Speaker Goudy: — Yesterday, December 11th, 2024, I deferred my ruling on a question of privilege. Earlier today I received a letter from the Government Deputy House Leader that she was withdrawing her question of privilege. For reason of the formal withdrawal of this case, there is no need to provide a ruling. I consider the matter closed. Thank you.

ROUTINE PROCEEDINGS

INTRODUCTION OF GUESTS

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the member from Weyburn-Bengough.

Michael Weger: — Good morning, Mr. Speaker. And to you and through you, Mr. Speaker, I’d like to introduce, seated up in your gallery, someone who I’ve mentioned before, very special to me, my wife, Cara. I think I mentioned her in my reply to the Speech from the Throne. I’m pretty sure I dedicated a whole page to her, Mr. Speaker, so I just ask everyone to welcome Cara to her Legislative Assembly.

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

Hon. Terry Jenson: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. To you and through you, this morning I’d like to introduce four people up in the west gallery that have made my work here very easy. First of all my chief of staff, Lee Guse, is also joined by my senior ministerial assistant, Wynonna. My senior admin is Ariann, and our junior admin — give us a wave — is Jessika. This is, I believe, Jessika’s first trip into the Assembly, and I’d like to welcome all four of them this morning.

Oh, and Zach just walked in. He’s always on time, except for today. But welcome, Zach, just in time. And so I’d like to invite everybody in the Assembly to join me in welcoming these five guests into their Legislative Assembly.

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

Bhajan Brar: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, to you, through you, I would like to introduce my relatives sitting in the east gallery: Balkar Dhaliwal along with his sister Tejwant Dhaliwal and brother-in-law Maninderpal Singh Brar.

Balkar Dhaliwal is a power engineer by profession and working in the Regina hospital and the refinery. Maninderpal Singh Brar is an IT [information technology] specialist, and Tejwant Dhaliwal are both working in BC [British Columbia].

Please join with me to welcome them in their Legislative Assembly.

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

Noor Burki: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. To you and through you, I want to say again I will join the member of Regina Pasqua for these three incredible people in the east gallery. I will say, Balkar Dhaliwal, he was my ex-student as well at one point back in 2010 or ’09 when he was pretty young. And he’s still young now as well. But he was really working very hard. He worked as an engineer in the hospital of Regina, and currently he’s working with refinery up there. Thank you for all your hard work for our communities.

And along with that, Maninderpal and Tejwant Dhaliwal, thank you very much for your services in the IT industry. And I know a lot of people will be saying about him that he was a mentor, a good resource for them to getting through to those job searches and stuff like that. And when I was talking to his wife, I was very happy that she is working over here as a registered nurse in Regina, but she told me unfortunately she is in BC. We wish you could stay with us and work with us, but anyway we say the best luck to you.

And I will say, all the members in this Assembly to give them a warm welcome to their Legislative Assembly, and they are welcome over here.

PRESENTING PETITIONS

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

Tajinder Grewal: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise to present a petition for calling for real action on climate change.

The undersigned residents of the province of Saskatchewan wish to bring to your attention the following: that Saskatchewan, like other jurisdictions, continues to experience the challenges brought on by climate change, severe forest and grassland fires, increased flooding and drought; the cost of increased climate change continues to grow through increased crop insurance and provincial disaster assistance program payments; that Saskatchewan is falling behind other jurisdictions on climate change action with no green jobs plans, no plan to tackle greenhouse gas emissions, and no incentives for renewable energy; that Saskatchewan has the second-highest per capita greenhouse gas emissions in Canada; that between 2005 and 2023 the Sask Party government failed to reduce Saskatchewan’s total greenhouse gas emissions.

With that I will say the prayer that reads as follows:

Respectfully request that the Legislative Assembly of Saskatchewan call on the Government of Saskatchewan to take real action on climate change.

The petition has been signed by the people from Prince Albert. I do so present. Thank you.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the member from Athabasca.

Leroy Laliberte: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise today to present a petition calling for duty-to-consult legislation. The undersigned residents would like to bring to our attention the following: Saskatchewan needs legislation to ensure the provincial duty-to-consult is fulfilled and is carried out in honour of the Crown; the Sask Party government has voted against duty-to-consult legislation; the current duty-to-consult policy in Saskatchewan is not effective; the Sask Party government did not follow its own guidelines on consulting inherent and treaty rights holders while drafting the current duty-to-consult policy.

I’ll 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 enshrine duty-to-consult into law, enacting meaningful duty-to-consult.

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

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

Don McBean: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise today to present a petition about the crisis in health care, that the undersigned residents of the province of Saskatchewan wish to bring your attention to the following: that there were 951 health care closures across rural Saskatchewan between August 2019 and July 2023; 407 of those closures were to Saskatchewan emergency rooms; and that for the first time an emergency room in the major cities is shut down due to staff shortages; that Saskatchewan people deserve to have adequate and accessible health care where and when they need it.

And I read the prayer as follows:

Respectfully request the Legislative Assembly of Saskatchewan call on the Government of Saskatchewan to immediately address the short-staffing crisis in health care and work with health care workers on solutions to improve patient care.

The signatories today reside in the city of Prince Albert. I do so submit.

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

Sally Housser: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Given that Saskatchewan seniors have served this province faithfully and contributed their whole lives, I’m pleased to stand and present a petition calling for home supports for older adults in Saskatchewan.

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

I will read the prayer:

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

The undersigned reside in Saskatoon. I do so present.

