Sask. NDP criticized after email shows party attempt to secure sponsorship from previously criticized lobbying firm

The Saskatchewan NDP's recent criticism of political lobbyists has backfired. During question period on Monday, the government revealed an NDP email in which the party requested sponsorship from a lobby firm that it had previously criticized.

The Saskatchewan NDP’s recent criticism of political lobbyists has backfired. During question period on Monday, the government revealed an NDP email in which the party requested sponsorship from a lobby firm that it had previously criticized.

The official opposition has been especially vocal in recent days of how some government work has gone to out-of-province contractors, some of whom employ former MLA’s as lobbyists.

On Monday, the province obtained material showing the Saskatchewan NDP seeking corporate sponsorship from Prairie Sky Strategies.

“Do you know why they sent them? A letter, Mr. Speaker,” Intergovernmental Affairs Minister Don McMorris said during question period. “They’re begging and pleading for a $5,000 donation for that leader of the opposition.”

“Say the same thing in every room. Tell your party that,” he added.

The email to the lobby firm was an invitation from the Sask. NDP to attend or sponsor a Carla Beck reception next month.

The email read: