Justin Trudeau says Sask. ignored by 13 Conservative MPs

Saskatchewan got its first campaign visit from a party leader - the Liberal Party's Justin Trudeau. 

Trudeau made a stop at the Regina Farmer's Market Tuesday with three of his local candidates - Louis Browne, Della Anaquod and Ralph Goodale.

"Ralph never forgets that no matter what happens in Ottawa, it's what happens at home that matters," Trudeau said in a speech at the market.

Trudeau told the crowd that Saskatchewan has been ignored by its 13 Conservative MPs.

He said his Liberal candidates in the province will stand up for issues affecting Saskatchewan people.

Farming, middle class, Indigenous people all priorities

Trudeau said farming, increased financial support for the middle class through tax cuts and Indigenous issues are all part of his focus for people in Saskatchewan.

"We need to move forward on a real plan on Aboriginal education that will respect and allow First Nations to lead that charge instead of imposing it from Ottawa," said Trudeau.

When asked about his support of the controversial Bill C-51, Trudeau said if he is elected, he will tweak the existing bill to protect the rights of Canadians.

"The Liberal party will not play the politics of fear. We will make sure that Canadians know a government can do both things - protect our safety and uphold our rights and freedoms," said Trudeau.

But Trudeau's Liberals face a major uphill battle to win seats in Saskatchewan.

With the exception of MP Ralph Goodale, no Liberal candidate in the last election received more than 10 per cent of the vote.

Following his Regina stop, he will fly up north to meet with local leaders about this year's wildfires. Then he will host a town hall in Meadow Lake this evening.

It's expected he will spend some time in Saskatoon on Thursday.

Trudeau is the first leader to visit Saskatchewan — a province that elected 13 Conservatives and just one Liberal MP in 2011 — since the campaign began.

Canadians go to the polls Oct. 19.