09/03/2026
Report from the Legislature
September 2, 2026
A new school year is always a meaningful time for Saskatchewan families. Classrooms are once again filled with students setting new goals, teachers preparing for another year of learning and school communities coming together. It is also a reminder that the investments we make in education today help shape the opportunities available to young people in the years ahead.
One of those priorities is ensuring students develop strong literacy skills early in their education. Reading proficiency by the end of Grade 3 is one of the strongest predictors of future academic success and high school graduation, which is why Saskatchewan continues to focus on improving literacy outcomes. We also continue to expand the Specialized Support model to 50 additional schools this year, bringing the total to 108 schools across all 27 school divisions. With additional resources and specially trained staff, the model helps students build self-regulation skills and supports positive learning experiences.
The opportunities available to students do not end when they leave the K-12 system. This fall, Saskatchewan is reaching an important milestone in health professional training with the first students beginning the new Master of Occupational Therapy and Master of Speech-Language Pathology programs at the University of Saskatchewan. A $37 million provincial investment has made it possible to bring this training to Saskatchewan. With 80 students forming the first cohorts, these programs will significantly increase the number of people who can train for professions that are essential to our health care system. Preparing more health professionals means more opportunities for students to build their careers here at home, and more professionals available to soon serve patients and families across Saskatchewan communities.
Creating those opportunities is especially important as Saskatchewan continues to attract people who want to live, work and raise their families here. That growth is reflected in our housing numbers. In 2025, Saskatchewan recorded 6,150 new housing starts, the highest level since 2014 and a 42 per cent increase from the previous year – the strongest growth among the provinces. The latest figures show that momentum continuing, with 3,083 housing starts recorded between January and June 2026. With housing remaining the largest single expense for many families, our government continues to invest more than $60 million each year in programs that increase housing supply and support affordability.
A growing province must also have the health care capacity to meet the needs of its residents. In Regina, families will benefit from the expansion of the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at Regina General Hospital, which is increasing from 25 to 28 beds. The additional capacity will provide specialized care for more premature and medically fragile newborns in Regina and surrounding communities. Making those beds available also means making sure there are people to provide the care. The expansion is supported by an $8.32 million investment in pediatric and neonatal care through the 2026-27 Provincial Budget, including more than $2 million for staffing associated with the new beds. More than 17 full-time equivalent positions will help ensure the unit can operate safely and sustainably as demand for neonatal care continues to grow. Our government recognizes the Hospitals of Regina Foundation and its donors for their ongoing generosity and commitment to better outcomes for Saskatchewan families.
The same focus on strengthening health care extends beyond our larger centres. Effective September 1, Saskatchewan's Rural and Remote Recruitment Incentive program expanded to 12 additional communities, bringing participation to 94 communities across the province. Eligible communities can offer incentives of up to $50,000 for a three-year return-of-service commitment in designated high-priority occupations. These incentives are an important tool for attracting and retaining health professionals where they are needed most and ensuring people in rural and remote communities can access the right care, in the right place and at the right time.
Supporting people in our communities goes beyond health care. Our government is providing $1.3 million through this year’s provincial budget to 15 community-based organizations serving individuals with intellectual disabilities. The funding will support accessibility improvements, kitchen and bathroom renovations, exterior upgrades and other work at group homes, respite homes and day programs. These are practical investments that help create welcoming spaces where people can develop skills, build relationships and participate more fully in their communities.
These investments are about building a Saskatchewan where people can succeed and where families can feel confident about their future. I am proud of the progress being made across our province and remain committed to representing our community. If you have any questions about a provincial government program or service, please contact my constituency office at (306)567-2843
