2003 - 04

SASKATCHEWAN Provincial Budget BUILDING FOR THE FUTURE

Our Plan for 2003 - 04

SASKATCHEWAN The Hon. Jim Melenchuk Minister of Finance Introduction

The Government’s plan and budget for 2003-04 is This document provides an overview of the key the result of a comprehensive departmental initiatives planned for the coming year. More planning and budget process over the past nine detailed information about these and other months. This plan and budget are part of important initiatives will be published later this continuing efforts to support a managing-for- year in department annual reports that will report results approach within government. Preparing on 2002-03 activities and present plans for plans, tracking progress and reporting back will 2003-04. Department plans will also include lead to more and better information for managers performance measures and baseline data to help and decision-makers, enhanced accountability to the public monitor and evaluate the government’s the public and, ultimately, improved government progress over time in achieving its stated performance and a better quality of life for priorities. Saskatchewan people. Departments will report back on actual results The Government’s plan for 2003-04 touches upon compared to their plans in 2003-04 Annual past accomplishments and highlights key Reports, which will be released in July 2004. initiatives planned over the coming year in Information gathered through the reporting support of four overriding themes: process will be used to continually re-evaluate the priorities and initiatives outlined in department • A prosperous and competitive economy plans. • Strong and vibrant communities • Healthy and self-reliant families Please note: The Action Plan initiatives on the • Opportunities for youth following pages include a department reference at the end of each, indicating which area of A fifth theme, “Modern and Competitive Government is responsible for that particular Infrastructure,” emphasizing improvements to action. highways, water and sewer, schools and hospitals, etc., is woven throughout this document in support of the four themes listed above.

1 A Prosperous and Competitive Economy

one of the most competitive places to do business. Our government’s plan to expand and diversify Of the nine countries surveyed, Canada was the our economy includes increasing investor most competitive overall. Among all major cities awareness of the opportunities for business and in the North American midwest, Saskatoon was industry development in Saskatchewan. ranked the second most competitive and [2003 Throne Speech] Saskatchewan’s four largest cities – Saskatoon, Regina, Prince Albert and Moose Jaw – all ranked Despite difficult global economic conditions over better than the Canadian average. 2001 and 2002, and two consecutive years of drought in Saskatchewan, our economy is A key means of continuing to attract investment performing well. Steady, positive economic and jobs is the Premier’s Investment Attraction growth is projected in 2003 and beyond fueled by Council, an internal body of ministers and senior both our traditional strengths and emerging new officials established to ensure that government industries. departments, agencies and Crown corporations work together in support of economic The following section identifies some key development. The Council has been instrumental initiatives planned for the coming year that will in developing the ethanol strategy, the increase our global competitiveness, ensure good Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program, the working conditions for Saskatchewan people, oil and gas royalty restructuring, a beef encourage innovation and development of new development strategy, an action plan on technologies, support our agricultural sector and procurement and the Action Plan for Agro- expand the northern economy. Forestry.

Another key ongoing initiative is the Our Future Maintain a Positive Business Climate to is Wide Open campaign, part of the Support Investment and Job Creation Government’s ongoing commitment to improved We continue to see the momentum of an economy attitudes about the province and promote business that is diversified and growing. Our strong, and investment in Saskatchewan. competitive business climate is resulting in more prosperity for our businesses and more jobs for We want to let everyone know that Saskatchewan people. The 2003-04 Budget builds Saskatchewan is brimming with possibility, on our success to date and will help to maintain a promise and prospects. positive climate for investment and jobs. [Premier Lorne Calvert, January 2003]

The January 2002 KPMG Competitive Alternatives study confirmed that Saskatchewan is

2 Action Plan for 2003-04 ~ A 10-year royalty holiday for new precious • Further improve business tax competitiveness and base metal mines by expanding the incremental Corporation ~ Development of a competitive royalty and tax Capital Tax exemption, originally introduced in regime for diamond mining the 2002-03 Budget, from $5 million to ~ A rebate of the tax on fuel used to generate $7.5 million effective January 1, 2004 and to power in remote locations and for off-road $10 million effective January 1, 2005 for mineral exploration Saskatchewan-based businesses, to achieve an aggregate exemption level of up to $20 million. ~ Incentives to encourage grassroots mineral About 100 corporations will be removed from exploration by individual prospectors and the tax rolls, while other Saskatchewan-based exploration companies businesses will see a reduction in their ~ Enhanced airborne geophysical surveys Corporation Capital Tax of up to $30,000 per [Industry and Resources] year. Saskatchewan has the highest Corporation • Continue to work with First Nations and the Capital Tax exemption level of the nine federal government in meeting Treaty Land provinces with a corporate capital tax [Finance] Entitlement obligations. Government has • Continue to improve the competitiveness of facilitated the transfer of more than 470,000 Saskatchewan small business corporations by acres of land to Saskatchewan First Nations lowering the small business corporate income since 1992. This land base is the core of long- tax rate from six per cent to 5.5 per cent term economic development opportunities for effective January 1, 2004 and to five per cent Saskatchewan First Nations [Government effective January 1, 2005. Since 1991, the small Relations and Aboriginal Affairs] business income tax rate has been reduced by • Promote development of the ethanol industry one-half and increased the level of income to through the Greenprint for Ethanol Production which this rate applies from $200,000 to released in March 2002. The Ethanol Fuel Act, $300,000 [Finance] proclaimed in July 2002, provides a legal • Continue efforts to maintain a competitive framework to mandate an ethanol blend in fiscal environment to stimulate increased oil gasoline sold in Saskatchewan. Saskatchewan and gas exploration and development activity. fuel distributors will be required to ensure that Major changes to oil and gas royalties and taxes there is a five per cent average ethanol content were announced in October 2002. The changes in all Saskatchewan gasoline distributed in the included lower royalty and tax structures, new province, beginning April 1, 2004. The volume incentives and a reduced Corporation percentage requirement increases to Capital Tax Surcharge rate for production from 7.5 per cent January 1, 2005. Government will new wells and projects effective spend an estimated $3.36 million in 2003-04, October 1, 2002 [Industry and Resources] increasing to $15.2 million in 2004-05, to • Implement year two of the six-year, provide a 15 cent per litre grant to those fuel $12.6 million Saskatchewan Mineral distributors who purchase their ethanol from Exploration Incentive Program, announced in Saskatchewan producers [Industry and September 2002. In 2003-04, the program will Resources] cost $2.1 million and includes:

3 • The Aboriginal Employment Development Saskatchewan and the map-based technology Program (AEDP) strives to build a workforce in provides quick access to accurate, local and Saskatchewan where Aboriginal people regional data which helps investors and site compete for jobs based on their skills and selectors looking to establish new businesses in qualifications, and where they have Saskatchewan [Industry and Resources] representation at all occupational levels in • Saskatchewan Finance introduced the proportion to their population numbers in the Saskatchewan Electronic Tax Service (SETS) province. To date, under this Program, in 2001-02, offering businesses a secure, fast and employers have hired more than 1,500 qualified convenient alternative to filing tax returns in Aboriginal people. In 2003-04: paper format (www.gov.sk.ca/finance/revenue/efile/). ~ Eight new partnership agreements will be In January 2003, SETS was simplified by signed with employer organizations allowing businesses to submit a return using an ~ The number of Aboriginal people hired in access code rather than having to fully register partnership organizations will increase by for the service. Beginning in 2003-04, inter- 10 per cent, from 1,500 in 2002-03 to 1,650 jurisdictional truckers belonging to the in 2003-04 International Fuel Tax Agreement will be able to file returns and pay taxes and fees using ~ The number of people receiving Aboriginal SETS [Finance] cultural awareness education in partnership organizations will increase by 30 per cent • Saskatchewan Justice introduced a new [Government Relations and Aboriginal Affairs] Corporate Registry computer system (COBRA) in 1999-2000, offering registered businesses, • Nominate an estimated 100 principal non-profit corporations and co-operatives applications under the Saskatchewan Immigrant enhanced organization profile histories and on- Nominee Program. This program, which line search capabilities operates under an agreement with the federal (www.corporations.justice.gov.sk.ca). In government, allows Saskatchewan to nominate 2002-03, COBRA was enhanced to add on-line a set number of applicants who can make a filing of incorporations, annual returns and significant economic contribution to the other event types for business corporations. By province [Government Relations and the end of 2003-04, 30 per cent of total Aboriginal Affairs] registrations and filings with the Corporate • Expand Saskbiz.ca community profiles beyond Registry will be completed on-line [Justice] the pilot project area to other communities • Implement an action plan on procurement to throughout the province. The Saskbiz website make it easier and less expensive for (www.saskbiz.ca) offers strategic investment Saskatchewan suppliers to sell goods and information on Saskatchewan communities and services to government [Saskatchewan Property recently received an Outstanding Economic Management Corporation] Development Initiative award recognizing it as one of the best economic development promotional sites in North America. The website offers information on population, demographics, industries and the workforce in

