Legislative Report
(29 October 2009)

Protecting The Health Of Our Families

Autumn is the season of raking leaves, trick or treating and pumpkin pies. But, this fall, there is something else in the air – and it’s not the crisp breeze. People across the globe and right here in Saskatchewan are preparing for a resurgence of the H1N1 virus.

Our government knows one of the main priorities for residents and parents at this time of the year is keeping your family healthy. We know that, which is why we have a plan in place to help keep you and your children safe.

Saskatchewan’s H1N1 vaccination plan has begun. Health care workers are already rolling up their sleeves. Next week, the vaccine will be available to high risk groups such as young children and people with underlying medical conditions. Health regions will advertise information about public immunization clinics as soon as it is available.

During Education Week (October 18-24), Education Minister Ken Krawetz spoke with many young students about how they can protect themselves and others from influenza and H1N1. Frequent hand-washing, coughing and sneezing into a tissue or your elbow, and staying at home if you feel sick are simple ways that all of us can prevent the spread of viruses.

Banning Smoking In Vehicles Containing Children

Protecting the health and safety of Saskatchewan people is also the driving force behind proposed changes to anti-tobacco legislation expected later this fall. Our government will bring forward legislation that may ban smoking in vehicles with children with them and on restaurant and bar patios.

The legislation may also limit the sale of tobacco products in drug stores.

Our government has already taken steps to reduce tobacco use, such as banning smoking in the workplace.

Saskatchewan To Adopt One-Part Driver’s Licence

Our government has announced changes that will protect Saskatchewan people from identity theft. Starting in 2011, Saskatchewan is moving to a one-part driver’s licence. The new licence is more secure and brings our province in line with what most other jurisdictions already have. It also offers drivers a chance to save some money. If you choose to pay $100 when you renew your licence, you will save $25 from the current cost to renew the two-part licence for the same five-year period.

Past Legislative Reports