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Gopher mascot lauded in legislature

Last Updated: Tuesday, November 24, 2009 | 4:02 PM CT

CBC News

The Saskatchewan Roughriders' mascot Gainer the Gopher was a special guest at the provincial legislature on Tuesday. (CBC)

With the Grey Cup days away, the Saskatchewan Roughriders' mascot basked in the praise of politicians on the floor of the provincial legislature Tuesday.

The appearance of Gainer the Gopher took place the same day as the football team boarded a plane to Calgary for Sunday's CFL championship game against the Montreal Alouettes.

"Mr. Speaker, it's a pleasure to introduce to you and through you that very special guest, Gainer the Gopher," Premier Brad Wall said as the mascot, dressed in a human-size gopher costume and green Roughrider jersey, stood nearby on the red carpet.

Wall noted that three years ago, Gainer was banned from Calgary's McMahon Stadium at a playoff game that Saskatchewan won.

Premier Brad Wall, left, helped unfurl a banner for MLAs to sign. (CBC)

Wall then unfurled a "Go Riders" banner that he said MLAs could sign, so Gainer could present it to the team.

"We're having some fun this week in Saskatchewan and well we should," Wall said.

Wearing a green shirt (the Roughriders' team colour) under his jacket, Opposition leader Dwain Lingenfelter joined Wall in praising the mascot for "driving 30,000, 35,000 fans crazy at every game."

The silent mascot then pulled out some cheer placards and proceeded to lead the MLAs in "Go Riders" chants.

After that, Gainer made his exit, and the legislature proceeded with question period, with the province's finances and its projected $1 billion deficit among the main topics for debate.

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