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Prince Albert Carlton MLA Report for April 2026

Kevin Kasun, MLA
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Prince Albert Carlton MLA Report for April 2026

Saskatchewan continues to move forward with strong growth and opportunity across our province. Our government remains focused on ensuring families can succeed, communities can thrive, and residents have access to the services they rely on every day.

Building on that momentum, Saskatchewan ranked first in Canada for wholesale trade growth, with a 15.3 per cent increase in February 2026 compared to February last year. This reflects the strength of our producers and exporters, and our ability to compete in both national and global markets. These results reinforce Saskatchewan’s position as a leader in economic performance.

That economic strength allows us to make meaningful investments in the services people depend on. In northern Saskatchewan, construction of the Prince Albert Victoria Hospital is well underway. The new multi-story tower will soon include a rooftop heliport, expanded emergency department, larger operating rooms, a maternity unit with a new NICU, and updated medical imaging services, including an MRI. A purposefully designed First Nation and Métis cultural space will be located at the main entrance, alongside a renovated cafeteria and lobby. These upgrades will increase inpatient capacity and ensure health care meets the needs of northern Saskatchewan for years to come.

At the same time, we are helping prepare the next generation for in-demand careers. The new Health Careers 20L course will give high school students exposure to opportunities in the health sector and help them make informed decisions about their future. Available through Sask DLC for students in Grades 10 to 12 starting in the 2026–27 school year, this course is another step in building a strong, skilled workforce. You can learn more about this course and register at www.saskDLC.ca.

In addition to career awareness, we are equipping students with practical, life-saving skills. Through a partnership with the Heart & Stroke Foundation, the CardiacCrash program will be introduced in classrooms for the 2026-27 school year. This initiative will give students the knowledge and confidence to respond in emergency situations when every second matters. We are grateful for our partnership with Heart & Stroke and are pleased to offer this opportunity to school divisions across the province.

Supporting a growing province also means investing in the infrastructure that keeps people and goods moving. Through the Urban Highway Connector Program, upcoming projects in Estevan, North Battleford, Prince Albert, and Swift Current will improve transportation links and strengthen connections between local communities and the provincial highway network. These investments support Saskatchewan’s export-based economy and overall quality of life. For updates, visit the Highways Hotline at https://hotline.gov.sk.ca/map.

As the MLA for Prince Albert Carlton, I am proud to share the progress being made across Saskatchewan. Your Saskatchewan Party government will continue delivering results for the people of this province while protecting our future. If you have any questions or need assistance with a government program or service, please contact my constituency office at (306) 922-2828 or email pacarltonmla@sasktel.net. You are also welcome to stop by Bay 4 – 406 South Industrial Drive.

MLA Report: Prince Albert Carlton

Kevin Kasun, MLA
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MLA Report: Prince Albert Carlton

The spring legislative session brings your Saskatchewan Party government back to the Legislature, continuing the work already underway to deliver results that make meaningful difference for Saskatchewan residents. Our government continues to protect our strong economy and create jobs. Statistics Canada’s recently released data show Saskatchewan ranks first among the provinces with 12 per cent growth in private capital investment for 2025. Investors are choosing Saskatchewan time and time again, which means more jobs, more economic opportunities and more long-term growth.

Saskatchewan having the strongest economy in Canada allows us to continue investing in services that matter most, especially for northern Saskatchewan. Construction of the Prince Albert Victoria Hospital is well underway and already 25 per cent complete. When finished, the new multi-story tower will feature a rooftop heliport, an expanded emergency department, larger operating rooms, a maternity unit with a new NICU, and updated medical imaging services, including an MRI. A purposefully designed First Nation and Métis cultural space will be at the main entrance, alongside a renovated cafeteria and lobby. These upgrades will increase inpatient capacity and ensure health care meets the needs of northern Saskatchewan for years to come.

As part of our work to improve health outcomes, Premier Scott Moe recently announced the Patients First Health Care Plan. This province-wide strategy focuses on delivering the right care, in the right place, at the right time, while increasing the number of care providers and giving patients more options. While there is more work ahead, our government will continue building on steps already underway until every resident has a regular care provider by 2028. The plan outlines more than 50 initiatives. To read the full plan, visit www.saskatchewan.ca/patientsfirst. We are also expanding access to primary care through additional Nurse Practitioner (NP) contracts, opening for another round after strong support from patients and providers last year. Those interested in delivering publicly funded primary care services are encouraged to apply. Our government looks forward to seeing more NPs providing primary care in Saskatchewan communities as we work together to put patients first.

