In recognition of the ongoing struggle against sexual violence, Saskatchewan has designated May as its inaugural Sexual Violence Prevention Month. This initiative aims to amplify awareness, mobilize resources, and encourage preventive measures. Sexual Assault Services of Saskatchewan (SASS) and its partners will lead this month-long campaign, building on the momentum of the decade-long Sexual Violence Awareness Week. Saskatchewan’s government has committed $42.6 million over three years to support community-based organizations providing vital services to individuals affected by interpersonal violence and abuse. By empowering communities with education and resources, the province aims to create a transformative change, fostering a safer Saskatchewan for all.
Results for: Saskatchewan
The celestial event was the result of a large solar storm caused by two active regions on the sun, which ejected 16 ‘X-class’ solar X-ray flares over the past month, an occurrence not seen in over 20 years. The aurora borealis was particularly stunning in Saskatchewan, which is renowned for its exceptional stargazing and aurora viewing conditions.
India has restored diplomatic immunity to the trade representative of the Canadian province of Saskatchewan, a month after the official left India due to a diplomatic row between the two countries. The move is seen as a positive step in repairing diplomatic relations between India and Canada.
Recent rainfall has eased drought conditions in parts of Saskatchewan, but many areas remain extremely dry, particularly in the southwest region. Wildfire risk remains high despite the moisture, with 111 fires reported this year, more than doubling the five-year average. While some areas may see up to 70 mm of rain, it is still below normal precipitation levels for May. Experts emphasize the need for continued rainfall to mitigate the drought and reduce wildfire risks.
A 57-year-old Naicam man, Kevin Swanson, has been arrested and charged with second-degree murder in connection with the death of 81-year-old Dennis Swanson. The victim was found deceased at a home on Third Avenue North in Naicam on Thursday after being subjected to an alleged assault. Both men were reportedly related, although the exact nature of their kinship remains undisclosed. Kevin Swanson was apprehended in Melfort and is scheduled to make an appearance in Melfort provincial court on Monday.
In an effort to curb dangerous driving behaviors, Saskatchewan is implementing enhanced penalties for excessive speeding, stunting, and racing, effective Wednesday. These penalties include a 30-day vehicle impoundment and a seven-day license suspension for first-time offenses. The province is also increasing fines for these violations, with stunting now carrying a fine of $580 (up from $150) and first-time street racing offenses costing $580 (up from $205). Repeat offenses result in even higher fines.
Saskatchewan is facing an increase in wildfires as dry conditions persist across the province. The Saskatchewan Volunteer Firefighters Association president, Louis Cherpin, attributes the rise in wildfires to the increasingly dry land and warmer temperatures. As of Monday, the province has experienced 83 fires, nearly four times the five-year average. Human activity is a significant contributor to wildfires, with actions like discarding cigarettes or burning debris potentially sparking uncontrolled fires. Residents are urged to take precautions by removing dead trees and debris from their properties, especially combustible materials like leaves.
The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) intends to audit Saskatchewan for failing to remit federal carbon levies on home heating. Premier Scott Moe insists that no levies are owed, but the CRA will examine the province’s records to determine the amount due. The Saskatchewan government’s decision to withhold carbon payments emerged after Prime Minister Justin Trudeau exempted home heating oil users from the levy. Moe argues that this exemption creates an unfair advantage for other heating sources and calls for a broader exemption policy. The CRA may face challenges in collecting the levies, as Ottawa may require legislative amendments. The federal budget indicates plans to amend the Greenhouse Gas Pollution Act, enabling federal officials to share information on non-paying provinces for potential enforcement actions.
A 20-year-old man, William Jones, has been arrested and charged with impaired driving causing death, operating a vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration exceeding the legal limit, and failing to stop after a fatal collision. The incident occurred on Saturday in Kindersley, Saskatchewan, where a 21-year-old cyclist was struck by a vehicle and later pronounced dead. Jones was located at a residence approximately one hour after the collision. He will appear in court on May 21st.
Five more schools in Saskatchewan will join the Mental Health Capacity Building program, bringing the total number of participating schools to 15. The program focuses on prevention, early identification, and intervention to help young people manage their feelings and access support. The expansion is supported by an additional $1 million investment, bringing the annual funding to $3 million. It is a collaborative effort between the provincial government, the Ministry of Education, and school divisions to integrate mental health into education and provide students with emotional and social support.