FOURTH SESSION - TWENTY-SEVENTH LEGISLATURE

of the

Legislative Assembly of ______

DEBATES and PROCEEDINGS

______

(HANSARD) Published under the authority of The Hon. Dan D’Autremont Speaker

N.S. VOL. 57 NO. 42A MONDAY, MARCH 30, 2015, 13:30

MEMBERS OF THE LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF SASKATCHEWAN

Speaker — Hon. Dan D’Autremont Premier — Hon. Brad Wall Leader of the Opposition — Cam Broten

Name of Member Political Affiliation Constituency

Belanger, Buckley NDP Athabasca Bjornerud, Bob SP Melville-Saltcoats Boyd, Hon. Bill SP Kindersley Bradshaw, Fred SP Carrot River Valley Brkich, Greg SP Arm River-Watrous Broten, Cam NDP Saskatoon Massey Place Campeau, Hon. Jennifer SP Saskatoon Fairview Chartier, Danielle NDP Saskatoon Riversdale Cheveldayoff, Hon. Ken SP Saskatoon Silver Springs Cox, Herb SP The Battlefords D’Autremont, Hon. Dan SP Cannington Docherty, Hon. Mark SP Regina Coronation Park Doherty, Hon. Kevin SP Regina Northeast Doke, Larry SP Cut Knife-Turtleford Draude, June SP Kelvington-Wadena Duncan, Hon. Dustin SP Weyburn-Big Muddy Eagles, Doreen SP Estevan Elhard, Wayne SP Cypress Hills Forbes, David NDP Saskatoon Centre Harpauer, Hon. Donna SP Humboldt Harrison, Hon. Jeremy SP Meadow Lake Hart, Glen SP Last Mountain-Touchwood Heppner, Hon. Nancy SP Martensville Hutchinson, Bill SP Regina South Huyghebaert, D.F. (Yogi) SP Wood River Jurgens, Victoria SP Prince Albert Northcote Kirsch, Delbert SP Batoche Krawetz, Hon. Ken SP Canora-Pelly Lawrence, Greg SP Moose Jaw Wakamow Makowsky, Gene SP Regina Dewdney Marchuk, Russ SP Regina Douglas Park McCall, Warren NDP Regina Elphinstone-Centre McMorris, Hon. Don SP Indian Head-Milestone Merriman, Paul SP Saskatoon Sutherland Michelson, Warren SP Moose Jaw North Moe, Hon. Scott SP Rosthern-Shellbrook Morgan, Hon. Don SP Saskatoon Southeast Nilson, John NDP Regina Lakeview Norris, Rob SP Saskatoon Greystone Ottenbreit, Hon. Greg SP Yorkton Parent, Roger SP Saskatoon Meewasin Phillips, Kevin SP Melfort Reiter, Hon. Jim SP Rosetown-Elrose Ross, Laura SP Regina Qu’Appelle Valley Sproule, Cathy NDP Saskatoon Nutana Steinley, Warren SP Regina Walsh Acres Stewart, Hon. Lyle SP Thunder Creek Tell, Hon. Christine SP Regina Wascana Plains Tochor, Corey SP Saskatoon Eastview Toth, Don SP Moosomin Vermette, Doyle NDP Cumberland Wall, Hon. Brad SP Swift Current Weekes, Randy SP Biggar Wilson, Hon. Nadine SP Saskatchewan Rivers Wotherspoon, Trent NDP Regina Rosemont Wyant, Hon. Gordon SP Saskatoon Northwest Young, Colleen SP Lloydminster Vacant Prince Albert Carlton

LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF SASKATCHEWAN 6813 March 30, 2015

[The Assembly met at 13:30.] male category. Also joining us today is Madison Hart. Madison is an impressive archer who brought home a silver medal in the [Prayers] female individual compound event.

ROUTINE PROCEEDINGS Some family members of our visiting athletes are here as well: Shannon England, Sara’s father; Shirley Schmirler, Sara’s INTRODUCTION OF GUESTS grandmother; Carla and Kevin Jones, Kaitlyn’s parents; Jeff Hutton, Shantel’s father; Nadine, Rose, and Eugene Zerr, The Speaker: — I recognize the Minister of Parks, Culture and Rayann’s relatives; Peter and Jeannie Yakymyk, Rayann’s Sport. relatives; Terri Pullar, Matthew’s mother.

Hon. Mr. Docherty: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I request Mr. Speaker, as we celebrate the Year of Sport in , I am leave for an extended introduction. proud to see so much athletic excellence here in our province. Team Sask has made Saskatchewan proud, and I ask, Mr. The Speaker: — The minister has requested leave for an Speaker, that all members please join me in congratulating and extended introduction. Is leave granted? welcoming these guests to their legislature. Thank you.

Some Hon. Members: — Agreed. The Speaker: — I recognize the member for Saskatoon Nutana. The Speaker: — Carried. I recognize the minister. Ms. Sproule: — Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. On behalf Hon. Mr. Docherty: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, of the official opposition, I too would like to extend a warm sitting in the west gallery, I’ve got a group here that have done welcome to all the officials, the athletes, their families to your this province proud. Mr. Speaker. from February 13th to March legislature today. We’re very, very proud of your 1st, 317 members of Team Sask travelled to Prince George, BC accomplishments in Prince George and, like the minister said, [], to participate in the 2015 Canada Winter we look forward to even bigger and better things from you in Games. These members included coaches, managers, mission the future. staff, and athletes ranging in ages from 12 to 35. Collectively Team Sask participated in 19 different sports and competed It takes an incredible amount of support and community effort against talented athletes from across the nation. to bring these athletes to the peaks that they have reached already, and certainly I think a big congratulation goes out to all Mr. Speaker, I’m proud to share that Team Sask captured 28 their communities as well: the teachers, the coaches, and the medals in Prince George: 6 gold, 8 silver, 14 bronze, and family members who support all these individuals as they finished in 5th place overall. This is an increase of five medals pursue their dreams. So again on behalf of the official compared with the 2011 Winter Games. Well done. In addition opposition, we too would like to welcome all these fine folks to to this impressive finish, Team Sask Mission Team was their Assembly. And now you get to see the sport of question presented with the Claude Hardy Award in recognition of their period, so you’re going to enjoy that as well. Thank you very leadership, co-operation, and integrity. much, Mr. Speaker.