4 Good Working Conditions Action Plan for 2003-04 • Provide information on labour standards to the The modern workplace is more complex and 50,000 to 70,000 workers, employers and diverse than that of 30 years ago. Not only is the human resource practitioners who call annually composition of the workforce significantly to the Government’s toll-free inquiry line different, new industries, methods of work and [Labour] markets have emerged in recent decades that • Improve compliance with health and safety have dynamically altered where, when, by and for standards through 3,000 on-site inspections and whom work is now performed. reviews of 300 health and safety programs [Labour] A healthy workplace encompassing safe and • Conduct between 2,000 and 2,500 labour healthy work practices, fairness and equity, and standards investigations [Labour] inclusiveness and diversity is a key contributor to • Provide conciliation services to employers and the economic well-being of the province. Injuries unions to resolve disputes and conclude negotiations to establish or renew collective and inequity in the workplace exact a heavy toll agreements [Labour] on both employers and employees, particularly • Develop and support the Workplace new entrants to the labour force. In 2001, injuries Responsibility System by supporting cost employers an estimated $227.2 million in occupational health and safety committees, direct costs (compensation, medical aid and assisting workplaces to develop health and vocational rehabilitation). Positive employee- safety programs and helping to develop employer relations that reflect co-operation and occupational health and safety representatives teamwork are also keys to success and are in smaller, higher-risk workplaces [Labour] essential to maintaining Saskatchewan’s competitive position. Foster Innovation

Innovation is a key driver of our economic Occupational hazards are a primary reason growth, productivity and quality of life. A why Saskatchewan and Canada continue to tradition of innovation has allowed Saskatchewan experience unacceptable levels of workplace to develop a broad-based economy encompassing injuries and illness. During 2003, resources, food products, manufacturing, Saskatchewan will expand its education professional services, information technology and program to prevent workplace accidents. tourism. Innovative technologies developed at the [2003 Throne Speech] universities have fueled rapid growth in information and communications, electronics and instrumentation and biotechnology.

5 Saskatchewan’s universities continue to build on • Continue to support funding to the Petroleum their success as centres of excellence in research Technology Research Centre (PTRC) in the and innovation. Between 1999-2000 and Research Park at the University of Regina, a state-of-the-art facility that works to enhance 2001-02, they posted a combined increase of the production and value of Saskatchewan’s oil 69 per cent in externally funded research and resources [Industry and Resources] development. Investment in the provincial • Allocate approximately $8 million through the research parks and research agencies have further Innovation and Science Fund to priority encouraged the development of high technology projects developed in consultation with the clusters, with national and international universities. This includes approximately companies locating in Saskatchewan to access $4.8 million for upgrading the University of highly qualified people from our post-secondary Saskatchewan Research Network (USR-Net) to institutions. support research in areas such as computer networking, medical imaging, structural sciences and bioinformatics by linking Continued research and development is vital to computers to improve access to information ensure that Saskatchewan stays competitive and is [Industry and Resources] at the leading edge of technological advances. • Invest $12.6 million in research and development funding for primary and value- Action Plan for 2003-04 added agriculture. In January 2003, the • Begin operation of the Canadian Light Source, Government announced a $3.12 million Canada’s national synchrotron facility on the investment in agricultural research for 35 new University of Saskatchewan campus, in January agricultural research and development projects 2004. The $173.5 million Canadian Light as part of its semi-annual funding program. This Source Synchrotron will be a powerful lure in funding will help research and development at attracting high technology companies. The the University of Saskatchewan and projects at synchrotron is creating direct jobs for the Crop Development Centre, the Prairie researchers and has the potential to create Agricultural Machinery Institute, the Western hundreds of spin-off jobs in research [Industry College of Veterinary Medicine and the and Resources] Veterinary Infectious Disease Organization • Begin construction of the Saskatchewan Forest [Agriculture, Food and Rural Revitalization] Centre in Prince Albert in 2003. The • Continue to offer a 15 per cent corporate Saskatchewan Forest Centre is charged with income tax credit to encourage private sector acquiring, creating and disseminating forest- investment in research and development and related knowledge and ensuring that the forest the expansion of knowledge-based industries in industry has access to the best market research, the province. In 2003, this credit is expected to new technologies and growth opportunities from provide $10 million in research and across Canada and around the world. It is a non- development assistance to Saskatchewan profit company governed by a 13-member Board businesses [Finance] of Directors, nine from the private sector and four from government [Industry and Resources]

6 • Continue supporting Saskatchewan research Accelerate Twinning and into advanced road materials by using new road Develop Key Commercial Routes strengthening technology developed by Saskatchewan-based Pavement Scientific Saskatchewan’s economy is trade dependent – we International on 100 km of Thin Membrane need a competitive and accessible transportation Surface (TMS) reconstruction [Highways and system that will enable our producers, suppliers Transportation] and manufacturers to access key commercial • Provide $400,000 to the University of Regina routes and link to major trade corridors. Our to establish a Canada Research Chair on transportation network of roads and highways also environmental change and society [Learning] connects families and communities and provides • Host the “Explore our Energy” conference in vital access to health, education and social April 2003, which will provide the opportunity services. Saskatchewan’s plan for transportation to examine energy possibilities in Saskatchewan, new oil and gas technology and addresses these challenges and is producing research and future directions for Saskatchewan results. energy business [Industry and Resources] Action Plan for 2003-04 • Saskatchewan Industry and Resources and the Saskatchewan Research Council (SRC) have • The province, in partnership with the federal recently partnered with Precarn Incorporated to government through the Strategic Highway make $4 million in funding available over four Infrastructure Program (SHIP) and the Canada years through the Saskatchewan Intelligent Strategic Infrastructure Fund (CSIF), will Systems Technologies – Precarn Alliance significantly accelerate progress on twinning: Program for the development and application of ~ Highway 1 west will be twinned in 2003 – intelligent system technologies in one year ahead of schedule Saskatchewan. Intelligent systems can be found ~ Highway 1 east will be twinned in 2007 – in robotics, machine sensing, human-machine five years ahead of schedule interfaces, neural networks and controls and ~ Highway 16 between North Battleford and intelligent computation. These systems have Lloydminster will be twinned in 2007 – broad applications in a number of sectors three years ahead of schedule including mining, forestry, agri-food, energy, [Highways and Transportation] environment, manufacturing, space and aerospace, medical and information technologies, communication and virtual reality [Industry and Resources]

7 Length of Twinning Highways 1 and 16

400

350

300

250

200

Length (km) 150

100

50

0 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007

• Through the Centenary Fund, grade 13 km of Support the Agriculture Sector Highway 6 north of the US border as part of a multi-year project to rebuild Highway 6 from The agriculture and food industry in the US border to 30 km north to support Saskatchewan is a vital component of our increasing north-south trade [Highways and economy. Historically, the industry has been Transportation] driven by international demand for wheat, barley • Recent regulation changes will result in year- and canola, while being augmented by a modest round primary weight access on 10-month livestock sector. In recent years, this orientation primary weight highways, providing increased has shifted, and both sectors have been changing transportation efficiency for Saskatchewan and growing. carriers and shippers [Highways and Transportation] Saskatchewan farmers continue their significant • As part of the federal-provincial Prairie Grain international presence in the export of traditional Roads Program, upgrade 150 km of Thin Membrane Surface roads on strategic grain haul crops, but now are major world players in new corridors to a paved standard [Highways and crops such as lentils and mustard seed as well. Transportation] Fully one out of every seven acres is seeded • Continue the Centenary Enhanced Tourism annually to pulse and special crops. In total, Signing Program to promote Saskatchewan today’s farmers grow over 50 different crops – all tourism. There are also initiatives to improve of which are chosen in response to market rest stop signing, expand directional signing for conditions. Many of these new crops being parks and provide new information signs at five produced are higher value, with the result that major border crossings [Highways and under normal climatic conditions, we continue to Transportation] increase the output per acre of land. Furthermore, our farmers are among the lowest cost producers

