Assiniboia’s Charlize Hillmer and Lafleche’s Raela Packet are athletes who have seen success in many different sports.
The Assiniboia Times has included stories on these girls both on the hockey ice, on the ball diamonds and for Raela, on the track Both girls were selected for Team Saskatchewan to play in the Canadian National Women’s U18 Hockey Championship held in NL in November 2025.
The success stories of these girls continue as both were recently announced as Saskatchewan Female U18 AAA Hockey League major awards.
Playing with the Swift Current Wildcats, Charlize Hillmer and Raela Packet, both recently received regular season league awards
Hillmer is a secondyear player with the Wildcats and received the Hayley Wickenheiser Most Valuable Player Award, the Colleen Sos -
Saskatchewan Female U18 AAA Hockey League awards were presented to Swift Current
players Charlize Hillmer, from Assiniboia, and Raela Packet, from
Local players earn U18 hockey awards
troics Top Defenseman Award and was named First Team All-Star. The league website noted that Hillmer more than doubled her rookie season point total and led all defenders in their league.
Playing in 29 games this year, the Assiniboia player racked up 11 goals and 18 assists for 29 points in the regular season.
A story on the league’s website included some comments from Hillmer regarding her awards.
Captain of the Wildcats
team, Raela Packet, from Lafleche, received the Fiona Smith Most Sportsmanlike Player award, noted for being assessed only four penalty minutes in 29 games. Raela was one point ahead of Hillmer in points in the regular season, earning one more assist.
This is Raela’s final U18AAA season as she heads to the University of Regina in the fall.
The Wildcats started the playoff season and opened their series against Notre Dame with a shutout win.
Sherri Solomko
Freelance Reporter
It’s a tremendous drawing factor for the Health Living Assiniboia’s Wellness Expo upcoming March 20 at the Prince of Wales Complex.
Health Living Assiniboia is letting residents know that keynote speaker, Mary Walsh, will challenge the way you think of aging, while encouraging you to get the best out of your second act.
Renowned comedian, actress, writer and social activist, Mary Walsh, will be the keynote speaker at this event. Most famous for her role in ‘This Hour Has 22 Minutes’, Walsh can add a sense of humor to her presentations, sure to engage the audience.
Drawing on her own life experiences, Walsh is an advocate for mental wellness. As well, her trademark humour utilizes her personal journey through triumphs and tribulations addressing topics with a relatable touch.
Walsh is a member of the Order of Canada and has received the Governor General’s Lifetime Achievement Award in the Performing Arts. The well known Canadian also holds multiple honour-
National TV star Walsh to headline Health Living Expo
Mary Walsh ary doctorates. Her speaking style is described as both passionate and honest. Her complete biography can be found on her website. The schedule for the upcoming “Age Well, Age Smart” Trade Show and Educational Expos open at 9 a.m. with Walsh scheduled to speak at 10 a.m. On the Health Living Assiniboia Facebook post, it shows presentations taking place in the Kay Cristo Roo, Board Room C and South College upstairs throughout the day, with scheduled times listed in that promotional post. Presentations will include topics like travel, first aid, medication and coverage, mobility aids, fraud and so much more.
Wildcat
Lafleche.
Assiniboia Chamber of Commerces much more than a membership
Sherri Solomko Freelance
Reporter
There is much more to being a member of the Assiniboia Chamber of Commerce. Benefits include such things as networking through events like business luncheons and professional opportunities via the Chamber Connection eNewsletter.
Through their website and social media pages, they continually promote local businesses and upcoming local seminars and educational opportunities such as the upcoming ‘Ask the Expert’ event being
held March 25 at Southland Co-op Centre. In fact, their website, https://assiniboiadistrictchamber.ca/ , offers a variety of resources and great information for those wanting to know more about this community organization and who to contact.
Assiniboia’s CoC has been active going on 31 years, starting in 1995.
Shelley Dahlman, CoChair of Assiniboia’s Chamber of Commerce, is proud of the outstanding facilities and business in Assiniboia that help draw people to the community.
“Events such as curling bonspiels, hockey tournaments, and arena-hosted competitions play a vital role in our community. These gatherings not only bring visitors to Assiniboia, but also fill our hotels and restaurants, and generate valuable opportunities for local businesses.”
As mentioned in previous Assiniboia Times stories, residents also love to showcase their hometown pride when arena season is on and events are taking place.
Dahlman added, “We are fortunate to have out-
standing facilities, including the Southland Co-op Centre and The Prince of Wales Cultural and Recreational Centres, which we are always proud to showcase. More importantly, these events allow us to highlight everything Assiniboia and the surrounding district have to offer.”
Assiniboia’s Chamber of Commerce acknowledges that the community is renowned for its welcoming atmosphere and the friendliness of local businesses. Hosting a busy arena season and other events gives Assiniboia the perfect op-
portunity to demonstrate our hospitality and community spirit.
The annual spring tradeshow is another event orchestrated by your community’s chamber and brings great value, including tourism dollars to the community.
Dahlman noted, “The registrations have been sent out today, as well Social Media will be out later today so having people check that will be helpful.”
Volunteers from Assiniboia CoC are part of the Christmas social, organizing and participating in the Santa Lights parade and other community engagement activities, showcasing their desire to be part of the community they serve.
Their advocacy offers a unified voice for local businesses to support economic development. Their mission is to foster a healthy business community, supporting principles of good government and economic vitality.
This volunteer group is currently in the finishing stages of planning their annual Trade Show upcoming April 24-25.
Board members are working people themselves so they understand the business community.
Their volunteer commitment is given to benefit Assiniboia and often gets taken for granted the time they spend overseeing all of the tasks Assiniboia Chamber of Commerce is tasked with.
Did you know being part of the Chamber of Commerce you have access to a group benefits plan through this organization, which provides dental, health, disability, and travel insurance? Assiniboia’s Chamber of Commerce also provides business advocacy, marketing and professional development resources.
Small towns need a Chamber of Commerce to act as a central hub for economic development business advocacy as well as community promotion. Chambers are a key factor in driving tourism and maintaining/fostering tourism opportunities that spin off into economic benefits for town.
Helping attract new businesses as well as helping existing businesses thrive is crucial to small town sustainability. Their liaison with the Town of Assiniboia is invaluable for promotion, problem solving and overall collaboration on the town’s business matters.
Several southwest communities await Hockeyville winners
Sherri Solomko
Freelance Reporter
In its 20th year, Kraft Hockeyville has closed community nominations for the prizes being awarded, with winners set to be named on March 14.
