Prince Albert Federal Electoral District

Prince Albert is a federal electoral district located in the central region of the province of Saskatchewan, Canada. The district was first created in 1882, and it has since transformed into one of Saskatchewan's most diverse regions, with a rich blend of cultures, economics, politics and social life.

Population Centres

The district has a strong and diverse population, comprising of several cities, towns and Indigenous communities, including Prince Albert, La Ronge, Stanley Mission, Waskesiu Lake and Candle Lake. Prince Albert is the largest population centre and is considered the gateway to northern Saskatchewan. The city is also renowned for its museums, theatres, and historic sites, including the Prince Albert National Park and Davidson Creek.

Issues and Events

In recent years, Prince Albert has seen its share of local issues and events. One key issue that has been in the spotlight is the community's ongoing battle to address substance abuse and addiction. Several community organizations and stakeholders have been working tirelessly to find ways to address the problem, including the Prince Albert Grand Council, the Saskatchewan Health Authority and Prince Albert's Community Mobilization Program.

Another key event was the 2020 closure of the Cameco Corporation's Key Lake Uranium Mine, which had been one of the district's largest employers for years. The closure had a significant impact on the local economy, with many residents losing jobs and livelihoods. Recently, with the rise of commodity prices, the Cameco Corporation has announced plans to reopen the mine, which is great news for the local economy.

Economy

Prince Albert is a hub of economic activity for the region, with several industries driving its economy. These industries include the forestry sector, energy and mining, agriculture, manufacturing, and healthcare. Major employers within the region include the Prince Albert Grand Council, the Saskatchewan Health Authority, the Cameco Corporation, and the University of Saskatchewan's Prince Albert Campus.

Prince Albert has also been a key player in the development of the Saskatchewan Polytechnic's Office of Applied Research and Innovation. The initiative aims to foster innovation and entrepreneurship within the community and has contributed to the development of several start-up companies within the region.

Important Landmarks

Prince Albert is known for its vast natural landscapes, including the Prince Albert National Park, home to a wide variety of wildlife, including moose, elk, bear, and caribou. Other natural attractions in the area include the Nisbet Provincial Forest and the Waskesiu Lake.

Within the city limits, there are several historic sites and landmarks, including the historic Prince Albert and District Chamber of Commerce building, dating back to 1911. The Art Gallery of Prince Albert is also a popular attraction for tourists and locals, showcasing contemporary Canadian and Indigenous art.

Arts and Culture

Prince Albert has a vibrant arts and cultural scene, including several community events, institutions and organizations. These include the annual Prince Albert Winter Festival, showcasing local bands, dancers and artists, and the Gateway Music Festival, a two-day music festival celebrating local and national talent.

The Saskatchewan Indian Cultural Centre, located in the city, celebrates Indigenous culture and traditions, showcasing art, music, and dance through its exhibitions and events. The Prince Albert Historical Society Museum is also a popular attraction, showcasing the city's rich history through its exhibits and archives.

Electoral Issues

During the 2021 federal election, the Prince Albert electoral district focused on economic and social issues. Key concerns included job creation, substance abuse, and housing affordability, with candidates from all parties making promises to address these issues if elected.

Community Organizations

There are several community organizations that contribute to the economic and social well-being of the Prince Albert district. These include:

• The Prince Albert Arts Council, supporting the arts and culture scene in the city.
• The Prince Albert Downtown Business Improvement District, focusing on the economic development of the city's downtown core.
• Habitat for Humanity Prince Albert, working to provide affordable housing for families in the area.
• Prince Albert Homelessness Action Coalition, addressing the issue of homelessness within the community.
• The Prince Albert SK North Rotary Club, supporting a variety of community projects throughout the region.

Multicultural Groups

Prince Albert's multicultural makeup includes a significant Indigenous population, with the Prince Albert Grand Council representing the interests of the region's Indigenous communities. There are also several immigrant and refugee populations within the city, including those from African, Asian and European countries. The Multicultural Council of Saskatchewan works toward promoting cultural diversity, integration, and awareness within the community.

Overall, the Prince Albert Federal Electoral District boasts a diverse cultural heritage, with various industries driving its economy, several community organizations contributing to the region's social and economic well-being, and a multitude of events showcasing the local arts and cultural scene.