Hon. Don Toth, MLA
Moosomin Constituency

The snowfall received recently was certainly welcome as many were becoming concerned about the lack of moisture received to date. While one snowfall or light rain does not produce a crop, moisture received is most welcome.

During the Easter break I had the privilege of meeting many constituents at a number of events. On Wednesday March 26th I joined Mayor Miskiman of Moosomin for a quick tour of the new hospital currently under construction in Moosomin. I’m certain everyone will be pleased once the facility is completed and in use. Following the tour a number of civic and community leaders were invited to sit down for dinner with the Regina Qu’Appelle Health Region prior to their board meeting.

It was a pleasure as well to join the Minister of Health and a number of my colleagues at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Estevan on March 28th to participate in the official opening of the new renal dialysis unit. For many patients the ability to receive this service closer to home rather than face the long drive to and from Regina is certainly welcome.

During the Spring Break I also had the opportunity to meet with many civic and community leaders to discuss issues of local concern. We have all witnessed the dramatic influx of people and families to our area. As a result of the demand for housing most communities have found themselves with a dilemma they hadn’t expected. Councils are now looking for additional resources to fund the servicing of new lots as well as upgrades to water and sewage systems. It was for this reason that the government implemented the Saskatchewan Infrastructure Growth Initiative program. Information about this program can be obtained by going to the Municipal Affairs website at www.municipal.gov.sk.ca. I also understand application forms and the guide should be arriving in municipal government hands shortly.

For the past week, the Legislature being back in session, members have been debating the pros and cons of the first Sask Party budget. I’m always amazed at how passionate members can be as they speak about their constituency and the impact a budget may have for their constituents. While many members have addressed the wide array of expenditures in the budget, the reliance on the property owners to fund education has certainly been a common theme.

If you have any concerns please contact my office at 435-3329; 1-888-255-8684 or visit my web site at www.dontoth.ca.