STATEMENT BY MINISTER ROB NORRIS ON CARLTON TRAIL REGIONAL COLLEGE AND ST. PETER’S COLLEGE

On Friday, March 18, 2011, I asked the boards of each institution to provide me with a written report of the steps they took, after receiving a memo dated May 10, 2010, regarding allegations of financial and accounting irregularities. The responses provided by each institution are being made public today. As well, my ministry met with officials from the Provincial Auditor's office on Friday morning. My ministry has written a letter to the auditor, pledging our full co-operation in any actions deemed necessary.

During the week-end, I also held extensive consultations with ministry officials. As a result, I have:

• Directed the immediate release of the Meyers Norris Penny report dated February 15, 2011 on the proposed merger;
• Confirmed that Meyers Norris Penny has commenced a second review on governance, financial management and leadership;
• Directed that the terms of reference for the appointment of an interim CEO at Carlton Trail Regional College be subject to review by the ministry;
• Sent a letter to the Deputy Minister of Advanced Education, Employment and Immigration, requesting two detailed action plans; the first including measures to enhance board governance and administration for our post-secondary partners and the second to enhance the ministry's ability to increase institutional accountability;
• Directed that as a condition of receiving funds from the forthcoming provincial budget, both institutions comply with an audit ordered by the ministry and conducted by a national accounting firm to ensure appropriate and adequate controls are in place; and
• Ordered the forwarding of materials that came to my attention last week for review and appropriate disposition by the Ministry of Justice. We ask that anyone with further information on these issues to do the same.

Importantly, these steps are necessary to protect the interest of students and taxpayers.

I understand this may be a difficult time for them. However, I will take every step necessary to guarantee this year's studies are not interrupted.

The Meyers Norris Penny report is available on line at www.aeei.gov.sk.ca.

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For more information, contact:

Rikki Bote
Advanced Education, Employment and Immigration
Regina
Phone: 306-787-4156