Investing in the well-being of Saskatchewan people also means ensuring communities have the funding they need. That’s why our government continues to deliver record support through the Municipal Revenue Sharing (MRS) program. This year, Saskatchewan municipalities will receive $392.4 million, an eight per cent increase from last year and the highest amount ever allocated under MRS. Since 2007, we have provided nearly $5 billion in unconditional grants to municipalities. These funds help cities, towns, villages, rural municipalities and northern communities invest in local priorities where residents can thrive. MRS amounts by community will be available on www.saskatchewan.ca on Budget Day, March 18, 2026.

I’m proud to represent Prince Albert Carlton and share the positive steps our government has taken. With the 2026-27 Provincial Budget soon to be tabled, we will continue working to deliver on the priorities that matter most. If you have any questions or need assistance with a government program or service, please contact my constituency office at (306) 922-2828 or email pacarltonmla@sasktel.net. You are also welcome to stop by Bay 4 – 406 South Industrial Drive.

MLA report: Prince Albert Carlton

Kevin Kasun, MLA
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MLA report: Prince Albert Carlton

Our province is moving forward with strength and purpose. From steady job growth to targeted investments in health care, housing and community safety, we continue to build on that momentum and deliver real results for families in Prince Albert and across Saskatchewan.

Saskatchewan’s economy is off to a strong start in 2026. Statistics Canada data show that in January our province added 15,000 new jobs year-over-year, the second highest among the provinces. Saskatchewan also continues to have one of the lowest unemployment rates in the country at 5.3 per cent, well below the national average of 6.5 per cent. These numbers reflect the strength of our industries and the growing opportunities available here at home. Our government will continue building on this progress by working with employers and industry leaders to ensure they have access to the skilled workforce needed to fill the jobs they are creating.

A growing economy allows our government to invest in quality services that matter most to the people of Saskatchewan. The construction of the Prince Albert Victoria Hospital is well underway and is already 25 per cent complete. Upon completion, the new multi-story tower will feature a heliport on the roof, an expanded emergency department, larger operating rooms, and a maternity unit with a new NICU. It will also include new medical imaging services including an MRI, among other key services. The purposefully designed First Nation and Métis cultural space is central to the new main entrance alongside a renovated cafeteria and lobby area. These upgrades will increase inpatient capacity and ensure health care keeps up with the needs of northern Saskatchewan for years to come.

Affordability remains another key focus for our government. We’re building on success with practical tools that increase housing supply, including the Saskatchewan Secondary Suite Incentive. This program covers up to 35 per cent of the total cost to construct a new secondary suite at an owner’s primary residence to a maximum benefit of $35,000. Since its inception in 2023, the program has been incredibly successful with nearly 1,000 new secondary suites added. With the program being extended, the deadline to incur eligible construction costs is now March 31, 2027. For more information, visit www.saskatchewan.ca/residents/taxes-and-investments/tax-credits.

Building safe and vibrant communities starts with strong local policing. That’s why our government is reinforcing its commitment to public safety in Prince Albert by continuing to fund the Safer Communities and Neighbourhoods initiative. The Prince Albert Police Service will receive $833,000 to support the recruitment and retention of officers, enhancing frontline policing capacity and improving response times across the city. This investment helps the officers who work directly with residents address local issues and keep neighbourhoods secure.

As your MLA for Prince Albert Carlton, I’m proud of these steps forward, reflecting a strong start to 2026. With another spring legislative session coming up soon, your Saskatchewan Party government looks forward to continuing the important work ahead and making further progress on what matters most. If you have any questions or need assistance with a government program or service, please contact my constituency office at (306) 922-2828 or email pacarltonmla@sasktel.net. You are also welcome to stop by Bay 4 – 406 South Industrial Drive.

MLA Report: Prince Albert Carlton

Kevin Kasun, MLA
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MLA Report: Prince Albert Carlton

January is a time to reflect on what we have accomplished together and to look ahead with optimism. This past year was a productive one for our government, marked by a growing Saskatchewan, a strong economy, and continued investments in programs and services that people rely on. These efforts are focused on building a secure future for our community and families across our province.

