Brad Wall gathers MLAs for retreat in Waskesiu

Saskatchewan Premier Brad Wall is shown in this file photo.

SaskParty MLAs are gathering at Elkridge Resort near Waskesiu this week to discuss new policy ideas.

Premier Brad Wall says his MLAs have been meeting with constituents to get an idea of economic issues of importance to them. At the retreat, they will lay the groundwork for a paper on economic growth to be delivered in October.

Wall says that paper will focus on solving provincial issues created by a booming economy. "It's going to be about healthcare and about education. And about demands that we have in municipalities for infrastructure. And the infrastructure for schools and for all the other services that government wants to provide."

The Premier also touched on the issue of resource wealth. Last week, the Prince Albert Grand Council hosted a forum for First Nations to discuss how to better share that wealth. When asked about the province’s position, Wall said his government takes consultation with First Nations very seriously but he is not prepared to make any new economic concessions.

"We also were very clear during the provincial election campaign that our party, if elected, would not be pursuing a specific revenue sharing deal with any group, First Nations or otherwise. We believe the revenues from natural resources in the province belong to everybody equally. Period."

The three day caucus retreat at Elkridge Resort wraps up on Wednesday.