SASKATCHEWAN CELEBRATES REDA WEEK MARCH 4-10 IN SWIFT CURRENT

Organizations committed to community economic development are being celebrated for their achievements during Regional Economic Development Authority (REDA) Week in Saskatchewan, March 4 to 10.

Saskatchewan’s 28 REDAs lead economic development in the province by developing and promoting the economic strengths of their regions, and exemplify collaboration among local governments, businesses, communities, co-operatives, Aboriginal people and youth.

“REDAs are an excellent example of how regional partners co-operate and collaborate,” Deputy Premier and Regional Economic and Co-operative Development Minister Clay Serby said.  “They demonstrate that citizens, community leaders, local governments, businesses and industry can capitalize on regional strengths and create wealth within regions to make life better for Saskatchewan families.”

Past project support to the REDA Enhancement Fund has enabled REDAs to attract additional funding of $4.6 million on 191 projects.  These projects have gone on to realize capital infrastructure worth more than $88 million, and created and maintained more than 670 jobs.

Currently, REDAs are engaged in 130 projects and initiatives around the province.  In the Swift Current region, the E2000 and West Central REDAs are working with a number of communities to develop a long-term sustainable water supply to urban, rural and industrial users in the region.  The Water West Pipeline Co-operative Ltd. and the Saskatchewan Landing Regional Water Supply System projects involve 17 municipalities and are expected to be completed by 2010.

“The regional co-operation between municipal, provincial and federal agencies and the REDAs has been key in moving ahead with these projects,” E2000 REDA economic development officer Stacey Sauer said.  “We look forward to these partnerships advancing other regional economic development initiatives.”

In 2006-07, Saskatchewan Regional Economic and Co-operative Development enhanced its support to REDAs by increasing core operating funding, REDA Enhancement Fund support for regional projects and REDA Youth Employment Program support.  The REDA Youth Employment Program encourages mentoring and employment for senior business students and graduates in the field of business and economic development.

REDAs have a number of special activities scheduled during REDA Week.  For more information on REDA Week activities in the Swift Current region, contact your local REDA.

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For more information, contact:

Donna Rehirchuk
Regional Economic and Co-operative Development
Regina
Phone: 306-787-2359