Saskatchewan’s labour market experienced another strong year with continued low unemployment and consistent job growth. According to Statistics Canada, Saskatchewan economy created 15,200 jobs in 2025 and recorded the lowest unemployment rate in Canada at 5.2 per cent. This is well below the national average of 6.8 per cent. These results reflect the strength of our industries and employers, as well as the growing opportunities available here at home.

Thanks to a strong economy, we can ensure Saskatchewan remains the most affordable place to live in Canada. Affordability remains a key focus for our government as we begin 2026. The second step of our four-year income tax reduction plan, combined with indexation, means a family of four now pays no provincial tax on their first $65,000 of income. That is the highest tax-free threshold in the country.

Our government is raising the personal, spousal and child tax exemptions, along with the seniors’ supplement by $500 annually over four years. Several tax credits are also being increased to help residents manage rising costs. We are also once again indexing personal income tax to the national rate of inflation to protect taxpayers from automatic increases. For more information, visit www.saskatchewan.ca.

Targeted investments continue to support Saskatchewan students and families by addressing space pressures, supporting growing enrolment and giving school divisions flexibility to meet local needs. This includes a $28.5 million investment in the Relocatable Classroom Program, which will deliver 39 new classrooms and relocate two existing ones. Schools in Regina, Saskatoon, Prince Albert and other communities will benefit from these additions. The classrooms will be installed over the summer and will be ready for students for the 2026-27 school year.

Another important investment for our community is the Prince Albert Victoria Hospital. Upon completion, the hospital will increase inpatient capacity by 40 per cent and add modern, larger operating rooms. These improvements will expand surgical capacity and ensure health care services keep pace with current and future medical needs. For Prince Albert and communities across northern Saskatchewan, this facility will strengthen health care and improve accessibility for years to come.

As MLA for Prince Albert Carlton, I am proud of the progress made in 2025 and encouraged by the work ahead. Your Saskatchewan Party government remains committed to maintaining this momentum in 2026, and I look forward to sharing more updates as the year unfolds. You are always welcome to share your thoughts and ideas by contacting my constituency office at (306) 922-2828 or by email at pacarltonmla@sasktel.net. You are also welcome to stop by our office at Bay 4 – 406 South Industrial Drive.

MLA Report: Prince Albert Carlton

Kevin Kasun, MLA
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MLA Report: Prince Albert Carlton

Following the conclusion of a productive fall legislative session, our government introduced and passed new measures focused on keeping Saskatchewan’s economy strong, our communities safe and our future secure. Progress continued as commitments made in the Throne Speech moved forward through several new pieces of legislation. Five have already become law and received Royal Assent. To learn more about new legislation, amendments to existing Acts and more, visit www.saskatchewan.ca.

Saskatchewan is set to finish 2025 with one of the strongest labour markets in Canada. Recently released numbers from Statistics Canada show continued job growth, adding 14,900 full-time and 1,600 part-time jobs. Our province has the second-lowest unemployment rate in Canada at 5.6 per cent (well below the national average of 6.5 per cent). We have had an incredible year of growth. Our government will ensure Saskatchewan remains attractive not only to capital investment, but also to people who call it home.

As more people choose Saskatchewan to live, work and raise a family, we continue to invest in programs people rely on. Saskatchewan’s Rural and Remote Recruitment Incentive program is one example. Eligibility has been expanded to include 73 communities. This program has been very successful in attracting highly sought-after health care workers, such as nurses, medical technicians and continuing care assistants. These professionals are being recruited to rural communities throughout the province where they are most needed, and we will continue to improve access to quality care for everyone.

Building on our health initiatives, progress continues on the new Prince Albert Victoria Hospital. The multi-story hospital will feature a heliport and an expanded emergency department. It will also include dedicated spaces for pediatric and maternity care. The facility will feature a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, advanced medical imaging services and a First Nations and Métis cultural space. Upon completion, inpatient capacity will increase by 40 per cent, while also having the addition of modern, larger operating rooms. This will expand surgical capacity and keep pace with current and future medical practices. For Prince Albert and northern Saskatchewan, these investments will strengthen health care for generations to come.

