SECOND-YEAR REPORT RELEASED ON ECONOMIC STRATEGY

The second-year report on Saskatchewan's economic development strategy is now available.

Industry and Resources Minister Eric Cline today released Partnership for Prosperity: Year 2 Progress Report. The document summarizes activity around the targets of Partnership for Prosperity, Saskatchewan's strategy for building the economy through increased diversification, a more competitive business climate and a greater emphasis on innovation and technology.

"Saskatchewan is well positioned for future prosperity, with an economy that continues to diversify, and this document reflects that," Cline said. "Our province has faced a number of challenges over the last two years – drought and BSE are two examples – but despite such challenges, Saskatchewan has made significant progress toward meeting the targets in the strategy."

Cline noted that two of the targets under the strategy have already been reached: an increase in Internet connectivity among businesses and families and the reduction in personal income taxes.

"In 2003 Saskatchewan set records for number of people working, number of oil and gas wells drilled and volume of potash sales," Cline said. "Major economic forecasters share our optimism for growth this year, as we continue to work with businesses, co-operatives and communities to make Saskatchewan a great place in which to live, work, invest and do business."

Partnership for Prosperity: Year 2 Progress Report is available on the Industry and Resources Web site at www.ir.gov.sk.ca (click on the Partnership for Prosperity heading on the home page). Those wishing a printed copy can contact the department's Resource and Economic Policy Division at (306) 787-8088.

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For More Information, Contact:

Bob Ellis Industry and Resources Regina Phone: (306) 787-8277