UNIVERSITY OF SASKATCHEWAN SIGNS ABORIGINAL PARTNERSHIP AGREEMENT

Released on December 20, 1999

Intergovernmental and Aboriginal Affairs (IAA) Minister Jack Hillson and

University of Saskatchewan President Peter MacKinnon today signed an agreement

to work together to develop a partnership for Aboriginal employment.



In signing the agreement, the University and IAA agree to work with the

Aboriginal community, employers and unions to develop:



programs to facilitate constructive race and cultural relations;

Aboriginal employment and career development;

linkages to the Aboriginal labour force;

programs to promote employment opportunities for Aboriginal people; and

an action plan indicating both short and long-term strategies.



The University of Saskatchewan has had an Employment Equity Plan in place since

1992. Although there have been many changes, the representation of Aboriginal

people has not significantly increased in the University's workforce. The

University's newest initiative is to partner with IAA to develop strategies to

increase the representation of Aboriginal people in its workforce.



"Our partnership with the University of Saskatchewan will provide a greater

opportunity for Aboriginal people to participate and succeed in all aspects of

the Saskatchewan economy," Hillson said. "This initiative is opening the door

to a better and brighter future for everyone in the province."



"The University of Saskatchewan is committed to improving opportunities for

Aboriginal people in this province, both as an educator and as an employer,"

MacKinnon said. "We recognize that signing this agreement today is just one

step, but we intend to work hard to see the goals achieved."



- 30 -



For more information, contact:



Wendy Campbell

Intergovernmental and Aboriginal Affairs

Regina

Phone: (306) 787-8008