“Since 2006, we’ve proudly awarded $5.4 million dollars to 105 communities across Canada. We’re excited to celebrate 20 years of growing the game with you,” affirmed the Hockeyville website.
While there is several southwest Saskatchewan communities listed as nominated, not all had complete stories and/or photos included, which appeared to be part of the criteria.
Saskatchewan has yet to produce a grand prize winner in the competition’s history, however, several Sask. communities have benefitted from runner up status.
Gravelbourg and Glentworth were two southwest communities that had details to their nomination.
Key details of Gravelbourg’s nomination included the rally call to residents, friends and family of Gravelbourg. The community’s nomination notes they are fundraising to upgrade their facility’s cooling system be-
fore RRR22 gas is phased out, which would result in an indefinite shut down. The estimated time span is said to be only a couple of years.
People were encouraged to go to the rally page to share their story and tell Hockeyville what the rink means to the community.
On such response noted, “I left town in 1978 before the new ‘La Palestre’ was built. The old ‘Palestre’ was always a hub of activity and at one time hosted multiple senior teams as well as ‘old timers’ teams. Upon my return I realized that nothing had changed. In the long winter season the ‘Palestre’ is still the hub of activity. There are five minor hockey teams, two girls’ teams, a senior team, public skating, etc. As smaller centers around us keep shrinking, the arena will potentially get more use. The arena also brings in lots of people for which give local businesses a boost.”
Glentworth was also nominated on the Hockeyville website. It was clearly evident through nominations that people are passionate about what the arena means to their community.
One such nomination read, “Our rink is not just
Seed Directory
a community rink, it’s so much more. It’s the rink for a huge area of rural southern Saskatchewan. It is located in my hometown of Glentworth, but the truth is it’s the last remaining rink for a handful of towns near us that unfortunately have closed their rinks due to financial reasons or structure issues.”
“Our rink was built over 50 years ago and although structurally it’s still sound, cosmetically it needs help. The paint on the roof above the ice surface is peeling, the kitchen is now in jeopardy because it needs to be brought up to public health
standards and quite frankly, we are all afraid that we can’t financially make that all work. About 10 years ago our community raised almost $200,000 to replace the aging ice plant but now the roof is an estimated $100,000 to fix and the kitchen upgrade will be close to that as well. In addition to that the sound system barely works and the bleachers also need a facelift, and oh man would heaters be nice.”
Judges are now reviewing nominations and will select a winner from every province and territory
with each receiving $50,000 for arena upgrades, or more if the community advances to the top two.
The top two finalists selected from provincial and territorial winners will compete in a head-to-head nation-wide vote to determine the 2026 winners. The grand prize winner receives $250,000 for arena upgrades with an opportunity to host an NHL pre-season game. The runner-up would receive $100,000 in arena upgrades.
The deadline for nominations was March 1. For the first time, the 20th anniversary will announce
13 provincial/territorial winners to be named for $50,000 in upgrades. The top four will be announced later with the finalist to be announced April 4.
Saskatchewan history in this nation-wide contest showed that the Wolseley Sportsplex was a top four finalist in 2024, and applied replace their artificial ice plant. Other communities that reached the final four included Lumsden (2021), Pense (2020), Wilkie (2019), Ituna (2017), and Humboldt (2009). Will this be the year for a Saskatchewan Hockeyville winner?
Baby Contest ENTRIES
Beau JamesMann
Born -May 2, 2025
Parents -Amanda&RileyMann
Brother to Colt Jamesand Sarah Belle
Grandparents -Sheila &Norm Nordgulen
Grandparents -Jim &Donna Mann
Born October 24, 2025
Parents
Austin&Jan McCann
Editorial & Opinions
FROM
THE SIDELINES:
ARE GOVERNMENTS GOING ROGUE?
Norm Park/SaskToday.ca
So who is ready to make a few comments about senior governments?
Anybody?
Okay, I felt I wouldn’t be alone on this one.
First, I was inclined to just focus on our Saskatchewan team, but then I thought, why not embrace all kinds of democratic miscreants? Sort of a mash up of what electors might be facing on the governance side for the next few years on many levels and locations.
First off, I have a feeling that present day governing bodies have a sense of entitlement and that budget surpluses are for suckers. That is, if there was any government outside of city halls that actually registered a surplus or even a balanced budget, they are hard to find these days.
Balanced budgets are for the smaller tidy players like our city councillors. On the provincial and federal levels, deficits it seems, must dominate.
Actually being held to account for accounts is becoming passé. Canadian governments still pretend to be kind of accountable.
Our neighbouring federal government to the south has given up on that practise. They’d rather deal with emergency budget bills every three to four months. Their dollar is a globally accepted standard, but for how long? I mean when your country is $18 or $19 trillion (who knows for sure) in debt, what ya gonna do when the debt holders start demanding some serious payback, not just interest payments?
The U.S. government is currently beholden to billionaires. These people exercise their power through the faux offices of the president and the acolytes. They get to do that because there are no restrictions on fundraising for political parties or individuals. That is why their politicians need to campaign every month of every year. And that is why political blackmail works for the lobbyists and the quid pro quo carriers.
I believe most Canadians are a little more sensible on that file by somewhat restricting campaign funding and lobbying efforts while our campaigns are usually carried out over three to five months, not years.
I’m afraid, though, Canada is slowly seeping into a somewhat similar pattern when it comes to non-accountability. I mean, why bother with semi-yearly or yearly financial reports to the public domain? They have better things to do. They have wildfires to fight with cash. They have to pay more and more for police personnel to keep pace with all the drug dealers and illegal drug manufacturers, and that in turn, results in the need to build more recovery centres and relapse beds for the recoveries and they too, need to be staffed. So, we must pay for that as well as all those water, sewer, road and other infrastructure needs like
snow ploughs, graders, power grids and production. We also have growing needs on the other health files plus the additional loads heaped on the educational communities.
After all, we have to keep pace with other countries, some of them not democratic in nature, that appear to be producing and grooming clever young people who know things we don’t know and are being hired by the billionaires we talked about already. If they’re not steering their A.I. machinations then they’ll steer their yachts and private jets. The rest of us can clean the carpets and bathrooms in their mansions.
And what can our provincial and federal governments do about the fairly recent surge in gambling and the resulting negative issues it brings upon us?
Well, first off, they get a good cut of the action off the top and then, they (we) need to pay for gambling issues that are going unchecked. Want to bet on the next Leafs’ game? Well, there are 36 sites you can call on to help you do that. You can even pay later. Anything is fair game, not just the actual games. You can bet on the colour of the Gatorade that will be tossed on the winning coach. You can bet on a soccer game in India, Pakistan or Sudan that may or may not be rigged, or in some cases, even played!
