Loud demonstrations greeted Sask. Party supporters at Prairieland Park Thursday, ahead of a keynote speech by Premier Brad Wall at the annual Premier's Dinner.
The large crowd of protestors would not allow cars to enter the parking lot without shouting at drivers and voicing their opinions on the Saskatchewan government’s recent budget cuts.
The majority of protest crowd, estimated to be more than 200 at times, were mostly peaceful. There were a small number of interactions with drivers and vehicles that created tension, as cars attempted to move through the crowd.
The rally was meant to voice concerns about the provincial budget. Protestors held signs criticizing the province for cuts to the Saskatchewan Transportation Company, education, health care programs, and the implementation of more taxes.
One of the organizers of the rally said she wants the province to hear the frustrations and urged demonstrators to protest peacefully.
“Obviously people feel that they have a lot at stake," Cindy Hanson said. “So, sometimes peoples' emotions get ahead of them. We are trying to make sure this is a peaceful demonstration.”
After the brief incidents with vehicles, police arrived to move traffic through as the demonstrations continued peacefully.
Inside Prairieland Park, Brad Wall addressed a crowd of supporters. During his speech he said the government had to make tough choices to set the course for a three- year plan to balance the budget. He said the province would not pass on the financial struggles to others down the road.
Wall said the province is looking at legal options to address the recent court ruling which could ban non-Catholic students from attending catholic schools. He told the crowd government would fight the federal government's plan to impose a carbon tax in court.
The premier also addressed recent trade issues brewing between Canada and the United States. Wall said Ottawa needs to be ready for potential changes, and have a list of options it can bring to the table during negotiations with the U.S.
