For Immediate Release August 10, 2018
Former cabinet minister and long-time NDP MLA David Forbes is announcing that he plans to retire at the next provincial election.
After teaching for 18 years, Forbes was elected as MLA for Saskatoon Idylwyld in 2001. He served Premier Lorne Calvert as Minister of Environment where he released the Caring for Natural Environments: A Biodiversity Action Plan for Saskatchewan’s Future 2004-2009, as well as The Great Sand Hills (GSH) Land Use Strategy which led to the GSH protected area rising from 94.5 to 362.6 square kilometres.
Forbes also served as the Minister of Labour. He helped implement initiatives to fight bullying in the workplace, to modernize labour standards in Northern Saskatchewan and he was responsible for creating Family Day, Saskatchewan’s newest statutory holiday.
While in Opposition, Forbes was elected Caucus Chair and was the Critic for many areas including Social Services, Housing, Diversity, Equality and Human Rights, Labour, and Ethics and Democracy.
Aside from being a champion for the rights of the LGBTQ community, he also introduced and helped implement much of Jimmy’s Law, which aimed to protect late-night retail workers. He has also introduced several bills in an effort to get big money out of Saskatchewan politics.
Forbes will continue to serve in his caucus roles and as MLA for Saskatoon Centre until the next election. At which time, he will spend more time with his wife, three children and four grandchildren.
“It has been an honour and a privilege to serve the people of Saskatoon Centre. After talking with my family, I’ve decided that it’s time to step away and spend more time with them upon completion of this term,” Forbes said. “It’s been rewarding to work with so many terrific people over the years and to be able to help improve the lives of Saskatchewan families, workers and those most vulnerable in our communities.”
NDP Leader Ryan Meili reflected “David Forbes is a trusted colleague and friend and a deeply committed MLA who - in government and in opposition - always stands up for those who need it most. I’m very fortunate to work alongside him and continue learning from his example.”
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