Scott Moe focuses on cabinet, budget in first week as leader

Saskatchewan Premier-Designate Scott Moe said he plans to focus on building his cabinet and the upcoming provincial budget in his first week as leader.

Though Moe noted it’s already proving to be “one of the more difficult decisions” of being premier, a new cabinet is expected to be sworn in this week.

“I hope to strike a balance to some degree with some renewal in some positions … but also hang on to that corporate memory, that corporate history that I think is so important,” he explained.

Moe didn’t comment on whether fellow leadership candidate Alanna Koch would return to her position as deputy minister to the premier, but said he plans to sit down with each candidate to discuss their future with the Saskatchewan Party government.

“It’s important for us to remember that we worked together prior to this race — all of us — and we’ll work together after this race as Saskatchewan Party members,” said Moe.

When it comes to tackling the province’s upcoming budget, Moe said he’s already met with Finance Minister Donna Harpauer to get things moving.

The premier-designate said he’s committed to pulling through with his campaign promises — including adding $30 million into education and reinstating the PST exemption on health, life, crop and hail insurance.

Another item on Moe’s agenda in the coming months is deciding on a provincial legal age for marijuana, ahead of this summer’s legalization. He said he’s planning a caucus meeting in the “near future” to discuss some of the options.

“We’re aware that other provinces have lined it up with their access to alcohol age; we’ve heard some different opinions on that. I’ve heard 25, 21 from credible groups,” explained Moe. “We do have a little bit of time, in respect to age.”

Throughout his decision making process, Moe said he plans to consult the former premier, Brad Wall, for guidance.

On Monday, Moe accepted Lt.-Gov. Vaughn Solomon Schofield’s request to form government in Saskatchewan. By the end of the week, he’s expected to be sworn in as premier.