Sask. government promises to ‘do better’ in throne speech

The provincial government of Saskatchewan has pledged to “do better” for the people of the province in its fall speech from the throne, with a strong focus on improving health care and education. Lt.-Gov. Russ Mirasty delivered the throne speech to kick off the new legislative session, which will see 61 MLAs enter an abbreviated fall sitting expected to last up to three weeks.

Titled “A New Beginning,” the throne speech is notably shorter than speeches from recent years, but reintroduces campaign promises made by the Saskatchewan Party government with some key additions. The government acknowledges that voters want improved access to health care services, better support for children in classrooms, and improved representation by being more responsive to concerns, and has committed to taking action on these priorities.

Premier Scott Moe emphasized that the speech aligns with campaign promises and the results of the recent election. “Voters sent a clear message in this election. The majority voted for our plan for a strong economy and a bright future, but many others voted for change, and it is now our job to deliver both,” Moe said.

In the realm of health care, the government has committed to accelerating the hiring of health care professionals and expanding urgent care centers to ensure more people have access to doctors, nurse practitioners, and other health care providers. Additional urgent care facilities will be established in key locations across the province, including Saskatoon, Regina, Prince Albert, North Battleford, and Moose Jaw.

The government also aims to reduce surgical wait times, with a target of 450,000 surgeries to be performed in the next four years. Additionally, every Saskatchewan resident will have access to a primary health provider by the end of 2028. A patient-focused nursing task force will be created to further enhance the quality of health care services in the province.

Education is another key focus area for the government, with plans to expand specialized support in classrooms to over 200 schools from the current eight. The government will increase funding to school divisions to address growing student enrollment and classroom complexity, with a specific focus on improving reading levels for students in kindergarten through Grade 3.

The Saskatchewan Teachers’ Federation has expressed encouragement at the government’s emphasis on education, noting that voters have made it clear that a new approach is needed to support students and teachers effectively. The government also plans to increase childcare spaces and enhance support for families in need.

Under the theme of affordability, the government will introduce The Saskatchewan Affordability Act to reduce taxes and make life more affordable for residents. The largest personal income tax reduction in Saskatchewan since 2008 will be implemented, along with increases to various tax exemptions and credits.

The throne speech also touches on public safety, with commitments to add more police officers and addiction spaces, as well as amendments to legislation to address nuisance properties and disruptive behavior. The government has called for a more respectful assembly, aiming to improve decorum and tone in legislative debates.

As the new session unfolds, the government will face the challenge of delivering on its promises and meeting the expectations of Saskatchewan residents. By prioritizing health care, education, affordability, and public safety, the government aims to build a better future for all residents of the province.