MINERAL INDUSTRY DIGS SASKATCHEWAN GEOSCIENCE

Record mineral sales and very strong exploration activity will provide an upbeat backdrop for the Saskatchewan Geological Survey Open House taking place in Saskatoon, November 29th to December 1st.

More than 300 geoscientists and exploration company officials from across Canada are expected to attend the technical sessions, which cover all aspects of the province's mineral geoscience program. There will also be presentations by industry highlighting diamond, gold and uranium exploration programs.

Record mineral sales are expected to reach more than $2.8 billion for 2004, up from $2.4 billion last year. Exploration levels are also up. Approximately $53 million will be spent on exploration in Saskatchewan this year, up from $31 million last year and $27 million the year before.

"We have a strong commitment to geoscience because it helps us understand the province's great mineral potential and focus exploration," Industry and Resources Minister Eric Cline said. "Saskatchewan's mineral industry provides tremendous wealth, jobs and benefits. The Open House is a good way to acknowledge this industry's value and our commitment to see it grow."

This year's free public lecture will be given by Dr. Simon Hanmer of the Geological Survey of Canada in Ottawa. Dr. Hanmer's topic is geological observations on Earth's neighbouring planets, Mercury, Venus and Mars. The lecture takes place Tuesday, November 30th at 8:00 p.m. at the Delta Bessborough Hotel, Battleford Room.

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For More Information, Contact:

Bob Ellis Industry and Resources Regina Phone: (306) 787-1691