10 Saskatchewan MLAs get new jobs

Premier Brad Wall has asked 10 Saskatchewan MLAs to take on some additional work today.

In addition to their current duties in the provincial government, 10 MLAs are now also legislative secretaries for particular initiatives. For example, Jennifer Campeau is now legislative secretary for the Anti-Bullying Initiative.

Wall said other files include traffic safety, forest management, immigration, recreation and foster care.

"By making these appointments, we are aligning the depth of talent and experience in our caucus with the priorities and challenges facing our government," Wall said. "I know that each of these MLAs will provide a valuable service to their Minister, to the government and most importantly, to the people of Saskatchewan."

The new legislative secretaries will not receive any additional pay for their added duties.

The ten new legislative secretaries join Wayne Elhard, who serves as legislative secretary to the Premier and Provincial Secretary, and Rob Norris, who serves as legislative secretary for First Nations Engagement.

Traffic safety a concern

Wall said he has also asked Darryl Hickie, a former police officer, to work with the Government and Opposition leaders to set up an all-party legislative committee on improving traffic safety.

"2012 was the deadliest year ever on Saskatchewan highways, with 175 traffic fatalities," Wall said. "Improving traffic safety is a goal that everyone shares so I would like to see government MLAs working with opposition MLAs to recommend ways to improve safety."

Wall said he has asked Campeau to also chair a new Premier's Aboriginal Youth Task Force.

"Jennifer has already had many discussions and meetings with First Nations young people," Wall said. "I look forward to hearing their ideas and perspectives on improving economic opportunities and quality of life for aboriginal youth in our province."

Saskatchewan's new legislative secretaries

• Jennifer Campeau, Legislative Secretary to the Minister of Education (Anti-Bullying Initiative)
• Scott Moe, Legislative Secretary to the Minister of Agriculture (Agricultural Value-added and Agri-business)
• Paul Merriman, Legislative Secretary to the Minister of the Economy (Immigration)
• Fred Bradshaw, Legislative Secretary to the Minister of Environment (Forest Management)
• Mark Docherty, Legislative Secretary to the Minister of Social Services (Disability Issues)
• Greg Lawrence, Legislative Secretary to the Minister of Social Services (Foster and Child Care)
• Laura Ross, Legislative Secretary to the Minister of Parks, Culture and Sport (Creative Industries)
• Gene Makowsky, Legislative Secretary to the Minister of Parks, Culture and Sport (Recreational Initiatives)
• Kevin Phillips, Legislative Secretary to the Minister of Government Relations (Regional Municipal Co-operation)
• Darryl Hickie, Legislative Secretary to the Minister responsible for Saskatchewan Government Insurance (Traffic Safety)