RESULTS OF REGIONAL ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CONSULTATION RELEASED

The Northwest Regional Economic Development Authority (REDA) has received the results from its first-ever Regional Economic Development Consultation.

The consultation - held October 27th, 2005, in Meadow Lake - drew more than 75 representatives from business, government, education, and industry to discuss economic development issues and challenges in northwest Saskatchewan and ways to stimulate the region's economy. The Northwest REDA received $3,000 in funding support through the REDA Enhancement Fund (REF) to host the consultation.

"Bringing a broad sprectrum of representatives from various communities and areas of expertise within a region is vital to determining how the region can best work together to create opportunities which will generate economic growth and prosperity," Deputy Premier and Rural Development Minister Clay Serby said.

The report provided to the Northwest REDA identifies the region's established infrastructure, strong forest sector, and diversified economic base as key factors to future development. These assets help support other strengths such as a growing tourism industry, a young population, and an enviable quality of life.

The report also identifies a number of opportunities for the region, including:

• expanding the tourism industry to take advantage of year-round opportunities;

• increasing support services to the oil and gas industry;

• identifying value-added opportunities;

• partnering with communities and First Nations groups on projects and initiatives; and

• enhancing access to education and training programs.

According to the report, one of the most important action items to come from the consultation is a comprehensive strategic analysis that will form the basis for future economic development by further refining the identified opportunities into a workable number of projects and goals.

"We have created a shared vision, and are now determining short and long term action plans for our combined, prosperous future," Northwest REDA Economic Development Officer Barry Lewis said. "This will help mobilize communities in their commitment to partnering in economic development."

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For More Information, Contact:

Donna Rehirchuk Rural Development Regina Phone: (306) 787-2359