8 internationally, in large part because they utilize The droughts of 2001 and 2002 demonstrate the some of the most advanced dryland farming importance of a strong crop insurance program. technologies in the world. For the 2002 crop, payments to producers have exceeded $1 billion, representing approximately The provincial livestock sector is also evolving 40 per cent of the total insurance coverage and growing. In the mid-1990s, we set a goal of provided. In addition to this ongoing program to producing two million slaughter hogs by 2002. address production risk, timely, short-term actions The industry achieved this goal and continues to were taken to help farmers address the drought. expand. Despite the impact of the 2002 drought, These measures included the Herd Retention beef cow numbers totaled 1.25 million head at the Program and the Livestock Drought Loan beginning of 2003, up two per cent from a year Program. In addition, the province introduced the earlier. The potential exists for the beef cow herd 2002 Short-Term Hog Loan Program in response to expand to two million, which will provide one to drought-driven increases in feed costs and a million feeder animals to be finished locally and declining market price for hogs. enable the doubling of provincial processing in 10 years. Although the resilience of the agricultural sector was severely tested in 2002, favorable soil moisture Utilizing our expanding and more diverse primary conditions and reasonable commodity prices output, agricultural processing is greater than ever indicate the industry is poised to recover in 2003. before. The total value of foods and feeds processed in the province rose to $1.77 billion in Action Plan for 2003-04 2001, an increase of 49 per cent from the level in • Invest $1 billion over the next five years to the mid-1990s. implement the federal-provincial Agricultural Policy Framework (APF), using the five chapter framework to enhance our efforts to build the Saskatchewan producers continue to address the agricultural sector: challenges of technological change and ~ Risk Management Chapter: build enhanced international market distortions, the pressure to crop insurance and new Net Income achieve economies of scale and the need to Stabilization Account (NISA) programs manage both production and price risks. With a ~ Food Safety and Food Quality Chapter: assist supportive environment, our agricultural industry industry in implementing on-farm food safety will maintain its expansion and economic programs and refine strategies to build contribution to the provincial economy. Such an Saskatchewan’s food processing sector, environment will allow producers to deal with ensuring Saskatchewan’s food processing both the demands and the opportunities of risk sector can provide safe foods management, food safety, environmental ~ Environment Chapter: increase efforts to sustainability, renewal and science and innovation. convert marginal crop land to permanent cover (in the last two years the Conservation

9 Cover Program has resulted in approximately information and counseling services to deal one million acres being sown to grass) and with the stresses of the industry [Agriculture, develop an Environmental Farm Plan Food and Rural Revitalization] workbook to facilitate farm planning • Provide approximately $240 million per year in ~ Renewal Chapter: provide farm families with tax exemptions and rebates for farm input costs, better tools and resources to plan their future including the Provincial Sales Tax (PST) and respond to change (continue to develop exemption for major farm inputs, the PST the Farm Family Opportunities Initiative rebate for livestock and horticultural facilities, which proactively identifies and provides and the fuel tax exemption for farm activities support for on-farm diversification, off-farm [Finance] business and off-farm employment opportunities) Strengthen the Northern Economy ~ Science and Innovation Chapter: continue long-standing support to agricultural research to ensure farmers have access to leading-edge The people of northern Saskatchewan will technology to stay competitive possess the means to address the goals and [Agriculture, Food and Rural Revitalization] aspirations they have for their communities, • Increase livestock production by improving their families and themselves. With respect for access to capital, attracting new people to the northern people, their cultures and traditions, industry, proactively identifying potential Government will work as an active partner development opportunities and infrastructure with communities, Aboriginal authorities, requirements, and providing project support for business and industry to promote the social and new or expanding enterprises [Agriculture, Food and Rural Revitalization] economic development of the north. [Northern Strategy vision statement] • Deliver the Agricultural New Generation Co- operatives program to enhance Saskatchewan’s rural economy and to assist farmers in Saskatchewan’s north is rich in culture, history benefiting from the returns of value-added activity [Agriculture, Food and Rural and resources. The Northern Administration Revitalization] District makes up about half of Saskatchewan’s • Build markets for the agriculture and food total area (about 320,000 square kilometres) and sector by ensuring proper trade rules and includes a variety of distinct regions based on promoting our products both domestically and geography, resource base, population and history. internationally [Agriculture, Food and Rural The population of the north is approximately Revitalization] 36,000 people, with about 81 per cent of • Provide technology transfer and skill Aboriginal ancestry – Cree, Dene and Métis. development for producers and their families, including specialist and technical expertise The geographic size of northern Saskatchewan, its through extension services, financial advice and rich resource base and small population presents assistance in developing business plans, and

10 northerners with challenges and opportunities. northern representatives. Under the Key to the future economic and social success of Agreement, the Governments of Canada and the north is its young population – 54 per cent of Saskatchewan will each provide $10 million over the next five years [Northern Affairs] residents are under the age of 25, compared to 37 per cent provincially. • In 2003-04, work with the Northern Development Board and federal government will focus on identifying priority areas for Our framework for development is the Northern investment and specific project eligibility Strategy (www.northern.gov.sk.ca/default.html), a criteria, in anticipation of an approximate comprehensive statement of agreed upon goals $2.5 million provincial investment of and objectives for the further social, economic Agreement funding [Northern Affairs] and political development in the north. The • Create or maintain an estimated 135 jobs Strategy is the product of the Premier’s Dialogue through the $2.5 million Northern with Northern Leaders that started in 1997 and Development Fund by providing commercial culminated with the signing of a Memorandum of loans to businesses, and primary production Understanding in 1998 between the Province, the loans to trappers, commercial fishers and wild rice growers [Northern Affairs] Meadow Lake Tribal Council, the Prince Albert • Lead the completion of immediate site safety Grand Council, the Métis Nation of improvement activities at the abandoned Saskatchewan, the Saskatchewan Association of Gunnar uranium mine site and undertake Northern Communities (New North), and the project scoping work in anticipation of a three Athabasca Basin First Nations. commitment of federal funding for the clean-up of all abandoned uranium mine sites in The 2003-04 action plan was shaped, in part, by northern Saskatchewan [Northern Affairs; the Northern Dialogue Tour led by Premier Environment] Calvert in September 2002. The following section • Provide ongoing technical advisory and financial identifies our intended outcomes and some key support to new northern commercial forest sector initiatives planned for the upcoming year to work partners, including Northwest Communities Wood Products [Industry and Resources], in partnership with northern communities, La Loche Wood Products and Green Lake Métis Aboriginal authorities and businesses in support Wood Products [Northern Affairs] of northern social and economic development. • Redesign Regional Development Organizations to lead regional development planning and Action Plan for 2003-04 decision-making across the north [Northern • Over the next five years, allocate $20 million in Affairs] provincial and federal funds to support economic development and infrastructure in • Support the development of a $3.5 million the north through the new Northern Saskatchewan-based fish processing plant Development Agreement, signed in La Ronge creating 30 new direct jobs, and complete two in October 2002 by provincial, federal and remaining lakeside fish handling improvement projects [Northern Affairs]

11 • Improve the northern transportation system to • Encourage more mineral exploration and strengthen economic development and better development (with related jobs for northerners meet the needs of northern residents: and particularly youth) through the ~ Continue upgrading 40 km of access roads to Saskatchewan Mineral Exploration Incentive four northern communities (Dillon, Timber Program, announced in September 2002. The Bay, Montreal Lake and Cumberland House) mining sector is the largest employer in northern Saskatchewan (at about 1,600 jobs) ~ Invest over $31 million to preserve, operate and creates many more jobs in the and improve provincial highways, airports transportation and northern services sectors and bridges in northern Saskatchewan [Industry and Resources] ~ Lengthen the runway and improve the surface • Investigate, through the Northern Labour and lighting at the La Loche airport Market Committee, potential negotiation of a [Highways and Transportation] third, five-year mineral sector Multi-Party In addition to its transportation investment, Training Plan with federal, industry and Saskatchewan Highways and Transportation northern Aboriginal partners [co-chaired by continues to work with northern groups and Northern Affairs, Learning and Community communities to enhance employment Resources and Employment] opportunities for northern residents. • Administer 14 mineral surface leases for • Through the Northern Labour Market northern mining projects in a continued effort Committee, work with other departments, to increase the existing 50.3 per cent northern partners and industry to continue to northerner employment rate on sites and support skills and training opportunities in northerners’ $85 million (53 per cent) share of forestry and mineral sectors [Northern Affairs; contract and goods and services supply Learning] opportunities tied to these operations [Northern • Through Northern Saskatchewan Affairs] Environmental Quality Committee (EQC) mine • Continue to lead the development, with site inspections, strengthen public confidence in northern partners, of a Non-Timber Forest northern uranium mines’ environmental Products Strategy, including the development of protection and worker safety measures. Secure workshops and pilot projects that increase northern communities’ input on the further northerners’ awareness of the commercial values development of decommissioning and of such non-timber forest products as wild reclamation plans for Cogema’s Cluff Lake mine, edibles (e.g., mushrooms, berries, fiddleheads) as well as some 42 abandoned uranium mines, and forest materials for the floral and craft plus implementation of Cameco’s Key Lake industries (e.g., birch bark sleeves, conks, recyclable products project [Northern Affairs] mosses, balsam wreaths) [Northern Affairs] • Strengthen communications with the • Complete development of a northern tourism 31 member communities of the EQC regarding strategy and implement area tourism planning the development and ongoing operation and models in three pilot communities [Northern regulation of northern Saskatchewan’s uranium Affairs] mines [Northern Affairs]

