Hundreds of protesters gathered in Saskatoon’s Kinsmen Park Sunday to oppose a $1 billion artificial intelligence data centre planned near Regina, marking the third demonstration against the project in Saskatchewan.
Public Opposition Grows Over AI Data Centre
The rally, organized by the Red Bear Party, provided a platform for residents to voice concerns about the facility’s environmental impact and the government’s consultation process. Thieb Milyon Deng, a co-founder of the group, said the event amplified community frustration over decisions made without public input.
“The citizens are very much against these data centres, and I’m just a voice for that sentiment,” Deng said. “We’re finding out about it through newspapers, not through direct consultation or votes.”
Environmental and Financial Concerns Raised
Protesters highlighted potential risks to water resources, wildlife, and local ecosystems. While the data centre will use a closed-loop water system, Deng argued the broader environmental effects—including noise and vibrations that could harm bees—are being downplayed.
“Water is a resource we inherently need, but the impact on animals and insects like bees is kept from the public eye,” he said. Critics also questioned the $1 billion price tag, suggesting the funds could be better spent elsewhere.
AI’s Role in Medicine vs. Generative AI Debated
Deng acknowledged AI’s benefits in specific fields, such as medical imaging, but argued generative AI should be deprioritized. “Students use AI for brain scans and X-rays, but that’s a needed tool in medicine—not the same as generative AI,” he said.
No further public consultations have been announced, but opponents say they will continue pressuring officials to reconsider the project’s approval.
