A judge has thrown out a legal challenge against the Saskatchewan government regarding its environmental strategies and utilization of gas-powered plants. The lawsuit, initiated in 2023 by Climate Justice Saskatoon and seven citizens ranging from 15 to 80 years old, targeted the province, SaskPower, and the Crown Investments Corporation of Saskatchewan.
The plaintiffs contended that the province’s measures had breached their charter rights, exacerbating the effects of climate change. They urged the court to implement new statutes and enforce policies to combat climate change within the province. Last October, Justice Holli Kuski Bassett of the Regina Court of King’s Bench presided over the government’s motion to dismiss the claim.
In a recently released written judgment, the judge dismissed the claim entirely, stating that it falls outside the court’s jurisdiction, as legislation and policies are under the purview of the provincial legislature. She noted that the group essentially sought “judicially directed legislative reform.” Climate Justice Saskatoon and the individuals involved expressed disappointment and are contemplating an appeal.
One of the individual applicants, Amy Snider, remarked, “Our concerns for the future, our children, and grandchildren persist. The judge’s ruling does not resolve the underlying issue.” The court’s ruling did not delve into the merits of the lawsuit but only assessed whether the case should be heard. Kuski Bassett emphasized the significance of environmental preservation in her decision.
Snider indicated that further legal challenges are forthcoming, pointing to another active lawsuit against the province with different applicants, contesting the province’s decision to continue operating coal-powered plants. The Saskatchewan Environmental Society, a party involved in the coal lawsuit, also expressed dissatisfaction with the court’s refusal to hear the case.
In a statement, the province welcomed the judge’s decision, asserting its commitment, alongside SaskPower, to a comprehensive approach to power generation ensuring energy security, reliability, and affordability. According to Environment and Climate Change Canada, Saskatchewan was among the top five greenhouse gas emitters in 2023, collectively accounting for 92% of Canada’s national greenhouse gas emissions, alongside Alberta, Ontario, Quebec, and British Columbia.