Mr. Speaker, to you and through you, I’d like to introduce some The Speaker: — I recognize the Minister for the Economy. of the coaches, athletes, and mission staff who are seated in the gallery today. These individuals represent Team Sask Hon. Mr. Boyd: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. To you and participants from across the province. through you to all members of the House, it is my pleasure to introduce three individuals in the Speaker’s gallery here today From Team Sask mission staff we have chef de mission, who is from Carrier Forest Products. They are Bill Kordyban, president the head of the commission, Lorne Lasuita from the of Carrier Forest Products; Mr. Terry Kuzma, woodlands Saskatchewan Games Council. Just give us a wave when I say manager for Carrier Forest Products; and Mr. Dave Knight, your names. Thanks. Executive director Mark Bracken from the woodlands manager for Carrier Forest Products. Saskatchewan Games Council; senior policy analyst Ross Lynd from the Ministry of Parks, Culture and Sport. Mr. Speaker, I’ve had the pleasure of getting to know these gentlemen over the last number of years, and they have Mr. Speaker, we also have with us members of Team Sask achieved great things in our province. Perhaps the biggest women’s team: Kaitlyn Jones, third Sara England, achievement is the purchase and successful operation of the Big second Shantel Hutton, lead Rayann Zerr, joining us today with River saw mill, as we all know that it was shut down in 2006 their coach, Clint Krismer. This team captured a bronze medal and it held its grand reopening about a year ago. This is a for their skills on the ice. I wouldn’t be surprised if we see them significant investment in our province and we want to thank competing in the Scotties in the near future. them for the investment and for the people that they employ in Saskatchewan. I look forward to meeting with them later today. Seated in the gallery, Mr. Speaker, we also have Matthew Pullar I would ask all members to join with me in welcoming them to who represented Saskatchewan in the sport of judo. Matthew the legislature. displayed his remarkable strength and skill against 10 other athletes and earned a bronze medal in the up-to-66-kilogram The Speaker: — I recognize the member for Regina Rosemont. 6814 Saskatchewan Hansard March 30, 2015

Mr. Wotherspoon: — Mr. Speaker, I’d like to just join with The Speaker: — I recognize the member for Regina Rosemont. the minister here today and welcome these leaders here today from Carrier Forest Products and thank them for their work in Mr. Wotherspoon: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise once our province and their investment and the employment they again to present petitions on behalf of concerned residents as it provide, and join with the minister to provide a warm welcome relates to that government creating an unsafe condition on to these individuals here today. Dewdney Avenue with their failure to properly plan safe flow of heavy-haul truck traffic. And the prayer reads as follows: The Speaker: — I recognize the Leader of the Opposition. Wherefore your petitioners humbly pray that your Mr. Broten: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. To you and through honourable Legislative Assembly call on the provincial you to all members, I would like to extend a welcome and government to immediately take action as it relates to the introduction to a number of individuals seated in your gallery. unacceptable danger, disturbance, and infrastructure Seated in your gallery, Mr. Speaker, are a number of the damage caused by the heavy-haul truck traffic on Dewdney constituency assistants for members belonging to the official Avenue west of the city centre, to ensure the safety and opposition, and I would like to take a moment to thank all of well-being of communities, families, residents, and users; them for their commitment to their job, their commitment to and that those actions and plans should include rerouting serving our constituents and people from across the province, the heavy-haul truck traffic, receive provincial funding, and also thank them for their patience in dealing with all of the and be developed through consultation with the city of MLAs [Member of the Legislative Assembly], Mr. Speaker. It’s Regina, communities, and residents. a pleasure to have them here in the Assembly and I just want to express our gratitude and appreciation for all the work that they And as in duty bound, your petitioners will ever pray. do on a daily basis. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. These petitions today are signed by concerned residents. I so The Speaker: — I’d like to take this opportunity to also submit. recognize someone seated in the west gallery. Rose Zerr served for 30 years as the journal clerk of the Assembly. She didn’t The Speaker: — I recognize the Opposition Whip. actually get to see what happened on the floor here very much, but she read and wrote about it. So I’d ask members to Mr. Vermette: — Mr. Speaker, I rise today to present a recognize Rose and welcome her to her Legislative Assembly. petition. Homelessness is a major problem in La Ronge and other parts of the North, and getting worse. Shelter is a basic PRESENTING PETITIONS need for everyone, but under this government it’s getting harder and harder for people to find adequate housing, especially The Speaker: — I recognize the member for Saskatoon Centre. families, seniors, women, and children who face abusive situations. The problem is getting worse because of the rising Mr. Forbes: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise today to present level of poverty and skyrocketing home ownership costs. And a petition calling for greater support for education here in the prayer reads: Saskatchewan. And we know that education is one of the most vital services the government can provide to its citizens, but yet We, in the prayer that reads as follows, respectfully request this government has failed to deliver a long-term plan and that the Legislative Assembly of Saskatchewan take the vision and the necessary resources to prioritize the delivery of following action: to cause the Saskatchewan government to educational excellence. And we know that this government has build a homeless shelter in the Lac la Ronge area to meet failed to develop a real plan to close the Aboriginal education the needs of addressing homelessness in the Lac la Ronge gap, support English as additional language students, support area. community schools and their communities and students. I’d like to read the prayer, Mr. Speaker: It is signed by many good people of northern Saskatchewan. I so present. Wherefore your petitioners humbly pray that your honourable Legislative Assembly call on this government The Speaker: — I recognize the member for Athabasca. to immediately prioritize education by laying out a long-term vision and a plan with the necessary resources to Mr. Belanger: — Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. Once provide the best quality education for Saskatchewan that again I am proud to stand in my place to present a petition on reflects Saskatchewan’s demographic and population building a second bridge for Prince Albert: changes, that is based on proven educational best practices, that is developed through consultation with the education The petitioners humbly pray that your honourable sector, and that builds strong educational infrastructure to Legislative Assembly may be pleased to cause the serve students and communities long into the future. government to guarantee that a second bridge that serves central and northern Saskatchewan as well as the city of And as in duty bound, your petitioners will ever pray. Prince Albert will receive a commitment from senior governments. Mr. Speaker, the people signing this come from Cupar, La Ronge, Langenburg, Cut Knife, and Vanscoy. I do so present. Mr. Speaker, the people that have signed this petition are from Thank you. all throughout Saskatchewan and, on this particular page of many pages, the people that have signed the petition are from March 30, 2015 Saskatchewan Hansard 6815

primarily from Moose Jaw. I so present. STATEMENTS BY MEMBERS

The Speaker: — I recognize the member for Saskatoon The Speaker: — I recognize the member for Batoche. Riversdale. Children’s Wish Foundation Grants Wish Ms. Chartier: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I am pleased to rise today to present a petition in support of safe staffing levels in Mr. Kirsch: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Garrett Gamble Jr.’s long-term care. Mr. Speaker, the petitioners point out that many week changed quickly last Thursday with a surprise wish aspects of long-term care are deteriorating under this granted from the Children’s Wish Foundation. Eleven-year-old government. The petitioners talk about that this government has Garrett suffers from Morquio syndrome, a rare disease that removed the regulations requiring a minimum standard of care affects his bones, heart, and hearing. But even more for seniors, which results in neglect; and they point out that importantly, Garrett is an avid hockey fan, and his dream of chronic understaffing in long-term care facilities results in hanging out with the Toronto Maple Leafs for a day is coming unacceptable conditions, including unanswered calls for help, true. infrequent bathing, and a rise in physical violence amongst residents. I’d like to read the prayer: After finding out at the school assembly in Duck Lake, Garrett will be meeting with Brendan Shanahan to sign his one-day We, in the prayer that reads as follows, respectfully request contract with the Leafs, officially becoming a member of the that the Legislative Assembly of Saskatchewan take the team. Garrett will meet the entire team at their morning skate at following action: to cause the government to commit to the the Air Canada Centre. He will also lead the Leafs onto the ice creation of safe staffing levels for all valued members of and puck drop during a ceremonial faceoff. the health care team and to reintroduce actual numbers of staff to match the level of care needs and the number of Mr. Speaker, the Children’s Wish Foundation grants between residents under their care in long-term care facilities. 50 and 60 wishes a year in Saskatchewan alone, with every wish as unique as the child receiving it. A wish to a sick child And as in duty bound, your petitioners will ever pray. can make a tremendous difference.

