MINING WEEK CELEBRATES TOMORROW’S WORKFORCE TODAY

"It is people that discover minerals and then build and operate mines. Without highly skilled and dedicated workers, the mining industry simply would not have developed to this degree in Saskatchewan," Industry and Resources Minister Eric Cline said. "During this time of unprecedented growth in the industry, we must look forward and anticipate our future labour needs."

Out of all the provinces, Saskatchewan has the highest percentage of people under 20 years of age. This will become significant over the next decade as baby boomer retirements in this province open an estimated 50,000 to 100,000 jobs. Saskatchewan's minerals industry currently supports over 20,000 jobs, including 2,000 direct jobs in northern Saskatchewan.

Saskatchewan's valued resource of young people is needed to help Saskatchewan keep its competitive advantage in the future.

Investment in mineral exploration in Saskatchewan has increased tenfold since 2001. Six years ago, exploration spending totalled almost $23 million. Last year, that figure grew to $244 million and included some of the largest corporate exploration budgets in Canada. The estimate for exploration spending this year is $277 million.

Saskatchewan currently has a record number of active mineral dispositions at over 13.5 million hectares, more than double the amount of land explored in 2004.

A variety of mining-related events are scheduled throughout Mining Week, culminating in the Annual Emergency Response and Mine Rescue Competition and Banquet to be held June 2 in Saskatoon.

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For more information, contact:

Bob Ellis
Industry and Resources
Regina
Phone: 306-787-1691
Email: rellis@ir.gov.sk.ca