So, we have to build safe places for these victims too, and hire personnel to keep them safe.
Now who wants to be that sucker? You know, the man or woman who works 48 to 50 weeks per year for a $50K salary, pays $2K in provincial and federal taxes, and just wants to keep their lawn looking good every summer and put a few bucks away for an annual two-week vacation. What a loser!
But yes, these are the real people that most of us know and deal with on a daily or weekly basis. These are the folks who do want to balance household budgets, even if their governments don’t. The elected politicians and their employees will continue to take in salaries of hundreds of thousands per year. They know no boundaries. Government deficits dominate, until they don’t, but when the time comes to pay the bill, they’ll be vacationing in fine locales spending lucrative pension incomes. Besides, they would rarely muster the courage to actually raise taxes by two per cent in fear of losing votes. So, costs soared while income didn’t.
Finding a way to balance a provincial or federal budget can be painful so it appears there are only a few brave souls left in the political worlds willing to be held accountable. And if the political miscreants are to be held accountable at some future date, well, they can call on those billionaire and millionaire friends they acquired at the lobbying/political conventions to bail them out and release them from a public outcry … right? Dream on McDuff.
Publisher: Peter Kvarnstrom
OPINION: COFFEE ROW, THE ORIGINAL SOCIAL NETWORK
Sherri Solomko Freelance Reporter
Community connection, one cup at a time. Coffee row represents a deeply rooted, informal prairie tradition. Members, sometimes referred to as ‘Coffee College’, may include farmers, seniors and other community members. Gathering places always used to include local Co-ops and hardware stores but have now expanded to local diners and arenas.
Coffee row represents a space where community, conversation and a brief respite from work come together.
Now living in Saskatoon, I went with some friends to a new coffee shop and bakery that opened in none other than a hardware store. We went for the curiosity about the new place but what we learned was much more.
Tables were full and no one seemed to mind people shopping or the buzz of daily hardward business all around them. In fact, as we shared memories of our childhood days of enjoying a local Co-op coffee shop or, as a child, finding it funny that men would gather in a hardware store to share a coffee together, not understanding the tradition or significance.
While we talked, several seniors nearby chimed in saying how much they miss this tradition. They talked of how no matter where you lived, you could go into a local Co-op and find someone to share a hot beverage and some conversation with.
Joe, one of the respondents, said, “I miss those Co-op coffee shops. No matter where you lived or where you travelled, you could find a community coffee gathering at one of those. When I took my wife for groceries or an appointment downtown, I would head to the Co-op coffee shop to pass the time, as did probably the other dozen guys in there.”
The Saskatoon senior remembers other seniors who lived alone looking forward each day to morning and afternoon coffee and the chance for some company, someone to share a coffee with and enjoy either contributing to a community conversation or listening to the latest updates from others.
One thing we all agreed on is that coffee row was the best place to generate support for a family, or cause, in need of help in town, as often this was the firstplace people learned of the crisis. Quickly a hat was passed or a plan was made to host a barbecue or other fundraiser, or set up a trust fund to help out.
Rising home consumption and changing demands for more complex, specialized coffee products (lattes, cappuccinos) increased pressure on traditional Co-op Cafe operations, that may have resulted in closures.
But let’s not pick on the Co-ops, although in that day’s conversation in that Saskatoon hardware coffee shop, Co-op coffee shops elicited the fondest of memories.
The moral of the story is that coffee row, regardless of where it takes place, this daily gathering serves as a vital, nonofficial social hub for sharing conversation about the weather, crops, local current events and community sports teams. These daily gatherings foster personal connection and storytelling. The activity level on coffee row, aka the number of trucks parked outside, is often used as an indicator of the health of a small town.
Whether you are a seasoned coffee row participant or a coffee enthusiast, coffee row offers the perfect blend of product and people, providing an opportunity to get grounded or even spill the beans about your communi-tea.
Vibrant community project celebrating prairie heritage in Assiniboia
Sherri
Solomko Freelance Reporter
Shurniak Art Gallery is once again spearheading a project that will add artistic beauty and flavor to their community. A recent local artist call-out helped secure an artist for a new mural upcoming in town.
SAG is now seeking artists, regardless of experience or medium, to submit their work in a
prairie roots theme. Selected artwork will become banners that will adorn light standards on Main Street Assiniboia.
The First Avenue Banner Project is hosted by the Town of Assiniboia, Assiniboia Arts Council and Shurniak Art Gallery.
The Town of Assiniboia told the Assiniboia Times, “Banners will be up after the Christmas lights are
removed in early spring (weather permitting) until September 1 when the Legion banners go up.”
SAG also added, “Highlighting local artists to beautify the newly paved Centre Street and promote community collaborations were the main motivation behind this new project.”
Responding to an inquiry for the Times on who is funding this project, SAG
clarified, “Twenty banners will be created with the printing of the banners, hardware and installation funded through TOA. Funding for the reproduction honorarium fee was made possible through the Sask. Arts Mic-Grant Program, along with the Assiniboia & District Arts Council.”
Local business, Able II Print will be producing the banners.
A gathering of siblings is a very special occasion for every family and for the Floyd siblings the opportunity to celebrate a 96th Birthday was all that was needed. The seven sisters and brother gathered to celebrate Alice Lawrence’s milestone day with a festive lunch served to 13 guests. Back row, l-r, Florence Floyd (78 years old), Linda Sheard (80 years old), Julie Elliott (83 years old), Cathy Shaver (88 years old), Verna Reed (92 years old) and Alice Lawrence (96 years old). Seated at front is Allan Floyd (94 years old).
Crystal, from SAG, said the Prairie Roots theme was a collective discussion and intentions to have the theme representative, and inclusive of the community and surrounding area.
“This joint project will help to create a legacy of local artists’ work. The collaboration encourages our organizations to work together to further develop
the cultural reach in our community. As a public art project, it will bring another layer of significance to the impact art can have through our local artists. Together all three organizations, with the input of a professional artist, will form a committee to jury all the submissions. This will ensure a fair and transparent process,” acknowledged the SAG spokesperson.
Our Town
Sherri Solomko Freelance Reporter
A staple in the community for more than nine decades, Assiniboia and District Music Festival offers another piece of the arts scene in town.
