10/15/2026
Report from the Legislature
October 14, 2026
Saskatchewan continues to create opportunities for people, families and businesses to succeed. We are attracting investment, creating jobs, strengthening agriculture and improving access to health care. This work reflects a shared commitment to building strong communities and a brighter future for Saskatchewan people. As fall begins, there is encouraging news about growth and opportunity, along with several ways residents can take part in decisions that matter to their communities.
Investment in Saskatchewan is showing up in the numbers. Statistics Canada reports that building permits in the province rose 32.5 per cent between August 2025 and August 2026 (seasonally adjusted) and increased 15.9 per cent from July to August. Every new office expanded, facility and housing project reflects confidence in our province. That confidence creates jobs today and helps fund the programs and services that keep our communities strong.
Our province’s labour market reflects the same momentum. Saskatchewan added 2,400 jobs year-over-year in September, and a record 625,000 people are now working in the province. Our unemployment rate of 5.4 per cent is the second lowest among the provinces and well below the national average of 6.5 per cent. Our economy is strong and steady, and our government is helping people prepare for the jobs being created.
The Bell AI Fabric data centre campus in the RM of Sherwood is a leading example. Our government and Bell Canada recently marked major construction milestones at the 300-megawatt site. Structural steel is rising, all four buildings in the first phase are taking shape and more than 500 people are working on site. Most of the workforce is from Saskatchewan, supported by more than 30 local contractors, consultants, suppliers and Indigenous partners. The first data hall is on track to come online in the first half of 2027. When government, industry and local partners work together, major projects move forward, creating opportunities in Sherwood, Regina and across the province.
Sustaining this growth will depend on the next generation, including in agriculture, a cornerstone of our economy. Applications are now open for the 2027 Agriculture Student Scholarship, and the deadline to apply is March 1, 2027. Four scholarships are available: a top prize of $6,000 and three runner-up awards of $3,000 each. Supporting tomorrow’s agriculture leaders is essential to our province’s long-term success, and we encourage anyone who knows a deserving student to share this opportunity. Visit www.saskatchewan.ca/ag-scholarship for more information.
Agriculture also relies on farm land, and we want to hear from residents about how it is protected. Our government is reviewing The Saskatchewan Farm Security Act and has launched a public survey for producers and residents, available at www.saskatchewan.ca/farmland-consultation. Farm land is one of Saskatchewan’s most valuable assets, and the framework governing its ownership and protection must continue to meet the needs of our people. The survey takes about 10 to 15 minutes, all answers are confidential, and it is open until November 30, 2026. Your input will help ensure any changes are done right.
Public input shapes decisions, and our commitment to responsive government extends to everyday services as well. Under our Patients First Health Care Plan, we are expanding the Limited Access Exception Drug Status Application. Participating community pharmacists can now submit online requests for select Exception Drug Status medications on behalf of eligible patients. Patients deserve timely access to the medications they need, and this online process will reduce administrative workload for health care professionals and help patients receive coverage decisions faster.
Protecting health also means preparing for the season ahead. Influenza and COVID-19 vaccinations are now available to book, and we encourage all eligible residents to make immunization part of their fall preparations. It is a safe and effective way to protect yourself, your family and the people around you. Residents can find a walk-in clinic or book immunizations for the whole family in one appointment through the Saskatchewan Health Authority’s online booking tool at www.4flu.ca. Appointments can also be booked by calling 1-833-727-5829, Monday to Friday during regular business hours.
Looking ahead, our government is committed to keeping Saskatchewan growing and ensuring that growth reaches every family and community. As the fall sitting of the Legislature nears, we will continue to listen and build on our province’s strengths. We will keep working for everyone who calls Saskatchewan home. If you would like to share any thoughts or have any questions about a provincial government program or service, please contact my constituency office at 306-567-2843
The Agriculture Student Scholarship awards one winning scholarship valued at $6,000 and three runner-up scholarships valued at $3,000 to students willing to speak up and tell the exciting story of the industry.
