Question Period (19 March 2026)

From Hansard (19 March 2026)

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Saskatchewan Income Support Program

Erika Ritchie: — Mr. Speaker, years ago the Sask Party ended the direct payment of rent and utilities for people relying on social supports. Everyone knew this would lead to more missed payments, more evictions, and more people being cut off from utilities.

Now they’ve announced a one-time lump sum payment program to help people get caught up. But when you read the fine print, it’s a repayable benefit. These are vulnerable people with no money. That’s why the arrears are there in the first place.

How is the minister going to claw back from the people who sign up for this program? And doesn’t the minister know he can’t pour water from an empty cup?

Hon. Terry Jenson: — Well thank you, Mr. Speaker. And this is a government that will continue to work with the most vulnerable in our communities.

Mr. Speaker, SIS [Saskatchewan income support] is not just about financial aid. It’s about empowering individuals, Mr. Speaker. This is a program that provides skills training, employment connections and pathways, self-sufficiency, Mr. Speaker, and offering meaningful support beyond monthly benefits.

When it comes to the new one-time $1,000 utility benefit, it is repayable, Mr. Speaker. And the reason it’s repayable is, again, we’re trying to empower individuals. Our ministry will work with that individual to have that repaid without causing any other undue hardship. We will work with that client to make sure that their basic benefits will continue to be met, Mr. Speaker.

And this is a program that this government is very proud of. And it’s the fifth year in a row SIS benefits have increased, Mr. Speaker.

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