Mr. Speaker, once again this petition is signed by a swath of Mr. Speaker, I’m sure Garrett will have lots of stories to share citizens from across Saskatchewan, including Regina, with his school when he comes back to Duck Lake. I would ask Kelvington, Melfort, Pilot Butte, Warman, Saskatoon, Prince all members to join me in thanking the Children’s Wish Albert, Makwa, Raymore, Buffalo Narrows, Lloydminster, Foundation for their tireless efforts, as well as to wish Garrett Moose Jaw, Preeceville, and Tisdale. I so submit. Gamble Jr. and his family a great trip. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

The Speaker: — I recognize the member for Saskatoon [13:45] Nutana. The Speaker: — I recognize the member for Saskatoon Ms. Sproule: — Mr. Speaker, I rise to present a petition in Riversdale. support of retaining Yarrow Youth Farm. The petitioners point out that the government is planning to close Yarrow Youth Tribute to Medicare Pioneer Farm and create an open-custody wing in Kilburn Hall to accommodate Yarrow’s residents, that the provincial Advocate Ms. Chartier: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise in the for Children and Youth declared he could not endorse such a Assembly today to recognize a medicare pioneer who sadly is rationalization as low-risk teens could be influenced and no longer with us. Mildred Hjertaas passed away earlier this pressured by close proximity to high-risk youth who may be month at the age of 94. She was married to Dr. Orville Hjertaas involved in serious crimes or gangs, and that Kilburn Hall is a who is remembered as the Vice-Chair of the Medical Care more institutional environment that could intimidate and Insurance Commission and is one of the doctors who broke alienate teens that have committed minor offences. And so here ranks during the doctors’ strike. Together Millie and Orville is the prayer: founded the Prince Albert Co-operative Health Centre in 1962 where she worked as a registered nurse. We, in the prayer that reads as follows, respectfully request that the Legislative Assembly of Saskatchewan take the Millie was never named to the Order of Canada or awarded the following action: to cause the government to keep Yarrow Saskatchewan Order of Merit for her years of work on the front Youth Farm open to ensure a caring home environment for lines building medicare in our province, but her contribution youth who have committed minor offences and provide behind the scenes should never be forgotten. Far too often our support to help these young people redirect their lives by official recollections of history fail to capture the important role setting more positive goals. played by women like Millie, whose work never took on the high-profile status of her male colleagues. Nevertheless she had And as in duty bound, your petitioners will ever pray. a lasting impact on the lives of her patients and all of us here today who enjoy the benefits of our universal health care. Mr. Speaker, this is signed by individuals from the city of Saskatoon. I so submit. I ask all members to join me in remembering Millie and her family today, and in recognizing the contributions of Millie and all of the other women who worked tirelessly to bring 6816 Saskatchewan Hansard March 30, 2015 affordable, accessible, and equitable medicare to everyone in Pakistan, and Bangladesh are among the top countries that our province and across our country. Thank you. newcomers to our province arrive from.

The Speaker: — I recognize the Minister for Parks, Culture Mr. Speaker, I ask all members to join me in congratulating the and Sport. Hindu Society of Saskatchewan on another successful banquet and to join me in thanking the Hindu community for their Saskatchewan Health Care Excellence Award contributions that enrich our province, Saskatchewan. Thank you very much. Hon. Mr. Docherty: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I’m very pleased to rise in the House today to recognize the Eden Care The Speaker: — I recognize the Deputy Premier. Communities for winning the Saskatchewan Health Care Excellence Award this past weekend. Mr. Speaker, Eden Care Saskatchewan Physician Honoured for 50 Years of Service Communities was recognized for its resident-centred approach to seniors’ care and housing. A long-term special care home Hon. Mr. Krawetz: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, tailors its activities and offerings to the residents’ needs, which working for half a century is a milestone, but having the same helps to combat boredom, loneliness, and helplessness. career in the same community is even more impressive. For 50 years Dr. Michael Bishop has been practising medicine in the The Eden’s motto is that it is their home, not an institution, and Kamsack area. In 1965 Dr. Bishop left his home in England and that the residents have a large say in the care that they receive. moved to Kamsack to set up a medical practice. He stayed in They are focused on making their residents’ lives full of Kamsack and raised three children with his wife, Sally. respect, dignity, and spontaneity. Dr. Bishop had plenty of opportunity over the years to move to Mr. Speaker, our government is committed to providing the best or Alberta. However Dr. Bishop said, and I quote, care for all seniors in our province. That is why our budget “Never. Saskatchewan is a great place to live.” Mr. Speaker, Dr. includes a $10 million investment in new, targeted funding to Bishop’s children must also agree. All three still live in support seniors living in their own homes as well as improving Saskatchewan and have started families of their own right here the quality of long-term care. Our government wants our in Saskatchewan. seniors to be happy, well cared for, and respected in their care homes, and we commend Eden Care Communities for the great At the age of 78, Dr. Bishop has now scaled back his workload. work that they do. He goes to a nursing home once a week and tends to some of his regular patients when needed. The Sunrise Health Region Mr. Speaker, I ask that all members join me in congratulating announced earlier this month that a new family physician, Dr. Eden Care Communities on winning the Saskatchewan Health Balbir Chhina, is now practising in Kamsack alongside Dr. Care Excellence Award and for all the work that they do in our Bishop. communities. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. On March 31st, tomorrow, Mr. Speaker, the Kamsack Legion The Speaker: — I recognize the member for Saskatoon Centre. will host a celebration to commemorate Dr. Bishop’s 50 years of service. Mr. Speaker, I would ask all members of the Annual Banquet of Hindu Society of Saskatchewan Assembly to join me in thanking Dr. Bishop for his tremendous work and continued service. Thank you. Mr. Forbes: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, on Saturday evening I had the pleasure to attend the Hindu Society The Speaker: — I recognize the Government House Leader. of Saskatchewan’s 30th annual vegetarian banquet, along with the Leader of the Opposition and members from Saskatoon Hoopla 2015 Nutana, Silverwood, Meewasin, Greystone, and Fairview. Hon. Mr. Cheveldayoff: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. As always, the food was fantastic. The guest speakers, National Saskatchewan’s own version of March Madness kicked off last Chief Perry Bellegarde of the Assembly of First Nations, and Thursday in Saskatoon for Hoopla 2015. Swamini Shivpriyananda of Chinmaya Mission, Toronto, were thought provoking and well received. The music and dancing Organized out of Bedford Road, Bethlehem, Mount Royal and was vibrant and upbeat. Mr. Speaker, there were people from all Tommy Douglas high schools in Saskatoon this year, Hoopla over Saskatchewan to show their support for our province’s features 48 teams and 54 games from across the province. Mr. Hindu community. Speaker, with multiple divisions and both girls’ and boys’ teams playing, Hoopla is a unique and exciting tournament in It was a very enjoyable evening, and all of the money raised our province. each year goes towards a very worthy cause, the Shri Lakshmi Narayan Temple in Saskatoon. Our city’s only Hindu temple For the boys, the winner of the 1A class was the team from was built in 1985. We were delighted to be part of this sold-out Coronach. The 2A bracket was the team from St. Brieux. 3A event that supports the growth and expansion of this important winners was the Regina Christian School. 4A boys winners cultural and spiritual institution. were the team from Melfort, and the 5A division winners was the team from Regina LeBoldus, defeating Saskatoon St. Mr. Speaker, we all know that the Hindu community in Joseph. Saskatchewan continues to grow by leaps and bounds. India, March 30, 2015 Saskatchewan Hansard 6817

The girls 1A winners was the team from Middle Lake. The 2A bringing their concerns forward to health region officials, to the girls was the team from Wynyard. The 3A girls winners are government, or to the opposition. And he said health care from Caronport and the 4A girls’ team was Moose Jaw workers don’t have to worry when they speak up and write Peacock. The 5A girls winner was the Holy Cross Crusaders. letters to the editor. Is that still the Premier’s position?

