Sask. to continue to advocate for 15 Wing pilot training

With concerns that pilot training at 15 Wing Moose Jaw is possibly on the chopping block, the Sask. NDP is hoping the government continues to advocate to keep the base open.

Leader Ryan Meili said he brought up the concern during Question Period because Ottawa is looking at reconfiguring military bases and a Conservative MP was advocating that they would like to see the one in Manitoba remain open.

Meili, who is from Moose Jaw, said it could have major impacts on the base.

“(I know) how much of an impact that has on the local community, how important that is for employment opportunities and the home of the Snowbirds, it’s a big pride for us, we’d want to make sure that our provincial government is advocating to the federal government to keep those jobs, keep that program right here in the province.”

Premier Scott Moe said the province has been an advocate for 15 Wing in the past, with former premier Brad Wall sending a letter to Ottawa.

“Changes to that base and other federal investments that they have here in the province do have an impact in our communities here in Saskatchewan.”

Moe said they are looking into the letter Wall had sent and are looking at another letter or phone call in the future.

“This has been on the government’s radar and initiative list for some time.”