Speaker Goudy: — Reading and receiving petitions. Oh, I am so sorry. One more that’s up there. No, that’s good. I recognize the member from Regina Northeast. Sorry.

Jacqueline Roy: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. As a proud teacher I rise today to present a petition to the Legislative Assembly to fix the crisis in our classrooms. The undersigned residents would like us to know that Saskatchewan is one of two provinces to experience a decline in per-student funding in our public schools, a loss of 10 per cent in 2012; that per-student funding over the same period increased by 8.3 per cent at the national level; and that the Sask Party government’s cuts to education mean that teachers, EAs [educational assistant], and support staff continue to be overworked and underpaid.

I will read the prayer:

In the prayer that reads as follows, we respectfully request that the Legislative Assembly of Saskatchewan call on the Government of Saskatchewan to immediately provide adequate funding to public, Catholic, and francophone schools in Saskatchewan and fix the crisis in our classrooms.

The undersigned residents are from Prince Albert and Hudson Bay, Mr. Speaker. I do so present.

STATEMENTS BY MEMBERS

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the member from Kindersley-Biggar.

Macklin Resident Celebrates Her 105th Birthday

Kim Gartner: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Yesterday a special resident in the community of Macklin, Mrs. Susan Conly, celebrated her 105th birthday. Susan has given a lifetime of service supporting her community, church, and provincial projects. Susan is an accomplished author, a member of the Saskatchewan Writers’ Guild, and a youth literacy scholarship donor.

Susan compiled and edited the 900‑page history for the communities of Macklin, Isham, and three rural school districts. Susan has made many contributions to her community as a volunteer, including researching and mapping of community cemeteries. She was a founding member for the local New Horizons for Seniors association, an advocate for literacy, and a promoter of sustainable agriculture.

Susan received the Saskatchewan Volunteer Medal in 2020. Susan and her late husband, Jim, were members of the Saskatchewan historical society, travelling annually to southern Saskatchewan to paint the cairns which mark the trail the North West Mounted Police followed west.

Until recently, Susan would take a walk each day at 6:30 a.m. because, in her words, “Quite simply it is the best time of day.”

On behalf of her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, the community of Macklin, and on behalf of her Legislative Assembly, I want to extend happy birthday wishes to Susan on celebrating her 105th birthday.

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

Human Rights Day Honours Dignity and Worth of Every Individual

Jacqueline Roy: — Thank you. Today, Mr. Speaker, on Human Rights Day we honour the dignity and worth of every individual. Too often we view human rights only through the lens of international issues of the past or specific concerns like a physical disability. While these issues are important, the Sask human rights code reminds us human rights encompasses many more areas.

We can’t solve all of our province’s challenges overnight, but through legislation, through joint task forces and collaboration we can bring more voices to the table. As we look to 2025, the challenges we face are significant. Violence against women remains alarmingly high. Mental health crises touch everyone but especially our kids; a fact, Mr. Speaker, that keeps me up at night.

[10:15]

Housing is a right yet homelessness persists. Students with special needs face barriers in education. Trans folks endure ongoing threats to physical safety and high suicide rates. Malnutrition in the North and delays in medical treatment loom large, and TRC [Truth and Reconciliation Commission] Calls to Action must be honoured.

Eleanor Roosevelt once said, “It is not enough to talk about human rights; one must believe in them. And it is not enough to believe in them; one must work at them.” I believe in the Sask human rights code, Mr. Speaker, all of its facets, but we need real action to protect Saskatchewan. We need to work at them. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the member from Batoche.

Wheatland Express Offers Memorable Tourist Experience

Darlene Rowden: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise today to celebrate a remarkable tourist experience, all aboard the Wheatland Express train that runs between Wakaw and Cudworth. At the start of the tour guests are welcomed to Little Big Town, a charming faux western town that will take visitors back in time. As people arrive, the town comes alive with live local entertainment and interactive experiences.

Some of the fleet’s cars include a diner car, a bar car, a safety car, a gift shop car, and a baggage car. The Wheatland Express Safety Train, based out of Cudworth, provides education on railway safety using instructions, safety maintenance, a simulation machine, and the train itself with the goal of reducing the number of railway-related incidents and accidents.

Another great attraction to the rail tours are the themed tours. One can experience the Great Prairie Train Heist or the Pumpkin Palooza Murder Mystery, and at Halloween you can jump aboard the Nightmare Express. There are dates in December for the Magical Christmas Express to enchant the whole family. Children should always keep their eyes peeled for Santa and visit with the elves. The staff and organizers of the Wheatland Express truly exemplify holiday magic and community spirit.

Merry Christmas, Mr. Speaker. Merry Christmas to everyone in this Assembly.

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

Stonebridge Community Association Completes Outdoor Rink

Darcy Warrington: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I’m on my feet to recognize the Stonebridge Community Association for making it a Merry Christmas in Saskatoon Stonebridge.

Alena Sherwood has been the president of the SCA [Stonebridge Community Association] since it was formed about a decade ago. Her work — along with Mike Fuller, Taylor Robb, and countless volunteers — has resulted in the completion of the first outdoor rink located just south of Chief Whitecap and St. Kateri schools in Stonebridge.

We raised tens of thousands of dollars over the years, including over $6,000 from a school 2021 coin drive, where students pulled all their change from their couches, from their piggy banks, from their birthday money, from their allowances to show their support for a place to practise their skating and their slapshots. Many of their names will be immortalized on the puck boards to recognize their contribution.

