SASKATCHEWAN JOINS INTERNATIONAL OIL AND GAS AGENCY

Saskatchewan has become a member of the Interstate Oil and Gas Compact Commission (IOGCC), an organization of American states focused on regulatory and conservation best practices in the oil and gas industry.

Energy and Resources Minister Bill Boyd officially accepts Saskatchewan's international affiliate membership in the IOGCC Tuesday afternoon in Calgary when he delivers a keynote address to close the organization's mid-year issues summit.

"Saskatchewan's oil and gas industry is enjoying banner years as it contributes to a new level of economic prosperity for the province and to overall North American energy security," Boyd said. "To ensure that this success continues, we need to be regularly meeting and sharing ideas on oil and gas concerns with similar jurisdictions across the continent. The IOGCC, along with the Energy Council, provides us with such forums."

Boyd said Saskatchewan is well-positioned to be part of North American energy discussions as the second largest oil producer in Canada, and the fifth largest oil producer among all American states and Canadian provinces. IOGCC members also study topics, such as carbon sequestration and environmental stewardship, which are of vital interest to Saskatchewan.

"We are delighted to have Saskatchewan as a member, and feel the province will bring a lot to our discussions as a jurisdiction dealing with newer production relative to that of some of our states," IOGCC Associate Executive Director Gerry Baker said. "We are also trying to bring a broader North American oil and gas perspective to our organization, and Saskatchewan's presence as an international affiliate is of mutual benefit in that regard."

Founded in 1935, the Oklahoma City-based IOGCC has a mission of promoting the conservation and efficient recovery of domestic oil and natural gas resources while protecting health, safety and the environment.

The IOGCC represents elected legislators and regulators in 38 American states. International affiliates include Saskatchewan, Alberta, British Columbia, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, Egypt, Venezuela and the Republic of Georgia.

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For more information, contact:

Bob Ellis
Energy and Resources
Regina
Phone: (306) 787-1691
Email: rellis@ir.gov.sk.ca