The annual music festival features a wellrounded variety of musical performances that includes
BusinessLicenseUpdate
The Town of Assiniboia has updated theirBusiness LicenceBylaw01/26, andrenewal letters havenow been mailed to allbusinesses
This updated bylawincludes: •New and clearer business classifications •Updated licence fees •Improved alignment with zoning andsafety requirements
What’schanging? The bylawnow recognizesa wider rangeof business types, including: Store front Businesses Ho me Occ upa tio ns Ho me -B ased Con tra cto rs Home-Based Other Direct Sellers Self-ImprovementSer vices Food Trucks (event or annual) Short-TermStay AccommodationsNon-Resident Businesses
Your renewalletter includes your updated classification andfee.Ifyou’reunsure which categor yfits your business,we’re happy to help —just visit ourwebsite, call or visit the Town Office.
vocal, strings, musical theatre, choral speaking and piano performances from local musical artists. There are 105 participants registered.
As with many events in town, volunteers are the driving force behind organizations and the AMF committee includes ten of these dedicated individuals. Additionally, community donors and sponsors are a key to success as AMF committee says they are more than 20 donors who are part of the community donated scholarships awarded to participants.
AMF spokesperson, Reagan Rasmussen told the Assiniboia Times, “The annual Assiniboia and District Music Festival begins March 17 and runs to March 20 at the Alliance Church.”
Assiniboia’s Music Festival now in its 93rd year, starts on March 17
Musical Theatre night takes place on March 19 at 1 p.m. and 7 p.m., as well as Assiniboia Community Choir will perform.
Stars of the Festival is a premiere opportunity to see a finale of all the performers that have received community scholarships and it takes place on March 22, starting at 6 p.m. at the Alliance Church. Rasmussen said an ice cream social will follow this wrap-up of the Music Festival.
There are varying session times, which can be found on AMF Facebook page or Music Festival program. While admission is free for performances, Rasmussen said donations are greatly appreciated. Programs outlining all performers and performances are available to purchase.
The Saskatchewan
Music Festival Association assigns adjudicators to each district festival and Assiniboia’s event will be adjudicated by Jenn Voth, who is a prairie girl stemming from Brandon, Man. Voth is a music teacher, freelance performer and has earned a diploma in music, Bachelor of Music and a Masters in Piano Performance and Pedagogy.
Voth, who resides and is a certified RCM teacher in Regina, also plays for the Prairie Cello Institute, is a utility player for the RSO and recently collaborated with the Prairie Saxophone Initiative. This annual musical arts showcase is a long-standing tradition that allows an opportunity to put the spotlight on local performers from Assiniboia and surrounding communities.
RCMP request info on break/enter
The person(s) responsible broke a window and took a variety of food stuffs, electronics, and gift cards from a place of worship on the 500 block of Centre Street.
The Assiniboia RCMP request the public’s assistance in locating the person(s) responsible for a Break and Enter that occurred in the Town of Assiniboia sometime between December 20, 2025, at approximately 7:00 p.m. and December 21, 2025, at approximately 9:45 a.m.
If you have information regarding this or any other crime, please contact Assiniboia RCMP at 306-642-7110. To submit information anonymously, one can call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), or online at www. saskcrimestoppers.com.
Assiniboia RCMP weekly crime stats
The Assiniboia RCMP responded to 17 calls for service during the week of March 2 to 8.
These included:
- Break and Enter - 1 - Criminal Harassment - 2
- Fail to Comply with Order - 1
- Fail to Stop or Remain at the Scene - 1
- False Alarms - 4
- Family Law Act - 1 - Fraud Less Than $5,000 - 1 - Mental Health Act - 1 - Traffic - 4
• Erratic Driving (2)
Thank you for helping keep Assiniboiaavibrant, business-friendly community!
Large crowd attends Sask. Ranchers town hall meeting in Assiniboia
Sherri Solomko Freelance Reporter
A newly formed Facebook group known as ‘Saskatchewan Ranchers FOR Ranchers’ have made it their mission to share important details on all things ranching.
The recent Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) proposed traceability regulations prompting a producer driven information session, set up in townhall meeting for-
mat, that helps sift through important topics as well as help collaboratively advocate for those in the ranching industry.
Assiniboia was once such a location, with a gathering held on February 28, held at the Prince of Wales Complex.
Organizers Julia Fairbrother and Tiara Shaw said, “Our Assiniboia meeting was a very successful, with about 300 people in attendance.
“Although we were disappointed that no one from the Canadian Cattle Association showed up, despite being invited, we were very fortunate to have extremely good representation from the Saskatchewan Cattle Association and the Saskatchewan Stock Grower’s Association, who not only listened; but also, were able to answer a few questions, address some concerns, and bring in some insight to what the associa-
Remember, police have the right to demand a roadside breath sample
Sherri Solomko Freelance Reporter
Getting together? Mandatory alcohol screening applies to all drivers.
A media release issued by SGI on March 2 reminds residents that March madness bracket is a game but your safe ride home isn’t.
“There are plenty of reasons to get together this month. You may be hosting friends to watch the Oscars or JUNOS, heading out for St. Patrick’s Day, gathering to cheer on the top teams in your March Madness bracket, or just spending time with loved ones while you wait out the winter.”
Regardless of what your plans are, SGI reminds drivers that police have the right to demand a roadside breath sample of any driver they legally stop, using an approved screening device. Police don’t need to suspect alcohol use to make
this request.
“The federal legislation giving police this right came into effect in December 2018. If a driver chooses not to comply, they can be charged with a Criminal Code offence and face the same consequences as exceeding the legal limit.
Mandatory alcohol screenings are quick and painless, as trained officers instruct the drivers on the procedure that can only take a few seconds to conduct. The results are returned right away. If the driver passes the test (and there are no other reasons to detain them), they will soon be on their way.
“Mandatory alcohol screening is about preventing tragedy, not catching drivers off guard,” said Kwei Quaye, Vice President of Traffic Safety. “Impaired driving remains the leading cause of fatal col-
lisions in Saskatchewan.
Knowing how the law works helps drivers make safer choices and protects everyone on the road.”
Everyone has a part to play in ensuring everyone gets home safe:
• Pick a designated driver or volunteer to be one for your group.
• Call or text a loved one for a ride (and return the favour when it’s your turn).
• Take a cab, bus, rideshare or designated driving service.
• Stay the night.
Wherever the month’s celebrations take you, a safe ride home should always be part of the plan. Hear more safe ride stories from Saskatchewan residents by visiting www.sgi.sk.ca/ stickwithsafety, or by following SGI on Facebook, Instagram, X and LinkedIn.
tions are working on,” the organizers added.
The organizing duo said MLA David Marit was also in attendance and said a few words as well.
