Legislative Report
(24 September 2009)

Peace Of Mind For Saskatchewan Families

With all the talk about a second wave of the H1N1 flu hitting this fall, a lot of families are worried about their loved ones. Our government is doing everything it can to give those families some peace of mind. We recently announced a pandemic response plan, which includes:

• Making the H1N1 vaccine available for free to ALL Saskatchewan people;
• Co-ordination of communications and emergency response within the province;
• Continuity of health services during periods of increased demand on the system;
• Prevention and control of the spread of influenza;
• Public health measures that could be implemented to slow the spread of the disease;
• Preparedness and pandemic response within First Nations communities.

You also play an important role in controlling the spread of H1N1, by doing simple things like washing your hands, coughing into your elbow and, maybe most importantly, staying home when you’re sick.

To receive an overview and full version of our government’s pandemic preparedness plan, visit the Ministry of Health website and FightFlu.ca or call the HealthLine at 1-877-800-0002.

DEVELOPING A SENIORS’ CARE STRATEGY

Saskatchewan seniors deserve the best care we can provide them. Our fathers, mothers, grandfathers and grandmothers have given so much to us, and we need to ensure they receive the support that they need.

In the coming weeks, there will be consultations across the province where seniors can tell government officials directly what their needs are.

The consultations will focus on five issues:

• Vulnerable adult abuse;
• Home care supports;
• Accessibility of personal care homes;
• Falls prevention; and
• And the feasibility of developing a seniors' secretariat.

I would like to invite you to attend the Seniors’ Care Strategy consultation in the community closest to you over the next month.

For meeting times in your area and more information call (306) 545-6333, email at longtermcare@health.gov.sk.ca or check this News Release.

HELPING FARMERS AND RANCHERS DEALING WITH DROUGHT

It’s been tough for a few years now for ranchers in southwest Saskatchewan, which is why our government is extending the deadline for the Saskatchewan Farm and Ranch Water Infrastructure Program (FRWIP). We’re moving the completion deadline to November 2010. The extra year gives producers some flexibility and allows them to build a sustainable water supply. A stable water supply means higher yields, which means more money in producers’ pockets and more stability for the Saskatchewan economy.

Past Legislative Reports