Bob Pringle's post as Sask. Children & Youth Advocate not renewed

Bob Pringle has resigned as Saskatchewan’s advocate for children and youth after the legislative assembly decided not to reappoint him to a second five-year term.

Pringle will stay on as acting advocate until Oct. 31, 2016.

He said he was informed about the decision a couple months ago, despite his desire to stay in the position.

“That is of course the prerogative of the legislature and I respect the process,” he said. “Of course I was disappointed and sad, but I respect that decision. It’s been an honour to be here for five years.”

Pringle was appointed to the role in 2010. Under the Advocate for Children and Youth Act, advocates can serve up to two five-year terms.

Pringle said the Board of Internal Economy told him they can only extend an appointment if the position is vacant. By stepping down a month before his term ends, Pringle was appointed acting advocate for another 11 months.

“I love what I’m doing and there’s a lot of work left to do,” he said, adding the extension will give him a chance to finish some of the initiatives he started. “The focus is about the children – the youth and young people – advancing their rights and being voice for children.”

Pringle’s office will release its annual report and a program evaluation report after the provincial election on April 4, 2016.

“I don’t feel in good faith it’s really appropriate to release those during an election campaign,” he said.

When asked if he knew why the legislature did not reappoint him, Pringle deferred to the assembly.