OFFICIAL PORTRAIT OF FORMER PREMIER BRAD WALL UNVEILED
The official portrait of former Premier Brad Wall was unveiled at a ceremony held Wednesday afternoon in Regina.
The portrait, painted by Canadian artist Phil Richards, joins the portraits of former Saskatchewan Premiers in the Saskatchewan Gallery in the Legislative Building.
It was a special day at the Saskatchewan Legislature as former Premier Brad Wall’s photo was unveiled.
"Brad Wall remains one of the most popular and successful leaders in our province's history, having overseen a period of then-unprecedented growth and opportunity for Saskatchewan and the challenges that came with it," Moe said. "He met those challenges by virtue of his vision, his dedication, his compassion and, above all, his unshakeable belief in the potential of this province and its people - a legacy that will continue to inspire and inform us all into the future."
Official Portrait of Former Premier Brad Wall Unveiled | News and Media | Government of Saskatchewan
HOPE FOR MALAWI
It was a privilege to bring greetings last Sunday on behalf of Premier Scott Moe and the Government of Saskatchewan at the Hope for Malawi event.
What an honour to have the opportunity to pay tribute to the Hope for Malawi team and it's dedicated volunteers. From the beginning, this organization was founded on compassion, generosity, and love in action. It was this experience that motivated the Zakreski's to do more. And now, years later we celebrate their accomplishments. The work continues despite the passing of Peter in 2022. Elaine's children and grandchildren will carry on the legacy as the mission to aid the Malawi people is upheld and preserved.
We recognize the great work each person involved has faced and overcome in their meaningful missions to aid the Malawi people. We acknowledge everyone who has partnered with Hope for Malawi by generously donating to the Foundation over the years.
It was such a pleasure to be part of an incredible program along with the Honourable Russ Mirasty, Lt. Govenor of Saskatchewan, Jeff Rogstad, MC, Honourable Mayor Charlie Clark, Honourable Kevin Waugh, MP and guest soloists Sonia Reid-Noble and Madison McLean.
YOUR LEGISLATIVE REPORT
Last week, Saskatchewan was the hub for agriculture as thousands of people descended on the province for the year's most anticipated event, Canadian Western Agribition. Once again, Agribition hosted 10,000 schoolchildren for programs that passed on the knowledge of where our food comes from, advocated proper animal care, and the importance of the agriculture industry. Canadian Western Agribition showcases our agriculture sector and helps us share our sustainability story with the world. Local producers continue to lead in sustainable agriculture practices, technology, innovation, science, and breeding genetics, which helps build public trust and knowledge of the industry.
Saskatchewan is set to kick off 2023 with vigour and enthusiasm. There is so much to be proud of after facing one of the most challenging economic times in recent history. By working together and creating a positive business environment, our province is seeing financial growth when many other jurisdictions are staving off a recession.
We are on track to balance the budget, with the Mid-Year Financial Report forecasting a $1.1 billion surplus. The increase is largely the result of high potash and oil prices, and higher revenues, reflecting solid economic growth. Our government is using higher-than-expected revenue to help people and businesses address higher costs due to inflation while reducing debt.
The Four Point Affordability Plan announced earlier this year was made possible because of this economic success. We are delivering a one-time Saskatchewan Affordability Tax Credit cheque of $500 to all adult residents who have filed a 2021 tax return in the province, exempted the PST on fitness and gym memberships, along with other recreational youth activities, extended the small business tax rate reduction and are paying down $1 billion in provincial debt. Putting more money back in your pocket while retiring debt strikes the right balance and helps our province move forward.
The good news does not end there. Based on an average of private sector forecasts, Saskatchewan's real Gross Domestic Product is forecast to have grown by 5.3 per cent in 2022 and increase by 1.9 per cent in 2023, the highest growth among the provinces in both years. Saskatchewan has the second-highest credit rating in the country when considering all three major credit agencies.
Businesses and international investors see this positivity as a solid indication of success, leading to new investments, more jobs and increased family support. Our government will foster that growth and re-invest in the programs and services that make a difference in day-to-day life. The future is bright for our province, and 2023 will certainly be an exciting time to live in Saskatchewan.
