By Nigel Maxwell

Prince Albert MLA calls out government over tree planting contracts

May 27, 2016 | 6:54 AM

Tree planting contracts totaling $480,000 have been awarded to two out-of-province companies and the NDP MLA for Prince Albert Northcote wants to know why.

Nicole Rancourt raised the question during question period on Thursday.

“We have a lot of good agencies in Saskatchewan that provide tree planting services so why is this being contracted to companies in B.C. and Alberta?,” Rancourt told paNOW.

The contracts were awarded to Brinkman and Associates Reforestation in B.C. for $160,000, and to Outland Resources of Alberta for $320,000.

Rancourt said given Northern Saskatchewan’s high unemployment rate these contracts should have been awarded locally.

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“It’s just another example of how we have not been made a priority by this government,” she said.

Minister of Environment Herb Cox said the contracts simply went to the lowest bid.

“We’re entrusted by the people of Saskatchewan to spend our money properly, so went with the lowest bid,” he said.

Cox said Saskatchewan is a member of the New West Partnership, meaning businesses from outside of the province can bid on contracts. This agreement works both ways, as locals also routinely bid on contracts in Alberta or B.C.

Cox said the government appreciates the reforestation work of people in Northern Saskatchewan.

nmaxwell@panow.com

On Twitter: @nigelmaxwell