Legislative Report
(22 October 2015)

Legislation for Farmland Ownership to be Introduced

Our government understands that for many people, farmland is not just an asset. It is a connection to our history and who we are as people. Farmers and ranchers want the opportunity to own the land they farm and we’re making changes that will work to keep farmland accessible.

The majority of those who participated in our farmland ownership survey voiced support for making pensions and large investment trusts ineligible to purchase farmland, and limiting the ownership of farmland to Canadian residents and 100 per cent Canadian-owned corporations.

Our government is introducing amendments that will clarify who can own farmland and will provide the Farm Land Security Board (FLSB) with more authority to enforce the Act. Following passage of the legislation and regulations, the new rules are expected to come into effect by the New Year.

Wildfire Review Underway

Wildfires were responsible for an unprecedented emergency situation in Saskatchewan this past summer. Thankfully, there were no serious injuries or lives lost, and property damage was limited. Now, it’s important to listen to those most affected and see if we can make improvements.

The province has launched a comprehensive review of the wildfire response that will be based on three main factors, including an internal operations review, meeting with northern leaders, northern emergency management teams and industry, and an online survey for the public.

Saskatchewan residents can access the survey online at saskatchewan.ca/haveyoursay. Written submissions and letters will also be accepted. The deadline for submissions and online survey completion is December 15, 2015.

Wholesale Trade Sets Record in August

Saskatchewan is leading the nation in wholesale trade with record gains in the month of August. Saskatchewan’s wholesale trade reached a record $2.3 billion in August, an increase of 12.9 per cent (seasonally adjusted) on a year-over-year basis and up 9.3 per cent from July.

Increases in wholesale trade are a good sign that Saskatchewan's economy is diversified and resilient. While there is no doubt these are challenging times for resource-based economies, we have reason to be confident that the diversity of our economy will help us continue to create jobs and opportunities.

Province Launches Powerful Campaign Against Sexual Violence and Abuse

The Government of Saskatchewan continues to address the issue of sexual violence and abuse through the #WhoWillYouHelpSK public awareness campaign. This campaign calls on all citizens to value and protect people, particularly vulnerable women and girls, who are at risk of violence and abuse.

This campaign encourages everyone to be a voice to stop abuse, including when to intervene and stop inappropriate behaviour. A new video with a powerful message demonstrates everyone’s responsibility to intervene in situations where someone is at risk of, or experiencing, sexual violence or abuse.

For information on where to go for help in Saskatchewan if you are, or know someone who is, a victim of sexual violence and abuse, visit saskatchewan.ca/whowillyouhelpsk.

Nominations for Province’s Highest Honour Close November 1

Residents have until Sunday to submit nominations for the next recipients of the Saskatchewan Order of Merit – the province’s highest honour. Established in 1985, the Order of Merit recognizes excellence, achievement and contributions to the social, cultural and economic well-being of the province.

Any current or former long-term resident of the province who is a Canadian citizen may be nominated. Groups and organizations are ineligible, along with sitting members of Parliament, the Legislature or judiciary. Learn more at saskatchewan.ca/honoursawards.

Past Legislative Reports