Sask. highways minister visited California over Christmas

Saskatchewan’s minister of highways has been out of the country over the Christmas break.

Even though the federal and provincial governments have suggested people avoid unnecessary interprovincial and international travel to limit the potential spread of COVID-19, Prince Albert Carlton MLA Joe Hargrave released a statement Wednesday saying he has been in Palm Springs, Calif., since Dec. 22.

Hargrave made the trip to finalize the sale of a personal property and to move items back to Saskatchewan.

“The decision to travel was a personal choice to address personal business that I deemed necessary. I did advise the Premier of this travel, and I will be following all public-health guidelines including self-isolating in my home in Prince Albert for 14 days upon my return to Canada,” Hargrave said in a written statement.

Premier Scott Moe said in a statement he expects all members of cabinet and caucus to follow all public health orders and guidance.

“When Minister Hargrave advised me of his travel for personal business that he deemed necessary, I conveyed the expectation that he follow all public health guidelines and self-isolate for 14 days upon his return,” Moe said.

After thanking residents of the province for trying to follow guidelines and stay home during the holidays, Health Minister Paul Merriman was asked about Hargrave during a conference call Wednesday afternoon.

“It’s not my place to comment on my colleague’s actions,” Merriman replied. “Everyone has their own judgment on what they feel is essential services or essential travels. What I can say is I didn’t travel throughout the Christmas season. I was home with my wife in Saskatoon.”

Politicians from other provinces in Canada have come under fire for travelling during restrictions and lockdowns.

Quebec Liberal Pierre Arcand has been asked to return home from a vacation in the Caribbean. In Ontario, Finance Minister Rod Phillips has faced criticism for taking a holiday vacation.