Much Accomplished in the Fall Legislative Session
The Fall Legislative Session ended last Thursday, and many important pieces of legislation were passed, or introduced, to be passed next spring. While residents everywhere in the province will have access to quality care in the same way as they always have, the official launch of the Saskatchewan Health Authority last week will streamline health services and allow more resources to go directly to frontline health care. Proclamation of The Provincial Health Authority Act legally transfers the operations and employees of the 12 former Regional Health Authorities to the Saskatchewan Health Authority. Other items that I was glad to see introduced included the protection of the right to school choice, improvements to small business tax reductions, a new Seniors Education Property Tax Deferral Program, the repeal of Bill 40, greater protection against the unauthorized electronic distribution of intimate images, better internet and cellular coverage for rural Saskatchewan, and the creation of a process to improve the disclosure of decisions made by the Office of Residential Tenancies (Rentalsman's Office. -
During this session, our government released Prairie Resilience: A Made-in-Saskatchewan Climate Strategy. The plan focuses on the principles of readiness and resilience, while reducing greenhouse gas emissions and adapting to the effects of climate change – without a carbon tax. At the unveiling, Minister of Environment Dustin Duncan explained how, unlike a carbon tax, Saskatchewan’s plan will allow flexibility for industry and large emitters to actually achieve a tangible reduction in emissions. And, unlike a carbon tax, the plan can actually reduce emissions while recognizing the progress Saskatchewan has already made in reducing greenhouse gases. The response to our plan from Federal Minister McKenna appears to signal that Ottawa will not be imposing a carbon tax on Saskatchewan in January 2018. This would be a welcome development as Saskatchewan people would not be paying more for home heating, gas, and other necessities. The other advantage of a made-in-Saskatchewan climate strategy is that our businesses and industry wouldn’t have to pay a federal carbon tax, which would make them less competitive here at home and abroad. Saskatchewan is a leading provider of food, fuel, and fertilizer to the world, and under our government’s plan, these industries will continue to remain competitive and grow on the global stage. This climate change strategy is good for the environment, and for the people of Saskatchewan. It was a special day when Peacock Collegiate Grade 12 students visited the Legislature last month. I was proud to introduce them in the Legislative Chamber. It is encouraging to see their interest in the democratic process. Thank you to their teacher, Carrie Kiefer, for making those arrangements. There are many individuals and groups in Moose Jaw that make our city a better place, and who deserve to be recognized. The Chamber of Commerce is accepting nominations for the 2017 Citizen and Group of the Year Awards, to recognize significant volunteer contributions to our City’s quality of life, both social and economic. There are many deserving people and groups in our community, please consider putting their names forward. As we enjoy Christmas season events, please remember the Reason for the Season. Travel safely and plan a safe ride home if you are out celebrating.