Released on February 28, 2003
Premier Lorne Calvert is taking the Wide Open Future campaign to Calgary – the centre of some of the most influential oil investors in Canada.
"In the last two days we have made excellent contacts in the oil and gas industry," Calvert said. "Many of the investment decisions by non-Saskatchewan based producers happen in Calgary. For that reason, its important that we come to Calgary to sell the merits of investing in Saskatchewan."
"In the first weeks of 2003, we've seen drilling in Saskatchewan increase by an astounding 80 per cent. Industry is telling me that the changes we've made to our oil and gas royalty regime have been a driving force behind their increased investment in Saskatchewan."
The trip has also provided new Industry and Resources Minister Eric Cline an opportunity to meet with members of the oil and gas industry as well as the Canadian Association of Petroleum Producers.
"Saskatchewan has really opened up its oil patch," Cline said. "The oil and gas industry is important – it provides good jobs, it strengthens local economies, and supports the delivery of provincial services from highways to healthcare to education.
"For too long, we've seen our sons and daughters go to the oil patch," Calvert said. "Now, we are bringing the oil patch here to our sons and daughters."
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Rob Cunningham Media Services Regina Cell: (306)539-1126 |