POLLING RESULTS RELEASED

Polling results released today include two surveys on attitudes toward the Saskatchewan economy and factors driving economic growth. While the results were positive, they also show Saskatchewan needs to do more to promote itself as a good place to live, work and do business.

Industry and Resources commissioned an in-province telephone survey of 821 people, including the general public, youth, small and large businesses on the province's current and future economic performance, as well as on factors important to economic growth and to youth attraction and retention.

The majority of those surveyed were optimistic about Saskatchewan's economic future, with nearly twice as many in the general population feeling the economy will get better in 2006 as those who feel it will get worse (39 per cent compared to 20 per cent). On job opportunities for young people, 36 per cent of those surveyed felt prospects had become worse during the past year, compared with 28 per cent of those who felt they were better. Business people were more optimistic, with 51 per cent of large businesses and 37 per cent of small businesses feeling youth opportunities had improved.

A large majority agreed that the provincial government should promote Saskatchewan to other parts of Canada as a good place to live, work and do business (93 per cent of the general population).

Industry and Resources also commissioned a poll of 400 senior business executives in British Columbia, Alberta, Ontario and Quebec to determine awareness levels of the Saskatchewan economy and opportunities to do business here. The results demonstrated the need for continued efforts to promote greater awareness about Saskatchewan as a good place to do business and invest.

The Ipsos Reid poll found that although a quarter of respondents rated Saskatchewan's economy positively, more than a third were neutral, and 20 per cent rated it negatively. These perceptions do not reflect the province's strong economic performance in the past five years. As well, only a third associated Saskatchewan with being a market leader in innovation and technology, and only 17 per cent were aware we are one of three "have" provinces.

However, the survey also found that those who recalled seeing advertising promoting Saskatchewan in the past year were more likely to have a positive view of the province's economy and business environment.

The total cost of all government polling for the second quarter of 2006-2007 is $76,472. The next release will be in January 2007 and will cover the period from October 1st to December 31st. All government polls can be found online at www.executive.gov.sk.ca/polling.htm.

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For More Information, Contact:

Marie Trafford Media Services Regina Phone: (306) 787-0963 Email: marie.trafford@gov.sk.ca Cell: (306) 539-0379