Saskatchewan Minute: Boar Farms, Crown Corporations, and Emergency Injunction Granted

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

This Week In Saskatchewan:

• After winning an emergency injunction, Saskatchewan and the federal government are currently in negotiations to resolve their dispute over Ottawa’s carbon tax. A scheduled court hearing in Vancouver was canceled at the last minute, with records indicating ongoing negotiations aimed at resolving the issue outside of court. The dispute centers on Saskatchewan's argument that it is unconstitutional for the Canada Revenue Agency to demand $28 million in unpaid carbon tax revenues. If negotiations fail to yield a resolution by today, the court hearing may be rescheduled.
  
  
• In response to a prolonged heat wave and heightened fire risk, Saskatchewan is under a province-wide fire ban. The ban covers Crown lands, provincial parks, and the entire northern boreal forest, prohibiting open fires, controlled burns, and fireworks within 4.5 km of the provincial forest boundary. With 73 wildfires currently active and human activity accounting for nearly half of these incidents, the Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency emphasized the ban's necessity to protect lives, communities, and critical infrastructure.
  
  
• After a cool and wet June, Saskatchewan farmers are now closely monitoring their fields as previously waterlogged areas begin to dry out. The latest crop report from the Ministry of Agriculture reveals generally good crop conditions across the province. The recent drier conditions, coupled with increasing heat, are aiding crop development and moving them towards more typical stages for this time of year. However, some regions, particularly in the south-central and southwest parts, are still experiencing moisture deficits, impacting hay drying times and promoting grasshopper development. Gophers have also become a significant challenge, causing moderate to severe damage in various areas, potentially affecting the timing of this year's harvest.

Last Week In Saskatchewan:

• SaskPower reported a profit of $184 million for the fiscal year 2023-24, a turnaround from previous losses, driven by increased sales revenue and reduced fuel costs. The utility invested $1.2 billion in capital projects to modernize the electricity system and paid out $18 million in dividends. Other Saskatchewan Crown corporations, including SaskEnergy and SaskTel, also reported profits as well as significant investments in infrastructure and service improvements. Lotteries and Gaming Saskatchewan (LGS) reported $305.1 million in net income in its first 10 months of operation, contributing $135.8 million as dividends to the Crown Investments Corporation of Saskatchewan.
  
  
• The Saskatchewan government has imposed a moratorium on new wild boar farms due to the rapid expansion of feral swine populations. Existing farms will now require licensing and regular inspections to manage animal escapes and prevent potential disease outbreaks. Research from the University of Saskatchewan indicates that wild pigs, originating from escaped domestic swine, have steadily increased their presence by nine percent annually since the 1990s. This growth poses significant threats to native wildlife, agricultural crops, and livestock across the Prairie region, as the adaptable animals have acclimated to harsh climates and can reproduce year-round.
  
  
• At the Assembly of First Nations' 45th General Assembly, leaders discussed a resolution to support Saskatchewan First Nations seeking federal funding for natural gas infrastructure. Over 20 First Nations in the province lack full natural gas service, leading to high heating costs with alternatives like electricity or propane. Chief Melissa Tavita of Muscowpetung Saulteaux Nation highlighted the financial strain on community members, advocating for more affordable heating solutions. Despite efforts with SaskEnergy and a $4.5 million cost estimate, Indigenous Services Canada's limited funding per home has been a barrier. Tavita said Indigenous Services Canada denied the First Nation funding for natural gas because it is considered ‘archaic’ and they prefer to fund solar or wind power.