It’s clear by the positive feedback on this group’s Facebook page, that producers are grateful to this duo for initiating these meetings.
Fairbrother added, “It was a unified voice
amongst everyone that these proposed regulations are a complete overreach and must not be put into place.”
Fairbrother wanted it clearly stated that no one from the Assiniboia meeting approved of these proposed regulations.
Fairbrother and Shaw, while both working full time jobs and their ranching work, are dedicated
to continue their groups’ work. They have one more meeting slated in Kindersley March 22 but will have to temporarily hold off on additional meetings until calving season is done.
For more information, pick up the March 27 Assiniboia Times for a full story on this meeting, the concerns that have arisen and what is proposed to happen moving forward.
The Saskatchewan Ranchers FOR Ranchers group held a town hall meeting at the Prince of Wales in Assiniboia.
The Prince of Wales came alive with energy and grace as Giselle’s Showtime Dance took the stage with a captivating performance on March 7. The dancers moved with precision and passion, showcasing impressive choreography that had the audience thoroughly entertained. From their fluid movements to the carefully curated music, every element of the performance demonstrated the talent and dedication of the troupe, making it a memorable afternoon of entertainment for all in attendance.
C O M I N G C O M I N G E V E N T S E V E N T S
March 13
Assiniboia Arts Council presents Lee Siegel Concert. Prince of Wales Auditorium, 7:30 – 9:30 p.m.
March 14
Women Bonspiel - Disco On Ice Assiniboia Curling Club.
March 17
St. Patrick’s Day Lunch 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
St. George’s Parish Hall.
March 18
Alcohol Inks with Joyce Anderson at the Shurniak Art Gallery.
March 19
Pie Day at the Shurniak Art Gallery. 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
March 21
Healthy Living Assiniboia 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. guest speaker Mary Walsh at 10 a.m. March 21 to March 23
Men’s Bonspiel Assiniboia Curling Club.
March 27
Mental Health First Aid Essentials Course Canalta Hotel, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
March 30
Assiniboia Arts Council presents Rum Ragged Concert. Prince of Wales Auditorium, 7:30 -9:30 p.m.
The Rural Municipality of Lake Johnston No 102 invites sealed tenders for the lease (three-year term) or purchase of the following lands:
• SW-24-12-29-W2
• NE-13-12-29-W2
Conditions:
• Tenders must clearly indicate whether they are for Lease or Purchase
• Lease term shall be for a three (3) year period
• Council reserves the right to accept or reject any or all tenders The highest or any tender will not necessarily be accepted.
• Successful tenders are subject to approval by RM Council
• Prospective bidders must rely on their own inspection and investigation of the property to determine acreage, condition, improvements, and assessments
Submission: Sealed tenders must be clearly marked “Pasture Land Tender” and submitted to: Rural Municipality of Lake Johnston No 102
Back row, l-r, Miss Giselle, Anika Hansen, Carina Stevenson, Hope Olson, Hannah Rhodes, Addison Nagel, Ava Lidberg, Emma Nelson, Jessie Logan, Maisey Rhodes, Willow Lawson, Caimbry Rogers, Hayley Gibson and Miss Jenna. Middle row, l-r, Anna Bumbac, Samantha Mohr, London Ermel, Sofia Lozada, Nora Wilson, Grace Eldstrom, Teagan Pituley, Ava Salaba, Juliana Lozada, Presley Sahl, Elisha Sewell and Miss Adawncia. Front row, l-r, Lucy McDonald, Madeline Winter and Liliia Korzhynska. Missing Laura MacKenzie.
Photo courtesy Amisha Modi
Assiniboia Union Hospital ER adds virtual physician support
SaskToday
Assiniboia joins 29 other communities using Saskatchewan Health Authority’s (SHA’s) virtual physician program, which helps maintain access to emergency room services at the Assiniboia Union Hospital.
According to the SHA, the virtual physician program is an interim measure that helps sustain and support access to emergency health services while work continues to recruit physicians to rural and remote locations across Saskatchewanthrough its Health Human Resource (HHR) Action Plan.
With recruitment efforts to fill provider vacancies in Assiniboia underway,
Remind your neighbours to recycle and help preserve our planet’s natural resources.
HealthLine 811 technology enables emergency department physicians to remotely support the local health-care team in safely addressing emergent patient needs when local physicians are temporarily unavailable.
When rural facilities are
using the virtual physician program, the emergency department functions the same, says the SHA. Patients are still initially assessed and triaged by an on-site registered nurse (RN) who uses technology to consult the physician by phone or video. Working
with the on-site health-care team, the physician remotely assesses the patient to provide direction on the appropriate care required to safely and effectively treat their current condition.
Assiniboia is the 30th location to implement the
virtual physician program since it was first introduced in August 2023, successfully supporting local health-care teams in maintaining ongoing access to emergency department services when needed. As of Feb. 21, the virtual physician program has helped
avoid 5,507 potential service disruptions across the province, says the SHA. Individuals requiring emergency services should call 9-1-1. Non-urgent health-related questions may be directed to the 24/7 HealthLine service by calling 8-1-1.
Sports
Richardson Pioneer Southern Rebels playoffs ends vs Fort Knox
Sherri Solomko
Freelance
Reporter
After securing a “mustwin” game on March 5 at Southland Coop Centre, the Richardson Pioneer Southern Rebels Rebels knew their work was far from over as they headed to Fort Knox for game five of their best-of-seven playoff series in the Prairie Junior Hockey League.
After dropping the first three games, the Junior Rebels win at home on March 5 guaranteed them another playoff game. The team encouraged fans to travel to Fort Knox in team vans to help bring the noise to help energy the team in the continued playoff drive.
The game opened with a Fort Knox powerplay goal at the seven-minute mark but Evhan Allan quickly answered for the Rebels making a 1-1 tie after the first period.
The second period did not go well as a shorthanded Fort Knox goal led off three goals scored by
the opposition without the Junior Rebels being able to answer back. Down 4-1, the Rebels had to dig deeper than ever before to make the last 20 minutes work in their favor.
Zach Svenson and Nikolas Smolinski were able to score two more goals for the Junior Rebels but it was not enough to earn the win as their playoff run ended with a game five, 5-3 loss on the road.
Fort Knox advanced to play the Regina Capitals in the next playoff series, with the winner of that series advancing to PJHL final.
March 3 game results
The Assiniboia Junior Rebels showcased their desire to make great moments from great opportunity securing a victory in a must win game four of their Prairie Junior Hockey League Playoff series against Fort Knox.
