question.

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

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Speaker Goudy: — Carried. I do now leave the Chair for the Committee of Finance.

COMMITTEE OF FINANCE

Motions for Supply

Chair B. McLeod: — The items before the committee are the appropriation resolutions. I recognize the Minister of Crown Investment Corporation.

Hon. Jeremy Harrison: — Thank you. I move the following resolution no. 1:

Resolved that towards making good the supply granted to His Majesty on account of certain charges and expenses of the public service for the fiscal year ending March 31st, 2025, the sum of $130,711,000 be granted out of the General Revenue Fund.

Chair B. McLeod: — The Minister of CIC [Crown Investments Corporation of Saskatchewan] has moved resolution no. 1:

Is the committee ready for the question?

Some Hon. Members: — Question.

Chair B. McLeod: — Is it the pleasure of the committee to adopt the motion?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Chair B. McLeod: — Carried. I would ask the minister to move that the committee rise and that the Chair report that the committee has agreed to certain resolutions and ask for leave to sit again. I recognize the minister.

Hon. Jeremy Harrison: — Thank you, Mr. Chair. I move that the committee rise and that the Chair report that the committee has agreed to certain resolutions and ask for leave to sit again.

Chair B. McLeod: — It has been moved by the Minister of Crown Investments Corporation that the committee rise and that the Chair report that the committee has agreed to certain resolutions and ask for leave to sit again. Is that agreed?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Chair B. McLeod: — That is carried.

[The Speaker resumed the Chair.]

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Chair of Committees.

Blaine McLeod: — Mr. Speaker, the Committee of Finance has agreed to certain resolutions, has instructed me to report the same, and to ask for leave to sit again.

Speaker Goudy: — When shall the resolutions be read the first time? I recognize the Minister of CIC.

FIRST AND SECOND READINGS OF RESOLUTIONS

Hon. Jeremy Harrison: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I move that the resolutions be now read the first and second time.

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

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Speaker Goudy: — Carried.

Deputy Clerk: — First and second reading of the resolutions.

Speaker Goudy: — When shall the committee sit again? I recognize the Minister of CIC.

Hon. Jeremy Harrison: — Next sitting.

Speaker Goudy: — Next sitting. Pursuant to rule 32(1), the Minister of Finance shall move the reading of the appropriate bill . . . or the Minister of CIC, I guess in this case, will move the first reading of the appropriation bill. I recognize the Minister of CIC.

APPROPRIATION BILL

Bill No. 12 — The Appropriation Act, 2024 (No. 2)

Hon. Jeremy Harrison: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I move that Bill No. 12, The Appropriation Act, 2024 (No. 2) be now introduced and read the first time.

Speaker Goudy: — The Minister of CIC has moved that Bill No. 12, The Appropriation Act 2024 (No. 2) be now introduced and read the first time. Is it the pleasure of the Assembly to adopt the motion?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Speaker Goudy: — Carried.

Deputy Clerk: — First reading of this bill.

Speaker Goudy: — When shall the bill be read a second time? I recognize the Minister of CIC.

Hon. Jeremy Harrison: — I request leave to move second and third reading of Bill No. 12, The Appropriation Act, 2024 (No. 2) immediately.

Speaker Goudy: — The Minister of CIC has requested leave to move second and third reading of Bill No. 12, The Appropriation Act, 2024 (No. 2) immediately. Is leave granted?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Speaker Goudy: — Carried. The minister may proceed.

Hon. Jeremy Harrison: — Pursuant to rule 32(1)(e), I move that Bill No. 12, The Appropriation Act, 2024 (No. 2) be now read a second and a third time.

Speaker Goudy: — The Minister of CIC has moved second and third reading of Bill No. 12, The Appropriation Act, 2024 (No. 2). Is the Assembly ready for the question?

Some Hon. Members: — Question.

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

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Speaker Goudy: — Carried.

Deputy Clerk: — Second and third reading of this bill.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Government House Leader.

Hon. Tim McLeod: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Given no further business on the agenda, I move that this House do now adjourn.

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

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Speaker Goudy: — Carried. This House stands adjourned until tomorrow at 10 a.m. Thank you.

[The Assembly adjourned at 16:55.]

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

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