With many exciting games and some fierce competition, this The Speaker: — I recognize the Premier. event could have not been possible without the Saskatchewan High Schools Athletic Association who organized the Hon. Mr. Wall: — Mr. Speaker, certainly it’s my position. It’s tournament. Mr. Speaker, I would like to ask all members to the position of the Minister of Health, both ministers involved join with me in congratulating all of the 48 teams who in health care. It would be the position of the government. I competed this weekend as well as all the parents, volunteers, would take it from the member’s line of questioning that there coaches, and trainers who supported all of our young athletes. may be an example where this commitment’s not been Thank you, Mr. Speaker. honoured and, if that’s the case, we want to hear the details, Mr. Speaker. The Speaker: — I recognize the member for Moose Jaw North. The Speaker: — I recognize the Leader of the Opposition. Provincial Cheerleading Championships Mr. Broten: — Mr. Speaker, Peter Bowden has been a care aid Mr. Michelson: — Thank you. Mr. Speaker, earlier this month at several care facilities in Saskatoon for over a decade. He’s Yara Centre in Moose Jaw was filled with upbeat music, speaking out today because he wants Saskatchewan people to colourful uniforms, and dazzling pompoms as more than 1,400 know the truth about the quality of care being provided to cheerleaders from across the province assembled in the Friendly seniors in care facilities. I met with Peter earlier today, Mr. City for the 9th Annual Saskatchewan Provincial Cheerleading Speaker, and I can tell the Premier that Peter cares passionately Championships. about seniors with dementia. He wants to see real improvements to their quality of care. Will the Premier meet This event brought together scholastics and all-star programs with Peter today to hear first-hand the concerns of care aids with cheerleading, pom squads, and jazz teams. Athletes as here in Saskatchewan, and will the Premier guarantee that Peter young as four years of age competed, demonstrating the won’t face retribution for speaking up? strength, fitness, coordination, and enthusiasm that combine to make this sport of cheerleading. The Speaker: — I recognize the Premier.

Mr. Speaker, over 3,500 attendees came to see flyers, tumblers, Hon. Mr. Wall: — Mr. Speaker, my understanding is that the bases, and thirds complete stunts including jumps, tosses, flips, Minister of Rural and Remote Health will meet with Peter to and lifts. Spectators were also treated to choreographed dancing canvass the issues that he has raised to determine exactly what and pompom routines. There were more than 100 performers his concerns are and also to listen to any solutions and during the two sessions. constructive suggestions he may have.

The all-star cheerleading team and the Vanier Collegiate cheer The Speaker: — I recognize the Leader of the Opposition. and pom teams were co-hosts of the competition. Cheerleading is a growing sport in Saskatchewan, with new programs starting Mr. Broten: — Mr. Speaker, I know Peter was looking forward in recent years and the number of talented teams competing on to the opportunity to sit with the Premier and convey the the national and international stage. concerns that he and care aids have experienced. And Mr. Speaker, I think it’s important for the Premier to clearly state I ask all members to join me in congratulating all the athletes that no retribution would be received for the words that he who competed in the 2015 provincial cheerleading expresses because Peter is incredibly concerned about the care championships, and in thanking the volunteers in Moose Jaw of seniors. who made this event such a success. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. He talks about horribly inadequate staffing levels. He says, on QUESTION PERIOD paper it’s roughly one care aid for 23 residents during the night, but in reality it’s usually just one care aid for 28 residents. And The Speaker: — I recognize the Leader of the Opposition. for part of the night, Peter says, they have just one care aid for 32 residents with dementia. He talks about residents with Provision of Seniors’ Care dementia fighting with one another or punching and kicking staff, and he talks about a quality of care for our most Mr. Broten: — Mr. Speaker, the Premier has previously said in vulnerable seniors that is far from adequate. this House that health care workers should have no fear in speaking out about their concerns and about their ideas. The Does the Premier recognize that these types of staffing levels Premier said that health care workers should “. . . feel are not safe and do not provide the quality of care that seniors completely confident, completely comfortable and protected in deserve and require? bringing forward any information they have in the interests of patient safety and patient care.” The Speaker: — I recognize the Premier.

He said that health care workers do not have to worry about Hon. Mr. Wall: — Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. The 6818 Saskatchewan Hansard March 30, 2015 government has understood, since we had the honour of first The Speaker: — I recognize the Leader of the Opposition. being elected in 2007, that the staffing complement was not adequate in terms of, not just seniors’ care in Saskatchewan, but Mr. Broten: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The second question I also in terms of acute care and the number of doctors practising. asked, if Peter indeed will be safe, and I appreciate the And that’s why adding to the complement of health care Premier’s assurance on that. workers has been at the top of the list of priorities for this government, spanning two different ministers of Health, Mr. Peter says the staffing levels only allow for a resident to be Speaker. It’s why there are 400-plus more doctors practising changed once a night. That means many seniors are left for today. And we’ve completely overhauled the process for hours, hours with their incontinence pads soaking wet, feeling attracting foreign-trained doctors. We’re training more here in extremely uncomfortable and cold. He also says staffing levels the province. only allow for a resident to be repositioned once a night. That means these seniors are left in painful positions for many hours It’s why there are 2,600 more, more nurses of every designation and are susceptible to bedsores. How can the Premier possibly working in Saskatchewan today than there were when members defend that kind of neglect of our most vulnerable seniors? opposite were the government, when they had a chance to do more than talk and actually undertake some action, Mr. The Speaker: — I recognize the Minister of Health. Speaker. It’s also why this government, specific to the member’s question, has increased the complement of long-term Hon. Mr. Duncan: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I and integrated care front-line personnel by almost 800 since want to be able to confirm with the House today that since this 2007. government took office in 2007, there’s a 781 full-time equivalent increase in long-term care in our integrated facilities, Mr. Speaker, we know there’s more work to be done in seniors’ Mr. Speaker. And I can confirm that that is based on payroll, so care. That’s why in a very, very tight budget we were able to in fact those individuals are not only being paid, Mr. Speaker, allocate additional resources for seniors’ care, some $10 million they’re being paid for the work that they’re doing in long-term more on top of some of the emergent funding we’ve already care. So I can confirm that for the Leader of the Opposition provided, Mr. Speaker. We know that more is needed to be today. done. But I can assure members of this House that as we have increased resources for seniors’ care, increased the complement For LPNs, that’s an increase of 40 per cent. For continuing care of care aids, LPNs [licensed practical nurse], and nurses aids, that’s an increase of 11 per cent from the time that they providing that care, so too will we be working for continuous were the government. And RNs [registered nurse] in long-term improvement in the future. care and in integrated facilities, that’s an increase of 6 per cent.

