SASKATCHEWAN CELEBRATES REDA WEEK MARCH 4-10 IN SASKATOON

Organizations committed to community economic development are being celebrated for their achievements during Regional Economic Development Authority (REDA) Week in Saskatchewan, March 4 to 10.

Saskatchewan’s 28 REDAs lead economic development in the province by developing and promoting the economic strengths of their regions, and exemplify collaboration among local governments, businesses, communities, co-operatives, Aboriginal people and youth.

“REDAs are an excellent example of how regional partners co-operate and collaborate,” Deputy Premier and Regional Economic and Co-operative Development Minister Clay Serby said.  “They demonstrate that citizens, community leaders, local governments, businesses and industry can capitalize on regional strengths and create wealth within regions to make life better for Saskatchewan families.”

Past project support to the REDA Enhancement Fund has enabled REDAs to attract additional funding of $4.6 million on 191 projects.  These projects have gone on to realize capital infrastructure worth more than $88 million, and created and maintained more than 670 jobs.

Currently, REDAs are engaged in 130 projects and initiatives around the province.  In the Saskatoon region, the Mid Sask REDA and Mid Sask Community Economic Development Corporation have partnered to create Water Wolf Economic Developments Inc., a non-profit, collaborative economic development initiative.  One of the projects implemented by the Water Wolf partners is the development of a tourism corridor along Highway 219 between Outlook and Lake Diefenbaker.

“We have obtained access to a community land planner to develop a land use model in conjunction with a number of provincial departments,” Mid Sask REDA manager Russ McPherson said.  “Long-term land use planning will enable communities to conserve the region’s distinct features while capitalizing on its economic, social and cultural characteristics.”

In 2006-07, Saskatchewan Regional Economic and Co-operative Development enhanced its support to REDAs by increasing core operating funding, REDA Enhancement Fund support for regional projects and REDA Youth Employment Program support.  The REDA Youth Employment Program encourages mentoring and employment for senior business students and graduates in the field of business and economic development.

REDAs have a number of special activities scheduled during REDA Week.  For more information on REDA Week activities in the Saskatoon region, contact your local REDA.

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For more information, contact:

Donna Rehirchuk
Regional Economic and Co-operative Development
Regina
Phone: 306-787-2359