We’ll look forward to hosting countless pickup hockey games and events at this facility. Its proximity to the schools and the location in the heart of the neighbourhood will result in endless hours of enjoyment for everyone looking to enjoy some Canadian winter traditions. We’ve already had dozens step forward to flood and supervise some skating as volunteers.

Thank you to Alena, Mike, Taylor, Peter’s Excavating, Ride On Construction, Electra Sales, and the city of Saskatoon for their commitment to bringing this facility to life for the benefit of physical activity and fun in our community.

I ask that all members show their appreciation with me for the work of these community members and kids to get the ice flooded for the first time this December. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the member from Weyburn-Bengough.

Weyburn Non-Profit Organization Fundraiser Helps Support Families

Michael Weger: — Mr. Speaker, on November 27th I was able to hop in my truck as soon as session ended and drive back to Weyburn to attend the 25th annual Festival of Trees fundraiser hosted by The Family Place.

Mr. Speaker, The Family Place is a non-profit organization established in 1996 and exists to improve the quality of life for children and families. They believe that a strong, healthy start in a child’s life is the key to helping them succeed in the future. The Family Place serves 200 plus families every week within the community of Weyburn and a very large surrounding area. Most importantly, Mr. Speaker, The Family Place offers all their programs and services free of charge so there are no barriers for any families to participate and receive support.

Mr. Speaker, The Family Place relies heavily on donations, grants, and fundraising to meet their annual budgetary needs. Their largest fundraiser of the year is called the Festival of Trees, and for its 25th anniversary it resulted in a record-breaking success. At the event, 27 beautifully decorated Christmas trees were auctioned off along with 150 silent auction items. The grand total raised on auctions, raffles, 50/50, and donations came to $93,027.

This event is not possible without the support of very generous individuals and businesses from Weyburn and surrounding area. And, Mr. Speaker, it is the hard work of the volunteer board of directors and the amazing staff, led by executive director Dawn Gutzke, that make this organization so successful. Thank you.

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

Shopping Local Benefits Small Businesses

Aleana Young: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

’Twas the season for giving the holiday cheer

And shopping for gifts now that time’s drawing near.

But as you fill stockings and trim up your tree,

Remember the small shops that help our communities.

With cozy boutiques and local delights,

Each purchase you make makes their season so bright.

From handcrafted treasures to unique things galore,

Your support helps them thrive, now and evermore.

Amazon may glitter with discounts and deals,

But small businesses offer something that feels,

Like a personal touch and a story well told,

A heartfelt connection both precious and bold.

So shop with intention, with love, and with care

For the dreamers and makers who are always there.

This season of joy, as you find perfect gifts,

Help small businesses soar with your generous lift.

For the spirit of Christmas is all about sharing,

And with each local purchase, you show that you’re caring.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the member from Lumsden-Morse.

Briercrest College Hosts Powerful Christmas Musical

Blaine McLeod: — Mr. Speaker, on November 30th over 2,400 guests gathered in the historic Hildebrand Chapel at Briercrest College and Seminary to witness Christmas in Caron, 1942. This original dramatic musical drew from true stories of RAF [Royal Air Force] pilots stationed at No. 33 Caron elementary flight training school. It combined music, drama, and history alongside the Nativity to celebrate the resilience and faith that defines our shared heritage.

Thirteen actors, 70 choir members, 26 orchestra members, and 12 crew members were supported by many unseen contributors. Their efforts created a remarkable portrayal of a young flight cadet’s experience in Caron during the Second World War, when RAF training schools were relocated to Canada amidst the chaos of war in Europe. The production immersed the audience in the life of a cadet burdened with fears for his family and the weight of immense responsibility.

Ultimately the story shared a touching message of hope centred on the timeless story of an infant born in a humble stable. The audience was captivated by the performance, but also by nods to familiar places like Mortlach, Caron, Regina, and Saskatoon. Yes, our communities’ history was front and centre. This event stands as a powerful example of how the arts can connect us to our past, inspire our future, and remind us of enduring hope in the Lord Jesus Christ.

Merry Christmas to all and may God bless us, everyone.

QUESTION PERIOD

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

Cost of Living and Affordability Measures

Carla Beck: — Mr. Speaker, Saskatchewan people are struggling, with more than two-thirds reporting that they’re struggling financially. And costs are set to continue to rise. A new report released just last week found that families will spend an average of $800 more on groceries next year than they did this year.

Now can the Premier explain to the people of Saskatchewan why he continues to add the PST [provincial sales tax] to food costs that are already out of control for Saskatchewan families? And will he finally cut the PST on groceries today?

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Premier.

Hon. Scott Moe: — Mr. Speaker, I’d reiterate again on the floor of this Assembly that there is no PST on groceries.

Mr. Speaker, I would also take this opportunity to again speak to the fact that the Saskatchewan people just had the opportunity to vote in a provincial election where they voted for not only a strong economy but a brighter future in the province of Saskatchewan, one that ensures, in a platform put forward by the Saskatchewan Party — now government, Mr. Speaker — that is based on affordability and ensures that Saskatchewan will continue to be the most affordable place in Canada to reside.

You add to that the Speech from the Throne, which commits to health care improvements in this province, Mr. Speaker, unlike you see across the nation; investing in our children’s education; and ensuring that the communities where we live, where Saskatchewan families live, are safe each and every day.