Assiniboia headed to Fort Knox on March 3 with even more determination to scratch out a win.
The game on the road did not start off great as the Junior Rebels were down two goals after the first period. The Rebels outshot Fort Knox 57-48 but this did not translate into goals needed and another loss was recorded, 5-2.
Assiniboia could not find the back of the net in the first or second period leaving them only 20 minutes to put the series
within one. The struggles continued in the last 20 minutes as Noah Oslowy scored the Rebels only two goals in the third period but it was not enough to take the victory.
March 5 game results
The Junior Rebels depended on fan support for their continued playoff run.
During a home game on March 5, fans provided energy and noise. It paid
off as the team was able to deliver the win to hometown fans, guaranteeing them a game five.
Game four was a showcase of determination to extend Rebels’ season.
Zach Svenson scored at the eight-minute mark of the first period, Kaden Costly at the 1:31 mark and a powerplay goal by Asher Watson in the last 24 seconds, put the Junior
Rebels up 3-1.
The only goal in the second period came from opposition, Fort Knox.
The visiting team tied the game in the third period but Seth Gryde scored a goal, followed by a goal delivered by Kaden Berry. With his second goal of the game, Costley delivered the winner in the last eight seconds of the game, sealing the 6-4 victory.
The Junior Rebels hosted Fort Knox during their
Centre.
playoff series at the Southland Co-op
Photo courtesy of Blair Heagy
Sask. High School curling provincials includes local teams
Sherri Solomko
Freelance Reporter
After qualifying through Sask. High School Athletics Association provincial districts and regionals, several area teams earned a berth at the 2026 curling provincial championships.
Prairie South School Division was represented at SHSAA provincial curling in six teams in girls, boys, mixed and doubles divisions.
Cohen Schlamp was part of the Moose Jaw Peacock School boy’s team
that captured a provincial silver medal.
Girl’s competition in Martensville included a foursome from Kincaid. After dropping their opening game March 6 to Martensville the Kincaid girls team soundly defeated Dinsmore 11-2 in the B bracket. This would set them against Lumsden in an afternoon game March 6, both teams needing a win to stay in playoff contention. However, Lumsden took Kincaid down in defeat eliminating them from provincial playoffs.
Mixed provincials were
in Moose Jaw and included Glentworth, with their team following a similar route as the Kincaid girls. After losing their opening game by one point to Wadena, the team dropped down to the B playoff bracket.
Another decided victory for the Prairie South School Division team as they handily beat Canora 13-5. This set them up for a late afternoon game against Yorkton. An eventual onepoint difference handed Glentworth the loss, thus eliminating them from provincial playoffs.
Doubles provincials
took place in Estevan and included a duo from Mossbank. They followed the same route as their PSSD counterparts, losing their opening game.
A loss to Meunster put them in the B playoff bracket where they defeated HIllmond 7-6. This set them up for an game against Beechy. A 6-4 win put Mossbank into March 7 page playoff system, setting them for a big game against Estevan. The winner would go on to play in a medal game SHSAA provincial curling. Mossbank was defeated by Estevan
putting them in the provincial bronze medal game the afternoon of March 7. Interestingly enough, Mossbank would be playing Estevan in the bronze medal game. To their dismay, Mossbank was unable to come up with the win and had to settle for fourth place in the province, a proud accomplishment nonetheless Prairie South School Division was also represented in SHSAA provincials by A.E. Peacock Collegiate Boys, Central Collegiate Mixed, and Central Collegiate Doubles.
Sherri Solomko
Freelance Reporter
When reigning league champions, Assiniboia Sr. Rebels, lost out in their opening playoff series to Yellow Grass Wheat Kings, it would be up to the other seven teams in quarter finals to carry the torch.
However, Yellow Grass Wheat Kings continued to dominate the senior men’s hockey league playoffs, winning not only the Assiniboia series, but winning the semi-finals against Avonlea Arrows three games to one.
The Gravelbourg Hornets advanced past Coronach Merchants in quarter finals but were defeated three games to one by the Milestone Flyers.
The Lafleche Fly -
ers were unable to defeat Avonlea Arrows in their quarter finals.
The two teams left standing to compete for the league championship were Yellow Grass and Milestone, with a best of seven series that began on March 8.
The Hockey Sask. provincial playoff bracket on their website shows Lafleche Flyers beat Midale Mustangs two games straight to send them to the next round of Senior D Provincial Playoffs. However, their next series went the distance. After defeating Kipling Oil Kings at home in game one, Kipling beat the Flyers in the next two games in best of three series, eliminating Lafleche from provincial competition.
Cohen Schlamp, from Mossbank, was part of the Moose Jaw Peacock School boys team that captured a provincial silver medal.
Rocket Report: ACHS set to host SHSAA Conference Basketball
By Gillian Couttie
In Rocket sports news, this past weekend was great for our Rocket boys’ basketball teams.
The boys’ bantam basketball team were at the South Central District Championships in Moose Jaw, where they fought hard and came out with the silver medal.
This brings the bantam boys’ season to a conclusion. Our senior boys were off at the Vanier Tourna -
ment and were B-Side champs with a short bench!
Next, our Rockets senior girls’ basketball team won 55-45 over Briercrest/ Cornerstone on March 3. With this win and hard work, our girls captured the MJHSAA JV League title triumphantly!
This coming weekend will be filled with lots of basketball playoff action as
well as our seniors teams will both host SHSAA Conference Playoffs on Friday, March 13 and Saturday, March 14.
Visiting teams in the boys’ conference include Cornerstone Christian Academy, Briercrest Christian Academy, Gravelbourg, Shaunavon, and Maple Creek. The girls’ conference includes
visiting teams from Indian Head, Fort Qu’Appelle, Regina Christian Academy, Briercrest Christian Academy, Moosomin, and Shaunavon.
Teams have not been scheduled specific times as of time of printing. Friday games are set for 2 p.m., 3:30 p.m., 5 p.m., 6:30 p.m., and 8 p.m. Saturday games are set for 9 a.m.,
The top four girls’ teams and the top two boys’ teams will advance to SHSAA Regional Playoffs on March 20 and March 21. We encourage everyone who can to come watch and cheer for our teams! Stick around for next week’s report!
Lifestyle & Wellness
Quality of life is the goal of palliative care
Medical care often falls into two umbrella categories: curative and illness management. Palliative care belongs to the second category because it focuses on improving the quality of life for those with serious or life-threatening illnesses and is not designed to cure or eradicate an underlying condition. An estimated 56.8 million people, including 25.7 million in the last year of life, require palliative care each year. However, worldwide, only about 14 percent of people who need palliative care currently receive it.
