Economic development still a priority for Sask. government

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Saskatchewan Aboriginal Affairs Minister Eldon Lautermilch said the provincial government remains committed to supporting Aboriginal economic develop initiatives, stating that full participation of Aboriginal youth in the economy is the best way to ensure the province's future success.

Lautermilch was speaking at the meeting of the western and territorial ministers responsible for Aboriginal affairs held in Yellowknife on Sept. 5.

"Aboriginal youth are the fastest growing segment of Saskatchewan's population, and they have the opportunity to significantly boost our economy, Lautermilch said. "These young people are not only the workers and taxpayers of tomorrow, they are the business owners and employers of tomorrow."

Lautermilch said the government is actively involved in working to give Aboriginal people more meaningful participation in the province's economy, and such efforts will continue to be a priority. He pointed to partnerships with Aboriginal businesses and communities within Saskatchewan's forestry sector, and the gaming agreement between the province and the Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations as two examples of the province's efforts. He also spoke about the government's support of the Clarence Campeau Development Fund, which supports Metis economic development initiatives.

"Our government has supported the Clarence Campeau Development Fund (CCDF) over the past several years with an annual contribution of $2 million. We want to expand the scope and mandate of the CCDF to give Metis people real opportunities to invest in the Saskatchewan economy by securing equity ownership in key economic sectors," Lautermilch said.

The provincial and territorial ministers taking part in the meeting represent 70 per cent of Canada's Aboriginal people. They met in Yellowknife to discuss ways they can work with the federal government to improve the lives of Aboriginal people, and to identify areas of mutual interest to be discussed during the next meeting of national Aboriginal leaders and federal, provincial and territorial ministers responsible for Aboriginal affairs, expected to be held in the spring of 2004.