TRI-PARTITE AGREEMENT TO INVEST $10 MILLION INTO CITY OF SASKATOON

A new Urban Development Agreement between the Government of Canada, the Government of Saskatchewan and the City of Saskatoon will invest $10 million in revitalizing the city's older neighbourhoods, encouraging participation in artistic, recreational and cultural activities, and promoting a positive business climate that attracts innovation.

Federal Finance Minister Ralph Goodale, Crown Management Board Minister Pat Atkinson and Saskatoon Mayor Don Atchison announced the five-year agreement today.

"Canadians care about the communities in which we live and work," said Minister Goodale, on behalf of Stephen Owen, Minister of Western Economic Diversification and Minister of State (Sport). "We know that the future of our cities and towns is key to our own quality of life and to our country's health and prosperity. This Agreement builds on existing programs and opportunities and will engage other public and private resources in Saskatoon to achieve common grassroots goals."

"The Urban Development Agreements demonstrate the commitment of the governments of Canada, Saskatchewan and Saskatoon to collaborate and work together," Atkinson said on behalf of Government Relations Minister Len Taylor. "The three levels of government will also work with community groups, Aboriginal groups and organizations and the private sector to ensure that the outcomes of urban development benefit all residents of Saskatoon."

"A lot of hard work went into making this Urban Development Agreement a reality," Atchison said. "And now, we are so excited to implement it. This Agreement means innovative housing solutions, the revitalization of our core neighbourhoods, and enhancing the overall quality of life in Saskatoon. It gives us the tools and resources to make things happen."

The agreement sets out six priorities for action that focus on:

a) Community-based approaches to affordable housing, homelessness and the renewal of Saskatoon's older neighbourhoods;

b) Developing cultural and recreational opportunities to enhance the quality of life in Saskatoon;

c) Supporting environmental protection and climate change solutions;

d) Enhancing Aboriginal participation in the economy;

e) Promoting innovative initiatives for a positive business climate and enhanced competitiveness; and

f) Addressing strategic infrastructure necessary for the continued physical, social and economic development of Saskatoon.

Federal funding for this initiative is included in the fiscal framework. Western Economic Diversification Canada is the federal department responsible for administering this agreement.

Provincial funding for this initiative is provided for in the March 2005 budget. Saskatchewan Government Relations is the provincial department responsible for administering this agreement.

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For More Information, Contact:

Cathy Gourlie Government Relations Regina Phone: (306) 787-2687 Cell: (306) 529-8631

Joanne Mysak Western Economic Diversification Canada Saskatoon Phone: (306) 975-5942