On February 23, Official Opposition Critic for SaskPower and Jobs and the Economy Aleana Young joined the owners of The Cure Kitchen + Bar to condemn rising power costs for Saskatchewan residents and call for the provincial government’s power increases to be scrapped.

“In what world does it make sense to raise power rates three times in the span of eight months? In this economy? It’s no wonder why this government has the worst job creation record in the country,” said Young. “They’re making life more expensive, while they sit on record revenues. All levels of government should be focused on how we can make life more affordable.”

A release by the NDP says that according to CFIB’s most recent survey of members, the top cost constraints identified by Saskatchewan small business owners are fuel and energy costs. 

They say 93% of Saskatchewan small businesses have seen energy costs increase over the past year despite energy consumption staying near normal or decreasing. 

“Faced with these cost pressures, it’s no wonder 12% of Saskatchewan small business owners report they are actively considering bankruptcy or winding down their operations,” says the NDP in a release. 

“Higher energy costs mean small businesses will have fewer resources to create jobs, invest in their companies, and contribute to the provincial economy. Given all the challenges small businesses are currently facing, CFIB is calling on the province to help mitigate the impact of mounting economic pressures on small firms,” said Brianna Solberg, CFIB director of provincial legislative affairs.

“Businesses in Saskatchewan are facing real challenges as they struggle with inflation, labour shortages, interest rate hikes, and supply chain issues,” said Young. “Instead of working to make life more affordable during these challenging times, this government continues to add costs on small business owners and families. Let’s get back to common sense and scrap these utility rate hikes.”