It was a much more jovial time on the floor of the Saskatchewan Legislature this afternoon than normal.

Instead of the rancourous debate across the floor, members from both sides united to cheer on the Riders with the guidance of team mascot, Gainer the Gopher.

Gainer was given rare access right into the house, an area normally heavily restricted by Legislative procedure and protocol. He entered ahead of the Speaker Of The House, running a lap around both sides of the room before shaking hands with Premier Brad Wall and Opposition Leader Dwain Lingenfelter. The two party leaders also gave short addresses to the house, praising not only the Roughriders triumphant season but also Gainer's role in getting the "13th Man" whipped into a frenzy at home games.

Gainer concluded his appearance by leading both sides of the house in a rousing cheer, using his familiar metal "Go" and "Riders" signs to pit the two sides against each other in a battle of who could muster the most enthusiasm.

All MLA's are signing a banner which Gainer is to carry to Calgary, where the Riders face Montreal Sunday in the Grey Cup. He'll be making his first appearance at McMahon Stadium since being banned in 2006.