Coal Revival: United Mine Workers say federal mandate to phase out coal-fired electricity posed existential threats to entire communities

Brian Zinchuk

Brian Zinchuk is editor and owner of Pipeline Online

This dragline was working near Bienfait in 2011, the year SaskPower initially approved its carbon capture project. Photo by Brian Zinchuk

“Saskatchewan’s leadership in asserting provincial jurisdiction over its energy future deserves recognition. While the federal mandate to phase out coal-fired electricity by 2030 posed existential threats to entire communities, this new direction offers hope and continuity.”

Several letters of support were written backing the province’s move to rebuilt its coal fleet, announced on June 18. This letter is from the United Mine Workers of America, which represents the mine workers at the Estevan mine. Jody Dukart is the union’s International Auditor/Teller, who will be speaking with Pipeline Online in depth in the coming days:

June 17, 2025

Crown Investments Corporation of Saskatchewan

Regina, SK

On behalf of the United Mine Workers of America (UMWA), I write to formally express our strong support for the Government of Saskatchewan’s decision to proceed with the life extension and refurbishment of the province’s coal-fired power generation units.

This initiative is not only a practical solution to Saskatchewan’s energy needs but also a critical step toward preserving good-paying union jobs in Saskatchewan, particularly for the members of UMWA Local 7606 in Estevan.

Saskatchewan’s leadership in asserting provincial jurisdiction over its energy future deserves recognition. While the federal mandate to phase out coal-fired electricity by 2030 posed existential threats to entire communities, this new direction offers hope and continuity. Reinvestment into the province’s coal infrastructure ensures long-term operational stability, energy security, and job protection well beyond 2030.

Coal has powered this province for generations and the UMWA welcomes policies that allows our members, and the communities they support, to continue contributing to Saskatchewan’s prosperity.

We stand ready to collaborate with CIC, SaskPower, and the Government of Saskatchewan to ensure the success of this transition and the protection of our members’ livelihoods.

In Solidarity,

Jody Dukart

International Auditor/Teller Canada

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