PROVINCE FORMING FARM LEADERS ADVISORY GROUP

The Government of Saskatchewan is inviting representatives from all main sectors of the provincial agriculture industry - including policy groups, commodity organizations and general farm groups - to join a new Farm Leaders Advisory Group (FLAG).

"It is imperative that the Province consult and work with industry on an ongoing basis as we move forward, if we are to achieve our goals for Saskatchewan agriculture," Agriculture and Food Minister Mark Wartman said. "There are many challenges facing agriculture that must be overcome to keep the industry viable and sustainable in the long term. We must engage industry in that transformative agenda."

"To that end, I am establishing this advisory group, made up of key industry players, to provide the Province with advice, vision and direction on a range of agricultural issues, programs and policies that will help us achieve that transformation," Wartman said.

Several committees, such as the Farm Support Review Committee and the World Trade Organization Advisory Committee, already exist, but focus on specific issues. FLAG will look at the industry as a whole and deal with a broad range of topics relevant to the agriculture industry, such as the development of the Agricultural Policy Framework II, which will begin later this year.

FLAG will consist of between 50 to 60 members, and will hold its first meeting on March 2nd and 3rd. It is anticipated that the entire group will meet at least annually, and will form smaller working sub-committees to deal with specific issues as needed. An Executive Committee will also be chosen to meet with the Minister and department on a regular basis.

"I look forward to meeting with this group of individuals, to benefiting from their creativity, resourcefulness and commitment, as, together, we map out the future of Saskatchewan agriculture," Wartman said.

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For More Information, Contact:

Scott Brown Agriculture and Food Regina Phone: (306) 787-4031