12 Strong and Vibrant Communities

Revitalizing Rural Communities Within our vision of a wide open future for Saskatchewan, our government believes that Action Committee on the Rural Economy secure families and vibrant communities are (ACRE) Vision Statement fundamental to the well being of our people and Rural Saskatchewan – proud communities that our province. welcome and embrace change. Working [2003 Throne Speech] together as responsible stewards of the environment, we have healthy and diverse rural Government is working to build strong and communities where people of all ages choose to vibrant Saskatchewan communities in partnership live and work. A network of successful farms, with other governments, First Nations and Métis communities and business enterprises is the people, businesses and community organizations foundation of our strong rural economy. We and young people. We all share in the offer a competitive business environment that responsibilities and the opportunities to renew ensures our continued prosperity. and revitalize Saskatchewan’s urban, rural and [Final ACRE Report, March 2002] northern communities.

Rural Saskatchewan faces many challenges, Two years ago, Government embarked on a including pressures on farm income due to dialogue with Saskatchewan communities to hear periodic droughts and international trade not only concerns, but also innovative local ideas subsidies, the need to attract economic on issues such as health, housing, farming, development and jobs and the changing structure transportation and improving social and of rural communities. But there are also numerous economic structures. The priorities of people in opportunities, as demonstrated by the success communities across Saskatchewan are reflected in stories of Saskatchewan’s many rural the following plans and actions for the coming entrepreneurs. Building the rural economy will year. come from increased diversification, a more competitive business environment and a greater focus on innovation and technology.

First Nations and Métis communities have identified the need to become involved in building the rural economy. The number and size of successful businesses owned by First Nations and Métis people are increasing and are major contributors to the rural and overall provincial

13 economy. Two Aboriginal-owned businesses • Expanding the organic sector by funding a located in rural Saskatchewan (NorSask forest $500,000 partnership to provide support for products and Kitsaki Development Corporation) organic certification were listed in the top 150 Saskatchewan • Financial support to the Saskatchewan businesses in 2001. Veterinary Medical Association to develop a mentorship program to increase the number of rural veterinarians Government recently released A Strategy for Rural Saskatchewan: Responding to ACRE, which Action Plan for 2003-04 outlines the framework of goals, priorities and ACRE has stated that reversing the trend in rural actions that will guide our efforts to build the Saskatchewan will not happen overnight as the rural economy. But success cannot be achieved by decline has been going on for the past 50 years. Government alone – we are committed to Government’s rural development strategy is a working with individuals, businesses, co- long-term plan for sustained growth and operatives and communities, because fundamental prosperity. The lead agency for the strategy is change must also come from within rural Saskatchewan Agriculture, Food and Rural Saskatchewan. Revitalization, with participation from a broad range of departments and agencies working The focus of our rural development strategy is to together. During 2003-04 we will: create a competitive business environment, provide sustainable and effective public • Work with key tourism stakeholders to examine infrastructure and support strong and healthy mechanisms for enhanced development and marketing of tourism in rural Saskatchewan communities. Through the rural strategy, we have • Enhance the Livestock Loan Guarantee already produced many positive results that will Program to allow for the provision of guarantees help to revitalize rural communities: directly to individual feedlot operations • Legislative changes to The Saskatchewan Farm • Establish a feedlot facilities equity investment Security Act which changed farmland ownership program to encourage participation in the restrictions feedlot sector by members of community • Introducing lower royalty and production tax associations and commercial lenders structures on production from new oil and gas • Establish a Rural Leadership Development wells to increase economic activity in rural Program that will give people the information communities and skills required to implement new • Ability to process more of the feed grain we development projects and programs in their produce by encouraging the production of communities ethanol-blended fuel and offering a grant of • Host a second Rural Economic Opportunities 15 cents per litre to fuel distributors for ethanol Conference produced and consumed in Saskatchewan

14 • Expand the mandate of ACRE to monitor implementation of the rural strategy and to People are changing their attitudes and behavior recommend new initiatives during the next two as they realize that the health of the years environment is a responsibility shared by all. • Support the province’s eight regional colleges to Historically, there was little concern for the provide over 30,000 education and training environment, and the results of this abuse are opportunities to rural and northern still evident. There are opportunities to do Saskatchewan residents, and support the K-12 better in the future by working to understand schools in providing credit courses for secondary the results of stresses to the environment, students via distance education developing standard measures or indicators to • Expand CommunityNet to 366 communities across Saskatchewan track these stresses and developing effective programs to mitigate impacts to assure a • Provide SaskTel digital cellular service access to over 94 per cent of Saskatchewan’s population sustainable future. [Saskatchewan’s State of the Environment Report, 2001] A Clean and Healthy Environment

Saskatchewan is blessed with an abundance of Information on the current state of natural resources and a clean and healthy Saskatchewan’s environment will be released in environment. Our current and long-term April 2003 in a State of the Environment Report. prosperity depends on the proper protection, While Saskatchewan’s overall environmental development and management of our quality is good, we do face some challenges: environment and natural resources. Saskatchewan Environment works with other departments and • Work still remains in addressing issues such as contaminants in ground water, minimizing the many partners to ensure our resources and effects of municipal wastewater discharges and environment are properly protected, developed the management of nutrients and organics in and managed for long-term sustainability. In our shallow surface water supplies particular, the department works in partnership • Continued effort is required to maintain the with both the Federation of Saskatchewan Indian quality of our air. Additional monitoring and Nations and the Métis Nation of Saskatchewan collaboration with other agencies will be on a range of renewable resource issues and required to enable a full assessment of rural air projects including allocation, land use planning quality and resource protection. • Further enhancement of progress on waste minimization remains a challenge, as does the clean up of contaminated sites. Collaboration with the federal government on the clean up of abandoned uranium mine sites remains a priority

15 Action Plan for 2003-04 management and maintain an effective forest • Expand air quality monitoring to Swift Current fire fighting capacity to protect provincial and Prince Albert and develop a public resources and communities [Environment] information/warning system based on air • Support energy conservation and efficiency pollution levels [Environment] initiatives by the Office of Energy Conservation • Apply a water quality index to seven major and seek funding from the Government of water basins in Saskatchewan to gauge aquatic Canada to implement a variety of measures protection [Environment] [Environment; Industry and Resources] • Continue development of regional waste • Continue to support climate change research, authorities. Over $1.6 million has been made awareness and technology initiatives by the available over the past three years to assist with Petroleum Technology Research Centre, developing six regional waste authorities; as a Climate Change Saskatchewan, International result, 88 municipal landfills have been closed. Test Centre for Carbon Dioxide Capture and Regional waste systems will be able to apply for Prairie Adaptation Research Collaborative funding again in 2003-04, as $575,000 will be [Environment; Industry and Resources] available through the Centenary Fund • Support the sustainable management of forest [Environment] resources, including forest inventory and forest • Under the Centenary Fund, $2.15 million has health monitoring, at a cost of over $3 million. been spent on remediating high-risk industrial An expanded forest inventory will allow the sites over the past three years. Remediation is province to determine opportunities for new complete at three sites (Shragge Steel in forest industries based on the long-term Regina, IPCO Herbicide Plant in the RM of sustainable harvest of forest resources on Corman Park and NWR Salvage in the RM of provincial Crown lands. Forest health Vanscoy). We expect that the remaining three monitoring carried out by Saskatchewan high-risk contaminated sites (Woodland Environment in co-operation with forest Campus in Prince Albert, Inland Steel in industries allows Government and industry to Saskatoon and Northern Petroleum Refinery in monitor the ecological health of the forest and Kamsack) will be completed in 2003-04. Also, the effects of harvesting activities [Environment] more than 400 orphaned petroleum storage sites • Saskatchewan’s Biodiversity Action Plan, to be identified by municipalities have been assessed, released later this year, will focus on ways to and 70 sites have been cleaned up through the improve biodiversity conservation in the Centenary Fund. Approximately 30 more province [Environment] orphaned petroleum storage sites will be • Continue to work towards completion of cleaned up in 2003-04 [Environment] Representative Area Networks to ensure that • Launch an enhanced fire prevention public the province’s terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems relations campaign to reduce the number of persist into the future. Completion of the forest fires and the damage they cause, continue designation process will result in a network of to deliver effective, cost-efficient wildland fire sites protecting some 6.5 million hectares or approximately 10 per cent of the province [Environment]

