NEW EMBLEMS FOR SASKATCHEWAN

Saskatchewan's natural environment and its rich Francophone heritage were recognized today with the introduction of The Provincial Emblems and Honours Amendment Act.

The amendments will establish the Walleye as the province's fish emblem, the Saskatoon berry as the province's berry emblem, and adopts the Fransaskois flag as a provincial emblem.

"The inclusion of the Fransaskois flag as one of Saskatchewan's emblems recognizes the importance of Saskatchewan's Francophone people in our heritage and culture," Provincial Secretary Joan Beatty said. "The addition of the walleye fish and the Saskatoon berry as emblems reflects their immense popularity with the people of Saskatchewan."

The act also amends the description of the Saskatchewan Order of Merit Medal to incorporate the provincial motto and includes descriptions of the insignia of the Saskatchewan Protective Services Medal and the Saskatchewan Centennial Medal.

"The Honours are a way of celebrating and recognizing the contributions and achievements of our citizens in Saskatchewan. They are also an important part of a provincial legacy we can all be proud of," Beatty said.

For more information on Saskatchewan's extensive Honours and Awards programs, please visit the website at www.gr.gov.sk.ca/protocol and follow the links.

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For More Information, Contact:

Gladys Wasylenchuk Government Relations Regina Phone: (306) 787-1370