STRENGTHENING SASKATCHEWAN’S INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY SECTOR

Capitalizing on the enormous potential of Saskatchewan's information technology industry is the focus of round-table meetings in Regina today between the Minister responsible for Information Technology Dan D'Autremont and key members of the province's IT sector. More than forty business and post-secondary leaders have been invited to the discussions.

"Our government views information technology as one of the vital components in securing the future for our province's youth and all Saskatchewan people," D'Autremont said. "The IT industry not only holds great promise as a direct contributor to the economy, but as a catalyst for growth and development in other key sectors."

Discussions will be wide-ranging, including key topic areas such as research and development, infrastructure and increasing the province's pool of skilled IT workers.

D'Autremont said that commitments like expanding access to high-speed Internet, increasing the Research and Development tax credit, and a package of initiatives designed to encourage young people to make their careers in Saskatchewan will be important steps in strengthening and growing the province's IT capacity.

"I also want to discuss with industry leaders how we as a government can utilize their expertise to improve service delivery to Saskatchewan people and other government clients," D'Autremont said. "Although government already conducts significant business with the provincial IT sector, there may be better ways of procuring those services that will both benefit citizens and grow the industry.

"As our new government crafts its overall vision on how to strengthen the IT sector, it's vital that we hear from sector leaders about their needs and ideas for cultivating growth in the industry and the province as a whole. Today is just the beginning of a collaborative process that will benefit Saskatchewan's people and help bolster the foundations of a healthy and growing economy."

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For more information, contact:

Richard Murray
Information Technology Office
Regina
Phone: 306-787-9586
Email: rmurray@gov.sk.ca
Cell: 306-536-4758