SUMMER STORM COSTS

Released on July 24, 1996

Saskatchewan Government Insurance, (SGI), has received about 2,440
claims as a result of the rain, hail and wind storms that swept through
Saskatoon and surrounding areas in early July.

As of July 19, there have been 1,400 claims made to SGI CANADA, which
include personal, commercial and agricultural claims. Total damage
costs for SGI CANADA are estimated at $3 million. The Auto Fund has
received 1,000 claims, with estimated damages totalling $2.3 million.
It is expected that more claims will be reported over the next few
days.

So far this summer, there have been approximately $2.7 million in
claims to the Auto Fund and $4.3 million to SGI CANADA. Last year at
this time, there were approximately $8.4 million in Auto Fund claims
and $6.2 million in claims to SGI CANADA.

Rural areas around Saskatoon - Warman, Osler and Hague - were the areas
hardest hit by the storm. Claims from these areas consist mainly of
wind damage to farms and grain bins. The majority of claims from
Saskatoon also involve wind damage.

"Most of the claims have already been attended to by our staff,"
Margaret Anderson, Vice-President of Claims, said. "But because of the
large volume of property damage, customers may have to wait for
repairs. We appreciate their patience."

Anderson reminds people to take measures to protect their property from
any further damage. For example, damaged roofs and broken windows
should be covered with poly sheets or plywood. Property owners should
keep track of these expenses, as they may be considered part of the
insurance claim. SGI also encourages customers to take pictures of
damaged property to give to their adjuster, and to retain damaged
property for inspection.

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For more information, contact:

Barbara Cross
SGI
Regina
Phone: (306) 751-1360