RURAL SASKATCHEWAN REPRESENTED AT INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE

Deputy Premier and Rural Development Minister Clay Serby spoke at the "Power of Place" 2005 International Rural Network Conference held in Abingdon, Virginia this week.

Serby was asked to share Saskatchewan's experiences in building a rural economy based on the model of citizen engagement through the Action Committee on the Rural Economy (ACRE).

The International Rural Network Conference brings together over 400 academics, policy makers and practitioners from 46 countries to engage in dialogue that enables the exchange of ideas and practices for community empowerment.

"Conference delegates were most interested in our experiences with ACRE because of the involvement of rural people in the development of rural policy which allows communities to chart their own destiny," Serby said. "The diversity in background of ACRE's members is reflective of the conference theme, The Power of Place."

In hearing the presentations, it was evident that countries around the world are facing similar rural challenges in building entrepreneurial skills, access to capital, youth retention and regionalization.

What was also evident is that Saskatchewan's approach through ACRE and the Department of Rural Development fits the global philosophy to effect change.

NOTE: Minister Serby will be available for media callbacks from Virginia after 11 a.m. Saskatchewan time today.

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For More Information, Contact:

Trish Alcorn Rural Development Regina Phone: (306) 787-5389