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

Carla Beck: — Mr. Speaker, if life were so affordable for Saskatchewan families, two-thirds of them wouldn’t be reporting that they’re struggling just to put food on the table. And, Mr. Speaker, the plan that the Premier talks about doesn’t deliver any substantial relief for Saskatchewan families until 2026.

But families will pay more next year — 2025. In the meantime they’re already paying more for gas, more for kids’ clothes, and for ever-rising rents. And there’s no help in sight from that government for another 15 months.

Now can the Premier tell the people of this province how many more Saskatchewan people will face financial ruin while he sits on his hands?

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Premier.

Hon. Scott Moe: — Mr. Speaker, in addition to The Saskatchewan Affordability Act, which will largely implement the affordability measures that we campaigned and were elected on in the most recent election, I would point to the carbon tax fairness for families Act, Mr. Speaker, which is going to save families this coming year $480.

The only place in the nation where families are not paying a carbon tax on natural gas and electricity to heat their homes is right here in the province of Saskatchewan. The only place in Canada. And what I would say to the NDP [New Democratic Party] leader, Mr. Speaker, the Opposition Leader in this House is, has she communicated with her federal counterpart who just . . . who just . . .

Speaker Goudy: — I’d mentioned yesterday that when a person is speaking, we listen. When someone is answering, we listen. I know we can multi-task and listen and talk, but I’d ask that you don’t and I’d ask that we listen. And I know it’s the last day — remember those days in school — and we’re all fidgety but please listen. Thank you.

Oh, recognize the Premier.

Hon. Scott Moe: — . . . who just yesterday, Mr. Speaker, again propped up a Liberal government thereby ensuring that the carbon tax is going to increase this coming spring, increasing the cost of fuel, increasing the cost of groceries, and increasing the costs on all Canadian families, including those that live in Saskatchewan.

Mr. Speaker, this most recent election, Saskatchewan people, yes, they voted for a Saskatchewan Party government to ensure that our province continues to be the most affordable, the most affordable place to live in Canada. They also voted for change, Mr. Speaker. We’re delivering both starting in this session.

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

Management of Health Care System

Carla Beck: — Well, Mr. Speaker, the Premier knows full well we don’t support the carbon tax, but what he doesn’t seem to understand is how much families in this province are struggling. This out-of-touch government, they blocked motions to cut the gas tax, motions to cut the PST on groceries, and they refuse to lift a finger to look into northern food prices in this province. It’s shameful, Mr. Speaker. And it certainly isn’t change from that government.

Now another area where this government is failing, failing to meet the mark, is in health care — overrun ERs [emergency room] in Saskatoon, health care closures in Regina, in Oxbow, and the list goes on and on. With the many, the many problems in health care today in this province, how out of touch can this government be to bring nothing new to this Assembly to deal with the health care crisis in our province?

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Premier.

Hon. Scott Moe: — Mr. Speaker, I would point to the most recent Speech from the Throne, where this is a government that committed to 450,000 surgeries over the course of the next four years, a government committed to ensuring that every Saskatchewan resident has access to a primary health care provider, and a government that committed to expanding the very successful urgent care model that’s operating here in Regina to another one in Regina, two in Saskatoon, one in Prince Albert, one in Moose Jaw, and one in North Battleford. Just on health care, Mr. Speaker.

[10:30]

This is a government that ran on a platform, Mr. Speaker. We listened to Saskatchewan people. They asked us to govern and to implement that platform that we put before them, but they also asked us for change. And we are delivering on both, starting with the legislation that you see in this session, starting with the Throne Speech that you see in this session. But what we see unfortunately from members opposite, Mr. Speaker, decade after decade, leader after leader, is the same old questions, the same old tactics, and the same old NDP.

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

Provision of Long-Term Care

Carla Beck: — Mr. Speaker, the talking points are easy, but the evidence of our broken health care system are all around us in this province. They’re failing in health care; they’re also failing seniors in this province.

Mr. Speaker, we’re joined today in your gallery by Jeff Nachtigall. Jeff’s 86‑year-old dad, Helmut, was living at Pioneer Village here in Regina. But Jeff and the family pulled him out because Helmut wasn’t getting anything close to the care that he needs, that he deserves. And now they’re paying out of pocket for private care that they simply can’t afford.

What does the Premier have to say to Jeff about the way that his dad was simply failed by the public health care system in our province?

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of Health.

Hon. Jeremy Cockrill: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and thank you to the Leader of the Opposition for the question. I’d take this opportunity to welcome Jeff to his legislature here in Regina. We have worked with long-term care providers all throughout the province. We’re committed to ensuring that families and seniors have access to care that’s appropriate in their communities, Mr. Speaker. I can assure Jeff and his family that the ministry will absolutely work with his family to find an opportunity for his father. Thank you.

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

Keith Jorgenson: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. It brings me absolutely no joy to rise to talk again about the chaos in our long-term care system. Jeff is here today to talk about how the health care system failed his dad, Helmut. Jeff is mad, and he has every right to be mad at what happened to his dad: broken bones, soiled clothing, restrained for hours at a time.

Saskatchewan seniors who built this province deserve better than this. Helmut and so many others, this is not the case. The system is failing them. Jeff would like to meet with the Minister of Health today to talk about his experience at Pioneer Village. Will the minister commit to meeting with Jeff today?

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

Hon. Lori Carr: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and of course we’ll meet with Jeff today. Investing in our senior citizens is a high priority for our government. Mr. Speaker, in the 2024‑25 budget alone, this year’s budget, we continue to invest in our seniors, increasing the personal care home benefit through social services again, this year the maximum of $2,500 per month.

Advancing 240 specialized long-term care facility . . . right here in the city of Regina. Mr. Speaker, what those long-term care beds will do is they will open up opportunities in other care facilities that we have throughout Regina. Adding additional long-term care spaces to Saskatoon as well. $30 million funding boost for our non-profits and affiliate care providers, so they can help support those seniors in the homes that they’re in, Mr. Speaker. Thank you.

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

Keith Jorgenson: — Mr. Speaker, the government keeps talking about virtual beds and buildings that don’t exist with no staff. People don’t want pretend help; they want actual help.

Jeff came here today to tell the story of what happened to his dad at Pioneer Village — again, broken bones, left to sit in soiled clothing for hours, sitting hunched over with no one to check on him, restrained in his bed against his family’s wishes. This is not the dignified care that the seniors in Saskatchewan deserve.

Does this out-of-touch Sask Party government commit to fixing the health care system?

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

Hon. Lori Carr: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. And, Mr. Speaker, what the member opposite talks about is unacceptable. And I see that we’ve been provided with a consent form here, so it’s absolutely something that we’ll be looking into with regards to the care to his father.

I’ve already committed to meeting with Jeff later today, and that’s what I will do, and we will look into this further. Thank you.

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

Keith Jorgenson: — Thank you for committing to meet with Jeff. I do appreciate that. But this doesn’t really address the longer term issue that happens again and again.

Mr. Speaker, things were so bad for Helmut, Jeff had enough. He checked his dad out and put him into private care. And I completely understand that. I would have done exactly the same thing. But private care isn’t cheap. His family is now paying upwards of $10,000 a month for care for Helmut and his wife. It’s absolutely shameful. This is money they simply can’t afford to pay, Mr. Speaker. Families like Helmut’s are left wondering if they are going to live longer than they can afford to in this province.

Does the minister think that it’s acceptable that families have to go bankrupt to get the care that they deserve?

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of Seniors.

Hon. Lori Carr: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and I’ve reiterated already that the care that we provide for our seniors in this province is very important for our government. I have committed to meeting with Jeff, and we will have that conversation. Thank you.

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

Affordability Measures and Economic Growth

Joan Pratchler: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My constituents in Regina Rochdale are deeply frustrated that this House is about to break for the holidays and the Sask Party government hasn’t done a tangible thing to make life more affordable for them now. This government’s affordability plan won’t kick in for another 15 months, if ever. And we’re heading into Christmas continuing to tax gas, groceries, and children’s clothing.

The Sask Party government deserves a lump of coal in their stockings for failing to act. Why is this Sask Party government doing nothing at all to make life more affordable?

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of CIC [Crown Investments Corporation of Saskatchewan].

Hon. Jeremy Harrison: — Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. Some of the preamble was just factually incorrect. That’s why we introduced The Saskatchewan Affordability Act as one of our very, very first measures when we returned to the House, Mr. Speaker.

And you know, we’re hearing heckling from the member for Meewasin and others who have a lot to say from their seat, Mr. Speaker, very little from their feet. I’d encourage the member for Meewasin to get up and ask the next question if he has so much to say from his chair, Mr. Speaker.

But what we are committed to, and what this session really has been focused on, is affordability, Mr. Speaker. That’s why we introduced the bill. That’s why we moved it through all stages expeditiously. I look forward to later today, to the Administrator coming into the Chamber to provide Royal Assent for that.

But what that bill does, it reduces income taxes for everyone in Saskatchewan, Mr. Speaker. It increases the low-income tax credit, increases the grad retention program. All of these things are going into place as soon as the Administrator enters into the House to give Royal Assent. And I look forward to that, Mr. Speaker. Reduces the cost of home renovations. And I have more to add.

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

Joan Pratchler: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Let me channel my inner Meewasin. Yes. Yes, I am a proud grandma. And I know there are many proud grandparents out there who want to buy clothes for their grandchildren at Christmas. But the cost-of-living crisis is leaving so many without any means to buy something special to put under the Christmas tree.

We should be supporting families, not driving them into debt. Will the Sask Party government do the right thing today and support my motion to immediately take the PST off children’s clothing?

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of CIC.

Hon. Jeremy Harrison: — Well thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. We have heard question after question the entire session demanding more spending. Billions of dollars of more spending being demanded every single day from across the floor. What we have not heard one question from the members opposite about, Mr. Speaker, is how we grow the economy. Not one single question the entire session. That is how we pay for everything else. And that’s something that the party opposite has never, ever, ever understood.

That is why we work so hard with our partners in the private sector at attracting investment into this province, which is leading Canada, Mr. Speaker. And what that has manifested itself in, and we just saw this last Friday with the new job numbers, the strongest economy in the entire country, the lowest unemployment rate in Canada. We added 8,900 jobs last year. And that’s something everybody can be very proud of. More to add as well, Mr. Speaker. Look forward to the next question.

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

Overdose Deaths and Treatment for Addictions

Betty Nippi-Albright: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. What we do know is that there is a growing number of overdose deaths in this province. Mr. Speaker, in my community of Saskatoon, the overdose crisis continues to take lives every day. Fentanyl and carfentanyl are killing people. And our emergency rooms — like the police, fire, and ambulance — are totally overwhelmed.

Meanwhile this tired and out-of-touch government cuts the supports that keep people alive. When will we see a real plan to reduce the overdose deaths that are taking far too many lives?