What does palliative care do?
Palliative care can improve the quality of life of patients and their families who are facing challenges associated with life-threatening illnesses. Palliative care is offered alongside other treatments a person may receive. Palliative care largely involves managing pain and other symptoms of a serious illness. It also can help one cope with side effects from medical treatments. Palliative care does not depend on whether or not the condition can be cured.
Is palliative care hospice care?
Palliative care and hospice care are not one and the same. In fact, hospice care is a type of palliative care that focuses exclusively on patients who are expected to live for six months or less. Palliative care can be offered to patients with serious illnesses at any stage. Who is palliative care for?
Just about any person suffering from a serious, prolonged illness can benefit from palliative care. People with these conditions may benefit from palliative care: Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), Alzheimer’s disease, cancer, cardiovascular disease, cystic fibrosis, HIV/AIDS, kidney disease, lung diseases like emphysema, multiple sclerosis (MS), Parkinson’s disease and stroke.
Who offers palliative care?
Teams of professionals provide palliative care. A care team can consist of doctors, nurses, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, social workers, and spiritual advisors.
Which conditions can palliative care help with?
Patients may receive palliative care to assist with symptoms of depression, pain, fatigue, constipation, nausea, difficulty sleeping, anxiety, and much more. When does palliative care end?
There is no time limit on palliative care; it can last as long as the patient requires and is exhibiting symptoms suggesting care can help. Palliative care is designed to help manage symptoms from the illness itself or the side effects of treatment.
The ACHS Rockets boys’ bantam basketball team were at the South Central District Championship in Moose Jaw. Back row, l-r, coach Nathan McCaslin, Lihan Alberts, Lincoln Bautista, Gab Sarmiento, Gavin Snape, Brock Ruzicka, Zandro Panday and assistant coach Josiah McDonald. Front row, l-r, Foster Watteyne, Zeke McCaslin, Nate Rasmussen and Koy Gomez.
Mar yWalsh
Boardroom C Cancer Prevention FIT Testing: Home testing for colorectal cancer
South College (Upstairs) Willow LLPLaw Firm EstatePlanning: Basics
11:45am-12:15pm
Olympia Theatre Resound Canada Cognitive Decline &Hearing Loss
KayCristo HutchAmbulance Calling 911
Boardroom C HomeCareHow does long-ter mcare wor k
South College (Upstairs) Prairie Counselling & Mediation Ser vices Mental Health&Aging
12:30pm-1pm
Olympia Theatre Age Well Saskatchewan Building an Age Friendly Community
KayCristo Unitron Diabetes&Hearing Loss
Boardroom C Mountain &Mountain Wills &Estates
TIME
2pm-2:30pm
Olympia Theatre Star k&Mar sh CPALLP "StrategicWealth Optimization& Saving forRetirement"
Kay Cristo Giselle's Show Tyme Dance Modifiedstretching exercisesfor theolder adult
BoardroomC Prairie Counselling & Mediation Ser vices Aging ,F inishing Well
South College (Upstairs) Hutch Ambulance Fall Prevention
BoardroomA Erin Claussen-Lockhear tF inancial Abuse of Senior s
2:45pm-3:15pm
Olympia Theatre What Old BroadsKnowPatricie Hack The Greatest Risk of Aging (Humor)
Kay Cristo
South College (Upstairs) What Old Broads KnowPatricie Hack Aging without Apolog y
1:15pm-1:45pm
Olympia Theatre CAA Travel &Travel Insurance
KayCristo Home CareLevels of Care
Boardroom C Piche-Hawkins-Grondin Funeral Home Pur ple Shiels-Pre-planning
South College(Upstairs) Julianne Heag y"Living withacquired braininjur y doesn't mean you have to live withoutpeace &joy"
South
BoardroomA
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South College (Upstairs) Nikki Beaubien Hospice
Boardroom A Erin Claussen-Lockhear tPower of Attorn ey and Guardianship
Sherrill Ann McOuatt (née Lumb)
September 9, 1945
February 15, 2026
Sherrill Ann McOuatt (née Lumb) passed away peacefully on February 15 in Victoria, B C , leaving behind a legacy of kindness, curiosity, creativity, and quiet courage Born in Assiniboia, Saskatchewan, Sherri was the daughter of Howard and Myrtle Lumb Raised on the prairies with her brother Ron, she developed a deep love of stories, laughter, and connection that shaped her strong moral compass, deep empathy, and passion for learning After graduating from Teacher ’s College, Sherri married Gordon James McOuatt in 1968 and settled in Calgary She changed career paths, earning a Commerce degree from the University of Calgary in 1978, which led to a successful career as a Data Planning Analyst in the petroleum industry with Dome/Amoco (1981–1997) After Gordon passed away far too early in 1996, Sherri took time to adjust to life on her own and began new ventures She retired, then purchased a coffee shop near SAIT, where she thrived on the energy of her young staff and customers She returned to university, which led to remarkable travels throughout Eastern Europe, Africa, and the Caribbean Music and the arts were lifelong passions Sherri sang in choirs, played piano, and loved theatre and visual art She cherished her cats and dogs After moving to Victoria in 2014, she formed friendships and embraced West Coast life Sherri will be remembered as a gentle and compassionate soul, a loyal friend, loving aunt, and a woman whose warmth and kindness touched many lives Sherri is lovingly remembered by her nieces Jalene Lumb, Shantel Lumb, and Heather McOuatt; nephew Kevin Hastings; sister-in-law Bonnie Hastings; brotherin-law Larry McOuatt; and many dear friends She was predeceased by her parents, Howard and Myrtle Lumb; her brother Ronald Lumb; her husband Gordon McOuatt; and her niece Cali Hastings We are deeply grateful to the staff at The Heights at Mt View in Victoria for their dedicated care of Sherri this past year and to Sherri’s B C friends for their steadfast support and kindness over the years Those wishing to honour Sherri are invited to donate to the BC SPCA or the Heart and Stroke Foundation A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date Please contact CelebratingSherri@yahoo com for details
Manitoba’s Dunstone defeats Alberta’s Koe to win first Montana’s Brier
Randy Palmer SaskToday.ca
At long last, Matt Dunstone is a Brier champion.
Dunstone and his Manitoba foursome of third Colton Lott, second E.J. Harnden and lead Ryan Harnden picked up a pair of wins on Sunday, including a 6-3 victory over Alberta’s Kevin Koe in the gold medal final, to claim his
first-ever Canadian men’s curling championship. The Dunstone foursome will now represent Canada at the LGT World Men’s Curling Championship running March 27 through April 4 in Ogden, Utah.