16 • Work with First Nations to develop protocols to Action Plan for 2003-04 enforce environmental laws on reserves • 19 multi-year water and sewer projects have [Environment] already been approved for $10.1 million of • Continue support for converting marginal crop federal and provincial funding under the land to perennial forage cover to promote soil Canada-Saskatchewan Infrastructure Program conservation, greenhouse gas sequestration and (CSIP). Projects include the Lumsden water wildlife habitat improvement [Agriculture, Food treatment plant, the Maidstone well pipeline and Rural Revitalization; Environment] and water treatment upgrade and a new sewage lagoon and effluent irrigation system in Fort • Continue to implement measures to reduce Qu’Appelle. Also, under the Northern Water energy usage in provincial government and Sewer Program, $4.9 million will be spent buildings; our target is to reduce energy usage on 24 projects for 18 communities. Further by 20 per cent in 70 of the Saskatchewan projects will be approved for 2003-04 CSIP Property Management Corporation’s largest funding in the near future facilities by April 2005 [Saskatchewan Property Management Corporation] • Through the Municipal Financing Corporation, municipalities can access financing to upgrade waterworks or related infrastructure Safe Drinking Water • Repair and upgrade 16 water control structures While the vast majority of Saskatchewan people throughout the province, and undertake inspections and preparatory work for a further have access to safe drinking water, some eight projects at a cost of $3.7 million through communities have problems with their water the Saskatchewan Watershed Authority. These quality. Following the release of the Report of the structures are an essential means of managing Commission of Inquiry into Drinking Water our water resources and ensuring water supply Safety in North Battleford in March 2002, the to all Saskatchewan residents. The largest Government of Saskatchewan accepted all project is the completion of Phase 2 recommendations directed to the Province and rehabilitation of the Avonlea Dam, strengthening the dam and improving public released a comprehensive, Long-Term Safe safety downstream Drinking Water Strategy • Increase the number of certified operators at (www.se.gov.sk.ca/environment/protection/water/ provincially regulated waterworks and water.asp). wastewater works to reach 475 certified operators by the end of 2003-04 and begin to The Long-Term Safe Drinking Water Strategy is a implement continuing education requirements key cross-government initiative led by for waterworks operators Saskatchewan Environment (including the • Implement new, legally enforceable standards Saskatchewan Watershed Authority) and for bacteriological testing involving the Departments of Health, • Employ “Guidelines for Canadian Drinking Government Relations and Aboriginal Affairs Water Quality” as conditions for waterworks and Agriculture, Food and Rural Revitalization. licences

17 • Increase levels of monitoring, inspection and Strengthen Community Infrastructure testing for provincially regulated water systems to a level of two inspections per year at all Up-to-date, reliable and competitive public surface water systems and groundwater systems infrastructure is essential to continued economic serving more than 500 people. All other growth and social prosperity for Saskatchewan. waterworks and wastewater works will be Sound public investments in roads, buildings and inspected once each year municipal infrastructure can serve as a catalyst to • Implement requirements for waterworks upset private investment and help communities and reporting (for incidents such as equipment people to stay connected. A modern and failures or operational problems affecting water competitive infrastructure attracts investment that quality) and reporting of low disinfectant levels creates jobs and promotes economic and social to provide for greater consumer safety prosperity in a growing and thriving province. • Deliver the first annual State of Drinking Water Quality report Changes in the rural economy, including elevator • Undertake watershed stewardship activities for consolidation and branch line abandonment, key watersheds have significantly increased the amount of grain • Develop the Saskatchewan Water Information transported by truck on rural highways that were Management system to give citizens access to reliable information about the quality and value not originally designed to carry heavy truck of their drinking water, and the operations that traffic. Expansion in the oil industry and produce it diversification of the northern economy are key • Establish regulations that will require drivers of our economic growth, but the added municipalities to put in place rate and capital traffic increases pressure on our highway system. investment policies for their water utilities by With three per cent of Canada’s population and January 1, 2005 and to publicly report on these 20 per cent of Canada’s roads, Saskatchewan has policies by July 1, 2005 more than twice as many roads per capita as any • Undertake consultations regarding amendments other province. Saskatchewan’s geography, to The Planning and Development Act, 1983 to combined with federal policy changes that have ensure that: transferred an enormous amount of freight onto ~ All subdivision application approvals are the roads from the rail system, creates significant issued subject to the protection of and adequate provision of quality drinking water challenges on rural roads. The province’s multi- for the residents of the development year highway improvement program is addressing ~ All municipalities have in place zoning bylaws these challenges and producing results. that address watershed protection plans to protect their drinking water supplies by 2007 Three key initiatives provide financial support to urban, rural and northern communities for transportation and water and sewer infrastructure:

18 • Municipal Revenue Sharing Grants – ~ Repair 70 bridges and replace over 25 bridges unconditional operating assistance is provided or structures on the provincial highway to all municipalities in the province. In system addition, conditional grants are provided to ~ Resurface approximately 275 km of the rural municipalities for heavy-haul high-volume principal highway system and 110 km of the road construction, bridges and traffic counting regional network • The Canada-Saskatchewan Infrastructure ~ Meet our March 2001 commitment to Program – announced in 2000, $170 million upgrade 800 km of TMS roads over three will be spent over five years to develop, renew years and enhance infrastructure in Saskatchewan [Highways and Transportation] communities. The first priority under the program is green municipal infrastructure, such as water and wastewater projects. Local Provincial Highway Resurfacing economies will benefit from the creation of 1,200 6,000 seasonal jobs. In the past two years, the 1,045 provincial government has contributed to 233 1,000 local projects at a cost of $32 million 800 • The Centenary Fund – the 2000-01 Budget 660 announced a multi-year investment in core 600

infrastructure in six key areas: Length (km) 400 315 ~ K-12 school capital and information technology projects 200 ~ University, Saskatchewan Institute of Applied 0 2001 2002 2003 Science and Technology (SIAST) and regional college capital ~ Municipal infrastructure TMS Improvements

~ Heritage properties and parks 1,200 ~ Highways, rural roads and environmental 1,000 clean-up projects 800 ~ Social housing 800

600 555 Action Plan for 2003-04

Length (km) 400 • To meet the demands of a growing economy, 310

over 750 km of provincial highways will be 200 improved, including: 0 ~ Reconstruct 11 km of Highway 55, 15 km of 2001 2002 2003 Highway 26 and surface 34 km of Highway 155 to accommodate increased haul in the forestry industry

