FIRST NATIONS AND MÉTIS RELATIONS TO ESTABLISH THREE ENTERPRISE REGIONS IN THE NORTH

The Ministry of First Nations and Métis Relations along with Enterprise Saskatchewan will lead the creation of three new Enterprise Regions in the Northern Administrative District. The Enterprise Region program is already established in southern Saskatchewan.

"We are excited to announce today that our consultation with Northerners has resulted in a decision to create three Enterprise Regions in the north," First Nations and Métis Relations Minister and Minister responsible for Northern Affairs Bill Hutchinson said. "Enterprise Regions will further boost northern Saskatchewan's thriving economy by serving the needs of business and industry to build competitiveness, maximize economic development opportunities and sustain economic growth."

The provincial Enterprise Regions program was developed over the last two years with input from economic development stakeholders across the province. Government received advice about program services, funding, creating larger regions based on where people live and work, and respect for natural boundaries such as rivers and road patterns.

The Northern Enterprise Regions located in the west, central east and Athabasca areas will receive greater resources than were previously provided to the Regional Development Corporations. The Enterprise Regions will be more responsive to economic development because they follow natural trading patterns.

A go-forward plan will be established to implement Enterprise Regions in the North through the provincial government budgetary process. It is expected that the Regional Development Corporation program will be officially phased out as of April 1, 2010.

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For more information, contact:

Bonny Braden
First Nations and Métis Relations
Regina
Phone: 306-787-5701
Email: bonny.braden@gov.sk.ca
Cell: 306-530-2237