SASKATOON — The Progressive Conservative Party of Saskatchewan will be holding its three-day annual general meeting this weekend, Jan. 14 to 16, at the Double Tree Hilton Hotel and Conference Centre in Regina.
The AGM was originally set in November but was postponed due to the pandemic. The organizers rescheduled it this weekend despite COVID cases of the Omicron variant rising in the province and the rest of the world.
However, Dave Buscis, who is part of the organizing committee, said they are going to strictly follow all health protocols put in place by the provincial government, such as requiring all those who are going to attend to wear a mask while inside the facility.
“Our party, for the convention, will be following all Saskatchewan Health Authority public health regulations, which is again reaffirmed by the premier this morning, what the protocols are in terms of proof of vaccination or having a proper PCR test,” Buscis told SASKTODAY.ca in a phone interview Wednesday.
“We’re also going to follow all the protocols at the facility [Double Tree Hilton Hotel], they are also following their own protocols.”
He added the facility is also requiring all those attending to show proof of vaccination and follow the same protocols implemented by the provincial government.
“Masking is required but just like in restaurants, if you’re seated and eating you can remove your mask,” said Buscis.
He said that the final number of party officials and members attending is not yet final but they are expecting a good turnout as they try to revitalize the Tories in the province. They are going to meet Thursday morning to confirm those who will be attending the AGM.
Party officials and members will have a forum to draft and sum up their policies while also updating the Tories’ constitution and electing an executive board. They are also undertaking other PC party administrative functions during the three-day AGM.
Reviving the Tories
Doug Barr, who is the first to announce his bid for the Tories’ leadership post, said revitalizing their party is part of the agenda.
“The revitalization is part of bringing the party to the next level. We are looking to expand our membership and reach as many people as we can through grassroots. We are also in the process of finding quality candidates for next election. We want the people of Saskatchewan to know we’re are serious and that in 2024 they don’t have to settle for the Sask. Party,” said Barr.
Barr added the AGM is the turning point for the Tories as it would give them the chance to increase its membership, particularly at the grassroots level.
“We will be focusing on the grassroots and reaching as many people as possible. We want to ensure that everyone in Saskatchewan knows that they have a viable alternative in the next election,” said Barr.
“We have been seeing tremendous growth and the feedback I have been getting from the people of Saskatchewan has been great. People are wanting change.”
He added he believes his leadership would help the party to reach out to the youth sector if given the chance to lead the Tories.
“If elected as the leader, I think that would help resonate with young voters as I myself am only 29 [years old]. I would look to establish a youth caucus to get engagement with younger voters. We most certainly need to have a youth presence.”
Barr said his campaign for the party leadership is committed to making Saskatchewan a better place for everyone.
“It’s about making life better for families, supporting Saskatchewan businesses and ensure future generations have opportunities to prosper. I am committed to protecting our values, our freedoms and our way of life,” he said.