19 • Work in partnership with local governments, • Funding will be provided through the Centenary area transportation planning committees, Fund for several new and ongoing projects of producers and industry to develop a safe, benefit to northern communities, including: sustainable and efficient transportation system: ~ Affordable housing initiatives, specifically the ~ Continue partnering on 21 initiatives with 42 construction of 92 new units between 2003 different partners to manage traffic on over and 2006 [Community Resources and 500 km of low-volume provincial highways Employment] ~ In 2003, revenue from trucking partnership ~ Upgrades to Cumberland House Historic Park agreements with industrial partners will [Environment] provide an additional $2.85 million of ~ Canoe route/portage upgrades in Lac la transportation investment Ronge Provincial Park [Environment] [Highways and Transportation] • Funding will be provided for various northern • Increase total revenue sharing grants to capital projects: municipalities by $10 million, providing ~ Funding for the new St. Joseph’s Hospital in municipalities with additional unconditional Ile-à-la-Crosse [Health] funding to address local priorities. An additional $10 million will be provided in 2004-05 ~ Funding for the new Ile-à-la-Crosse school [Government Relations and Aboriginal Affairs] [Learning] • CSIP will provide $22 million of federal and ~ Continued funding for Northern Water and provincial infrastructure funding. Twenty-seven Sewer through the Centenary Fund, CSIP and multi-year water and sewer, solid waste, energy the Northern Revenue Sharing Trust Account efficiency and local transportation projects for for water projects in Air Ronge, Bear Creek, $14.5 million have already been approved for Beauval, Brabant Lake, Buffalo Narrows, 2003-04 funding and are under development. Creighton, Cumberland House, Ile-à-la- The remaining CSIP funding for 2003-04 will Crosse, La Ronge, Sled Lake, St. Georges Hill, be allocated to new projects in the near future Stony Rapids, Timber Bay, Turnor Lake and [Government Relations and Aboriginal Affairs] Uranium City and for wastewater projects in Denare Beach and Pinehouse [Government • Under the Centenary Fund, $4.1 million of Relations and Aboriginal Affairs] municipal infrastructure funding will be provided for 24 projects. Under this program, funding has • Upgrade 36 government buildings in 16 been provided for transit vehicles for people with communities, including roof replacement and disabilities, fire halls and emergency buildings, a enhanced accessibility at Kelsey Campus in police station and regional landfills. For 2003-04, Saskatoon, roof replacement at SIAST funding will be provided for additional transit Woodlands Campus in Prince Albert, a new vehicles, heritage properties, community elevator and improved accessibility at the buildings, parks, trails and playgrounds. Also, Moose Jaw Court House and improved $1.2 million will be provided to Western accessibility at the Regina Court House Development Museums,Government House and [Saskatchewan Property Management other government heritage properties Corporation] [Government Relations and Aboriginal Affairs]

20 • Provide state-of-the-art communications predominantly inner-city, on-reserve and in the support for education, health care and north – experience the most crime. In response, Government services to 366 communities Saskatchewan Justice and Saskatchewan through CommunityNet. CommunityNet will Corrections and Public Safety are using targeted, be complete by the fall of 2003, seven months integrated approaches and continue to work with ahead of the targeted completion date. When fully implemented, CommunityNet will be communities to develop appropriate responses. available in: Programs and policies are assessed and developed ~ 881 schools and education offices (including to effectively combat crime and rehabilitate 86 First Nations schools) offenders. In particular, we are working with ~ 39 regional colleges, offices and learning Aboriginal organizations, communities and centres individuals to adapt the criminal justice system so ~ 310 health facilities that it meets their needs for safety and security. ~ 162 public libraries Canadians are increasingly concerned about the ~ 256 government offices overall risks to security and safety. The Province [Information Technology Office] has shared responsibility in many of the areas • CommunityNet is making it possible for related to public safety and security. While SaskTel to expand its commercial high-speed Internet service to residences and businesses Saskatchewan in general is at relatively low risk more quickly than it originally planned. Service as a target for terrorist activities, we have recently will be extended this year, bringing the total to experienced natural disasters that have challenged 237 communities. This rapid expansion will see the abilities of municipalities, the provincial high-speed Internet being available to residents government and the federal government to in communities as small as several hundred respond (e.g., flooding in 2000, forest fires and people, making Saskatchewan the most wildfires in 2002). A key question has become: connected province in Canada. This expansion will allow Saskatchewan businesses to better “What level of response is appropriate at the compete in the global marketplace by opening local, regional, provincial and national levels?” doors for the sale of locally-manufactured goods and services to millions of potential customers There are also important changes in technology, throughout the world [SaskTel] the marketplace and the global economy. Another challenge is the development of an Safe Communities effective regulatory framework, reflecting current best practices, technology and safety/security Generally, Saskatchewan residents are as safe as requirements in a way that balances risks and residents of other provinces. However, this does responsibilities more equitably between not hold true for all population groups and Government, the business community and communities. Our poorest communities – individuals.

21 Government responsibilities for public safety were • Extend the Sask911 service to Lloydminster and reorganized in March 2002 with the creation of northern communities this year, completing the new Department of Corrections and Public implementation to all but the most remote communities in the province [Corrections and Safety, which brings together adult and youth Public Safety] corrections, protection and emergency services, • Implement Phase 2 of the Regina Auto Theft and licensing and inspections. Saskatchewan Strategy, with a targeted reduction of auto Justice retains responsibility for victim’s services, thefts by 10 per cent in 2003 over 2002. Auto policing, court administration, prosecution, and theft in Regina has decreased by 37 per cent legal aid. since the program was implemented in February 2002 [Corrections and Public Safety; Action Plan for 2003-04 Justice] • Saskatchewan Corrections and Public Safety • Expand integrated urban crime response will promote safe communities by: programs to North Battleford and Saskatoon ~ Supervising approximately 1,250 adult [Corrections and Public Safety; Justice] offenders in custody and 5,660 in the • Develop an action plan to address the community recommendations outlined in the report of the ~ Supervising approximately 330 young Office of the Ombudsman, including a plan to offenders in custody and 2,500 in the replace the Regina Correctional Centre community [Corrections and Public Safety; Justice] ~ Inspecting about 8,000 to 10,000 boilers and • Continue dialogue with the Commission of pressure vessels, 200 to 220 amusement rides First Nations and Métis People and Justice and 2,000 to 2,400 elevating devices Reform [Corrections and Public Safety; Justice] • Fund 10 new police positions this year to • Establish an Elders Advisory Committee to the support targeted approaches to reducing crime Departments of Justice and Corrections and [Justice] Public Safety on program and policy issues • Continue targeted crime prevention and [Corrections and Public Safety; Justice] community policing programs, including the • Coordinate the implementation of a Serious and Habitual Offenders Comprehensive comprehensive provincial government public Action Plan and support for serious crime units emergency and security plan [Corrections and [Corrections and Public Safety; Justice] Public Safety] • Continue support for community justice • Implement a fire prevention and suppression programs that facilitate a variety of services to strategy for communities in the forest fringe 67 of Saskatchewan’s 72 First Nations, including areas [Corrections and Public Safety; crime prevention, community development and Environment] public education, support services for victims and offenders, alternative measures and supervision of low risk offenders [Justice]

22 Healthy and Self-Reliant Families

Saskatchewan’s Early Childhood Development vulnerable families exists. This is accomplished Strategy provides the foundation for achieving through innovative partnerships among families, our goal of healthy and self-reliant families by communities, community organizations, schools, supporting the growth and development of our health authorities, Aboriginal organizations and most vulnerable children. Today, across the governments. province, more children and their families are benefiting from a variety of important public The nine targeted communities that receive services, including better child care facilities, KidsFirst funding include: the north, Nipawin, nutritional lunch programs, community education Meadow Lake, Prince Albert, North Battleford, initiatives, opportunities to help families become Yorkton, Regina, Saskatoon and Moose Jaw. All more independent and quality health services. other communities will benefit from better integration of existing services. Community The following sections identify some key developers located in other areas across the initiatives planned over the next year to support province will ensure that families in need get the development of healthy and self-reliant connected to resources in their communities. families. The Early Childhood Development Strategy is a key cross-government initiative involving the Ensure All Children Have the Departments of Learning, Health, Community Best Possible Start in Life Resources and Employment, and Government Relations and Aboriginal Affairs. The formative years of childhood are crucial to achieving our potential as adults. Action Plan for 2003-04 [2003 Throne Speech] • In-hospital screening of new births to identify families in need of support: ~ 95 per cent of births in targeted communities Saskatchewan’s Early Childhood Development will be screened Strategy (www.sasked.gov.sk.ca/echild/index.html) ~ 90 per cent of all Saskatchewan births will be is a comprehensive, long-term plan that builds on screened, an increase of 10 per cent from existing early childhood development programs to 2002-03 ensure that children prenatal to age five have the • Early childhood development services will be best possible start in life. The KidsFirst program provided to 340 new post-natal mothers and supports the healthy growth and development of their families for a total of 763 post-natal our most vulnerable children by providing families intensive support to families in communities • Enhanced provision of mental health and across the province where the need is greatest – addictions counseling services (a further eight that is, where the greatest concentration of full-time equivalents will be funded in 2003-04 for a total of 21)

