The Saskatchewan NDP says Sask. Party Education Minister Jeremy Cockrill is under a second active investigation by the province’s Conflict of Interest Commissioner over allegations he breached the Act when he invested in helium companies that were then awarded tax breaks by the Saskatchewan Government, all while Cockrill was a member of cabinet.
In a news release NDP Critic for Ethics Meara Conway said, “After the Sask. Party government announced their plan to put big money into the helium industry, Cockrill bought shares in two of the biggest private sector players partnering with government. At the time he was a member of cabinet, with behind the scenes access to the government’s Helium Action Plan and access to fellow Ministers who were rubbing shoulders with the company, whether hosting them at the Legislature or joining them at International trade shows and conferences.” She says it is not just a conflict but possibly leans to insider trading.
And in response a statement was issued from Education Minister Jeremy Cockrill:
I did not participate in any government decisions regarding the helium industry nor did I have any inside information regarding the industry. I am fully cooperating with the Conflict of Interest Commissioner’s review and am confident that I acted appropriately.
Ever since being elected in 2020, I have been fully transparent with the Conflict of Interest Commissioner and followed all of the recommendations that he has provided to me. I continue to cooperate with the Commissioner as he does his review.
While I understand the Commissioner is proceeding with a review under Section 3 and 15 under the Act, there is no review of insider trading under Section 4. Ms. Conway is aware of that but chose to make this unfounded allegation at her media event today. He has also stated:
• “I agree with Mr. Cockrill that the Opinion Request does not identify any meeting or decision at which Mr. Cockrill allegedly failed to disclose a conflict of interest or withdraw from the meeting.”
• “In response, Mr. Cockrill argues that the 2021 Helium Action Plan cannot give rise to a conflict of interest. I agree – the existence of the November 15, 2021, Helium Action Plan would not raise reasonable and probable grounds in itself given that Mr. Cockrill was not a member of Cabinet and did not own any interest in Helium Evolution or Royal Helium at that time.”
While the NDP is focused on slinging mud, we are focused on Saskatchewan people and keeping our economy strong to ensure a bright future for everyone.
– Hon. Jeremy Cockrill
Click to read letter: conflict of interest letter