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

Hon. Lori Carr: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and I thank the member opposite for the question. Mr. Speaker, every loss of life due to an overdose is a tragedy. And I extend my condolences to those who have lost a loved one under such difficult circumstances.

But, Mr. Speaker, we are adding resources. There are no cuts being made in this. Our government is putting forward the new action plan for mental health and addictions. It came forward in 2023 and it has three pillars. First, building capacity. We are adding 500 treatment spaces across the province to double capacity for addictions treatment, Mr. Speaker.

Secondly, we’re improving the system itself. We’re working to implement a central intake system to make treatment easier to access for people who need it. And third, we are moving to a recovery-oriented system of care. I would say that is something, Mr. Speaker.

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

Betty Nippi-Albright: — Well you tell that to the people that are dying, those families who can’t even access those services when they need it. Mr. Speaker, this tired and out-of-touch government pays lip service to the overdose crisis that is taking lives. They aren’t even making . . .

Speaker Goudy: — Sorry, I would just ask concerning . . . “Paying lip service” would say that it’s not honest. And that’s unparliamentary. So please continue on. I recognize the member from Saskatoon Centre.

Betty Nippi-Albright: — Okay. Well they’re still talking about the services that they’ve committed to the people, and yet they’re not being there.

In Lumsden the in-patient beds are still closed and there’s no plan for that to open. Meanwhile people in communities across our province are dying. The holidays are coming, Mr. Speaker, and that means more overdoses. What is the Sask Party government going to do to reduce the number of overdose deaths this holiday season?

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

Hon. Lori Carr: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I believe in the House we’ve had the discussion about Lumsden before. That facility is very important to us with those 60 spaces that are being provided, Mr. Speaker. We’ve talked about the difficulty getting full in-time services going there.

But, Mr. Speaker, services are being provided there, whether they be out-patient or day in-patient where we actually pick people up, take them to the facility. We feed them their meals. We get them home. We provide supports for them to call once they are back at home. So we are there for those individuals. There is more than one way to provide services for individuals. We are looking at a holistic plan — all-of-the-above, not leaving anything unturned, Mr. Speaker.

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

Out-of-Province Travel and Economic Growth

Meara Conway: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. While the Premier says he needed to stay at an $800‑a-night luxury hotel to “stand up for Saskatchewan’s economy,” it appears the real reason the Premier charged taxpayers $12,000 for a luxury trip was to attend a partisan gala so he could accept an award.

[10:45]

But not just an award, Mr. Speaker. Apparently the Premier was fundraising as well. So while the Premier put this trip on the public’s credit card, this looks very much like it was a partisan fundraising trip paid for by Saskatchewan taxpayers. Why is the Sask Party government charging taxpayers for luxury hotels so they can fundraise from out-of-province donors and add partisan awards to their trophy shelf?

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of CIC.

Hon. Jeremy Harrison: — Well I can tell you what, Mr. Speaker. What the Premier does — and what members of this government do — every day is work to promote our province within the country and around the world and defend our economic interests, which is precisely what the Premier was doing on that trip and what he’s done on many, many others, for which he has been vociferously criticized by the members opposite, Mr. Speaker.

I referenced earlier today why we do this. Why do we engage internationally? Why do we engage across the country? It’s so we can pay for all of the other priorities that we have here in this province — health care, education. It’s how we have been able to increase our export value from this province from 16 billion under the other guys to $52 billion. That’s how you grow a budget from $7 billion to $20 billion, Mr. Speaker.

If it were still up to the NDP, Mr. Speaker, they would still be fighting about $7 billion. We have grown the ability to pay for all of the services that people expect because we engage across the country, we engage internationally, and nobody does it better than our Premier.

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

Review of Regina Physicians’ Work Environment

Meara Conway: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Short on any answer as to why that Premier charged taxpayers for a private fundraising trip, Mr. Speaker.

Switching gears to another ethics failure from this government. A year ago the member for Coronation Park was raising serious concerns of racism in the health care system here in Regina. In August I wrote a lengthy and detailed letter to the then Health minister with additional concerns around conflict of interest. No action and no response from this government. Then just this week we saw the appointment finally of some external investigators.

Why did it take more than a year to appoint external investigators? And can we get the minister’s commitment today that that investigator will address all of the concerns raised by these physicians and that they will agree to meet with all of the impacted physicians?

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Minister of Health.

Hon. Jeremy Cockrill: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, the Ministry of Health has been aware of some long-standing challenges within the Regina physician community. That’s why yesterday we announced the initiation of a review that’s going to be taking place by two out-of-province physicians to provide fresh eyes to challenges that we’ve had within the Regina physician community. These two reviewers are going to be contacting and reaching out to the Saskatchewan Medical Association and their members within Regina, looking to interview those folks over the next couple of months.

And we look forward to the findings of that review because, Mr. Speaker, we know it’s important to have the best possible workplace culture here in Regina so that we can continue to attract doctors and specialists and other health care workers to our capital city. Thank you.

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

Emergency Shelter and Cold-Weather Strategy

Don McBean: — Mr. Speaker, when the House adjourns today we will all enjoy our privilege and return to warm homes and loving families, and this is not a privilege that everyone gets to enjoy. It’s cold out. Homelessness is an ongoing crisis in every city in the province, and yet we still haven’t seen a cold-weather strategy from the Minister of Social Services.

To the minister: how many people will die of cold this winter due to the inaction of the Sask Party government?