Heading into the holidays, I hope you find time to experience a wide range of winter activities right here at home. Our provincial parks offer snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, tobogganing, ice fishing, skating and more. Select parks provide snowshoe rentals and some local in-park businesses also offer warm dining options and unique accommodations. You can visit the Sask Parks website at www.saskparks.com for details on winter activities, camping options, accommodations and events.

It has been a productive year for our government, and we will continue doing what is best for the people of Saskatchewan in the year ahead. I also want to take this opportunity to thank you for placing your trust in me. I remain dedicated to representing your interests and addressing what matters most to our community. If you have any questions, concerns, or ideas to share, please feel free to reach out. You can contact my constituency office by phone at (306) 922-2828, by email at pacarltonmla@sasktel.net, or in person at Bay 4 – 406 South Industrial Drive.

MLA Report: Prince Albert Carlton

Kevin Kasun, MLA
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MLA Report: Prince Albert Carlton

From economic growth and increasing school construction to major health care investments and strengthened community policing, Saskatchewan’s momentum is clear. These are not just initiatives of our government; they’re building blocks for the quality of life we all want for today and for generations.

The latest data from the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation shows Saskatchewan is topping the charts. Housing starts in our province increased by 50.8 per cent in the first ten months of 2025 compared to the same period in 2024, ranking first among the provinces. This growth is an important economic indicator: more families are choosing to put down roots here at home.

To ensure our growing communities have the schools they need, our government introduced the Building Schools Faster Act, which will streamline how land is acquired for new schools. This legislation will bring greater predictability to school planning and development in communities that are quickly expanding. We will continue to support the growing number of families calling Saskatchewan home and help give students their best start.

One of our biggest investments continues to be in health care, especially in Prince Albert, where the new Victoria Hospital tower is under construction and making excellent progress. It will feature a heliport, a larger emergency department, dedicated pediatric and maternity care spaces, a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, and a First Nations and Métis cultural space. Once complete, the hospital will increase its inpatient capacity from 173 to 242 beds. These investments will also benefit northern Saskatchewan, supporting health care access for years to come.

Safety is vital for our communities where we live and raise our families. That’s why our government is continuing to invest in municipal policing. In Prince Albert, for example, we’re providing $3.69 million through the 2025-26 Municipal Police Grant program to support 26 specialized police positions in the community. We’re also supporting the Prince Albert Police Service’s Emergency Response and Crisis Negotiation Team with over $54,000 in funding to purchase high-quality communications equipment. This gear will help maintain clear, secure communication during high-risk incidents, protecting both officers and the public.

Our government continues to strengthen programs that prevent homelessness and expand support for individuals experiencing housing instability through the Provincial Approach to Homelessness (PATH). Over the next three years, we are committing up to $20 million in additional funding to build on the progress already made. Since PATH’s launch in 2023, more than $98 million has been invested in homelessness services across the province. By working closely with service providers, municipalities, the federal government, and Indigenous and community organizations, we are helping individuals and families transition to stable housing and enjoy an improved quality of life.

As the fall session of the Legislative Assembly continues, I remain dedicated to representing your interests and addressing what matters most to our community. If you have any questions, concerns, or ideas to share, please feel free to reach out. You can contact my constituency office by phone at (306) 922-2828, by email at pacarltonmla@sasktel.net, or in person at Bay 4 – 406 South Industrial Drive. I look forward to connecting with you and continuing to work together toward a stronger, brighter future for everyone.

MLA Report: Prince Albert Carlton

Kevin Kasun, MLA
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MLA Report: Prince Albert Carlton

Kevin Kasun

Prince Albert Carlton MLA

Saskatchewan’s population continues to grow in the second quarter of 2025, reaching an all-time high of 1,266,959 according to recent Statistics Canada population estimates. Over the past year, the population has increased by 1.5 per cent, making it the third-highest growth rate in Canada and well above the national average of 0.9 per cent. This steady growth brings us closer to our Growth Plan goal of reaching 1.4 million people by 2030. A growing population is a sign of economic strength, and our government remains committed to supporting this momentum by preparing for both the opportunities and challenges that come with it.

As our province grows, our communities flourish because of dedicated and enthusiastic volunteers who step up no matter the cause or event. A role this important deserves recognition, and nominations are now being accepted for the 2025 Saskatchewan Volunteer Medal. I encourage individuals and groups to nominate current or former long-term residents who go above and beyond in serving our community. Nominations will be accepted until October 31, 2025. For details on how to submit a nomination, please visit www.saskatchewan.ca/honoursaward.

