Saskatchewan Minute: Issue 78

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

📅 This Week In Saskatchewan: 📅

• Premier Scott Moe returned from a trade mission to China expressing cautious optimism about easing tariffs on Canadian canola. Moe and federal representatives met with Chinese trade officials to discuss recalibrating the trade relationship in a way beneficial to both countries. China has imposed a 76% tariff on Canadian canola seed, along with duties on canola oil, meal, peas, and other products, in response to Canada’s tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles, steel, and aluminum. Saskatchewan farmers have reported losses of around $650 million due to these tariffs, and while Ottawa has provided some interest-free loans, financial pressures remain. Moe emphasized that his visit was only an initial step in a longer negotiation process, with further federal engagement expected. Moe also emphasized the need for Canada to work with provinces to ease tariff pressures from both the US and China. While Moe initially called for the removal of Canada’s EV tariff, he now acknowledges the issue is complex due to alignment with US policies and potential tradeoffs. He described international trade as a “sensitive and delicate dance,” where decisions with one country can affect relations with another. Moe expressed confidence in Carney’s leadership on trade, highlighting improved dialogue compared with previous governments.
  
  
• The Saskatchewan NDP is calling for an auditor investigation into the provincial government’s handling of wildfire response and spending on firefighting aircraft. The opposition alleges mismanagement after planes were grounded during a severe wildfire season that forced 10,000 people to evacuate and destroyed half the homes in Denare Beach. Earlier this year, the province purchased four Conair water bombers for $187 million, but Coulson Aircrane Ltd. claims the government could have saved $100 million by buying from them instead and accuses Saskatchewan of not holding a competitive bidding process. The government maintains that its procurement was fair, transparent, and guided by an independent research firm to meet public safety needs. In June, the provincial auditor initially said it would not investigate grounded water bombers, while the ombudsman criticized the government for inadequate support to evacuees. The Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency says it responded as quickly as possible and has provided financial aid and resources for residents rebuilding in Denare Beach. The NDP plans to move a motion at the legislature to formally request the audit. This issue highlights ongoing scrutiny of wildfire preparedness and government spending in the province.
  
  
• The provincial government has announced the completion of a $135-million expansion of the Saskatoon Correctional Centre, adding 312 new remand beds along with a medical unit, clinic, expanded programming space, upgraded video court suites, and a new kitchen. Originally announced in 2020 as part of a provincial stimulus plan, the project began construction in 2021. Corrections Minister Tim McLeod said the expansion is intended to ease overcrowding in provincial jails while also supporting rehabilitation through health care, education, and treatment programs. However, critics argue the project will not improve community safety. Shawn Fraser, CEO of the John Howard Society of Saskatchewan, said the funding would have been better spent on prevention efforts such as housing, education, health care, and employment supports. He warned that building more jail space risks perpetuating a cycle of incarceration without addressing root causes of crime and emphasized the need to help people successfully reintegrate after release.
  
  
• A new report shows that average rent in Saskatchewan has climbed to $1,461 per month, marking a 4% increase from last year and a nearly 29% rise over the past three years. While rents across Canada have generally levelled off or declined, Saskatchewan stands out as one of the few provinces still experiencing steady growth, though it remains the most affordable province for renters. The increases are straining many residents, with seniors and students among the hardest hit. NDP MLA April ChiefCalf has renewed calls for rent control, arguing it would stabilize costs and prevent sudden spikes that leave tenants vulnerable. She highlighted stories of seniors taking on low-wage jobs just to cover rent. The provincial government, however, points to efforts focused on boosting supply, such as the Secondary Suite Incentive, which subsidizes construction of new units. Officials also note a nearly 50% rise in urban housing starts this year, alongside programs like the Saskatchewan Housing Benefit and $88.4 million in social housing investments. This debate reflects broader concerns about affordability and housing security across the province.
  
  
• The Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency (SPSA) has ended its weekly wildfire updates, citing a major decline in fire activity across the province. As of Friday, only 18 wildfires remain active in northern Saskatchewan, compared to nearly 100 at the peak of the season. Two of those fires are fully contained, while others are being monitored or undergoing reclamation work. In total, 490 wildfires have been recorded so far this year - fewer than in 2024 but still above the five-year average. Earlier in the season, thousands of northern residents were forced to evacuate, though all evacuation orders were lifted by late August. Recent updates confirmed that the Trail Fire near Beauval and the Muskeg Fire north of La Plonge Reserve have both been brought under control. The SPSA stated that additional updates will only be issued if conditions worsen.

🚨 This Week’s Action Item: 🚨

The Saskatchewan Institute has a busy few months ahead - major campaigns, research projects, and accountability initiatives to make sure Saskatchewan is stronger and freer. 

But all of that takes resources, and we rely on supporters like you to make it happen. 

Right now, every single donation is being matched dollar-for-dollar, doubling your impact on the work we do. 

Don’t miss this chance to help us finish the year strong and ensure we don’t leave a single dollar of support unused - if you are able, please donate today.

🪙 This Week’s Sponsor: 🪙

This week's sponsor is you! We don't have big corporate backers, so if you like what you're reading, please consider making a donation or signing up as a monthly member.

Having said that, if you are a local business and are interested in being a sponsor, send us an email and we'll talk!