The Saskatchewan Association of Rural Municipalities conference held last week was “tense” Prince Albert Mayor Greg Dionne said in an interview.

“That’s the best word, probably, and of course that’s because of the rural crime thing that was a big issue to them.”

Dionne was referencing a motion that encouraged provisions that would allow rural landowners to protect their property, using force if necessary.

The resolution was decried by the Federation of Sovereign First Nations, pundits, the farm union and politicians, as they said it could lead to an increase in violence.

While that resolution made headlines, it wasn’t the only issue discussed at the conference.

“Of course, they’re worried about funding – what’s the model going to be, where it’s going to go, and of course, they’re under pressure, the province, to do something as well,” Dionne said.

Prince Albert Northcote MLA Nicole Rancourt was also in attendance.

“It was really good to connect with the rural leaders who were there. There was a lot of good discussion with regards to resolutions put forward,” she said.

“It was good to hear some of the concerns they have on their front.”

For more on this story, please see the March 22 print or e-edition of the Daily Herald