Saskatchewan to use massive postcard mail-out to gauge citizens on internet controls

REGINA — The Saskatchewan government is promising a mass mail-out of postcards to gauge citizen opinions on whether to put fences around the internet.

Premier Scott Moe said the survey will hear from residents about a possible social media ban or limits for those under the age of 16.

The postcards ask whether there should be restrictions or some flexibility for parents to provide consent, he said Tuesday.

They also ask whether any social media platforms should be exempt from limits.

Moe said the feedback will help inform whether the government should implement an outright ban for youth or make no changes.

“Your input is important,” he said. “We want to, as a government, listen to Saskatchewan families, listen to Saskatchewan parents.

“We want our kids to be safe.”

The postcards are to be returned by June 30, with results tabulated over the summer. The campaign is expected to cost up to $500,000.

Jill McAlister-Lane, a spokesperson with Moe’s office, said in an email there will be no online option to share feedback.

“We want to engage directly with the people of the province and feel this is the simplest and best way for everyone to have the opportunity to contribute unencumbered,” she said.

Saskatchewan is one of many governments looking at the issue. The federal government and other provinces, including Manitoba and Ontario, are examining tighter restrictions.

Moe said that Ottawa is in the best position to impose social media limits, and Saskatchewan is prepared to work with its federal counterparts.

He added there are some benefits to social media but said it has harmed youth through online bullying and abuse. Platforms have also affected the mental health of some youth, including creating feelings of depression and loneliness, he said.

“(There’s also) exposures to dangerous content online, and so much more,” Moe said.

He said Saskatchewan will follow the wishes of the people but that he personally believes some limits should be in place.

“I’m very much a proponent for us to be outside doing whatever it is we enjoy,” he said.

For example, he said, his wife likes to sometimes play the violin.

“I’m outside with anything with a motor, with the family and my extended family that I am with all the time,” Moe said.

“We have, under my name, some of the most active social media pages likely in this province. I’m not on them a lot, personally.”

Lori Carr, the province’s mental health minister, said her grandchildren are more engaged when they’re not on their electronic devices.

“I truly see the benefits of limiting the amount of time that my grandchildren spend on social media or on a device,” she said.

“The connection that you have with human beings is just irreplaceable.”

Australia became the first country to prevent youth under 16 from setting up accounts on TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, Snapchat and Threads.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 5, 2026.

Jeremy Simes, The Canadian Press