The Saskatchewan NDP say they are welcoming the new cabinet announced by the provincial government Monday, but are ready to hold the government to account.
NDP Leader Ryan Meili says the new cabinet comes into place during a challenging time for the province, and now is the time for real action and investment to reduce COVID-19 case numbers to ensure the province does not go into a full lock-down.
Meili criticized Donna Harpauer remaining as Finance Minister, and being promoted to Deputy Premier, saying the NDP has concerns the province will be left without needed investments in health care, schools and jobs. He commented on the appointment of Paul Merriman as Minster of Health, saying he hopes Merriman will approach the new role with the care and concern it requires, especially during a pandemic.
Meili suggests the new cabinet does not reflect the Saskatchewan of 2020, saying barely a quarter is female, even with women making up more than half of Saskatchewan’s population and there are no cabinet ministers who identify as First Nations or Metis.
