YORKTON — Saskatchewan NDP Leader Carla Beck visited Yorkton June 13 for key discussions with local leaders on the economy, health care, education and community safety.
Joined by NDP MLAs from across the province and party supporters, Beck addressed the crowd gathered at the park outside of the city's water tower, thanking local leadership for organizing discussions.
“We just want to say thank you to all of the local leadership for planning this fantastic day, talking about the future of this beautiful province and the future of Yorkton,” said Beck.
Beck highlighted both opportunities and challenges facing Yorkton in 2025, citing the impact of Chinese tariffs on Saskatchewan’s agriculture sector, particularly canola, canola meal, peas and pork.
"I've personally written to the new Prime Minister to insist that everything possible continue to be done to have these tariffs on our incredibly important products in this province removed as soon as possible,” said Beck, adding that removing Canada’s counter-tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles may be necessary.
Beck also voiced concerns over economic threats from U.S. president Donald Trump, stating they have affected Sask. businesses and residents.
“These continue to be serious threats and they require serious leadership from the government that's focused on the future, but unfortunately—right now—we're not seeing that from Scott Moe and the Sask. Party or his caucus,” said Beck.
Beck criticized the Saskatchewan Party’s decision to remove counter-tariffs on U.S. steel, noting that American tariffs on Canadian steel have increased, harming the province’s industry.
“This is frankly a terrible, terrible decision by the Sask. Party and one that the people we've been talking to certainly do not stand by,” said Beck.
Beck also addressed separatist movements in Sask., particularly the Unified Grassroots group, which she said has promoted the idea of Sask. becoming the 51st U.S. state, and is gathering signatures for separation from Canada.
“In fact, they have a town hall scheduled right here in Yorkton on June 26,” said Beck.
“This is a group that takes full responsibility for getting the local MLA elected—Mr. David Chan. And now we see Mr. Chan and that entire Sask. Party caucus pandering to people who don't even want to be part of Canada," added Beck.
She warned that separatist rhetoric could negatively impact jobs and economic opportunities.
“The last thing we need is further instability … this is a time to dig in and get things done,” said Beck.
During a media scrum, Beck highlighted the NDP’s growing presence in Yorkton since the last election, attributing it to strong connections with local businesses and leaders.
"Since the last election we have a bigger team. We doubled our seats in the last election. We saw the biggest vote share increase right here in Yorkton outside of Saskatoon," said Beck, who noted the willingness of leaders in the community to talk about the future and what needs to be done for Yorkton and the local area in regard to opportunities.
Beck said the party remains committed to working with local leaders to build a prosperous future.
“In the weeks to come, you'll see more proposals from this team built with community leaders and business leaders,” said Beck, adding, “more proposals to create good-paying jobs, reduce our reliance on the United States and drive investments into this beautiful province.”
Beck assured residents that the Saskatchewan NDP would continue advocating for their interests within a united Canada.
“Saskatchewan is better off in a unified Canada, and the Sask. NDP will continue to work with the people in this community.”
