Joe Hargrave is no longer Saskatchewan’s Minister of Highways.

Premier Scott Moe has accepted Hargrave’s resignation Monday, but he will continue to serve as the MLA for Prince Albert Carlton.

Moe has appointed Carrot River Valley MLA Fred Bradshaw as the new Highways Minister and Minister responsible for the Water Security Agency.

Hargrave faced criticism after travelling to Palm Springs, California to close the sale of a house, a trip he deemed as essential.

NDP leader Ryan Meili is not mincing words when it comes to his thoughts on these developments as he shines the spotlight on Premier Scott Moe

In a statement, Meili says:

“Premier Moe refused to show leadership today. Three days ago when the Minister’s actions were fine. Today when his bogus story about finalizing the sale of his house was exposed, Premier Moe said it was “irrelevant” but because of public pressure the Minister had to go. He shows no real understanding of the anger his government’s arrogance has caused. We all know none of this would have happened if they hadn’t been caught. There was no apology. The people of Saskatchewan deserve much better.” 

Meanwhile, it has been learned a second cabinet minister also spent time in Palm Springs.

The government is confirming reports that Corrections Minister Christine Tell was in California.  She was there from October 30 to November 9 to visit a family member who was very ill with a non COVID-19 related illness.   The province says Tell followed all public health guidelines, including two weeks of self-isolation upon returning to Saskatchewan.