Picnickers still won’t have a legal option to consume alcohol in Saskatchewan parks this summer since the provincial legislative assembly has adjourned until October before making a decision about changing the rules. However, a proposed amendment to Saskatchewan’s Alcohol and Gaming Regulation Act would give local governments, park authorities and Regina’s provincial capital commission flexibility to allow alcohol in the outdoor public places they oversee.
In introducing the enabling bill earlier this week, Jim Reiter, the Minister responsible for the Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Authority (SLGA) noted that a similar liberalization of the rules has occurred in Alberta and British Columbia, and that many people in Saskatchewan, including members of the opposition NDP, have endorsed the concept.
“I believe communities throughout this province know their citizens, know their public spaces and know their resources,” he said. “This knowledge places them in a good position to make decisions around alcohol consumption in public spaces.”
Under the proposed amendment, municipal or park authorities would have to pass a by-law or issue a resolution or order to establish the boundaries within which alcohol would be allowed and the hours when it could be consumed. Signage with this information would also have to be posted in the designated areas.
The provincial Minister responsible for the Parks Act would have authority to designate areas within provincial parks where alcohol would be allowed. Nevertheless, in cases where a provincial or regional park falls partly or completely within a municipality’s boundaries, the local council would have to give its approval.
NDP deputy leader Nicole Sarauer, who represents a Regina constituency, maintains the enabling bill was introduced too late in the legislative session — just four days before the scheduled recess — to make it a reality for the summer of 2022.
“Since this discussion began on this issue about a year ago, from both sides of the Assembly, we’ve heard some strong opinions both for and against,” she observed. “We have been reaching out to stakeholders, specifically municipal stakeholders. Those who have spoken so far have been pretty clear that they want to make sure that this legislative process is done thoughtfully and carefully.”
