MLAs Column Warren Michelson Reducing Red Tape

Maintaining a strong economy is paramount in providing a better quality of life for all citizens. A vital element in economic development is reducing the amount of onerous red tape that may have a negative impact on growth and investment.

Our Government implemented the Red Tape Committee to review all legislation and make changes to reduce redundant and unnecessary policies that hinder progress. As a long attending member of this committee, I have seen how reducing red tape makes a difference to business and industry; in savings for the government and the people of Saskatchewan. Red tape costs businesses, residents, and the government $300 million and thousands of hours in lost time every year.

The Government of Saskatchewan along with the Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB), has proclaimed the week of January 21-25 as Red Tape Awareness Week in the province. This is the 10th year the CFIB is shining a light on the negative impact excessive regulations have on Canadians. The proclamation provides an opportunity to highlight the importance of regulatory modernization and the provincial government’s ongoing effort to reduce red tape for Saskatchewan businesses and consumers.

As part of Red Tape Awareness Week here in Saskatchewan, a new “Help Cut Red Tape” web page has been launched, allowing us to report red tape concerns we may encounter. This makes it easier to report red tape to government, while providing valuable perspective on how the province may offer services more effectively. Each submission received from the public will be referred to the appropriate Government of Saskatchewan ministry, agency or Crown Corporation for effective follow up.

The ‘Help Cut Red Tape’ web page is a continuation of the Government of Saskatchewan’s efforts to modernize regulations in the province. Other initiatives include an ongoing commitment to a multi-year review of all business-related regulations for their impact and costs. In 2017-18, regulatory modernization efforts across Saskatchewan were forecast to achieve $132.9 million in savings over the next 10 years—across government and Crown corporations.

For more information on how to Help Saskatchewan Cut Red Tape, visit the new web page at: http://saskatchewan.ca/help-cut-red-tape.

The launch of a new web page, and our other efforts to modernize regulations and reduce red tape, are reasons why Saskatchewan has received the CFIB’s highest ‘A’ grade this year and strengthen our resolve to continue to support the residents and businesses we serve.

It is my hope that all businesses can be more successful because our government has made it a priority to reduce red tape.

We have many good examples of local businesses that are outstanding in a variety of ways. Some of our most successful businesses will be recognized with the Moose Jaw Business Excellence Awards April 10th. We can support the hardworking individuals who make these businesses succeed. Nominations in twelve different categories are open until January 31. Forms are available on the Moose Jaw Chamber of Commerce website: www.mjchamber. com.