The first spring session for the new NDP leader Cam Broten is now in the books.
It was the first for Broten since being elected leader in March, and also the first for his MLAs since the reshuffle of critic assignments immediately following that vote. Trent Wotherspoon was installed as deputy leader and former interim leader John Nilson installed as health critic.
While the new NDP leader was pleased with the performance of his caucus in the legislature, what stood out for him were the issues.
"What really stands out in my mind when I think about this session are the instances where the stories of Saskatchewan people have come to the legislature," said Broten.
"We've seen some issues where we need to do a much better job," he adds, citing province's moves toward standardized testing. He pointed to the issue of senior care as well.
"Many of the stories have been heartbreaking," noted Broten. "(There are) problems in the system where people aren't getting the care and the respect and the dignity that seniors deserve when they are in a long-term care facility."
Broten also discussed criticism in the provincial auditor's report about the Saskatchewan Party's "stubborn determination to have two sets of books," referring to the general revenue fund and the summary financial statement
"The provincial auditor said by maintaining two sets of books, they've hidden three consecutive deficits," said Broten. "They're now over $19 billion in debt. The Saskatchewan Party absolutely needs to move to one set of books."
Battlefords issues were among those the NDP focused on during the session. During one week in April, in what appeared a co-ordinated effort, several NDP critics questioned government ministers over Saskatchewan Hospital, Living Sky School Division, Maple Leaf Foods closure and other issues related to the area in Question Period.
"We've had a very strong focus on raising the issues of the Battlefords here in the assembly," said Broten.
"We've had a big concern with the delays seen with the Saskatchewan Hospital, and with the government's privatized P3 approach there could be further delays."
Also brought up was Living Sky School Division having to dip into reserves for its projects. "That affects the ability of the school division to ensure there are enough teachers, enough educational assistants," said Broten.
Another issue Broten said his party raised in the legislature in recent days was on Saskatchewan Transportation Company cuts. The most recent announcement on the cuts confirmed the end date for the Blaine Lake to North Battleford route was May 18.
"People can't understand why, when the economy is so strong, when the economy is doing well, why people aren't receiving the services that they need to live healthy lives and to engage in the economy that they need to," said Broten.
He again cited implications for seniors going on medical appointments and for businesses shipping items.
Broten addressed recent issues as well, particularly flooding in the province. He offered his thanks to "everyone who came together and pitched in and made a difference."
"When we think of the situations at Borden, at Radisson and at Poundmaker, that these have been the examples that we've had and that really is about Saskatchewan's true spirit.
But he also was critical of the government over outstanding PDAP flood claims that had not been addressed, an issue raised in the legislature by the party's finance critic Wotherspoon. He was also critical of the government because he says they "didn't budget for the expenses related to flooding."
For the next few months when the legislature is not in session, the focus of the NDP members will shift back to their home communities. Broten plans to travel the province to hear what the concerns are from constituents, and indicated the Battlefords will be one of those stops in the months to come.
"We are working hard to earn the trust of Saskatchewan people and I really look forward to championing the things that matter to the community," said Broten.
