Saskatchewan recently recognized Economic Development Week, focusing on the crucial role of businesses and economic development organizations in creating opportunities and building our province. The work of our business community across Saskatchewan has led to strong investments and economic growth in recent years.
Record growth continues in our provincial economy, with recent Statistics Canada data highlighting strong numbers. Our province led the nation in job creation, adding 21,100 jobs year-over-year in April — the highest in Canada. Saskatchewan also has the lowest unemployment rate in the country at 4.3 per cent, well below the national average of 6.9 percent.
New figures also show that Saskatchewan’s real GDP reached an all-time high of $80.5 billion in 2024, marking a provincial record. With a growth rate of 3.4 per cent, Saskatchewan’s economy is significantly above the national average increase of 1.6 per cent.
Private capital investment in Saskatchewan increased by 17.3 per cent last year to $14.7 billion, ranking first among provinces for growth. These strong numbers are creating jobs and opportunities for the people of Saskatchewan and are helping lead the way to a better quality of life.
With many sectors contributing to this success, our government thanks all those working in key industries across Saskatchewan. As our province maintains its momentum as an economic leader, our government will continue to move forward with strategic initiatives and investments.
A strong, steady economy allows our government to invest in priority areas like health care. We remain committed to ensuring Saskatchewan residents have access to safe, quality and timely care. Construction of the new Prince Albert Victoria Hospital is progressing well.
Upon completion, the new multi-story tower will feature a heliport, an expanded emergency department, pediatric and maternity care, a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, advanced medical imaging and a First Nations and Métis Cultural space.
Overall inpatient capacity will grow by 40 per cent, increasing the number of beds from 173 to 242. The new operating rooms will also be larger, more modern and designed to support current and future surgical techniques – helping increase the hospital’s surgical capacity.
Investing in education remains a priority for our government for a brighter future. One of the many ways we’re doing this is by improving access to education resources online for students, staff and faculty. This will help lower transactional costs, significantly benefiting the post-secondary sector. Students can now access free textbooks and academic resources.
In partnership with Saskatchewan Polytechnic, the University of Regina and the University of Saskatchewan, we have launched a new website that hosts open education resources in one central location: www.saskoer.ca. These resources will support faculty in teaching and research and help make education more accessible and affordable for students.
With warmer weather, I encourage you to start the May long weekend by camping in one of Saskatchewan’s beautiful provincial parks. There’s no better time to step outside and explore with family and friends. Our parks offer an affordable getaway and a wide range of options for relaxation. For more information, visit www.saskparks.com.
As Members of the Legislative Assembly wrap up the spring session and head back to our respective communities, I want to thank you for placing your trust in me to represent Prince Albert Carlton as your MLA. I look forward to seeing you around our community or at events over the summer.
If you require assistance with provincial programs and services or have any question or concerns, feel free to contact my constituency office at (306) 922-2828 or email pacarltonmla@sasktel.net. You’re also welcome to stop by our office, located at Bay 4 – 406 South Industrial Drive.