[14:00] Mr. Speaker, with respect to issues of pain and proximity and positioning, that’s why this government in this budget, in what The Speaker: — I recognize the Leader of the Opposition. was a tight budget, we allocated $1 million to begin purposeful rounding training in all of our facilities, Mr. Speaker. This will Mr. Broten: — Mr. Speaker, in speaking with Peter, he’s very ensure that our residents know and can be confident to know clear that staffing levels and the conditions that he and other that a staff member will be looking in on them at a set time, Mr. care aids are working under have gotten worse over the past Speaker, throughout the day, to ensure that they’re looking at years, Mr. Speaker. the 4-Ps [personal care, positioning, possessions/proximity, and pain] around positioning, proximity to personal items, pain, and And this government admits that they don’t know if the dollars positioning, Mr. Speaker. That was included in this budget, and are getting to the front lines, and that’s backed up by the we look forward for that to roll out to the regions. experience of those health care workers who are coming forward. It was the minister himself who said, “I do want to The Speaker: — I recognize the Leader of the Opposition. have some assurance from the deputy minister that those are indeed going to the front lines of long-term care, and so we’re Mr. Broten: — Mr. Speaker, in speaking and listening to Peter working to confirm that.” Mr. Speaker, they know where and speaking and listening to the care aids from Santa Maria they’ve spent when it comes to lean consultants and those with who came forward, Mr. Speaker, they say there are more stopwatches, Mr. Speaker. But when you speak to those on the managers. They say there are more people sitting behind desks. front lines, it’s a very different reality. They say there are more lean consultants with stopwatches, Mr. Speaker. But we hear very clearly from those on the front lines My question goes back to an earlier question that I had to the that there aren’t more people, there aren’t the right resources Premier, Mr. Speaker. I asked if Peter can be assured that he when it comes to providing that right care for a dementia will face no retribution for speaking out today. Can the Premier resident in the middle of the night. confirm that? You know, a quote that Peter said that really stands out to me, The Speaker: — I recognize the Premier. Mr. Speaker, he says, “When you’re helpless trying to help them, that’s when it becomes a nightmare.” That’s the reality Hon. Mr. Wall: — Mr. Speaker, that was his very first that front-line workers are experiencing. Peter says many question, this member’s very first question. I provided that seniors stay awake and cry all night because of discomfort answer; that remains the position of the government. because they’re left in positions and it becomes painful, because they’re left in soaking wet incontinence pads. They’re March 30, 2015 Saskatchewan Hansard 6819

uncomfortable and they get cold because the care aids are provide basic care in a standard way at all 31 long-term care simply run off their feet. And that is why Peter wants regulated homes across the region.” Saskatoon Health Region said they quality of care standards and regulated staffing levels. needed 450 full-time care aids; they got 19, Mr. Speaker. And now this government pretends that it has solved chronic We know in child care settings, Mr. Speaker, we have regulated short-staffing. staffing ratios, but this government refuses to even consider regulated staffing levels for facilities that care for the most The minister has even said it’s difficult to budget for seniors’ vulnerable seniors. What will it take for the Premier to admit care because they don’t have the Ombudsman’s report. Well, that he made a mistake by getting rid of the regulated quality of Mr. Speaker, open your ears and open your eyes is what this care standards and by embracing the extremely general government needs to do, and they would know that there are guidelines. real concerns there. And that’s why we see this government only devoting $1 million for non-capital needs in seniors’ care The Speaker: — I recognize the Minister of Health. facilities in this budget.

Hon. Mr. Duncan: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I My question is for the Premier. After so much evidence of wonder if the Leader of the Opposition is also wondering why chronic short-staffing, how on earth is that acceptable? the Government of Saskatchewan got rid of the ability for the Ministry of Health to actually inspect long-term care facilities The Speaker: — I recognize the Minister of Health. on behalf of the people that they’re serving, Mr. Speaker. What he’ll leave out is the fact that the NDP [New Democratic Party] Hon. Mr. Duncan: — Mr. Speaker, each and every year that stopped doing inspections in 1996 and actually repealed that this government has had the privilege of forming office, we legislation about six years later, Mr. Speaker. That’s the part have added to seniors’ care in this province, whether it be a that the Leader of the Opposition leaves out. We do have benefit for those seniors on a low income living in personal care minimum standards that our facilities are obligated to follow, homes, Mr. Speaker, because their option, up until when this Mr. Speaker. government was elected, was basically to be forced into long-term care because they couldn’t afford their personal care Mr. Speaker, with respect to staffing, I’ve confirmed to the home, Mr. Speaker. We’ve changed that. We put a subsidy in Leader of the Opposition that the position of this side of the place. House — unlike the members opposite that closed beds, that let staff go across the province — we have hired 781 full-time Mr. Speaker, for those seniors that are living on their own, equivalents to work in long-term and integrated facilities, Mr. which they want to live on their own, the seniors’ income plan Speaker. This is based on payroll. This is based on actual — touched once by the NDP and then never again for 16 years, people, positions that we are paying, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker — we’ve addressed that a number of times. With respect, Mr. Speaker, in Saskatoon we added 100 beds to I can give you an example in Prince Albert Parkland Health Samaritan Place, a brand new facility. The members opposite Region, from the time that they left office to today, Mr. opposed those new 100 beds. We added funding for 63 new Speaker. SUN [Saskatchewan Union of Nurses] positions are up beds at Oliver Lodge. And with respect to that, Mr. Speaker, 30 per cent; CUPE [Canadian Union of Public Employees], added funding to Oliver Lodge of 134 per cent over the last which represents CCA [continuing care assistants] continuing seven years. CCAs, the continuing care aids, are up 104 per care aids, as well LPNs, 13 per cent; and health sciences cent, and LPNs at that facility up 474 per cent under this workers in Prince Albert Parkland Health Region up 70 per cent government, Mr. Speaker. under this government. We know there’s more work to be done for seniors in this The Speaker: — I recognize the Leader of the Opposition. province, but that work’s going to be done by this side of the House, not the members opposite. Mr. Broten: — Mr. Speaker, this government needs to look at the number of people working on shifts. This government needs The Speaker: — I recognize the member for Saskatoon to look and listen to people like Peter who are coming forward, Nutana. who say they are run off their feet, Mr. Speaker, and the right resources are not there. Housing of Young Offenders

