Saskatchewan.

• Author: Ursulescu, Stacey
• Position: Legislative Reports

On November 7, 2011, citizens of Saskatchewan elected a majority Saskatchewan Party government. Dwain Lingenfetler, Leader of the Oppostion, tendered his resignation on election night. On November 19th, the Party selected John Nilson, Member for Regina Lakeview, as their interim Leader until the NDP host a leadership convention.

The opening of the 27th Legislature occurred on December 5th, 2011. As per the Rules and Procedures of the Legislative Assembly of Saskatchewan, an election for the Speaker took place followed by the Throne Speech. Two candidates, Don Toth, Member from Moosomin, and Dan D'Autremont, Member from Cannington, submitted their nomination forms to the Clerk. After one round of voting, Mr. D'Autremont was duly elected by the Members of the Legislative Assembly for the Office of the Speaker.

On the second day of session, an election for the Deputy Speaker took place. Glen Hart, Member from Last Mountain-Touchwood, was the only Member that put his name forward as a candidate for the election of Deputy Speaker. Furthermore, Christine Tell, Member from Regina Wascana Plains, was appointed to preside as Deputy Chair of Committees of the Assembly.

House Leader and Whip responsibilities were also announced.

* Government House Leader--Jeremy Harrison, Meadow Lake

* Deputy Government House Leader--Gordon Wyant, Saskatoon Northwest

* Government Whip--Randy Weekes, Biggar

* Deputy Government Whip--Greg Ottenbreit, Yorkton

* Opposition House Leader--Warren McCall, Regina Elphinstone-Centre

* Deputy Opposition House Leader--Cathy Sproule, Saskatoon Nutana

* Opposition Whi--Doyle Vermette, Cumberland

* Deputy Opposition Whip--Cam Broten, Saskatoon Massey Place

In the eight sitting days, much was accomplished including the reading of the Speech from the Throne and the introduction of thirty-six government bills and two private member public bills. The Throne Speech focused on growth, affordability and quality of life and outlined the legislative agenda of the session. The Opposition did not support the Throne Speech stating that it fails to move Saskatchewan forward in becoming a fairer, greener and more inclusive province.

After the Assembly adjourned on the final sitting day of the fall session, the Members paid tribute to Gordon Barnhart. Dr. garnhart's tenure as Lieutenant Governor is coming to a close. Premier Wall and Opposition Leader, John Nilson, shared...