REPORT ON FOREST SECTOR COMPETITIVENESS RELEASED

A diverse group of Saskatchewan forest sector representatives, brought together to find ways to improve the industry's competitiveness, delivered its report today to Saskatchewan Environment Minister John Nilson, Minister responsible for the Forestry Secretariat Eldon Lautermilch and Industry and Resources Minister Eric Cline.

The report includes two dozen recommendations to help address issues facing the province's forest sector. The group included representatives from forest industry, labour, municipal governments, environmental organizations, tourism and provincial government departments.

"The provincial government supports the efforts of Saskatchewan's forest industry to improve its competitive position during these challenging times," Nilson said. "This report reflects the diverse viewpoints of the committee. We want to thank the members for their hard work and dedication."

The group examined issues including transportation, energy, administration, wood supply and costs and business climate. Recommendations focus on specific actions for government to consider in each of these areas.

"There are clearly serious challenges, such as the strong Canadian dollar and international market conditions, that are beyond the power of one company, or even one province, to influence," Nilson said. "However, we still need to focus on areas where we can take action to help our industry through its current difficulties. We will consider carefully all of the recommendations at the same time as those of the Premier's Task Force on Forest Development."

The group started its review in July 2006. The report will be available online at www.se.gov.sk.ca/forests or on the Council of Saskatchewan Forest Industries website at www.cosfi.sk.ca.

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For More Information, Contact:

Val Nicholson Environment Prince Albert Phone: (306) 953-2459

Brock Folkerson Council of Saskatchewan Forest Industries Prince Albert Phone: (306) 653-7122