DEPUTY PREMIER TO SPEAK AT CONSULTATION

Deputy Premier and Rural Development Minister Clay Serby will be a keynote speaker at the first-ever Regional Economic Development Consultation October 27th in Meadow Lake.

The event, sponsored by the Northwest Regional Economic Development Authority (REDA), will provide a forum to discuss economic development, issues and challenges in northwest Saskatchewan. The information gathered will be incorporated into the Northwest REDA's long-term strategic plan to stimulate the region's economy.

"I congratulate the Northwest REDA for undertaking this important initiative," Serby said. "Through this consultative process, communities can work together to identify and to capitalize on the opportunities in their region."

Community leaders saw a need for the consultation following changes in the area, such as the construction of the unique educational facility which contains the high school and regional college, and the challenges of building a qualified workforce in the northwest.

"Longer term planning is needed to take advantage of opportunities and deal with issues before they become problems," Northwest REDA Economic Development Officer Barry Lewis said. "The Weyerhauser announcement in Prince Albert will have a ripple effect on Meadow Lake. Having a plan is very important right now."

More than 200 people have been invited to attend the event, including rural municipality, town and village councils, band chiefs and councils, neighboring REDAs and leaders in business and tourism. Consultation attendees will discuss four main questions and brainstorm ideas in groups.

Minister of First Nations and Metis Relations Maynard Sonntag will also speak at the event, along with executive director of Saskatchewan Agrivision Corporation Inc. Al Scholz and economist Doug Elliot.

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For More Information, Contact:

Donna Rehirchuk Rural Development Regina Phone: (306) 787-2359