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Saskatchewan set to introduce bill aimed at seeking more provincial independence

Nov 1, 2022 | 11:13 AM

REGINA – Premier Scott Moe’s Saskatchewan Party government is set to introduce a bill today aimed at seeking more provincial independence, especially over its natural resources.

Canada’s Constitution already separates provincial and federal powers, but Saskatchewan wants it written into its own laws with the Saskatchewan First Act.

The intent of the bill is to define that Saskatchewan alone has exclusive jurisdiction over its natural resources and economic future.

Lt.-Gov. Russell Mirasty said in last week’s throne speech that the legislation will draw “the jurisdictional line” and defend it based on the existing constitutional division of powers.

Danielle Smith, Alberta’s new United Conservative premier, has proposed a sovereignty act to resist federal laws and court rulings it deems against provincial interests, but her office has maintained it would remain on-side with the Constitution.

Moe made a commitment that his government would “respect and follow all the laws of the land” as it puts forward its changes.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Nov. 1, 2022.

The Canadian Press