On May 15, Premier Brad Wall said Saskatchewan’s diverse economy has proven to be very resilient despite a slowdown in the oil sector caused by falling crude oil prices.
“The spring sitting of the Legislature was all about keeping our economy strong and the new employment numbers released just last week show our economy remains strong,” Wall said. “With 7,700 more people working in Saskatchewan and the lowest unemployment rate in Canada for the 19th straight month - these are sure signs of a strong and diverse economy.”
Wall said the highlight of the spring sitting, which ended on May 15was the introduction of a balanced budget that controls spending and makes record investments in infrastructure, without raising any taxes.
“Sound financial management, low taxes and important investments in highways, schools and hospitals all contribute to a strong and growing economy,” Wall said. “We have seen what has happened in Saskatchewan in the past when governments raise taxes and stop investing in infrastructure. Businesses stop creating new jobs and people leave. We’re never going to go back to that.”
Wall said several important announcements occurred during the spring sitting that will lead to more economic activity and jobs in Saskatchewan.
“A $1.7 billion mine expansion by Mosaic, a $200 million expansion by Evraz and a new deal for Cameco to sell 3,000 tonnes of uranium to India - these all mean increased exports, more jobs and a stronger Saskatchewan,” Wall said. “Our government will stay focused on keeping Saskatchewan strong and never going back to the days of a struggling economy in our province.”
