The opposition NDP are urging the government to include a robust Sask Jobs Plan in the upcoming budget. The provincial budget will be delivered on Tuesday after the long weekend.

The NDP wants to see the PST removed from construction labour and restaurant meals.  The party also suggests diversifying energy sources in solar, wind, geothermal and biofuels.

They want Sask First procurement that prioritizes local companies and workers for public projects and purchases in addition to phasing in a $15/hour minimum wage.

The opposition also suggests a personal fitness incentive with a $300 tax deduction to help struggling gyms which would also improve physical and mental health coming out of COVID-19.

Other “asks” from the NDP:

-Create new value-added incentives at 15% for mineral processing, green energy and forestry manufacturing, petrochemical product processing and retooling to allow steel producers to produce new products
– Affordable childcare to support working families
– Paid sick days with provincial government funding for small and medium sized businesses and taking full advantage of federal dollars on the table
– Internship programs to create jobs for young people this summer in the public service and the Crowns
– A new film employment tax credit to rebuild the film industry and create jobs
Investments through SaskTel to improve connectivity and internet access in all parts of the province
– Collaboration with local industry leaders to grow job opportunities in Saskatchewan’s successful technology sector