Legislative Report
July 10, 2025

Wildfire Recovery Efforts

Our government remains committed and is doing everything we can to support communities affected by Saskatchewan wildfires. We want to ensure people feel safe, supported and have access to the recovery resources they need. To lead this work, the Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency's (SPSA) Recovery Task Team (RTT) is working with communities as they prepare to rebuild.

This team was created to identify areas of need and ensure devastated communities receive assistance and post-disaster supports. The RTT includes representatives from the SPSA and other provincial ministries such as Environment, Social Services, Government Relations and others as needed.

Currently, the team is focused on helping with debris management, living accommodations and mental health services. Their work is centered on the most severely impacted communities, especially those whose homes were lost to wildfire. 

Residents who have lost or had property damaged may be eligible for support through the Provincial Disaster Assistance Program. This program helps individuals and communities recover from natural disasters and other severe weather events. More information is available at www.saskpublicsafety.ca/communities/provincial-disaster-assistance-program.

In addition to the dedicated work of the RTT, our government has committed $20 million to wildfire recovery. This funding is expected to be used for debris removal and environmental testing; landfill expansion or maintenance; and project management support to assist local recovery efforts.

Recovery begins with clearing the way for rebuilding and this investment will help people safely rebuild their lives. Our government thanks all the community leaders and the RTT for the countless hours they've put in over the past few weeks to get recovery started.

Improvements in Medical Diagnostics

As we move forward with wildfire recovery efforts, we are also proud to share positive progress in our health care system. In 2024-25, Saskatchewan reached a new record by completing over 250,000 Computed Tomography (CT) and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scans. That’s the highest number ever performed in a single year.

A recent report from the Canadian Institute for Health Information shows that Saskatchewan had the shortest CT scan wait time and the third lowest MRI wait time in Canada. Our recent investments in this critical service area are resulting in faster diagnoses and improved patient care.

To build on this progress, our government is providing more than $10 million this year for the replacement of medical imaging equipment. Planned upgrades include replacing MRI and CT scanners at Regina General Hospital; replacing a CT scanner and retrofitting an MRI scanner at Royal University Hospital in Saskatoon; and upgrading medical imaging equipment in several rural health facilities.

Student Aid Applications Now Open

Turning to education, our government remains committed to providing financial support for students wanting to build rewarding lives and careers here at home. The 2025-26 Saskatchewan Student Aid applications are now available for students pursuing post-secondary education this fall. 

Students interested can fill out an online application and apply for other student aid programs including scholarships, bursaries, grants and student loan forgiveness. This fund will help students from their first year of post-secondary education through to joining Saskatchewan's workforce. You can find more information at www.saskatchewan.ca/student-aid.

Free Fishing Weekend July 12-13

While our government continues to work on these priorities, we also recognize the importance of spending time with family and enjoying Saskatchewan’s great outdoors. July 12 to 13 is Free Fishing Weekend – a perfect opportunity to experience our province’s world-class sportfishing. During these two days, you can fish on Saskatchewan’s beautiful lakes and rivers without needing a licence.

There are even more ways to enjoy the outdoors this summer. Saskatchewan Parks Week runs from July 12 to 19, offering camping, hiking, fun events and more in our provincial parks. Additionally, free entry to all provincial parks will be offered on July 19 in celebration of Parks Day. Learn more at
saskparks.tourismsaskatchewan.com.

If you have questions about government programs or services, need assistance or want to share your ideas, my constituency office is always open to help. Please feel free to reach out using the contact information below. We look forward to hearing from you.