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New Traffic Laws for a Safer Saskatchewan

Jun 24, 2014 | 2:05 PM

Traffic safety is a top priority for Saskatchewan people. To help prevent further fatalities, serious injuries and property damage on Saskatchewan roads, our government is acting on recommendations from a Special Committee on Traffic Safety. As a result, new laws take effect June 27, 2014.

Among the changes, which include mandatory booster seats for children under the age of 7, are stiffer penalties for impaired drivers. Drivers impaired by alcohol or drugs will face the same punishments, beginning with immediate seizure of their vehicles. Ignition interlock systems will become mandatory for those who are convicted. There will also be zero drug and alcohol tolerance for drivers under 19 years of age, for all drivers in the Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) program and

Motorcycle GDL program.
You can review all of the traffic safety changes online at sgi.sk.ca.

Saskatchewan… Still Growing

Saskatchewan’s population continues to grow, increasing by over 5,000 people in the first quarter of 2014, according to Statistics Canada. There were 1,122,588 people living in Saskatchewan as of April 1, 2014. This is an increase of 21,180 people in the past year. Saskatchewan’s annual and quarterly growth rates are both second-highest among the provinces, behind only Alberta.

I believe that steady growth is a sign of a strong and diversified economy. There are more jobs and opportunities in Saskatchewan than ever before and that’s why today, more people than ever before are calling Saskatchewan home.

This is now the eighth consecutive year of strong population growth, a far cry from the years when we were actually losing people. Further information can be found at: http://mlajurgens.ca/2014/06/saskatchewan-grows-another-5000-people-first-quarter-2014/
National Aboriginal Day

On June 21, the Summer Solstice, Canadians celebrated National Aboriginal Day. It is a time to recognize the outstanding achievements of First Nations, Métis and Inuit of our land. Here at home, they have helped build and shape Saskatchewan and have enriched our province in so many ways.

National Aboriginal Day is more than just a celebration of the province’s native heritage, it is about diverse communities coming together to share in Aboriginal culture and to build a stronger, brighter future. It is always a great way to enjoy the longest day of the year!
Youth Ride for $20

Once again, youth in Saskatchewan can ride with the Saskatchewan Transportation Company (STC) for reduced rates this summer. Those between the ages of 12 and 25, can purchase sale tickets from STC agencies across the province. One-way tickets are only $20 plus tax or $40 plus tax round-trip.

This is an amazing way for our youth to experience the many adventures our province offers. Access to on-bus amenities, such as Wi-Fi on all routes, also makes the travel enjoyable, convenient and affordable. For more information, visit STC’s website at stcbus.com/youthsale or facebook.com/STCbus.

Prince Albert Northcote constituents are always welcome to contact my office by calling 306-922-4220. You may also visit my website at http://mlajurgens.ca or email mlajurgens@sasktel.net. Our office is located at 5A 598 15th St. East across from Superstore.