LEGISLATIVE SESSION MARKS PROGRESS

Today marked the end of a productive session of the Saskatchewan Legislature according to Premier Lorne Calvert.

"Our budget contained record levels of funding for health and education, and capital projects to continue rebuilding the province's infrastructure after several years of restraint," Calvert said. "I'm pleased we were able to bring tuition relief to students at our two universities through the Centennial University Tuition Grant, and we were able to respond to the need for additional training seats at our technical institutions."

Legislation was passed to protect communities, including two bills to combat organized crime and gang activity in the province, and an additional bill to help protect emergency services workers and victims who are potentially at risk of contact with communicable diseases. The government responded to recommendations of the First Nations and Metis Justice Reform Commission with a comprehensive plan that includes $48 million in new money. Other key legislation centred around protecting workers.

"We did this in the context of a balanced budget. We also achieved increases in the province's credit rating, and secured $300 million in new funding, the majority of which will be targetted at post secondary education and job training after intense negotiations with the federal government," Calvert said. "We've had 13 consecutive months of job growth, and as a "have" province we will continue to build a green and prosperous economy for all Saskatchewan citizens.

Other significant initiatives of the spring sitting include reductions in potash royalties and royalties for enhanced oil recovery, the launch of the Green Team employment program for young people, introduction of recycling programs for paint and electronic waste, and passed legislation to increase the amount of protected land in the Great Sand Hills. In addition, progress was made in numerous health initiatives and a program to provide early learning and child care for Saskatchewan families.

"During this legislative session, we took pride in celebrating the culture and people of Saskatchewan, with the launch of a series of Centennial events and announcements to highlight the first 100 years of this great province, including an historic Royal visit and a nationally televised Lieutenant Governor's Gala to showcase our talents and accomplishments to the rest of the country.

"Although we have made tremendous progress, there is still work to be done," Calvert said. "Factors such as BSE and the continuing U.S. border closure to live cattle, as well as variable weather conditions have meant that Agriculture has not shared in the general prosperity that is seen throughout the province. This remains a major concern and we will continue to press the federal government to acknowledge the disproportionate share that Saskatchewan taxpayers bear.

We have made significant progress with Ottawa in the area of equalization, but we are still determined to reach agreement with the federal government on an energy accord that will recognize the growth and development of our resource sector," Calvert said.

"The legislation and budget passed this spring are part of our government's plan to ensure Saskatchewan is a great place to live, work and invest. We will continue to build the future here for our young people."

The next session of the Legislature is scheduled for late fall, and will begin with a Throne Speech setting out the government's agenda for the coming term.

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Jay Branch Media Services Regina Phone: (306) 787-6349