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.