Koe nearly pulled off a long double takeout with the final rock of the first end before settling for one. A perfect double with
Koe’s final rock of the second saw Alberta laying three and Dunstone needing to draw full four foot for one with his final shot. He’d be up to the task, settling on the button to tie the game 1-1 through two.
Alberta picked up a blank in the third end. Koe faced three Manitoba counters around the house with his final shot. A draw
to the button picked up one, making it a 2-1 contest heading into the fifth end.
Dunstone ended up blanking the next two ends, but things set up well for multiple Manitoba points in the seventh. Facing three in a line behind the T-line with his final shot, Koe took a 4-2 edge into the final three ends.
Koe faced four Dun -
The Assiniboia U11 team one finished their year with wins at a home tournment on November 28 and 29 and an Estevan tournament played on February 6 to 8. They played against 16 teams in Estevan and each player brought home a cool ring for their prize. Players on the team include Dex Dabrowski, Dawson Brost, Kaleb Christopherson, Weston Sand, Lynden Ruthen, Ryker Pituley, Remy Dahlman, Beckett Brost, Colby Mercer, Rhett Pituley and Tinley Lemieux. Coach is Jeff Christopherson.
stone counters with his final shot in the eighth, and he’d make a hit and slight roll to the edge to score one.
Things set up nicely for Manitoba in the ninth, and Dunstone would come up with a great double takeout
with his final shot to score a pair and take a 6-3 lead heading into the 10th. Dunstone made a double takeout with his first shot in the final end to run Koe out of rocks and claim the 2026 Brier championship.
R.M. #42 of Willow Bunch No 42 is accepting applications for two (2) Seasonal Equipment Operators for the 2026 season.
This position may include operation of equipment such as, but not limited to, road grader, loader, scraper, road packer, gravel truck/semi. Other duties will be assigned by the Foreman and will include but not be limited to maintenance and repair of the municipal equipment, manual labour etc. as required.
The RM of Willow Bunch No 42 offers competitive wages based on experiences, benefits package and enrolment in the Municipal Employees Pension Plan (employer matched pension plan).
QUALIFICATIONS:
A Class 1A preferred and considered an asset. Operator certification for select pieces of equipment or must have willingness to complete Ground Disturbance certification or willingness to complete.
Please apply in writing clearly indicating your past and present work experience/certification/education/courses/ skills and three references
R.M. of Willow Bunch #42
Box 220, Willow Bunch, SK SOH 4K0 FAX: 306-473-2312
EMAIL: rmwb42@gmail.com
We thank all applicants for their interest in this position, however only those selected for an interview will be contacted
Applications will be received until March 18th, 2026
Province pleased to see China reduce canola tariffs
John Cairns SaskToday.ca
The province has made known it is pleased to see China reduce tariffs on canola as of March 1, as was agreed to between Canada and China earlier this year.
According to the news release from the Canola Council of Canada, the final determination from China’s Ministry of Commerce in the anti-dumping investigation on Canadian canola seed imports establishes a 5.9 per cent anti-dumping duty that will apply to imports of canola seed into China for a period of five years, which will be added to the pre-existing nine per cent most favoured nation duty, resulting in total duties of 14.9 per cent on imports of canola seed into China.
They also report the Ministry of Commerce and the Chinese Ministry of Finance adjusted the 100 per cent tariff on canola meal down to zero for the period of March 1 to December 31, 2026, meaning canola can trade into China tariff free at least for the remainder of the calendar year — in line with January’s agreement. The tariff on canola oil, though, remains at 100 per cent.
Speaking to reporters last week, Minister of Trade and Export
Development Warren Kaeding was happy to see the reductions in tariffs take effect.
“So we feel very, very pleased that China certainly lived up to what they said they were going to do, and that’s reduce canola tariffs to a very reasonable amount,” said Kaeding on March 5.
“I think what we’ve seen in the past —and from what we understand now it didn’t take long for industry to respond — prices are up, and what we understand is that shipments are on their way. So I think that’s very positive news for our canola producers, for both inventory, and for new crop planning now, too.”
Kaeding was also asked about the Statistics Canada numbers indicating an increase in farmers’ seeding plans for canola in Saskatchewan, of 0.5 per cent.
“Well, canola is certainly probably one of our biggest farm gate revenue streams, and I expect producers are always trying to maximize their returns, and I fully expect they’re going to seed as much canola as they can,”
Kaeding said.
“From what I understand, talking to my producer friends, is that canola still looks reasonable on the profit side of crop production, so I ex -
pect they’re going to try and be able to maximize as many canola acres as they can, to certainly take advantage of the changes in the marketplace.”
The jury is still out on the situation with India’s tariffs on peas and lentils, with Premier Scott Moe in India during the past week hoping to at least prevent those tariffs from being increased, if not removed entirely.
Kaeding said from what they understand, “that’s a work in progress.” But he pointed to Premier Moe “certainly talking to the highest level of government officials in India, certainly stating our case as to how detrimental that would be to our pulse industry here in Saskatchewan, and certainly across the country. I can’t comment as to how, if there is any progress in reducing those tariffs, but I certainly expect everyone there heard from our Premier and certainly from our trade offices as to how important reducing these tariffs, or certainly getting to a tariff-free environment would be to support our pulse industry here at home.”
Premier Moe continued his trade mission to India late last week. His most recent activity there included meetings in New Delhi with Indian govern-
ment ministers on such issues including the critical minerals sector, and on collaboration in research and technology in agriculture.
Prior to his trip to India, Premier Moe spoke at a news conference of the importance of the trade missions Saskatchewan has gone on, pointing to the importance of “engagement with other countries around the world, like on the mission that we’re heading on now.“
“If we’re truly serious about, and I would say not
even so much diversifying the existing products that we export, and I’ll speak from a Saskatchewan’s perspective, but it’s true across Canada, but diversifying the exports that we have today — that’s a difficult challenge. However, if we’re truly serious about diversifying the exports of additional products that we’re going to produce in the years ahead, away from the US, therein lies an opportunity and therein lies some of the long-term fruits of
the labour that Saskatchewan has been involved in for a number of years, which is engagement with these other international countries around the world that are looking for energy security, looking for food security, looking for a long-term, trusted, sustainable, ethical provider of those goods of which Saskatchewan checks virtually all of those boxes, I would say, and checks them stronger and darker than any other jurisdiction in the world.”
Canola exports is one of the biggest revenue streams for the province.
