NDP Demands PST Waiver for Denare Beach Wildfire Victims NOW

URGENT UPDATE: The Saskatchewan NDP is escalating its demands as the provincial government faces backlash over wildfire recovery efforts. On Monday, the official Opposition called for an immediate waiver of the Provincial Sales Tax (PST) for residents rebuilding homes destroyed by devastating wildfires in Denare Beach.

In June, wildfires ravaged the northern village, destroying over 200 homes. In a striking revelation, NDP critic for northern affairs, Jordan McPhail, presented invoices from residents showing PST on rebuilding costs soaring to as high as $30,000.

“When I raised these issues in the House, the minister [of public safety] laughed,” McPhail stated. “The people who aren’t laughing are those stuck with these bills in northern Saskatchewan.” He emphasized that the government is effectively “profiting” from the misfortunes of wildfire victims. “Whether they are underinsured, adequately insured, or have no insurance at all, imposing PST on construction labor in northern Saskatchewan is totally unacceptable,” McPhail said.

In a video update, residents of Denare Beach began returning to their devastated town on June 26, assessing the damage left behind. The emotional toll is palpable as families confront the aftermath of the wildfires.

During Monday’s question period, Minister of Corrections, Policing and Public Safety Tim McLeod avoided committing to the NDP’s proposal, instead highlighting the government’s “unprecedented” support for those affected. This includes a significant $30 million allocated for cleanup and debris removal, temporary housing units for displaced families, and $10 million in direct assistance, providing $500 payments to evacuees aged 18 and older, along with $15 million donated to the Canadian Red Cross.

In a follow-up email post-Question Period, the provincial government firmly rejected the NDP’s call to waive the PST on home reconstruction. “Claims by the lost and reckless NDP that the government is ‘profiting’ from the collection of PST are disingenuous,” the statement read, stressing the substantial costs associated with the wildfire recovery efforts.

As the situation develops, residents and officials alike are awaiting further responses from the provincial government. The emotional and financial impact of the wildfires continues to resonate profoundly within the community, prompting urgent calls for action and support from all levels of government.

Stay tuned for more updates as this critical recovery effort unfolds.