Last week response to our report that emergency services had been suspended in Leader and Biggar was active. Many west central residents expressed concerns over the suspension. A few worried that the suspensions would become permanent. A direct response from officials where they laid out their reasoning in much more detail, didn't appear to appease everyone.

Now, a group of concerned citizens from across rural Saskatchewan are beginning to organize to protest the suspensions. A Facebook group called 'Citizens Concerned About Rural Health Care' has emerged in recent weeks. In the group people are expressing their concerns about the emergency room shutdowns, and they're discussing ways to voice those concerns with the government. At press time the private group had just over 1700 members.

"I think our concern is twofold," said organizer Rebecca Scott. "First of all, these communities are left with a huge gap in emergency services. In emergency care, everyone knows that response time is key. This response time is obviously going to be greatly increased by the closure of these local facilities".

Now the virtual movement is looking to demonstrate in the physical world. Organizers on the page have begun prepping details for a rally to take play outside the Saskatchewan Legislature. Organizers are hoping to get a large group of people together on June 3rd.

"We're encouraging people, ever since the beginning of the group, to make the phone calls," she said, "to the powers that be, to voice their concerns about this. We're also putting out the email addresses from the SHA and the Premier's office, trying to get people to send in letters, do their part, and let their voices be heard."

It should be noted there are discussions about being COVID safe during the rally.

Along with citizen organization, the Saskatchewan Wexit party appears to be using the private group as an opportunity to be heard.

"These rural closures are totally unacceptable. We will put this issue in the front burner. How are you supposed to get help in an emergency?" Interim party leader Jake Wall asked. "We will help you fight this."

Public pressure is definitely mounting, and signs that it's working are beginning to show. Minister of Health and Rosetown-Elrose MLA Jim Reiter shared with West Central Online that plans for returning these services will be released soon. Other officials have stated that those plans are expected Tuesday afternoon.

We'll have more as this story develops.