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

Hon. Terry Jenson: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. This is an issue this government takes extremely seriously. We’ve worked with our municipal partners, and we’ve funded Saskatoon, Regina, and Prince Albert with $750,000. And we have those conversations each and every day about their needs for shelters.

But I think this goes to a larger issue, and that’s this government’s approach to homelessness, the provincial approach to homelessness plan. $40.2 million over two years being invested in our communities — in our community-based organizations, with our municipal partners — to make sure that we provide the help that people need, whether that be outreach workers working within the CBO [community-based organization] sector to meet those individuals where they are, whether that’s funding a street team here in Regina that is helping with those individuals to get them into a safe place that’s warm.

Mr. Speaker, again, this is an issue that’s extremely . . . We take it seriously, and we’re going to continue to make those investments, and we’re going to continue to work with our community partners on this. Thank you.

Speaker Goudy: — So earlier during question period . . . I just want to caution as questions for government business need to be given, and concerning the trip of the Premier . . . And we just want to make sure that we keep them focused on government business. So I will move on.

I recognize the member from Regina Rochdale.

MOTION UNDER RULE 61

Suspension of Provincial Sales Tax on Children’s Clothing

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

Speaker Goudy: — Will the member briefly state the purpose of the motion and read the text of the motion.

Joan Pratchler: — Mr. Speaker, this is an important motion, and I hope we can all be united on it in order to deliver some needed cost-of-living relief to parents and grandparents just before Christmas.

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

That this Assembly calls on the government to immediately suspend the collection of provincial sales tax from children’s clothing in order to help families struggling with the high cost of living.

Speaker Goudy: — The member from Regina Rochdale 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

Speaker Goudy: — I am advised we’re just going to take a short recess while we wait to move on, for the Administrator representing the Lieutenant Governor. So short recess.

[The Assembly recessed from 10:53 until 11:00.]

Speaker Goudy: — Order. I’m advised that His Honour the Administrator is here for Royal Assent. All please rise.

[At 11:01 His Honour the Administrator 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.

Speaker Goudy: — May it please Your Honour, this Legislative Assembly at 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. 1 — The Saskatchewan Affordability Act

Bill No. 2 — The SaskEnergy (Carbon Tax Fairness for Families) Amendment Act, 2024

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

Speaker Goudy: — 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. 12 — The Appropriation Act, 2024 (No. 2)

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.

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

[At 11:04 His Honour retired from the Chamber.]

Speaker Goudy: — Please be seated. I recognize the Government House Leader.

Hon. Tim McLeod: — Mr. Speaker, I request leave to make a farewell statement for Christmas.

Speaker Goudy: — The member has asked leave to make a farewell statement for Christmas. Is leave granted?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Government House Leader.

STATEMENT BY A MEMBER

Acknowledgements and Christmas Greetings

Hon. Tim McLeod: — Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, as this first session of the thirtieth legislature draws to a close and as we approach the Christmas season, I’d like to start off by thanking the Opposition House Leader for her co-operation and her role in working together to allow this Chamber to function.

Mr. Speaker, I would also like to thank you for your leadership in the Chair and for keeping decorum in this Assembly.

And of course thank you to the Clerk’s office. Thank you, Iris Lang, for your leadership of the Legislative Assembly Service and your team at the Table. As well, through you, to the rest of the Legislative Assembly staff.

There are several other people who keep this building running smoothly, Mr. Speaker, so I would like to thank the Legislative Assembly Service, the Sergeant-at-Arms, the broadcast service, Hansard, cafeteria staff, the cleaning staff, and so many others, Mr. Speaker.

I would like to extend my gratitude to the building manager, Steve Bata, and his dedicated team including Jeff Tochor and Ralph Ward, for their hard work day in and day out, Mr. Speaker. I also want to thank the legislative district security team for their outstanding efforts in ensuring that the safety of this building is secure each and every day.

Thank you to the government House business and research team: Ashley Wass, Jared Dunlop, Paul Ripplinger, and Keenan Boutilier.

And, Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank our Premier. His service and leadership continue to be an inspiration for all of us. The many sacrifices that he makes, Mr. Speaker, on all of our behalf are rarely acknowledged or even recognized, but I want to take this opportunity to express all of our sincere appreciation for everything he does.

And finally I want to thank all of the MLAs [Member of the Legislative Assembly] for their service to our province and to all of the people of this province who make Saskatchewan the greatest province to live in.

We wish everyone the best Christmas, a wonderful holiday season to be enjoyed safely with family and friends. And through you, Mr. Speaker, Merry Christmas to all.

Speaker Goudy: — I recognize the Opposition House Leader.

Nicole Sarauer: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like the opportunity to join with the Government House Leader in extending some Christmas wishes. I will start by extending some to yourself, Mr. Speaker, as well as a heartfelt thank you for the work you’ve done this session keeping decorum in the House and keeping this place functioning in the way that it should be.

I’d also like to thank all of those who work with you and for you, Mr. Speaker. The Clerks-at-the-Table, thank you for your wisdom and your guidance. All of the Pages, thank you for your service. We very much all appreciate it. As well as all of those who work in this building, including Hansard, those who are working behind the cameras in audio and visual, the cafeteria staff, the building staff, everyone at legislative services more broadly, Mr. Speaker. As well as the Sergeant-at-Arms, the commissionaires, and the LDSU [legislative district security unit], thank you for keeping us safe and keeping all of the visitors and employees of this Assembly safe as well.

