Wall fires back in provincial licence plate battle

Saskatchewan and Alberta continue to be at odds when it comes to licence plates on work vehicles.

Premier Brad Wall took to social media to defend his government’s decision to make it a requirement for construction companies to have a Saskatchewan licence if they are working on Ministry of Highways projects.

In a Facebook post, Premier Wall said they “took this action reluctantly.”

Wall pointed out that one of the first things his government did was join the New West Partnership, which is dedicated to reducing trade barriers between the western provinces.

“Our government is, and always has been, a strong supporter of free trade, both within Canada and outside our borders. We believe eliminating tariffs and other barriers to trade is crucial to building prosperity for all Canadians.”

Wall said that they have heard from members of the Saskatchewan Heavy Construction Association that vehicles with the province’s licence plates are “not welcome on Government of Alberta construction sites.”

“Furthermore, according to the association, Saskatchewan contractors have been shut out of bidding on Alberta government projects. Tender packages available for Alberta-based contractors are not made available to companies from Saskatchewan.”
The premier said he will always fight for free-trade but also fights for the rights of people in Saskatchewan.

Wall also brought up the fact Alberta’s NDP government ruling on craft brewers based in Saskatchewan and other provinces.

A panel ruled against Alberta’s beer mark-up of $1.25 per litre regardless of company size. Alberta is currently appealing that ruling.