A safe, inclusive province is essential for everyone to thrive. As part of this commitment, our government has invested nearly $5.2 million through the Ministry of Justice and Attorney General to support initiatives under the National Action Plan (NAP) to End Gender-Based Violence. The participating agencies are guiding and fostering change as they build tools and programs to proactively address gender-based violence and to create long-term change. We are grateful to all these partner organizations for collaborating with us on this important project and for the work they do across Saskatchewan.

Alongside public safety, access to quality health care remains a top priority for our government. One of the most significant projects currently underway is the construction of the new Prince Albert Victoria Hospital. The multi-story hospital tower will feature a heliport, an expanded emergency department and dedicated spaces for pediatric and maternity care. It will also include a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, advanced medical imaging services and a First Nations and Métis cultural space. Once completed, the hospital will increase its inpatient capacity by 40 per cent, from 173 to 242 beds. The project also includes the addition of modern, larger operating rooms to expand surgical capacity and keep pace with current and future medical practices. These investments will strengthen health care for Prince Albert and northern Saskatchewan for generations to come.

Taking steps to protect your health—and the health of those around you—is a great first step as we enter the fall season. Vaccination remains one of the most effective ways to prevent respiratory illnesses such as influenza and COVID-19. Both vaccines will be available at public health clinics, participating local pharmacies and some physician and nurse practitioner offices across Saskatchewan. Residents can book immunization appointments for themselves or their entire family online at www.4flu.ca or by calling 1-833-727-5829, Monday to Friday. If you prefer to visit your local pharmacy, please contact them directly to confirm vaccine availability. All vaccinations are voluntary.

Looking ahead to another productive fall session in the Legislative Assembly, I remain committed to representing you and addressing what matters most to our community. If you have questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. You can contact my constituency office by phone at (306) 922-2828, by email at pacarltonmla@sasktel.net, or in person at Bay 4 – 406 South Industrial Drive. I look forward to hearing from you and continuing to work together toward a brighter future for everyone.

MLA Report: Prince Albert Carlton

Kevin Kasun, MLA
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MLA Report: Prince Albert Carlton

Saskatchewan continues to demonstrate economic strength with continued growth in key sectors. Recent labour force numbers from Statistics Canada show that Saskatchewan has hit another record with 16,500 full-time jobs added year-over-year in August. Our province also has the lowest unemployment rate among all provinces at 4.7 per cent, well below the national average of 7.1 per cent.

Continued job growth and low unemployment rate reaffirm Saskatchewan’s position as an economic leader in Canada’s labour market. These also show why our province is one of the best places to live, work and raise a family. Our government is committed to keeping this momentum, ensuring we have a skilled labour force to support our strong economy.

We continue to reinvest the benefits of a strong economy back into the people of Saskatchewan through infrastructure, programs and services. One of the significant investments currently underway is the construction of the new Prince Albert Victoria Hospital, which is progressing well.

The multi-story tower will include a heliport, an expanded emergency department, as well as dedicated spaces for pediatric and maternity care, a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, advanced medical imaging and a First Nations and Métis Cultural space. Overall inpatient capacity will increase by 40 per cent, increasing beds from 173 to 242. Additionally, modern, larger operating rooms will help expand surgical capacity to support current and future medical techniques and practices.

Further planned investments for 2025-26 include elevators, roofing, building envelope and HVAC improvements. New equipment such as an ENT microscope, a fracture table and a cryostat for anatomic pathology will also be added to support rapid diagnoses. These investments will soon provide greater access to quality care, benefiting our community and northern Saskatchewan for generations to come.

Work continues for our government in supporting Saskatchewan families with a joint federal and provincial investment of $10.8 million to expand early learning and child care (ELCC). Through the federal ELCC Infrastructure Fund and the Canada-Saskatchewan Canada-Wide ELCC Agreement, 450 new child care spaces will be created at Saskatchewan Polytechnic campuses, including ours here in Prince Albert. In addition, 90 more spaces will be added at Northlands College in La Ronge.

