PROVINCE INVESTS $5 MILLION MORE FOR AGRICULTURE BIOTECH RESEARCH

Premier Brad Wall today announced an additional $5 million dollars for Saskatchewan's agriculture biotechnology sector, so the innovative work now underway in the area can continue and flourish.

Wall made the announcement today at the 2010 Agriculture Biotechnology International Conference in Saskatoon.

"Across the globe, there will be many more hungry mouths to feed in the years ahead," Wall said. "We have to continue in this province as a global leader in the field of biotechnology to meet these demands for abundant high-quality food."

The Saskatchewan Party has already increased the agricultural research budget by 25 per cent since forming government. The 2010-11 budget committed almost $17 million for agricultural research, as well as a $5 million commitment to Innovation Saskatchewan.

"Research is a priority for our government and this increased funding will help provide real, tangible benefits for our producers at the farm gate," Agriculture Minister Bob Bjornerud said. "Saskatchewan's farmers are leaders in innovation and we want to ensure our agriculture industry remains on the cutting edge of technology."

This research investment will be provided through the provincial government's Agriculture Development Fund (ADF) over the next four years. The ADF provides funding to help institutions, companies and industry organizations carry out research, development and value-added activities that will benefit Saskatchewan farmers and ranchers.

"Research is vital to the success of our producers, agriculture industry and provincial economy," SARM President David Marit said. "SARM is pleased the provincial government is increasing funding for agriculture research that will provide benefits for Saskatchewan producers."

"APAS has been advocating for both levels of government to increase funding for agriculture research," APAS President Greg Marshall said. "Hence, we are very encouraged by this increase in funds directed to research."

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For more information, contact:

Andrew Dinsmore
Executive Council
Regina
Phone: 306-787-9619
Email: andrew.dinsmore@gov.sk.ca
Cell: 306-529-9207