The Minister of Highways is apologizing for a trip he made to Palm Springs during the Christmas holiday. Joe Hargrave made the explanation that he travelled there on December 22nd to finalize the sale of a personal property and move personal items back home, and it was something he deemed necessary. Premier Scott Moe was advised advised of Hargrave’s travel before hand
In a written statement Hargrave says, “In discussions with the Premier, I realize that my decision to travel was an error in judgement at a time when so many people have had to make sacrifices during the pandemic. I apologize for this error in judgement, and am returning to Canada as soon as my self-isolation period is over in California on January 5th.” The statement also included more information, that Hargraves is in Palm Springs with his only his wife and that they are aware of local public health requirements and have followed all public health orders in California.
A statement from the Premier’s office Friday says that Hargrave will remain Minister of Highways. The statement reads, the Premier has discussed this with the Minister and agrees with the Minister’s assessment that “his decision to travel was an error in judgement at a time when so many people have had to make sacrifices during the pandemic.” This week, Moe said he expects all members of cabinet and caucus to follow all public health orders and guidance and he conveyed that expectation to Hargrave, emphasizing the need to self-isolate when he gets back.
NDP Reaction
NDP Leader Ryan Meili and Deputy Leader Nicole Sarauer are calling Highways Minister Joe Hargrave’s trip to Palm Springs over the Christmas vacation a “slap in the face” to Saskatchewan families who they say have made real sacrifices this Christmas.
Meili noted that at a press conference on December 14 the Premier and Dr. Shahab laid out the public health measures that Saskatchewan families would be expected to abide by over the holidays and into 2021.
Meili says while Saskatchewan families have done what is right to help flatten the Covid-19 curve and protect each other, Joe Hargrave had other plans. Meili says because Premier Scott Moe knew about the trip he and the Highways minister have serious questions they must answer about their judgement in this matter.
