ENERGY CONSERVATION A TOP PRIORITY WITH CALVERT GOVERNMENT

To ensure a secure energy future for our children and a cleaner environment, Premier Lorne Calvert today appointed Saskatoon Greystone MLA Peter Prebble as Minister Responsible for the Office of Energy Conservation.

"Mr. Prebble's commitment to and understanding of environmental and energy issues is well known," Premier Calvert said. "He will bring a depth of knowledge and a passion for energy conservation that will help ensure a better future for our children."

"This is a great honour, and a great opportunity," Mr. Prebble stated at his swearing-in. "Reducing the amount of energy we consume makes good financial and environmental sense. The Office of Energy Conservation is just in the early stages of its development, and it's important that it have a presence at the Cabinet level."

Peter Prebble was formerly legislative secretary for energy conservation, and led the development of the Greenprint for Energy Conservation in 2002. Among the Greenprint's recommendations was the establishment of an Office of Energy Conservation, which is situated within the Saskatchewan Research Council in Saskatoon.

The Premier also appointed Mr. Prebble Minister responsible for the Public Service Commission.

"It was my intention to appoint Mr. Prebble into Cabinet at the last shuffle, but family issues prevented him from accepting the offer," Calvert added. "I'm pleased that the health of his family is such that he now can take on this demanding challenge."

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Carey Robertson Media Services Regina Phone: (306)787-5780