Time for Sask NDP to be Euthanized?

Two different news headlines caught my attention today. However, they are essentially linked.

First, it was noted that Saskatchewan is considering whether or not to join a Western Canadian trade deal. While Alberta and British Columbia signed an agreement earlier this year that eliminated many barriers for businesses and workers between the two provinces, Saskatchewan was notably absent from the agreement. This agreement allows professionals with professional designations to work freely between provinces and lessens restrictions on companies doing business in both provinces. This would be a good thing for all of Western Canada. In particular, easing the restrictions that Alberta oil and gas companies might face when doing business in Saskatchewan would boost our economy and likely create jobs in the province. However, it is clearly a pro-business scheme and by know we’ve realized that Lorne Calvert and company are decidedly anti-business. After all, this could unfavourably affect unions and that just couldn’t happen in our socialist society. And, even if Saskatchewan is to join the deal, it won't be until next year. We should have been in on the agreement from the get-go, let alone waiting another year to contemplate the decision! We obvious lack vision, leadership and direction!

Second, Saskatchewan lost over 4,000 people last year! Big surprise! The lowest population in 24 years and the 9th year in the past 10 that the population has decreased. Yes, it is understandable that Alberta is an appealing lure for people of the province. I will give the NDP that. However, given the plethora of natural resources we have in this province, there should be some sort of vision for this province so that we can hold our own. After all, Manitoba still manages to grow its population – what does it have that Saskatchewan does not? I’m not saying there should necessarily be a population boom when we’re next door to Alberta but we should not be leading population declines either.

The common link between these two stories is that both illustrate that Calvert’s government lacks vision and leadership. They are a tired government that is in need of a good mercy killing. Indeed, next year’s provincial election cannot come too soon.