It was this government that removed the regulated quality of Ms. Sproule: — On March 17th the Corrections minister told care standards, Mr. Speaker, and instead of getting rid of them the media that her ministry had listened to concerned residents and scrapping them, they should’ve strengthened them. The of Buena Vista and there would not be a gate in the alley for minister’s own staff has said they’d be replaced by extremely young offenders to leave the Kilburn facility. This is the same vague and general guidelines. We know from the people promise that was made by her official at the March 10th coming forward that it’s clearly not working, and what’s so community meeting in front of about 100 community members. frustrating is this government has heard time and time again But that turns out not to be true because last week this about short-staffing. government put a gate in the alley for those young offenders to use. So now contrary to what the minister has said and contrary Here’s what the Saskatoon Health Region said when they to what her officials told the community gathering, there is a submitted their urgent request to the government: “The highest gate in the alley. priority for Saskatoon Health Region is to improve staffing and 6820 Saskatchewan Hansard March 30, 2015

To the Premier: why did this government pretend that it had facility, Mr. Speaker, is quite frankly we’ve seen a reduction in listened to concerned residents and say there wouldn’t be a gate the numbers of young offenders in our youth system. And I in the alley when that is not true? don’t understand the members opposite, when we’re operating at 49 per cent capacity within our youth facilities, why we The Speaker: — I recognize the Minister for Corrections and wouldn’t consolidate it. And quite frankly, Mr. Speaker, the Policing. people of Saskatchewan expect us to look at the situation, analyze it, and make sure that Saskatchewan taxpayers’ dollars Hon. Ms. Tell: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. We are closing an are spent wisely, Mr. Speaker. underused Yarrow facility and consolidating it with an empty wing of Kilburn Hall in Saskatoon, Mr. Speaker. We’re The Speaker: — I recognize the member for Saskatoon responding to the changing realities in our province and our Nutana. justice system. Our youth numbers are down, Mr. Speaker, and we should actually be quite happy about that. And we’ve seen Ms. Sproule: — Mr. Speaker, once again there’s a huge this decline over the last 20 years. Our youth institutions remain disconnect between what this minister says and what her at 49 per cent capacity, Mr. Speaker. That is why Yarrow is officials are doing. Randall’s 13-year-old daughter wrote a closing and the youth, the five youth that were remaining are letter to the government. She says how disappointed she is in being moved into Kilburn Hall. the Sask Party government for giving inaccurate information. And she says, “If this issue’s not resolved, I will no longer feel With respect to the gate that the member asks about, the safe playing in my own back yard, going for walks with my commitment stands, as what commitment we made with respect sister, staying home alone, or babysitting.” She also says, “It’s to where the youth will enter and exit Kilburn will remain. And extremely unfair that you did not consult with anyone on this.” that promise is steadfast, Mr. Speaker. Thank you. Will the Premier intervene and put a stop to the plan to shut The Speaker: — I recognize the member for Saskatoon down Yarrow and relocate it to the Buena Vista Nutana. neighbourhood?

Ms. Sproule: — Mr. Speaker, the gate was going up last The Speaker: — I recognize the Minister of Corrections and weekend, and the minister said there wouldn’t be one. So I’m Policing. not sure what she’s talking about. Hon. Ms. Tell: — Mr. Speaker, of course I will meet with the Randall Buhr drove down to Regina today because he’s young person and her mother if they are here today, or any time incredibly frustrated by this government’s ham-handed I will meet with them. Of course I’ll meet with them. approach to shutting down the Yarrow Youth Farm and relocating an open custody facility into the Buena Vista And with respect to the open custody area of Kilburn facility, neighbourhood without proper consultation. But Randall is Mr. Speaker, the young offenders were sentenced to open especially frustrated by the inaccurate information this custody, Mr. Speaker. They go to school within the government gave to local residents, especially when it said communities. That’s exactly what our justice system has been there wouldn’t be a gate in the alley and now there’s a gate. mandated to do. The judge makes sure that the young person is housed into a proper facility and is participating in areas of our The Corrections minister completely botched the Dale’s House community, Mr. Speaker. This will not change, Mr. Speaker. situation here in Regina. She didn’t ask the right questions. She Yarrow will be closed as of tomorrow, and the five youths that repeatedly gave wrong information and the government had to were remaining at Yarrow will be moved into Kilburn. scrap those plans. We see the exact same situation unfolding in Saskatoon. The Speaker: — I recognize the member for Saskatoon Nutana. Will the Premier meet today with Randall to hear first-hand what this government’s plan means for Randall’s family and the Ms. Sproule: — Mr. Speaker, I’ve seen the comfortable spaces Buena Vista neighbourhood? the youth have at Yarrow. I’ve seen the cells that they’re now going to be sleeping in. I would challenge this minister to spend The Speaker: — I recognize the Minister of Corrections and a night in one of those cells and tell me if she thinks that’s Policing. where they should be.

Hon. Ms. Tell: — Mr. Speaker, the reasons for the gate . . . I Nothing in this government’s plan to shut down Yarrow Youth quite frankly don’t understand the reasons for the gate at this Farm and relocate an open custody corrections facility into the point in time. But having said that, Mr. Speaker, the Buena Vista neighbourhood makes any sense. The Children’s commitment that was made when the youth will be exiting and Advocate opposes it. Defence for Children International going into the facility will remain the front. We said, we opposes it also, saying that it represents a backwards step. The listened to the members of the community. That was what they Saskatoon Tribal Council opposes it because they know the wanted. They didn’t want the youth being, moving into the value of the Yarrow Youth Farm. And Buena Vista residents alley and through Buena Vista area through the alleys. That oppose it because they were not consulted and they’ve been commitment remains steadfast, Mr. Speaker. repeatedly given false information.

The reasons why we are moving from Yarrow into the Kilburn Now that the Premier knows how ill informed his Corrections March 30, 2015 Saskatchewan Hansard 6821 ministry is on this file, how reckless this government’s plan is, decisions. why won’t he intervene and at least put this plan on hold until major concerns are addressed? So that was my answer then, Mr. Speaker. That’s my answer today. And I’d appreciate it if the member opposite could [14:15] maybe quote everything that I said out in the rotunda, not just a piece of it. The Speaker: — I recognize the Minister of Corrections and Policing. The Speaker: — I recognize the member for Saskatoon Riversdale. Hon. Ms. Tell: — Mr. Speaker, the members opposite refer to, that this is a good idea to consolidate our facilities. The Ms. Chartier: — For several years this government has been programming in these facilities is absolutely imperative, and the adamant, adamant, Mr. Speaker, that the hyperbaric chamber programming that was at Yarrow will be set up in Kilburn Hall, will not be in the new Moose Jaw Hospital. But now the Mr. Speaker. Premier says it’s an option, and the Health minister says the government is actually looking at adding additional space to the The NDP closed three youth facilities while they were in power, hospital. He said that last week, Mr. Speaker. That is what both Mr. Speaker, 11 years ago, a total of 42 beds. Now these were of them said on Thursday. So to the minister: when did this open custody youth, and the members opposite when they were government start looking at adding additional space to the new in government then moved these open custody young offenders Moose Jaw Hospital? into a closed custody facility called Paul Dojack here in Regina, Mr. Speaker. The Speaker: — I recognize the Minister of Health.

