Released on October 7, 2003
For more than 100 years, co-operatives and credit unions have been social and economic mainstays in Saskatchewan. Co-operatives Week, October 12th to 18th, will celebrate the province's enduring bond with the sector.The week, also observed nationally, pays tribute to all co-operatives and credit unions, which operate within virtually every economic and social sector in the province and across the country, providing services as diverse as childcare, finance and value-added agriculture.
"Co-operatives have always been building Saskatchewan, even before it officially became a province," Industry and Resources Minister Eric Cline said. "They continue to be key to our wide open future, serving their members, strengthening communities and creating jobs."
Official activities begin Tuesday, October 14th when Cline joins members of the co-operative community to officially raise the international co-operative flag at the Legislative Building, where it will fly throughout the week. This year's theme is "Co-operatives and Credit Unions – The Heart of our Community".
The focal point of the week is the 24th annual Saskatchewan Co-operative Order of Merit Awards to be held that evening in Moose Jaw.
This year Co-operative Merit Awards for exceptional individual contributions at the national, provincial, and local levels will go to James Crighton of Regina, Loretta Eastley of Glentworth, Edwin Mitrenga of Melville, Albert Pahlke of Pierceland, Vern Pusch of Kipling, and Bill Turner of Cupar. Wayne Haughn of Melfort and Daryl Snider of Prince Albert will be posthumously honoured.
The province's 1,300 co-ops and credit unions have combined assets of more than $10 billion, annual sales of about $8 billion and employ approximately 15,000 Saskatchewan people. Thirty of the top 100 businesses in the province are co-operatives.
-30-
For More Information, Contact:
| Bob Ellis Industry and Resources Regina Phone: (306) 787-8277 |