75-Minute Debate (27 April 2023)

From Hansard (27 April 2023)

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Coverage for Prescription Contraceptives

The Assembly was debating the following motion moved by Jennifer Bowes (NDP - Saskatoon University):

That the Assembly calls upon the government to introduce universal no-cost coverage of prescription contraceptives for people living in Saskatchewan.

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Hon. Mr. McLeod: — Thank you, Mr. Deputy Speaker. This motion calls for no-cost prescription contraceptives for people living in Saskatchewan. Obviously there is a cost, Mr. Speaker, and it’s the people of Saskatchewan that would be paying for it.

The member from Saskatoon Fairview raised the issue of a woman’s right to autonomy over her body in her comments. My question to the member from Saskatoon University: can you please explain how the taxpayers of Saskatchewan paying for your contraceptives somehow improves your personal autonomy?

Ms. Bowes: — Mr. Speaker, personal autonomy is something that is a human right and so we’re again, if we’re talking about the taxpayers . . . This program pays for itself, so it becomes cost neutral after two years. We already pay for abortions. This member should know that. That’s clearly very public knowledge and as an MLA, it’s a bit shameful that he’s not aware of that.

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