PREMIER APPOINTS CROFFORD TO EXAMINE MUSIC INDUSTRY AND ITS POTENTIAL IN SASKATCHEWAN

The provincial government will examine the Saskatchewan music industry over the next year. Premier Lorne Calvert has appointed Regina Rosemont MLA Joanne Crofford to lead the initiative.

"I am pleased that Joanne Crofford has agreed to use her valuable insight and industry experience to work on this initiative," Calvert said. "We need to take a wider view of the Saskatchewan music industry beyond the tremendous opportunities of 2007. What this examination will determine is the best way government can assist the industry in growing opportunities and growing young talent at every level from sound technicians to producers, musicians to distributors and everyone in between."

"Saskatchewan certainly has a great wealth of talent at every level within the Saskatchewan music industry," Culture, Youth and Recreation Minister Glenn Hagel said. "In order to show that talent to the world, we need to look at where we are, so we can have a clear and well-articulated vision of where we wish to be. We need to be proud out loud of our Saskatchewan music scene and by being open to the needs and challenges of the industry, I think we can accomplish much in the year ahead."

"I'm very happy to have the opportunity to lead the province's examination of the music industry," Crofford said. "As a musician, I can appreciate the need to ensure government understands the environment the industry currently operates in. In 2007, we have so many reasons to celebrate our industry. The time is right for this initiative."

Crofford will examine a range of issues from the role the music industry can play in fostering and promoting Saskatchewan's identity, to how to increase investment and expand production with respect to improving the industry's growth and opportunities. Crofford will be consulting with musicians, industry representatives, venues, provincial organizations and other stakeholders. Interim recommendations as a result of the examination will be completed by November 2006, with final recommendations provided to the Minister of Culture, Youth and Recreation by June of 2007.

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For More Information, Contact:

Richard Fink Culture, Youth and Recreation Regina Phone: (306) 787-5781