23 • As of the end of September 2002, seven of the nine targeted communities had created 72 new As our children reach school age, our child care spaces; by the end of March 2003, a government responds by supporting programs further 78 spaces are expected to be created for for Kindergarten to Grade 12. Additional a total of 150 in 2002-03. In 2003-04, the support is provided for at-risk and special needs number of child care spaces will increase by 80 students. for a combined total of 230 new child care [2003 Throne Speech] spaces in targeted communities • As of the end of September 2002, five of the nine targeted communities had expanded Community-based approaches to educating our existing early learning programs, resulting in children are working to address these challenges the development of 55 new early learning and opportunities. Community schools, first spaces; by the end of March 2003, a further 65 spaces are expected to be created for a total of launched in Saskatchewan in 1980, help ensure 120 in 2002-03. In 2003-04, the number of that all children, regardless of their individual early learning spaces will increase by 40 for a social and economic circumstances, receive a combined total of 160 new early learning spaces quality education. Community schools draw on in targeted communities parent and community involvement in the school • Community developers have been hired in to help students develop and learn. Preschoolers, other areas across the province to ensure that students and their families are provided with families in need get connected to resources in enhanced programming such as pre-kindergarten, their communities nutrition programs, cultural activities, and adult education and training opportunities. We know Children are Ready to Learn and that support provided through community schools Schools are Ready for Children pays off in long-term benefits.

Schools face both challenges and opportunities in Since 2000, the number of community schools in meeting the needs of learners, including a high Saskatchewan has more than doubled from 41 to number of vulnerable children and youth and 88 and expanded to include secondary and rural increasing numbers of learners of all ages with schools. diverse and special needs that may require more costly accommodations or supports to participate Building on the experience of community schools and achieve positive outcomes. and the innovation of Saskatchewan educators, the Role of the School Task Force developed the SchoolPlus concept. SchoolPlus will integrate education and human services to ensure that our schools are able to respond to the particular needs of each community and all of our students.

24 Government is working in collaboration with other the province (from 99 to 75) by the fall of 2003 human service providers and community agencies and enabling a full range of services to students through the Saskatchewan Council on Children in each division [Learning] and Youth to implement SchoolPlus, to make • Over the next two years, $32.8 million will be schools the centres of learning and community spent on K-12 capital projects [Learning] support for children and families. SchoolPlus is a key priority for this government – as the ability of Healthy Saskatchewan Families schools to meet the developmental and learning Good health is fundamental to the quality of life needs of children and youth increases, we can of Saskatchewan families. Saskatchewan’s health expect more young people to succeed in school. system serves a population of just over one Action Plan for 2003-04 million people and Government will spend more • Extend pre-kindergarten through 100 programs than $2.5 billion on health care this year (just in 42 communities, from 85 pre-kindergarten over 42 cents of every operating dollar spent). programs in 31 communities [Learning] Below are some examples of the number and types • Field test effective practices toward SchoolPlus of services this funding provides for: implementation in 21 school divisions across • 4,761,800 visits to family physicians and the province. This will involve consultation 920,700 visits to specialists with school communities to identify current strengths and areas for enhancement in both • Coverage of 77 per cent of the total costs of the learning program and supports for learning nursing home care for some 9,000 residents in [Learning; Community Resources and special-care homes, hospitals and health centres Employment; Health; Justice; Culture, Youth • 800,000 days of in-patient hospital care and Recreation; and Government Relations and • More than 266,000 radiology services, 125,000 Aboriginal Affairs] ultrasounds, 53,600 CT scans and more than • Support Aboriginal curriculum initiatives, 10,800 MRI exams including the revision of the Native Studies 20 • 1,300,000 tests at the Provincial Lab, in course and development of Cree and Dene 10, addition to millions more in labs at hospitals 20 and 30 [Learning] and physicians’ clinics • Provide funding to improve library services for Aboriginal people and to ensure universal access to library services for all residents [Learning] Saskatchewan pioneered both publicly • Increase the Foundation Operating Grant to administered hospitalization and medicare in fully cover teachers’ collective agreement costs North America. Our Government’s plan will for 2003 [Learning] ensure that quality health care is available to • Financial incentives will be used to encourage all. the amalgamation of several K-12 school [2003 Throne Speech] divisions, resulting in an estimated 25 per cent reduction in the number of school divisions in

25 Change will be needed to sustain our health care Action Plan for 2003-04 system. Saskatchewan was one of the first • Over the coming year, the Department of provinces to undertake an in-depth review of how Health, Regional Health Authorities and other key stakeholders will continue implementation our health services are delivered, resulting in The of the Action Plan with: Action Plan for Saskatchewan Health Care. The ~ Full implementation of a health telephone Action Plan is a blueprint for our health care advice line to enable people to get easier, system to improve and secure quality health care faster access to important information, for all Saskatchewan people. 24 hours a day, seven days a week ~ Additional information on other regional Government is committed to implementing the sites added to the Saskatchewan Surgical Action Plan and work has already begun to Care Network website as the surgical registry address key challenges in the system. Some first- is implemented. Currently, the website year highlights include: provides information about wait times for non-emergent surgery in Regina and • Establishing 12 new Regional Health Saskatoon Authorities (RHAs) to improve province-wide planning and co-ordination of services ~ Developing primary health care teams in Regional Health Authorities – primary health • Creating Canada’s first Health Quality Council care teams are expected to be established in to develop innovative ways to improve health all RHAs this year care quality ~ Training Emergency Medical Responders to • Improving management of surgical waiting lists the Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) by establishing the Saskatchewan Surgical Care level; based on year one of the initiative, Network (www.sasksurgery.ca) to develop a review and update training requirements with province-wide surgical care registry and tools to Regional Health Authorities. The three-year assess and fairly rank patients for surgery. A training target for this initiative is 240 EMTs website launched earlier this year provides information about access to surgery and ~ Support for northern health authorities expected wait times through funding for primary care and prevention initiatives Concrete steps are also being taken to create ~ Continued funding for the Health Quality primary health care teams, attract the doctors, Council nurses and other health providers we need, and improve the delivery of every day health • Regional Health Authorities will receive services in communities. The Action Plan will funding to expand and enhance regional health continue to guide our decisions and investments services, including: in the health system in the years ahead. Some ~ More service at existing dialysis sites and two key initiatives planned for the coming year, to new satellite locations build on the progress already made, are outlined ~ Improved access to specialized medical below. imaging services such as CT scans and heart vessel examinations

26 ~ Expanded capacity of the poison information • Funding for construction on the Fort centre which has proved very valuable since Qu’Appelle First Nations Hospital, the it was introduced in September 2001 Weyburn Regional Care Centre, the Yorkton [Health] Long-Term Care Centre and the Melfort • $19 million in funding for medical capital Regional Care Centre and a new hospital in equipment [Health] Ile-à-la-Crosse [Health] • Continued recruitment and retention of health professionals – key initiatives over the coming Families Have Opportunities year include: to Work and Play ~ Funding for return-service bursaries (over 400 bursaries were awarded in 2002-03) and During the past several years, the social professional development programs services system in Saskatchewan has changed ~ Implementing new physician alternate its emphasis from that of a traditional welfare payment agreements agency to one that promotes independence ~ Improving working conditions and productivity by designing and implementing through a variety of supports for families and injury prevention and return-to-work individuals. programs for RHA employees [2003 Throne Speech] ~ Maintaining 40 opportunities for northern residents to upgrade their math and science We have long been committed to helping skills through the Northern Health Science Access Program vulnerable families and individuals build independence and improve their quality of life. ~ Adding 40 seats in the Northern Nursing Education Program, increasing the number of Saskatchewan’s Building Independence program nursing seats for RNs and RPNs to 300 in continues to reduce the number of families with each year children reliant on social assistance by supporting ~ Continuing intake of 60 students per year at their participation in the workforce and economy. the College of Medicine Since its introduction in 1997, Building [Health] Independence has helped more than 6,000 • The provincial response to the West Nile Virus families – including more than 13,000 children – will include public education, surveillance to leave social assistance by eliminating barriers to track the disease in birds, mosquitoes, horses employment. Reforms have proven highly and people, and mosquito control programs. effective. Family welfare dependency has declined Assistance will be provided to municipalities to increase mosquito control in those areas where by almost 40 per cent from 1996 to 2002. the spread of the West Nile Virus is most likely to occur [Health]

27 Social Assistance Caseload Trend Families with Children

18,000 16,000 14,000 12,000 10,000 8,000 verage Cases

A 6,000 4,000 2,000 0 1994-95 1995-96 1996-97 1997-98 1998-99 1999-00 2000-01 2001-02 2002-03 2003-04 est est

Reducing welfare means two things. First and $135 million in new construction, up to 1,500 foremost, when people have the opportunity to new affordable housing units, and up to 1,400 participate in the workforce, they are better able person years of employment in the construction to provide for themselves and their families. industry. Funding will be targeted to home Secondly, the reduction in caseloads results in ownership, inner city renewal and affordable substantial cost savings to government. rental.

