QUESTION PERIOD — Privy Council Office
Intergovernmental Affairs
December 8, 2021
My question is for the Leader of the Government in the Senate.
Senator Gold, it is important for any federal government today to consult with and serve Canadians in all provinces, territories and Indigenous jurisdictions. Without any member of Parliament from Saskatchewan in the cabinet, what is the government planning to do to bridge the absence of a regional minister in Saskatchewan and to ensure Saskatchewan’s engagement and inclusion in this country’s economic and environmental future?
Thank you, senator, for the question. The government takes very seriously all issues that are raised, regardless of the region and by whom. It is here to serve Canadians.
I want to note, for example, the important initiatives undertaken by both the federal government and the Province of Saskatchewan — notwithstanding being in the midst of a worldwide pandemic — on making life more affordable with the agreement on reduced child care fees. I also know that the Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs and several senior ministers continue to exercise good bilateral relationships with their provincial counterparts in Saskatchewan on a considerable range of public policy initiatives.
The recently announced Cabinet Committees on Economy, Inclusion and Climate mandated to look at issues including the environment, the post-pandemic recovery and economic development, also include several ministers from Western Canada.
I should also state the obvious that there are five Saskatchewan senators across four distinct Senate groups. We just welcomed a new senator from that province. These provincial voices in our chamber can contribute in a significant manner, individually and through committee studies, on government legislation.
Finally, as a representative of the government, I offer my services as a conduit for these concerns to ensure that the views of Saskatchewan are transmitted through my office to the government.
In the last session, there was a high-ranking minister in cabinet and another representative in the West who were tasked with bridging that gap, smoothing the road over and working collaboratively, doing some advanced consultation, helping to look forward to building on Saskatchewan’s strengths and help them cultivate their competitive advantages and being part of an inclusive economy. I am a senator from Saskatchewan. I have a pretty broad business network. I was never contacted by anybody. I didn’t see any presence of any ministers that were tasked with such appointments.
Yes, thank you. There is no minister specifically tasked in that regard. However, I do repeat my offer. I will reach out to you and other Saskatchewan senators. Perhaps we can meet and figure out a way — in the absence of a minister as such — to make sure that your concerns and the expertise of you and your colleagues are properly transmitted to the government.
