NORTHERN DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENT FUNDS SIX PROJECTS

The Governments of Canada and Saskatchewan will invest $572,826 for six training and economic development projects under the Canada-Saskatchewan Northern Development Agreement (NDA).

Saskatchewan Northern Affairs Minister Joan Beatty, Prince Albert Member of Parliament Brian Fitzpatrick on behalf of the Honourable Carol Skelton, Minister of National Revenue and Minister of Western Economic Diversification, and Northern Development Board Corporation Chair Al Rivard announced the projects today at a luncheon prepared by students in a hospitality training project that received funding.

"The Northern Development Agreement is investing in a diverse and dynamic northern economy," Beatty said. "By working with a wide variety of clients and funding partners, this unique agreement is advancing our goal of a green and prosperous future, one directed by the residents of northern Saskatchewan."

"Canada's new Government encourages economic development that creates opportunities in all regions of the country," Fitzpatrick said. "Today's investment offers local training and employment opportunities for northern residents utilizing resources and industry. We're improving quality of life and creating healthier communities."

"Through strategic investments, the Northern Development Agreement is shaping the economy of the north, providing research and development funding for new and emerging economic opportunities while investing in training programs for established sectors," Rivard said. "The Northern Development Agreement has proved invaluable in setting new benchmarks for northern Saskatchewan. The board is hopeful that the demonstrated success of the agreement sways the political will of both levels of government toward an extension of the agreement upon its expiration."

The funding from clients and other partners represents an investment of $1,217,925. Projects include:

• A "Ready to Work: Tourism Careers" program, training northerners in front-line tourism occupations;
• Exploration and drilling for a potential green granite quarry near Pelican Narrows;
• Childcare training, particularly in the Pinehouse Lake area;
• An assessment of opportunities for burbot liver oil as a health product;
• Delivery of oil field safety training; and,
• A feasibility study of harvesting chaga, a bark fungus, for medicinal use.

"Tourism in Saskatchewan is currently a $1.4 billion industry and growing," Tourism Saskatchewan CEO Roy Anderson said. "With that growth comes the demand for front-line professionals who will ensure a great visitor experience. We are proud to be working with our northern partners as they develop their world-class tourism workforce."

The Canada-Saskatchewan Northern Development Agreement is providing $20 million over five years (2002-2007) for economic development initiatives in northern Saskatchewan.

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For More Information, Contact:

Joanne Mysak Western Economic Diversification Canada Saskatoon Phone: (306) 975-5942 Cell: 888-338-9378	Scott Boyes Saskatchewan Northern Affairs La Ronge Phone: (306) 425-6669 Cell: (306) 425-8869
Fiona MacLeod Western Economic Diversification Canad Ottawa Phone: (613) 995-2960	Dean Desjarlais Northern Development Board La Ronge Phone: (306) 425-2444