As the fall legislative session draws to a close, I am pleased to share some of the important initiatives our government has taken to continue building a strong, safe and secure Saskatchewan for everyone. From investing in health care and education to strengthening public safety and increasing access to basic necessities, there is much to be hopeful about.
One of the major investments in our community is the $322 million allocated in the 2025-26 Provincial Budget for the Prince Albert Victoria Hospital Acute Care Tower. This expansion has already reached the 25 per cent construction milestone. Once complete, the hospital’s inpatient bed capacity will increase by 40 per cent. This is a major step forward in improving access to quality care for residents of Prince Albert and surrounding areas. It ensures more people can get care closer to home when they need it most.
To support our growing number of families, we introduced the Building Schools Faster Act. This new legislation streamlines the process of acquiring land for school construction in rapidly expanding neighbourhoods. Municipalities will now acquire serviced land for new schools in new development areas and the province will share costs under a consistent cost-sharing formula. By reducing delays caused by land negotiations, this will ensure new schools are built efficiently in step with community growth. This is especially important in fast growing areas, helping give students their best start.
Public safety remains one of our government’s top priorities. Through the 2025-26 Municipal Police Grant program, the City of Prince Albert will receive $3.69 million to support 26 police positions. This funding will assist targeted policing initiatives and help respond to the unique public safety challenges facing our community. In addition, more than $54,000 from the Criminal Property Forfeiture Fund will go toward upgraded communications equipment for the Prince Albert Police Service’s Emergency Response and Crisis Negotiation Team. This includes voice-projection units and a tactical video phone. These investments will improve policing operations and support officers in providing clear direction to the public during active situations.
Increasing access to basic necessities matters. That is why our Free Menstrual Products program continues across Saskatchewan schools. Through a renewed agreement and ongoing partnership with Shoppers Drug Mart, 12 million period products will be donated over the next three years and distributed province wide. This program has already helped hundreds of schools and thousands of students, removing barrier to attendance and supports dignity, equity and learning.
These initiatives reflect our government’s commitment to building a province where everyone feels safe, supported and included. As always, I am thankful for the trust you place in me and am honoured to serve as your MLA. I remain dedicated to working on your behalf and representing your best interests in the Legislature. If you have questions or would like to share your thoughts, please feel free to reach out to my constituency office at 306-763-7677 or at panorthcote.mla@sasktel.net. You’re also welcome to visit our office at #7, 598 15th Street East.
