Released on December 2, 2003
Premier Lorne Calvert today announced plans for an ongoing series of Roundtable meetings that will take him to communities and First Nations across Saskatchewan throughout the year. Planning is currently underway to launch the first Roundtable in Maple Creek in January, 2004.The focus of each Roundtable will be economic development at the provincial and local level. As well, discussions will include issues of local concern.
"I have always believed it is important to take government to the people, and to meet people where they live, work and raise their families," Calvert said. "This has proven itself over and over during our summer bus tours, in our Northern Roundtables, and in the times we tour the province during election campaigns."
Calvert said his government will host ten community Roundtables between September and June of each year, divided between rural, small urban and urban settings. Each of Saskatchewan's First Nations will also be visited at least once every two years.
A cross-section of opinion leaders from the surrounding community will be invited to attend the Roundtable meetings. The invitation list will be established in consultation with local leaders and community representatives and may include business leaders, community development officials, local labour leaders, educators, clergy, health providers, farmers/producers, seniors and youth.
"Residents across Saskatchewan have welcomed us into their communities. They are interested in discussing with us their ideas, concerns and questions about government actions and policies," Calvert said. "And the innovation and expertise of Saskatchewan people is evident in the suggestions and ideas brought forward as we speak with them about the future of the province and their communities."
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