CALGARY CONFERENCE FOCUSES ON SASKATCHEWAN ENERGY

Saskatchewan's energy sector is the focus of a conference being held in Calgary, March 17 to 18, 2003. The Saskatchewan Energy Forum will feature industry leaders and experts including Industry and Resources Minister Eric Cline, who will give a keynote speech promoting the province's energy initiatives with a focus on oil and gas.

The conference organizer, Insight Information, is promoting Saskatchewan as the next resource industry "hot spot". Oil and gas industry representatives will discuss issues and perspectives affecting Saskatchewan energy development such as new royalties and incentives, environmental issues, legal considerations, climate change and intellectual property.

"The Saskatchewan Energy Forum is an excellent venue to promote new initiatives and opportunities for the energy sector, in particular oil and gas, within the province," Cline said. "And given the growing investment we are experiencing in oil and gas, people want to learn about all facets of Saskatchewan's energy development. This conference will go a long way to spark increased participation in a segment of our economy that is brimming with opportunities."

Saskatchewan is Canada's second highest oil producing and third highest natural gas producing province. This sector is the largest contributor to the economy at eight per cent of GDP. Last year, $1.5 billion was invested in oil and gas exploration and development, and the sector provides about 22,000 direct and indirect jobs in the province.

More information on the Saskatchewan Energy Forum is available on-line at the conference web site, www.insightinfo.com

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For More Information, Contact:

Bob Ellis Industry and Resources Regina Phone: (306)787-8277 Email: rellis@ir.gov.sk.ca