Saskatchewan NDP pushes for emergency session over proposed rate hikes

The Saskatchewan NDP said an emergency session must be called to tackle affordability issues, including proposed rate hikes on power and auto insurance.

Saskatchewan’s Opposition is calling for emergency action on rising prices, but Premier Scott Moe’s government says the work is being done and NDP Leader Carla Beck needs to start showing up to debate.

Beck called Monday for an emergency legislative session on affordability issues, including proposed rate hikes to power and auto insurance.

“Let’s get back to work,” Beck said at a news conference.

“We could pass that rent control bill, we could remove those taxes from groceries, from kid’s clothing.”

Her comments come as SaskPower, the province’s electricity provider, is proposing to increase rates 3.9 per cent this year and the same amount next year.

And Saskatchewan Government Insurance, or SGI, which oversees vehicle insurance, is requesting to hike rates 3.75 per cent this year and next year.

Beck said the proposed increases would make life more expensive, arguing the minister responsible for SaskPower had ducked questions in committee over whether budgetary issues would result in rate hikes.

“Let’s provide the people of this province some affordability relief and let’s see the Saskatchewan Party show some accountability for their latest hike,” she said.