The local business community in the Battlefords got to hear from their MLA Tuesday.
Battlefords MLA Herb Cox was the guest speaker at a Chamber of Commerce luncheon.
It was a chance for Cox to reflect upon his role as an MLA over the past year to about 30 guests at the Balych Mural Meeting Room.
He spoke about his experiences on his first day in the legislature in the fall of 2011 and of taking his seat for the first time, as well as recounting his first speech in the legislature. Cox is excited about introducing his first school group to the legislature later this year.
Cox mentioned he gained considerable knowledge during his short time as an MLA.
"The first thing I learned was that I had a lot to learn," said Cox.
Cox spoke of his responsibilities in the legislature with the caucus management committee, the Crown and Central Agencies Committee and the Public Accounts Committee. Cox also spoke about his own involvement in the Pacific Northwest Economic Region, where he is the alternate Saskatchewan representative to current PNWER president Lyle Stewart.
"I'm very excited about Saskatchewan's involvement in the group and the benefits of us belonging to it," noted Cox, who said he's already been on trips to Idaho and Alaska as part of his PNWER involvement.
The Battlefords MLA described recent initiatives of the Sask. Party government, such as the government's Vision 2020 initiative, the recent changes to liquor legislation, proposed changes to the employment act and the midyear budget.
In respect to the liquor legislation, Cox noted "how much time and preparation actually goes into a piece of legislation." Cox said several amendments were made since that first draft with some 77 changes being proposed.
He had a role in reviewing that legislation as a member of the Crown and Central Agencies Committee. Cox noted "it's gratifying to see that even as a so-called backbencher you do have some input into current legislation."
A few highlights of that legislation is that permits will be allowed for salons and spas, food caterers and outdoor restaurants can obtain permits, customers may bring their own wine into restaurants, and there are other changes as well.
Cox also again touted the continued balanced books of the province with the midyear budget brought in by Finance Minister Ken Krawetz.
"We continue to be the envy of almost every jurisdiction in North America," said Cox.
On local issues, Cox noted the $5 million that was set aside in the 2012 budget for detailed planning for Saskatchewan Hospital, and continued to voice optimism that an announcement will come on the start of construction.
"I, like so many other people in the Battlefords, am anxiously awaiting the start date to house 188 patients for care, forensic appraisal and monitoring. That's going to be a great day for the Battlefords."
Cox also gave an update to constituents about his recent battle against bone cancer, having undergone treatment as well as a stem cell transplant during the early part of 2012.
He expressed thanks for "all the encouragement, your thoughts and prayers" during that battle, and reported he has returned to good health.
"I'm feeling great right now, and looking forward to 2013 and being your representative," said Cox.
