SASKATCHEWAN PROCLAIMS BIOTECH WEEK

Today, Agriculture Minister Lyle Stewart proclaimed the week of September 14-21, 2012, as Biotech Week in Saskatchewan.

"Year after year, the discoveries in biotech research help our farmers and ranchers meet the demands of an ever-changing and growing agriculture industry," Stewart said. "We highlight the role of the biotech industry this week as it is an important part of the agriculture industry, the economy and our province's future growth."

Saskatchewan remains at the forefront of agricultural biotechnology research in Canada and the provincial government continues to support the industry. Earlier this year, Premier Brad Wall announced $10 million in new funding for wheat-related research over five years. This year's provincial budget also included a record $20.4 million in funding for agricultural research, an increase of more than 50 per cent since 2007.

"This week is a highlight for our industry," Ag-West Bio Inc. President and CEO Wilf Keller said. "The advances in the industry continue to play a major role in Saskatchewan and around the globe. This week showcases that work and we are proud to be a part of it."

As in past years, numerous events will be held throughout the week to highlight the industry. For a full list of activities in Saskatchewan, see the Ag-West Bio Inc. website at www.agwest.sk.ca.

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For more information, contact:

Tiffany Stephenson
Agriculture
Regina
Phone: 306-787-4031
Email: tiffany.stephenson@gov.sk.ca
Cell: 306-536-3851