SARM Comments on Speech from the Throne

The Saskatchewan Association of Rural Municipalities (SARM) is pleased with announcements made in yesterday’s Speech from the Throne. We appreciate the support for accessible and reliable internet and cellular service throughout the province. Broadband remains a priority for SARM as it is an essential service for business and social well-being.

SARM was also pleased to hear about the amendment to the Police Act to enable rural municipalities to join regional police services. We are hopeful that funding for the RCMP remains and that RCMP officer visibility continues to improve. We look forward to the new legislation addressing property rights around trespassing for rural landowners and the public.

“Safe communities in rural Saskatchewan is key,” said SARM President Ray Orb. “With the success of the Provincial Response Team, the update to trespassing laws and the development of Rural Crime Watch associations, we hope to see increased prevention of crime in our communities.”

SARM is encouraged the province is sending a business delegation to India. Strengthening this relationship is important as trade barriers with Saskatchewan pulse crops remain a concern.

It is no surprise that SARM supports the provincial government in its continued promise to fight the federal carbon tax. “The agriculture industry is the backbone of the economy,” stated Orb. “Our farmers and ranchers are stewards of the land. We believe in the science of carbon sequestration to assist in addressing climate change.”

SARM is behind the province in asking the federal government to complete the Kinder Morgan pipeline. “We support the concept of moving crude oil by pipeline and grain by rail and in doing so we will further support greenhouse gas mitigation,” explained President Orb.

SARM is the leading voice representing the collective best interests of rural municipalities. We take direction from our members and champion the value of rural Saskatchewan.

For more information please contact:Ashley LeugnerCommunications and Marketing Coordinator(306) 761-3931 “SARM, The voice of rural Saskatchewan”