Saskatchewan Minute: Summer Games, Federation Fairness, and CRA Deal Reached

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

This Week In Saskatchewan:

• The Province's bank account is secure following an agreement with the federal government regarding the carbon tax dispute. The province offered a letter of credit, which will be in place until the Tax Court of Canada resolves the matter. The Canada Revenue Agency claimed Saskatchewan owed $56 million for not collecting part of the carbon levy. Earlier attempts by the CRA to seize half of that amount led to a legal challenge, which has now been paused as both parties negotiate. The agreement ensures that Saskatchewan's funds remain protected while awaiting the court's decision.
  
  
• The Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency (SPSA) is downgrading the fire ban it issued last week across the province. Initially implemented due to the first summer heat wave and spreading wildfires, the ban now only applies to provincial lands north of the forest boundary. In southern areas, individual municipalities, First Nations communities, and parks will decide on fire bans.
  
  
• The 2024 Saskatchewan Summer Games are underway in Lloydminster until July 27th, bringing together over 1,800 athletes, coaches, and officials. The event will feature 15 sports and involve 1,000 volunteers to support the competition and welcome visitors. You can see the full schedule of events online.

Last Week In Saskatchewan:

• A recent Angus Reid Institute survey revealed that Saskatchewan residents feel their province contributes more to Confederation than it receives. About 54% of respondents in Saskatchewan believe they give more than they get from Canada. Dissatisfaction with federal policies is high, with 72% indicating that these policies negatively impact Saskatchewan's economy. Saskatchewan also has the highest "net alienation score" at minus 55%, reflecting a strong sense of being treated unfairly compared to other provinces.
  
  
• At the end of the annual summer meeting of Canada's premiers, Premier Scott Moe emphasized the need to cut the carbon tax to improve affordability for Canadians and advocated for Canada to meet its NATO defence spending commitment by 2032. Moe also warned of potential economic retaliation from the US if Canada fails to meet this defence target.
  
  
• The Canadian government issued an apology to the nine Dakota and Lakota First Nations during a ceremony at the Whitecap Dakota First Nation near Saskatoon. Federal Crown-Indigenous Relations Minister Gary Anandasangaree acknowledged historic wrongs, including the labeling of these groups as "refugees" and their exclusion from Treaty benefits and economic agreements. The apology was cheered by the over 500 attendees, while leaders from the affected communities welcomed the apology but stressed the need for continued efforts to rectify historical injustices.