Premier Moe and Opp. Leader Meili's 3-hour debate part of heated week in Sask. assembly

The Saskatchewan legislative assembly was the scene of some emotionally-charged debates and discussions this week, highlighted by a final three-hour back and forth between the premier and Opposition leader.

The spring sitting has just two weeks left and over the past few days, both the government and opposition have accused each other of attacks and name-calling.

On Tuesday, Premier Scott Moe and Opposition Leader Ryan Meili spent three hours trading shots during the annual Premier's estimates.

Meili will be stepping down as NDP leader following the spring sitting.

Moe was complimentary in his opening remarks.

"I thank this leader — I truly do — for, you know, his service as the Leader of the Opposition," Moe said.

It did not take long for the knives to sharpen.

"This particular leader promised to do politics differently, just like the last one, and then he did everything exactly the same as they've always done it. And they've gotten the same result time and time again," Moe said.

Moe said the NDP under Meili had offered "tired politics, smear tactics and personal attacks."

Meili responded in kind.

"There was a moment there when you thought you were going to see the premier be a class act. You thought you were going to see him extend that olive branch and thank someone for their service. That didn't last very long."

Meili said Moe made choices that have "hurt Saskatchewan people."

"His time is done. He just doesn't know it yet," Meili said.

"I'd sacrifice my political career to try to save people's lives. Scott Moe has sacrificed people's lives to save his political career."