Dear Editor
Its interesting to hear Premier Brad Wall ask for provincial “equalization” payments from the federal government for the oil industry, because of the downturn in oil prices.
It’s interesting for a number of reasons.
Although there are studies showing that farmers have lost more than $6.5 billion in the last few years Mr. Wall has been silent on that point.
The COOL labelling issue has settled, yet Canadian producers are still out a lot of money and no calls from Wall for compensation.
When Wall took over as government there was approximately $200 million owing from the then Conservative federal government, a law suit was even started by the previous provincial administration, but Wall dropped that law suit and no money was received.
The above examples highlight some peculiar rationale by the premier. But his actions during the campaign are also inconsistent. A Canadian Wheat Board Alliance farmer meeting was held in Raymore to discuss the financial loss of $6.5 billion to farmers. Ruth Ellen Brosseau, NDP agriculture critic, came to the meeting to discuss the situation. The premier’s response via twitter was not about any agriculture point, but whether the taxpayers had paid for her airfare? All political parties were invited to attend and the fact she made the effort to come and the premier’s rebuke really speaks to the character of Premier Wall.
A leader needs to represent all people, not just the oil industry and I hope voters in the Saskatchewan election take this point to heart when they vote.
Kyle Korneychuk
Pelly
