SASKATCHEWAN DIGS MINING

Saskatchewan Mining Week, May 30th to June 4th, celebrates the province's buried riches and the technologies that uncover them.

"One hundred years ago, mining in Saskatchewan consisted of some local coal production, clay mining and small scale gold digging," Industry and Resources Minister Eric Cline said. "Thanks to advanced technologies developed in this province, today we are the world leader in potash and uranium production. Saskatchewan is enjoying unprecedented levels of exploration activity and new opportunities continue to develop."

Saskatchewan's mining industry has honed its competitive edge by making significant investments in advanced technology. It is one of the most technologically advanced in the world and the province offers one of the most competitive mining investment climates in the world.

Mining supports 20,000 jobs including 2,000 well-paying careers in northern Saskatchewan. As a whole, the industry contributes over $2 billion annually in wages, goods and services. Last year, the mineral sector generated $355 million in Crown revenues that were used to support important social programs.

Saskatchewan offers other opportunities in gold, platinum group metals, uranium, diamonds, base metals, rare earth elements and industrial metals. Spending in mineral exploration is expected to increase to an unprecedented high of $120 million this year. This is double the $60 million spent in 2004, which almost doubles the $31.3 million spent in 2003.

The Saskatchewan Mining Association is hosting a number of activities during Mining Week around the theme, "One Hundred Years of Mining in Saskatchewan". The week culminates with the Annual Emergency Response and Mine Rescue Competition June 4th at Prairieland Park in Saskatoon.

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For More Information, Contact:

Bob Ellis Industry and Resources Regina Phone: (306) 787-1691