I don’t understand what they’re referring to. It’s okay when Hon. Mr. Duncan: — Mr. Speaker, I would . . . Not to give they did it, but when this side of the House decides to do it for advice to the member opposite, but maybe just dispense with good reason, Mr. Speaker, 49 per cent occupancy within our the script and ask a different question because I just said, Mr. young offender facilities, all of a sudden it isn’t a good idea, Speaker, I just said that as we’re doing the analysis, we’re Mr. Speaker. This is a good idea for the people of looking at all the different costs that it would entail, Mr. Saskatchewan and for the young offenders in the province. Speaker, as well as adding space to the facility that is currently under construction. Mr. Speaker, we’ll use all that information The Speaker: — I recognize the member for Saskatoon to make our analysis and make our decision. Riversdale. But I can say that we’re very excited about the new Moose Jaw Hyperbaric Chamber and Plans for Moose Jaw Hospital Hospital, Mr. Speaker, the fact that it’ll add an additional MRI [magnetic resonance imaging] to southern Saskatchewan to Ms. Chartier: — Since early 2013, the Health minister has serve the people of this province. And in fact I think it’s been saying over and over again that a hyperbaric chamber will important to note, Mr. Speaker, when the foundation not be included in the new Moose Jaw Hospital. On March approached the government to be able to raise money for 11th, just a couple weeks ago, a Ministry of Health official said additional space as well as a piece of equipment, it was the definitively that “It will not be a part of the Moose Jaw foundation as well as the region agreeing that the highest Hospital.” But on Thursday the Premier said, “Its presence in priority was an MRI, Mr. Speaker. That’s what the foundation the new Moose Jaw Hospital is potentially an option . . .” And has raised the money for. That’s the space that they wanted to then the Health minister went out into the rotunda and told raise money for, Mr. Speaker. And I think that that’s going to reporters, “We will look at what it would cost to add some be a great addition as well as that entire facility will be to the additional space to the Moose Jaw Hospital.” people of this province including southern Saskatchewan and Moose Jaw. Was the Health minister accurate when he said this government is actually looking at adding additional space to the Moose Jaw The Speaker: — I recognize the member for Saskatoon Hospital for the hyperbaric chamber? Riversdale.

The Speaker: — I recognize the Minister of Health. Ms. Chartier: — Perhaps, Mr. Speaker, the minister should lean over and talk to his boss about what he said on Thursday. Hon. Mr. Duncan: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I appreciate the question from the member opposite. Just a couple of weeks ago, the Ministry of Health was firm that Unfortunately she cut off the rest of what I had to say out in the the hyperbaric chamber will not be in the new Moose Jaw rotunda, which happens a lot around here. Mr. Speaker, I said it Hospital. But now the Sask Party government is scrambling, was highly unlikely that that was going to be the case, to add it and they’re actually looking at adding space to the new hospital to the new hospital. But what I said was in the analysis that after letting their high-priced lean consultants shrink the design we’re doing in terms of building new space in an existing way too far. This is the exact same thing that happened in facility, looking at adding space to that facility, as well as what Saskatoon. This government let its lean consultants shrink the it would cost to provide the services 100 per cent out of the size of the children’s hospital, then it scrambled to add space province, Mr. Speaker, we’re going to do an analysis of all of back into the design. what those costs would be — the upfront capital costs as well as the ongoing costs, Mr. Speaker — before we make any To the minister: when did his analysis start? How much 6822 Saskatchewan Hansard March 30, 2015 analysis has been done? And how much will this cost to add We are also taking a number of steps that will improve the more space? I’d like to know, Mr. Speaker. procurement process such as developing vendor performance evaluations, simplifying our documents and making them more The Speaker: — I recognize the Minister of Health. consistent, and better recognizing businesses who are good corporate citizens such as those who engage well with Hon. Mr. Duncan: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Well, Mr. Aboriginal workers. Speaker, I’ll maybe just correct the member opposite once again in this House. Mr. Speaker, the reason why we had to add These actions were the result of months of consultation. The additional space to the children’s hospital, Mr. Speaker, is staff at Priority Saskatchewan undertook over 140 meetings because of the fact that this province was growing at even a with businesses, business associations, and the public sector faster rate than this side of the House thought possible. leaders to ensure the needs of all partners could be heard and that hasty decisions were not proposed without time to fully Now the members opposite didn’t think that the province could consider their impact. Importantly, these actions complement grow. In fact for years, decades, Mr. Speaker they were used to our efforts to seek freer, more open, and more transparent trade. seeing the population of this province shrink, Mr. Speaker. But in fact we thought that the population of the province could We will continue to encourage the federal government to pursue grow, unlike the members opposite who said it was statistically international trade agreements to the benefit of Saskatchewan impossible for the province to grow to the rate of the national producers and consumers. At the same time we will continue to average rate of growth, Mr. Speaker. In fact what happened, play a leadership role in the pursuit of renewed AIT in Canada, from when the projection started on the children’s hospital, the one which is more like the New West Partnership Agreement. province grew even faster than the rate of the national average in Canada, Mr. Speaker. That is great news for the province. Mr. Speaker, feedback from Saskatchewan businesses on our action plan has been encouraging and validates our decision to I know the members opposite don’t like that, Mr. Speaker, but consult widely with local industry before rushing to propose we’re a growing province. We’re a province that people want to solutions. The Saskatchewan Manufacturing Council and the move to because of jobs and opportunity, and most of all, Mr. Canadian Manufacturers and Exporters called it a win for Speaker, because there’s not an NDP government and there’s Saskatchewan manufacturers. In particular they wrote, and I not one anywhere in sight. quote:

MINISTERIAL STATEMENTS I commend Minister Wyant and the Government of Saskatchewan on their initial steps toward the development The Speaker: — I recognize the Minister of Justice and of a strategic procurement policy that promotes fairness Attorney General. and competitive reciprocity for Saskatchewan manufacturers as well as best value for Saskatchewan Procurement Transformation Action Plan taxpayers.

Hon. Mr. Wyant: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, on Procurement is both a large and delicate file to navigate. Friday I had the opportunity to address our partners at the North While there is much more work to be done, the action plan Saskatchewan Business Association and announce our set by Minister Wyant through Priority Saskatchewan government’s procurement transformation action plan. That addresses the core recommendations CME has made to plan has three goals. First, to ensure Saskatchewan businesses government and charts a clear path forward for timely are treated fairly and respectfully when bidding on government implementation. and Crown contracts, to bring greater simplicity and consistency to public procurement, and to take steps to drive The Saskatchewan Construction Association said that it best value for taxpayers. applauds the Government of Saskatchewan for taking a significant step forward on improving access to procurement Thirteen actions will be undertaken as part of this plan. These opportunities in Saskatchewan, and that the government is include, first and foremost, making best value the basis of our demonstrating its commitment to global best practices in procurements. Making decisions based on strictly on lowest developing a fair, balanced, and vibrant Saskatchewan cost is not always the most strategic approach. Rather it will economy. consider a wide variety of factors such as lifestyle costs, quality of materials, asset performance, and more to ensure taxpayers The president of the NSBA [North Saskatoon Business are well served. Association] calls it a very positive direction, while Shantel Lipp of the Saskatchewan Heavy Construction Association said Further, as our Premier has clearly stated, we are no longer her organization was very pleased. going to be Boy Scouts when it comes to trade. We heard about the differences between how we and other provinces approach Mr. Speaker, some of the actions will require changes to our mutual commitments under the AIT [Agreement on Internal legislation as it is currently written. Given the industry Trade]. Moving forward we will steer a course to ensure that we enthusiasm we are seeing, I look forward to receiving the full take advantage of all available room within our trade support of the opposition as we move forward into levelling the agreements. Therefore the Crowns will follow the AIT only playing field for Saskatchewan businesses. when required to do so — full stop. Before concluding, Mr. Speaker, let me extend my thanks to March 30, 2015 Saskatchewan Hansard 6823 everyone who contributed to this project: Lionel LaBelle and The Speaker: — I recognize the Government Whip. the staff at SaskBuilds who led the consultations; the MLA for Saskatoon Meewasin and Legislative Secretary for Priority Mr. Cox: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I wish to order the Saskatchewan, for allowing us access to his extensive Rolodex answers to questions 802 to 806. and expertise in the sector which enabled fruitful consultations; and most importantly, Mr. Speaker, all the businesses who The Speaker: — The Government Whip has ordered responses contributed their feedback into developing this action plan. It to 802 through 806. was the sincerity and level of detail in their advice that allowed us to develop a very successful plan. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I recognize the Government House Leader.

