Resolution 24-05A

WHEREAS, the Government of Saskatchewan, specifically Saskatchewan Government Insurance, pays a maximum of $500 per occurrence for the service call of an Emergency Response Vehicle/Unit on provincial highways; and

WHEREAS, most service calls for an Emergency Response Vehicle/Unit are in response to these said provincial highway accidents; and WHEREAS, the costs to respond to same are greater than the amount of remuneration received;

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the monetary compensation per occurrence for an Emergency Response Vehicle/Unit for service calls on provincial highways be raised to a level that adequately compensates the local Emergency Response Area Board for the services provided.

Response from Honourable Maynard Soontag, Minister Responsible for SGI:

After consultation with the Saskatchewan Urban Municipalities Association (SUMA), the Saskatchewan Association of Rural Municipalities (SARM), the Saskatchewan Association of Fire Chiefs, and the Saskatchewan Volunteer Fire Fighters Association, SGI established a maximum charge out rate of $500 per hour for emergency services provided. This rate was increased by 10 per cent, or $50 per hour effective January 1, 2004; as well, increases based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI) have or will take effect in January of the years 2005 to 2007.

As of January 1, 2005, the rate for services was increased by 2.2 per cent (based of CPI) to a current rate of $562.10, which I understand exceeds the hourly rate paid in our neighbouring provinces. In addition, SGI provides an annual grant to the Municipal Rescue Services Fund to offset the cost of calls which cannot be claimed against the vehicles owner's insurance coverage. The grant last year was $133,618.93 and this grant is also adjusted based on the CPI.

Given this information, I am satisfied that the rates currently paid for services are fair and reasonable, and no further rate increases are being considered.