CLINE ASKS FOR UPDATE ON FOREST CENTRE BUILDING

Industry and Resources Minister Eric Cline today asked for an updated status report on the Saskatchewan Forest Centre building slated for construction in downtown Prince Albert.

Cline called for the report in light of allegations in the media and in the Legislature last week that the building was proceeding too quickly and did not have the support of industry and the community.

"This building is a good project. It's good for the province's expanding forest industry, it's good for Saskatchewan, and it's good for Prince Albert," Cline said. "Cabinet made the decision to construct the building following extensive consultations with the industry, the community and the Forest Centre's Board of Directors.

"This building has enjoyed solid support from industry and the community, and we have no indication that support has changed. However, if that level of support is no longer there, then that's something we as government need to know."

Deputy Minister of Industry and Resources Larry Spannier will compile the report, outlining the level of industry, community and Board of Directors support, and submit it to Cline and Cabinet within two weeks.

Cline said the Saskatchewan Forest Centre building is modelled along the same lines as such successful research infrastructure investments as Innovation Place in Saskatoon and Regina Research Park.

The Saskatchewan Forest Centre was officially established in August 2001 and has been operating out of rented quarters. Its mandate is to accumulate, create and disseminate forest-related knowledge that supports an internationally competitive, and environmentally sustainable forest industry in Saskatchewan.

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For More Information, Contact:

Bob Ellis Industry and Resources Regina Phone: (306)787-8277