The Saskatchewan Party Leader hopefuls were in town at the Estevan Chamber of Commerce's 'Next Premier Luncheon' this afternoon. Ken Cheveldayoff, Tina Beaudry-Mellor, Gordon Wyatt, Alanna Koch and Scott Moe all had the chance to speak on issues that are important to the southeast. 

"It's amazing that we had all the candidates here today," shared Executive Director, Jackie Wall. "It's amazing that they specifically answered questions that were relevant to our community and to our area."

Candidates were given three questions, the first was about emissions reductions and how that will affect the role of coal in the area. The second was regarding the way tax is assessed and the third was on healthcare and how to attract and retain professional medical staff. 

"Those questions were the most asked questions that have come either through our office or that we have heard throughput the community. We did get feedback from our membership when people phoned to register for this luncheon. Those three issues have been very prevalent over the last 6-8 months."

"We decided to pose those ahead of time to the candidates so they would have time to prepare. We find we get a more insightful answer when they do have the issues beforehand and they can prepare for those."

She added that hosting events such as this is part of the role of the Estevan Chamber of Commerce.

"The role of the Chamber is to get the voice of Estevan heard and to put together events like this to make sure that we are in contact with the different levels of government and making sure our needs in this area of the province are being met and being heard."