SASKATCHEWAN TO SEEK AG SOLUTION IN OTTAWA

Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food Minister Mark Wartman and several farm leaders will travel to Ottawa next week to press the argument for immediate federal assistance for the agriculture sector.

"Producers, farm families and this government know all too well the problems that continue to exist in the agricultural sector," Wartman said. "Clearly, we also know the solution is in Ottawa. That is why we are going, and we expect a full hearing from the federal Minister of Agriculture.

"Ultimately, we expect our federal government to fully participate in solving the agriculture crisis, to the the same extent as the national governments of the United States and the European Union are supporting their producers."

The delegation will be in Ottawa on Tuesday, April 11th. Wartman will be joined by representatives from the Agricultural Producers Association of Saskatchewan, the Farm Support Review Committee, the National Farmers Union and the Saskatchewan Association of Rural Municipalities.

Wartman said the groups know the importance of presenting a united front on the issue.

The group also intends to meet with the Senate Agriculture Committee, the Saskatchewan Conservative Caucus, and the Liberal and New Democratic Party agricultural committees.

-30-

For More Information, Contact:

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