The Speaker: — I recognize the member for Regina Rosemont. Hon. Mr. Cheveldayoff: — Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. To facilitate the work of committees both this Mr. Wotherspoon: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I’m pleased to afternoon and this evening, I move that this House do now join with some comments with the minister here today, and adjourn. certainly I’d just start off by thanking all the Saskatchewan businesses, their representation, their associations for speaking The Speaker: — The Government House Leader has moved up on this important issue. And to say the least, working with that the House do now adjourn. Is it the pleasure of the many of these companies, many of these associations, this has Assembly to adopt the motion? been a frustrating and delayed process for businesses across Saskatchewan. And it’s been a pleasure though to work with the Some Hon. Members: — Agreed. many economic leaders in Saskatchewan to bring this issue and the importance of it both to this Legislative Assembly to get it The Speaker: — Carried. This House stands adjourned to 1:30 on to the radar of government and to urge meaningful action. p.m. tomorrow.

Now what we see at this point is still a tad vague in detail. [The Assembly adjourned at 14:29.] There are some important pieces that are contained within it. But again, this is a plan, and a plan is one thing, Mr. Speaker, but certainly when you look at these industries, these industries that have certainly pressures on their businesses, these businesses that make investment here in Saskatchewan, that provide employment in Saskatchewan, those workers who work in our province, it’s important that time is of the essence for government to act. So a plan is one thing. It’s going to be critical to see the next steps in an urgent and in a timely way, in a responsible way, towards implementation and towards making sure that those meaningful changes can be brought forward.

So we’ll engage in this process. We’ll continue to listen with Saskatchewan businesses and make sure that we arrive at something that’s meaningful for Saskatchewan companies and that provides best value for Saskatchewan taxpayers.

I’d like to thank certainly all those businesses that have engaged across Saskatchewan that we’ve met with. I’d like to reference certainly the manufacturers of this province and their council, the fabricators, the construction association of our province, North Sask Business Association, the Heavy Construction Association, and so many other partners that have been raising this issue for some time and working towards meaningful solutions.

But as I would say, Mr. Speaker, it’s been a frustratingly delayed process by this government to recognize this issue and then to act. We have a few actions laid out, Mr. Speaker, some of which certainly look to be important. But implementation is going to be key in a timely way, Mr. Speaker. So with that being said, we’ll follow this process with interest and add in a constructive way where possible.

ORDERS OF THE DAY

WRITTEN QUESTIONS

TABLE OF CONTENTS

ROUTINE PROCEEDINGS INTRODUCTION OF GUESTS Docherty ...... 6813 Sproule ...... 6813 Boyd ...... 6813 Wotherspoon ...... 6814 Broten ...... 6814 The Speaker ...... 6814 PRESENTING PETITIONS Forbes ...... 6814 Wotherspoon ...... 6814 Vermette ...... 6814 Belanger ...... 6814 Chartier ...... 6815 Sproule ...... 6815 STATEMENTS BY MEMBERS Children’s Wish Foundation Grants Wish Kirsch ...... 6815 Tribute to Medicare Pioneer Chartier ...... 6815 Saskatchewan Health Care Excellence Award Docherty ...... 6816 Annual Banquet of Hindu Society of Saskatchewan Forbes ...... 6816 Saskatchewan Physician Honoured for 50 Years of Service Krawetz...... 6816 Hoopla 2015 Cheveldayoff ...... 6816 Provincial Cheerleading Championships Michelson ...... 6817 QUESTION PERIOD Provision of Seniors’ Care Broten ...... 6817 Wall ...... 6817 Duncan ...... 6818 Housing of Young Offenders Sproule ...... 6819 Tell ...... 6820 Hyperbaric Chamber and Plans for Moose Jaw Hospital Chartier ...... 6821 Duncan ...... 6821 MINISTERIAL STATEMENTS Procurement Transformation Action Plan Wyant ...... 6822 Wotherspoon ...... 6823 ORDERS OF THE DAY WRITTEN QUESTIONS Cox ...... 6823

GOVERNMENT OF SASKATCHEWAN CABINET MINISTERS ______

Hon. Brad Wall Premier President of the Executive Council Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs

Hon. Bill Boyd Hon. Don McMorris Minister of the Economy Minister of Crown Investments Minister of Energy and Resources Minister Responsible for Saskatchewan Minister Responsible for The Global Government Insurance Transportation Hub Authority Minister Responsible for Saskatchewan Minister Responsible for Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Authority Power Corporation Minister Responsible for the Public Service Commission Minister Responsible for the Lean Initiative Hon. Jennifer Campeau Minister of Central Services Hon. Scott Moe Minister Responsible for Saskatchewan Minister of Environment Transportation Company Minister Responsible for Saskatchewan Water Security Agency Hon. Mark Docherty Minister Responsible for Saskatchewan Minister of Parks, Culture and Sport Water Corporation Minister Responsible for the Provincial Capital Commission Hon. Don Morgan Hon. Kevin Doherty Minister of Education Minister of Advanced Education Minister of Labour Relations and Workplace Safety Minister Responsible for Saskatchewan Minister Responsible for the Saskatchewan Telecommunications Workers’ Compensation Board

Hon. Dustin Duncan Hon. Greg Ottenbreit Minister of Health Minister Responsible for Rural and Remote Health

Hon. Donna Harpauer Minister of Social Services Hon. Jim Reiter Minister Responsible for the Status of Women Minister of Government Relations Minister Responsible for First Nations, Hon. Jeremy Harrison Métis and Northern Affairs Minister Responsible for Immigration, Minister Responsible for SaskEnergy Incorporated Jobs, Skills and Training Minister Responsible for Tourism Saskatchewan Hon. Lyle Stewart Minister Responsible for Innovation Minister of Agriculture Minister Responsible for Trade Minister Responsible for Saskatchewan Crop Insurance Corporation Hon. Nancy Heppner Minister of Highways and Infrastructure Minister Responsible for Saskatchewan Hon. Christine Tell Gaming Corporation Minister Responsible for Corrections and Policing

Hon. Ken Krawetz Hon. Gordon Wyant Deputy Premier Minister of Justice and Attorney General Minister of Finance Minister Responsible for SaskBuilds