Saskatchewan Minute: Binding Arbitration, Contractual Emojis, and a Very Merry Christmas

Saskatchewan Minute - Your weekly one-minute summary of Saskatchewan politics.

This Week In Saskatchewan:

• Wednesday is Christmas, and we hope you have a wonderful time planned with friends and family. This season is a time to reflect on the people and moments that make a difference, and we are truly grateful for your support throughout the year. As we celebrate, we’re also in the middle of our year-end fundraiser, working to raise $10,000 by December 31st to continue the important work we do. If you value our efforts and want to see them grow, please consider making a donation today - every bit helps, and we deeply appreciate your generosity. From all of us at the Saskatchewan Institute, Merry Christmas!
  
  
• The Saskatchewan Teachers’ Federation (STF) and the provincial government are awaiting a legally binding decision from an Arbitration Board. The arbitration process, led by University of Saskatchewan law professor Daniel Ish, concluded Wednesday evening. This marks a significant step after more than a year of stalled negotiations and job actions. Both parties agreed to binding arbitration in May to resolve the impasse, with the Board’s decision set to finalize the terms of the agreement.
  
  
• Saskatoon’s City Centre school project is moving forward, with six contractors shortlisted to bid for the construction. The project will amalgamate King George, Pleasant Hill, and Princess Alexandra schools on the Princess Alexandra site. The new school will accommodate up to 400 students and include community services and childcare spaces. Construction is expected to begin after the procurement process, with the Province aiming to provide a modern learning environment for students in the area. The school will replace aging buildings with a combined $68 million in deferred maintenance costs.

Last Week In Saskatchewan:

• Saskatchewan has expanded its Workers Compensation Board (WCB) coverage to include six additional cancers for firefighters, bringing the total to 22. Firefighters, classified as working in a Group 1 carcinogenic profession, face cancer as the leading cause of job-related deaths. The new coverage benefits all firefighters, including part-time and volunteers, but eligibility depends on cancer type and years of service. The WCB is also investing in preventative measures, such as better gear cleaning and fire hall upgrades, to reduce future risks.
  
  
• Saskatchewan's Court of Appeal has upheld a ruling that a thumbs-up emoji can serve as a valid confirmation of a contract, solidifying the decision from the Court of King's Bench. The case involved Achter Land & Cattle Ltd., which was ordered to pay over $82,000 after failing to deliver flax agreed upon via text message with South West Terminal. Two appeal judges agreed the emoji constituted an electronic signature, while a dissenting judge argued it lacked the substance required for a signature. The case may still be appealed to the Supreme Court of Canada if deemed of national importance.
  
  
• Twelve Saskatchewan lawyers have received the prestigious King’s Counsel designation for 2024, which recognizes their exceptional contributions to the legal profession and public service. Recipients include Crown prosecutors, private practitioners, and Nicole Sarauer and Tim McLeod, who serve as MLAs. To qualify for this honour, individuals must have at least 10 years of legal experience in superior courts and meet other eligibility criteria. The selection process involves recommendations from a committee that includes the Minister of Justice and other legal leaders.