GANTEFOER ENCOURAGED BY FEDERAL GOVERNMENT’S COMMITMENT TO ADDRESS ECONOMIC CONCERNS

Saskatchewan Finance Minister Rod Gantefoer today said he is encouraged by the federal government's willingness to listen to the provinces' suggestions on strengthening Canada's economy. Gantefoer made his comments as meetings of the federal, provincial and territorial Finance Ministers wrapped up in Saskatoon.

"I feel that Saskatchewan's interests were well received in today's meetings," Gantefoer said. "As the federal government moves forward on its budget, I am hopeful the federal government will listen to our concerns in areas like infrastructure spending and our calls to work together collaboratively on stimulus for the benefit of Canada's economy."

Gantefoer said he was encouraged that all ministers reached a consensus on a set of principles to move forward. Gantefoer was pleased his call on the federal government to increase spending on infrastructure and move projects forward more quickly were well received.

"Saskatchewan has already put forth an aggressive $1.5 billion Ready for Growth infrastructure investment that will prepare our province for the future," Gantefoer said. "I am hopeful the federal government will accelerate its commitment to infrastructure spending and we are looking at options for doing the same here in Saskatchewan."

Also during today's meeting, Gantefoer emphasized the need for the federal government to assist struggling sectors of the economy.

"From Saskatchewan's perspective, we need to ensure the livestock and forestry industries are also addressed," Gantefoer said.

Gantefoer also pointed to the need for more skills training for trades and Aboriginal participation in the workforce at today's meeting.

"Saskatchewan still has a skilled labour shortage, and encouraging greater Aboriginal engagement in our economy is a large part of the solution," Gantefoer said.

Gantefoer said he was encouraged by the strong commitment shown by all of the provinces, territories and the federal government to work together on strengthening the Canadian economy.

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For more information, contact:

Leanne Persicke
Executive Council
Saskatoon
Cell: 306-541-7083