Legislative Report
September 7, 2023

The beginning of September means it’s time for more than 190,000 Saskatchewan students to head back to school. Our government extends our warmest welcome to all students and we wish everyone a year filled with fun, learning and new possibilities. Now is an exciting time to be a student in Saskatchewan as our province continues to experience growth.

After the first quarter financial report, Saskatchewan is forecasting a $485.5 million surplus – a strong bottom line. The plan to retire up to $1 billion in operating debt announced at budget remains on track. Our province’s net-debt-to-GDP ratio is projected to be 13.4 per cent at the end of the fiscal year, which is currently ranked second among the provinces. Saskatchewan’s finances remain strong, with a substantial surplus, but we need to continue to be prudent and manage spending carefully.

Our government continues to promote economic growth and work on the development of zero-emission small modular reactor (SMR) technologies. The Crown Investments Corporation is providing $479,000 to the Saskatchewan Industrial and Mining Suppliers Association and its partners to prepare local companies for their future participation in provincial, national and global SMR development. Advancing SMR supply chains in our province will open economic and job potential for communities across the province, including rural, northern and remote regions, and Indigenous communities.

Our government maintains its commitment to meaningful consultation with First Nation and Métis communities and supporting investment in the province with changes to the First Nation and Métis Consultation Policy Framework (CPF). The new policy, set to take effect by January 2024, is about our commitment to building positive relationships, respecting Aboriginal and Treaty rights, and supporting economic reconciliation while we continuously plan for growth across the resource sector. To learn more about the revised policy, please visit www.saskatchewan.ca.

Investing in growth in our health care system remains a priority so that everyone can access the care they need. Plans are moving forward for the Regina General Hospital (RGH) parkade. Regina-based Link Developments Ltd. has been selected as the team that will construct and maintain the parkade project, with construction beginning this fall. The parkade will include a total of 1,005 stalls, and provide safe, accessible and convenient parking for years to come.

To create further growth in our health care system, we are expanding treatment options for those living with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) by listing two common ALS drugs, Albrioza, and Radicava, on the Saskatchewan Drug Plan Formulary. Effective September 1, eligible ALS patients who meet certain medical criteria may be considered for coverage of these medications under the Saskatchewan Drug Plan.

Our province recently recognized Overdose Awareness Day on August 31. Our government continues to invest in accessible mental health and addiction services for everyone, with a record $518 million this year. This includes increasing treatment options and expanding addiction services across the province in honour of Overdose Awareness Day on August 31. 

World Suicide Prevention Day, recognized on September 10, is aimed at promoting understanding around suicide and providing support for those affected by a suicide attempt or loss. The mental health and addictions budget also includes $2.25 million specifically for suicide prevention. We are also working with the Public Health Agency of Canada and the Centre for Addictions and Mental Health to implement “988,” a national suicide crisis number to be launched later this year. For more information about resources available on mental health, please visit www.saskatchewan.ca.

As we transition into the fall season, we want you to experience the beauty of camping in Saskatchewan Provincial Parks, easily secure camping spots online and enjoy full services and events all throughout September. To learn more about seasonal discounts, booking, and events, please visit www.tourismsaskatchewan.com.

Our government continues to pursue growth for Saskatchewan. We highly value your questions, concerns, and feedback. Please feel free to reach out to me at the link provided on this page.