The Saskatchewan NDP is accusing Premier Scott Moe’s government of failing northern communities as new Statistics Canada data shows crime rates in the North are significantly higher than elsewhere in the province.
According to the report, northern Saskatchewan recorded 85 criminal incidents for every 100 people — nearly nine times higher than urban centres in central and southern Saskatchewan. Provincewide, crime rates have risen 51 per cent since 2014.
NDP Northern Affairs critic Jordan McPhail says residents in communities like Pelican Narrows no longer feel safe in their homes and says repeated calls for stronger action have gone unanswered.
The criticism follows recent violent incidents in Pelican Narrows, including reports of shootings, bear spray attacks and Molotov cocktails being thrown at homes. Community leaders have also raised concerns about organized crime and ongoing public safety issues.
Last week, 26-year-old Jaden Custer died in what local leaders described as an alleged drive-by shooting involving an ATV.
McPhail and Community Safety critic Nicole Sarauer recently sent a letter to Premier Scott Moe and Community Safety Minister Michael Weger demanding immediate action and additional resources for northern communities.
“This is not normal. It is not acceptable. And it is a direct indictment of a provincial government that has failed to provide communities like Pelican Narrows with the resources, supports and attention they deserve,” said McPhail.
Pelican Narrows previously declared a state of emergency in late 2022 and again in 2024 as leaders called for support from both provincial and federal governments.
Community Safety Minister Michael Weger confirmed this week that he plans to meet with law enforcement and Peter Ballantyne Cree Nation Chief Peter Beatty, while also expressing interest in visiting the community.
On Thursday, PBCN hosted a Community Sharing Circle and Open House at Wapawikoscikan High School in Pelican Narrows to provide updates, answer questions and connect residents with support services.
(TOP PHOTO – Jordan McPhail, file photo)