LEGISLATION INTRODUCED TO ENHANCE BEEF RESEARCH

The Province introduced legislation today that will enhance research and development in Saskatchewan's beef sector.

"The growth of the livestock industry is a key part of the Province's strategy to grow the economy," Agriculture and Food Minister Mark Wartman said. "Research into new technologies that will benefit livestock producers will play a critical role in that growth."

The Prairie Agricultural Machinery Institute Amendment Act, 2004 enables the Prairie Agricultural Machinery Institute, or PAMI, to undertake beef research and development.

The legislative changes will allow for the incorporation of the operations of the Western Beef Development Centre, or WBDC, into PAMI.

"PAMI's leadership in researching and developing technology related to farm machinery and equipment can be applied to increasing the competitiveness of the beef industry," Wartman said. "Combining the energy and expertise of PAMI and the WBDC presents a number of exciting opportunities for the future."

Saskatchewan Agriculture, Food and Rural Revitalization will fund two new beef research chairs as part of PAMI's new expanded mandate. In addition, plans were outlined to establish a Beef Advisory Panel, reporting to the PAMI Board of Directors, to ensure industry and stakeholder input into future research and technology transfer activities.

In June 2004, the Government of Saskatchewan announced funding of $300,000 per year over the next three years to support the work of the WBDC.

"The amendments introduced today demonstrate our continuing commitment to the agriculture industry, and our goal of increasing the success and profitability of the livestock sector in this province," Wartman said.

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For More Information, Contact:

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