NEW LEGISLATION INTRODUCES ENTERPRISE SASKATCHEWAN

Saskatchewan's new government is keeping another election promise with the introduction of its second piece of legislation setting the stage for a new approach to economic development in the province.

An Act respecting Enterprise Saskatchewan outlines the structure of Enterprise Saskatchewan and will give the new special operating agency the authority to carry out its mandate.

"This new agency will embody a co-operative approach to economic development, one that will ensure that all stakeholders in our economy have a chance to share ideas, identify opportunities and challenges, and build strong relationships between government and business," Enterprise and Innovation Minister Lyle Stewart said.

"Enterprise Saskatchewan will power our government's growth agenda, working across government and with stakeholders throughout the province on focused, collaborative economic development efforts."

Enterprise Saskatchewan will be a public-private partnership, governed by a 12-member Board made up of a broad cross-section of stakeholders and leaders. Sector teams will also be established to review specific areas of the economy and identify barriers to growth. (See attached backgrounder for more information)

Consultations are currently under way with stakeholder groups across the province to provide information about Enterprise Saskatchewan in advance of the call for nominations, which will occur before the end of the year. It is anticipated that the interim advisory board will be announced by early March.

"The establishment of Enterprise Saskatchewan represents a bold and innovative approach to economic development in this province. With the nomination process, we are asking Saskatchewan's best and brightest to step forward and be part of this new plan for securing Saskatchewan's future."

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For more information, contact:

Scott Brown
Enterprise and Innovation
Regina
Phone: 306-787-4031
Email: sbrown@agr.gov.sk.ca
Cell: 306-536-3851