These new child care spaces will provide on-campus child care for students while also serving faculty, staff and the broader community. They will also serve as training sites for those pursuing careers in early childhood education (ECE). More information on ECE training can be found at www.saskatchewan.ca/early-childhood-educator.

In addition to supporting families through education and child care, our government is also enhancing outdoor play spaces for students. Playgrounds contribute to children’s development, providing them with a safe and fun environment to grow physically and socially. To support this, our government is investing $3.75 million annually over the next four years through the new School Playground Equipment Grant program. This initiative will help create safe and accessible playgrounds on school-operated property throughout Saskatchewan.

Eligible projects can receive up to $50,000 in matching funds for new playgrounds, or to update and replace existing equipment. Our government looks forward to seeing more projects take shape, benefiting our children, their families and communities. Applications are open until February 25, 2026, on a first-come, first-served basis. Full guidelines and the online grant application can be found at www.spra.sk.ca/funding/spra-grants.

Together, we are building a brighter future everyone. From strengthening our economy to investing in health care, child care and education, our government remains committed to keeping Saskatchewan strong, safe and secure for all who call this place home and for generations to come.  

As we prepare for another busy fall session in the legislative assembly, I look forward to representing you and your best interests. For any assistance with provincial programs and services or if you have any question or concerns, feel free to contact my constituency office at (306) 922-2828 or email pacarltonmla@sasktel.net. You are also welcome to stop by our office, located at Bay 4 – 406 South Industrial Drive.

MLA Report: Prince Albert Carlton

Kevin Kasun, MLA
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MLA Report: Prince Albert Carlton

Saskatchewan remains financially strong, holding the highest overall credit rating among provinces when considering all three major rating agencies. Moody’s Investors Service (Aa1), Morningstar DBRS (AA low) and S&P Global (AA) have each reaffirmed their ratings for the province, all with stable outlooks. These ratings show confidence in our responsible fiscal management and steady economy.

Keeping Saskatchewan affordable is a priority for our government while we continue making strategic investments in health care, education and infrastructure. This stability here at home allows us to invest in the services people rely on most.

Construction of the new Prince Albert Victoria Hospital is moving forward. The multi-story tower will include a heliport, 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 beds from 173 to 242. Larger, modern operating rooms will support current and future surgical techniques, helping expand surgical capacity. This investment in state-of-the-art infrastructure will soon provide greater access to quality care which will directly benefit our community and northern Saskatchewan for generations.

The Regina Urgent Care Centre (UCC) has already exceeded expectations in its first year, with over 41,000 patients receiving care. Its success has paved the way for expansion with a new UCC under construction in Saskatoon and planning underway for others, including one in Prince Albert. These centres will provide another option for timely care and help ease pressure on emergency departments.

Affordable housing is also one of our government’s many focuses. Together with the government of Canada, we are investing $3.76 million to help build a new transitional housing apartment in Prince Albert. Led by YWCA Prince Albert, this project will add 20 one-bedroom units including 10 bachelor, eight one-bedroom and two barrier-free one-bedroom units and a common service area.

This will provide temporary, affordable housing with support for individuals in need, focusing on women experiencing hardship. The goal is to help their transition toward stability and independence. The property will be located on 18th Street West and is expected to be completed in early 2027.

Work is also underway to expand educational options. Our government has recently issued a Request for Proposal (RFP) for architectural services to design two new Francophone school in Saskatoon and one in Prince Albert. The Ministry of SaskBuilds and Procurement is leading the process in partnership with the Ministry of Education and the Conseil des écoles Fransaskoises.

These projects will add both educational and child care spaces, supporting growing families while strengthening Francophone culture and heritage in Saskatchewan. The RFP will close on August 19, 2025, and one successful team will be selected after evaluation.

It’s an honour to represent and serve Prince Albert Carlton with a government focused on building a strong economy and investing in what matters most. These investments in health care, education and infrastructure are not just for today but also for the future of our communities.

I hope you’re enjoying time with loved ones and taking advantage of the summer days we have left with all that our provincial parks have to offer. Our parks offer an affordable getaway, activities for all ages and a wide range of options for relaxation. For more information, visit www.saskparks.com.

If you require any 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.

Kevin Kasun, Prince Albert Carlton MLA

Kevin Kasun, MLA
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Kevin Kasun, Prince Albert Carlton MLA

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.

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