MEMBERS APPOINTED TO ACTION COMMITTEE ON THE RURAL ECONOMY

Deputy Premier and Agriculture, Food and Rural Revitalization Minister Clay Serby has appointed six new members to the Action Committee on the Rural Economy (ACRE).

"I am confident that ACRE will continue to actively engage individuals, associations and communities to build and diversify Saskatchewan agriculture and the rural economy," Serby said. "I welcome the re-appointment of Chair Audrey Horkoff, who has become a strong voice for rural Saskatchewan."

The new members are Everett Bear, First Nations representative at large; Colleen Bilokreli, 4-H Council; George Lafond, Saskatoon Tribal Council; Guy Lonechild, Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations; Fay Myers, Regional Colleges; and Wanda Wolf, Saskatchewan Herb and Spice Association. Other individuals and organizations were reappointed to ACRE, bringing the total committee membership to 47.

ACRE was created in 2000 to advise the government, industry and rural communities on how to stimulate development in rural Saskatchewan. ACRE has made more than 150 recommendations, ranging from minor changes of existing regulations to significant changes in government programming and policy.

ACRE's mandate has been extended until March 31st, 2005. In this final phase, ACRE will work with government to implement its recommendations and continue to examine the rural economy to identify other areas where change is necessary to increase investment, create jobs and build a positive future.

"BSE and drought have diverted much attention from ACRE," Serby said. "I am anxious for Saskatchewan people to look beyond these challenges and to work with ACRE to identify additional opportunities where we can strengthen the rural economy."

This month, ACRE will host four economic opportunities conferences that are open to the public and free of charge: February 23rd in Prince Albert; February 24th in Yorkton, February 25th in Swift Current, and February 26th in North Battleford. Conference information is available at www.agr.gov.sk.ca, or by calling Audrey Horkoff, ACRE Chair, at (306) 542-4472 or the Rural Issues Office at (306) 787-4572.

-30-

For More Information, Contact:

Scott Brown Agriculture, Food and Rural Revitalization Regina Phone: (306) 787-4031