Mr. Speaker, I’d like to thank all of those who work as staff on the government side, with a special thanks to all of those who work in House business. As is well known, they end up having to work quite closely with folks on our side of the fence, Mr. Speaker, in particular Ashley, Paul, Keenan, and Jared. Just a heartfelt thank you.

To all of the MLAs on government side, in particular the new MLAs, you survived your first session. Congratulations. But a special thank you to the Government House Leader. I very much appreciate the relationship we’ve been able to build and the way we’ve been able to function, to work together to keep this place functioning as smoothly as possible.

Mr. Speaker, I would be remiss if I didn’t also extend a thank you to the MLAs on my side in particular. Also to the new MLAs, you’ve survived your first session. Congratulations. As well a heartfelt thank you to our leader whose steadfast guidance, perseverance, and strength keeps us motivated and keeps us strong, Mr. Speaker.

I would also be remiss if I didn’t thank, on behalf of everyone in this Chamber, our constituency assistants and all of the staff who work to support us. I would like to thank our staff on caucus side, in particular Mitch Bonokoski who I work quite closely with, and our families who we know very well serve alongside with us tirelessly, and we wouldn’t be able to do the work that we do without their dedication and their sacrifice, Mr. Speaker.

As the Government House Leader had mentioned, I too want to extend to everybody a heartfelt Merry Christmas and happy holidays. Hope everybody has a safe and enjoyable holiday season. Thank you.

Speaker Goudy: — And I would also ask leave for a short comment on Christmas and some thanks. Is that okay?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

Speaker Goudy: — Thank you. I just want to say first of all that if you hadn’t noticed, being organized and chairing a meeting isn’t my strength. But I would say that the House leaders have been a huge help for me, and the Clerks in this place. I’m surprised that how a person like me from Melfort, Saskatchewan can enter into a beautiful place like this and serve alongside of people like you. And I wasn’t sure what to expect sitting in this Chair. And it has been a delight. It’s been a tough delight, but it’s been a delight.

And the Clerks — Iris and Kathy, Rob and Danielle, Miranda — I really appreciate all your support. The Pages, they’ve done a great job. The Law Clerk and Parliamentary Counsel, Marie Shalashniy . . . Marie, affectionately known by those who appreciate her. Lyall and John. The Legislative Assembly Service staff and the Hansard staff who work hard and late.

Steve Bata, with all of the changes and new bodies shuffling around, he and his crew doing all the patient work that they did for us. That’s the SaskBuilds and their team. Linda and her coworkers in the cafeteria, keeping us well-fed. The LDSU, Dani Herman and her security team — appreciate them. The caucus staff on both sides, to keep us organized, and our constituency assistants at home working hard as we’re all here serving.

And in my office: Nulee and Sheila. I was delighted on, you know how things worked in the office. The Christmas party last night, I appreciate everyone coming, and they did a great job.

And all of you members, I just want to thank you for your kindness to me. And it hasn’t been a difficult role to serve in this spot as the referee because you’ve all been kind, and at times when I had to stand up, you were very good about receiving blowing of the whistle. And you know, we’ve got a lot of work to do, I’m sure, as I’ve heard the government say many times, we’re doing well but we got a lot left to do. And I’m sure we’re going to all work on things.

I just wanted to mention one thing about the Christmas season. Not everybody understands a lot of jokes are made about politicians, and we self-deprecate ourselves. But I know the hard work that goes into serving and the neglect of families at times, and I just really want to remind us all of the importance of serving our spouses, our children, our families, and our friends. So I would ask that you take time and you enjoy the holiday, and that you use it . . . Just remember that Christmas is about a little family, going to be taxed by the government, heading off to Bethlehem. And there was no place to stay and someone showed kindness. And that little boy that was born that day, he grew up and he taught us how to love one another.

And you know, when I look at you, I think, wow. I pinch myself some days and I think, I get to serve with these people. Like, that’s the Premier of the province that I get to be friends with. And the Leader of the Opposition, all of these people that I look up to. But you know, in your communities, we’re looked up to as well. And one of the things that that little boy grew up to believe was that when we invite people into our home, invite those who can’t invite you back. Show mercy to the poor. Bless those who curse you. Do good to those who spitefully use you.

So I would ask that all of us as hon. members take that back to our communities and show kindness and love and bless the people that we serve, not as a minister, not as an MLA, but as an honourable person who leads by example.

[11:15]

So God bless you all. Thank you for making my job easy. And have a Merry Christmas. Thank you.

Why is the Government House Leader on his feet?

Hon. Tim McLeod: — To ask leave to move a motion regarding sessional adjournment.

Speaker Goudy: — The minister has requested leave to move a motion regarding sessional adjournment. Is leave granted?

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

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

MOTIONS

Session Adjournment

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

That when this Assembly adjourns at the end of this sitting day, Tuesday December 10th, 2024, it shall stand adjourned until recalled by the Speaker upon the request of the government, and when recalled, the Speaker shall give each member, if practicable, clear notice of such date and time.

Speaker Goudy: — The Government House Leader has moved:

That when this Assembly adjourn at the end of this sitting day, Tuesday December 10th, 2024, it shall stand adjourned until recalled by the Speaker at the request of the government, and when recalled, the Speaker shall give each member, if practicable, clear notice of such date and time.

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

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed.

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

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

Speaker Goudy: — This House stands adjourned until recalled by the Speaker. Thank you.

[The Assembly adjourned at 11:17.]

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

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