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(Kenneth Cheung/BattlefordsNOW Staff)
provincial politics

Cockrill responds to NDP separatist criticism following Unified Grassroots town hall meeting

Jul 18, 2025 | 2:29 PM

Saskatchewan Health Minister and Battlefords MLA Jeremy Cockrill is pushing back against criticism from the provincial NDP, who called on him and another cabinet ministers to denounce recent separatist themed town hall meetings held in the province.

The NDP issued a statement this week pointing to events organized by Unified Grassroots, a group that is advocating for a referendum on Saskatchewan sovereignty. Town hall meetings were recently held in Swift Current and the Battlefords by the group looking to collect signatures for the referendum petition.

The party urged Cockrill and Minister Everett Hindley to “have the courage to denounce this separatist campaign in their own backyards” and to affirm that “Saskatchewan is stronger in Canada.”

The NDP also raised concerns about how the separatist rhetoric could impact the province’s economy and its appeal to investors.

“Job creators and businesses looking to invest in our province deserve stability and deserve to know where the Sask. Party stands on this issue,” the statement read, warning that similar movements in Alberta have had a “chilling effect” on investment there.

In a statement released Friday, Cockrill dismissed the criticism, suggesting the NDP was using the summer months to stir up controversy rather than engage in constructive dialogue.

“The NDP are spending their summer chasing rumours and calling people out just for having a different opinion from them,” Cockrill said.

He emphasized the Saskatchewan Party’s focus on unity and growth within Canada, stating:

“The Saskatchewan Party is focused on keeping Saskatchewan strong, united, and growing as part of a successful Canada.”

Cockrill also reiterated his support for Premier Scott Moe and said the government remains committed to addressing real concerns in local communities.

“I’m proud to work with Scott Moe and support his continued leadership of our party and our province. Just last week, he was here in the Battlefords discussing more recovery options for people and calling for tougher consequences for those who commit violent crimes. We will continue to listen to our communities and work for positive change.”

Austin.mattes@pattisonmedia.com

On X: @AustinMattes