Safe and affordable housing contributes to secure, We are seeing the direct results of these well-functioning families. The Saskatchewan initiatives. The incidence of poverty in Housing Corporation provides housing to Saskatchewan has declined since the mid-1990s. approximately 8,000 families. In addition, the Child poverty in Saskatchewan, defined by province’s Centenary Affordable Housing Statistics Canada’s After Tax Low Income Cut Program (CAHP), also administered by the Offs (LICOs), stood at 18.2 per cent in 1995 and Saskatchewan Housing Corporation, was declined to 11.6 per cent in 2000. Child poverty launched last year with construction of 124 units in Saskatchewan is below the national average of for seniors and northern families. This program is 12.5 per cent. cost-shared between the Province and Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC). Too often, working people have to choose CAHP will receive a total of $45.86 million over between the demands of work and family – five years from the Saskatchewan Housing between doing their jobs and caring for their Corporation, CMHC, municipalities and other children or, increasingly, their parents. This sources. Over the five-year period of the program, juggling act puts severe stress on people and has the funding is expected to generate up to far-reaching effects.

28 The Labour Standards Act has been amended to March 31, 2003) to support approximately 2,000 increase job-protected leave for new parents. In programs, including: addition, federal-provincial labour ministers • Food banks and school nutrition programs accepted the recommendations of Work-Life • Programs for children and youth with physical Balance in Canada: A Report to Ministers or mental disabilities Responsible for Labour in Canada, outlining the • Sport, culture and recreation programs such as effects that changes in family life and the summer camps and summer play programs, workplace have had on working people and the youth centre activities, leadership development, resulting impact on productivity. Specifically, and inner city sport and recreation programs ministers agreed with the recommendation • Prevention and intervention programs dealing proposing that jurisdictions implement an with family violence and violence prevention, incentive or awards program to encourage teen parenting, life skills and sexual assault workable and co-operative ways to increase work- • Community/school parenting programs, life balance, thereby reducing the negative impact preschool programs, home and school programs, on employees and increasing the bottom line for alternative learning, and summer learning programs employers.

Action Plan for 2003-04 Sports, recreation, culture and multicultural • The demand for social assistance will be further initiatives are also important components of reduced, subject to stable economic conditions, family life. Government allocates a portion of the from a monthly average caseload of just under annual lottery profits generated in Saskatchewan 30,000 in 2002-03 to 27,600 in 2003-04; the to support the activities of urban, rural and total number of people dependent on social northern municipalities, and Aboriginal and assistance is projected to decrease from 54,800 in 2002-03 to 50,800 [Community Resources voluntary organizations providing programs and and Employment] services in these areas. In 2002-03, $26.7 million • The 2003-04 Budget includes $2 million in new was allocated to more than 12,000 volunteer, funding for an array of initiatives aimed at non-profit groups providing sport, culture and providing persons with disabilities with the recreation programs. supports they need to become employed. Saskatchewan Community Resources and The Community Initiatives Fund, which receives Employment is expanding supports to identify a portion of the profits from casinos in Regina realistic workplace options and effective and Moose Jaw, also provides funding to strategies for job maintenance and ongoing community groups for initiatives of benefit to independence. $1 million has been added to provide a $10 per month increase in the Saskatchewan families. Since the inception of this allowance provided through social assistance to Fund in 1997, more than 1,700 community groups people with disabilities. This allowance helps to have received more than $12.1 million (as of meet the costs associated with a disability and

29 to allow those with disabilities to participate • The Province, through the Saskatchewan more fully in the economic and social life of Housing Corporation, will make conditional their communities [Community Resources and commitments in 2003 to Community Based Employment] Organizations (CBOs) for the construction of • Participation in the Saskatchewan Employment more than 400 new homes under the Centenary Supplement, a program that helps prevent Affordable Housing Program [Community welfare dependency, will increase from an Resources and Employment] average of 7,900 families in 2002-03 to an • Continue to pursue co-operative partnerships average of approximately 8,200 families with different levels of government and local [Community Resources and Employment] organizations to address the need for more • On average, approximately 45,000 households affordable housing and support services for comprised of over 105,000 adults and children modest-income families. To date, the Province, will benefit from one or more of the working in partnership with municipal government’s income security programs each governments, community development month [Community Resources and organizations and family homeowner co- Employment] operatives, has enabled 209 lower-income families to become homeowners through the • Provincial programs will support more than Neighbourhood Home Ownership Program. In 7,800 spaces in over 450 licensed child care 2003-04, the Province will continue to provide facilities. Day care subsidies will be provided for funding to more than 60 new families 3,700 children in 2,700 families [Community [Community Resources and Employment] Resources and Employment] • Help approximately 10,000 families receive • Over the next five years, in partnership with maintenance payments and ensure that parents the federal government, the Province will meet their support obligations. Parents will also enhance licensed child care. In 2003-04, we be helped through a support variation project will match the federal contribution of $900,000 that will assist them with variation of orders or to provide a total of $1.8 million to develop agreements and provide information about the 500 new child care spaces [Community variation process. The Family Justice Services Resources and Employment] Division will work to expand the mandatory • All families will continue to benefit from the parent education program to more sites across recent personal tax reform. A two-income the province [Justice] family of four earning $50,000 a year will now • Government must be responsive when pay about $1,500 less income tax in 2003 than intervention is necessary to support children it did 10 years ago. The Government’s personal and families – changes to The Child and Family tax reform plan is now fully implemented. Services Act will be introduced to recognize the Commencing in 2004, the personal income tax importance of kinship care as a first option in system will be fully indexed to inflation. This these circumstances [Community Resources and means that the amount of tax payable on a Employment] fixed amount of income will decline every year [Finance] • Approximately 7,400 families and 23,000 children will receive government services

30 designed to protect children from harm, • Increase funding to the Wascana Centre including appropriate residential and personal Authority, Meewasin Valley Authority, care to children in care of the Minister of Wakamow Valley Authority and Chinook Community Resources and Employment and Parkway by 10 per cent. 2003-04 marks the support for at-risk families to prevent further third year that these four urban parks, as well as family breakdown. The number of children in three others (North Battleford, Prince Albert care of the Minister of Community Resources and Weyburn), have had access to funding for and Employment is projected to decrease from capital projects from the Centenary Fund 2,938 in 2001-02 to 2,800 by the end of ($500,000 annually) [Environment] 2003-04 [Community Resources and • Grants available through the Community Employment] Initiatives Fund will continue to be provided to • Develop a response to the federal-provincial groups providing services and supports to recommendation for jurisdictions to implement children and families. Allocations will be an incentive or awards program to encourage significantly increased to support: workable and co-operative ways to increase ~ Community projects to mark the province’s work-life balance [Labour] Centennial – $8.5 million over the next three • The Physically Active Saskatchewan strategy years will be implemented to reduce the physical ~ Projects that encourage increased physical inactivity of all age groups, working towards our activity – $5 million over the next three years goal of a 10 per cent reduction in physical ~ New recreation opportunities for northern inactivity by 2005 [Culture, Youth and and First Nations communities – $5.5 million Recreation] over the next three years • Provincial parks will again benefit from the [Culture, Youth and Recreation] Centenary Fund. $1.8 million in developments to provincial and regional parks are planned this year to help ensure the long-term stability of our parks, including nature centre replacement at Duck Mountain Provincial Park, interpretive trails and an amphitheatre at Greenwater Lake Provincial Park, enhancing displays and upgrading facilities at Fort Carleton Historic Park and upgrading various recreation sites across the province [Environment]

31 Opportunities for Youth

Saskatchewan’s youth population (aged 15 to 24) Saskatchewan Learning reports a trend that sees represents about 15 per cent of the overall more students who have left full-time study at population. Over the last decade, the youth high school continue to take classes leading to population has increased by just over five per cent. graduation. A significant proportion of the youth population is Aboriginal, which presents both a challenge and New technologies are shaping the future of our an opportunity for Saskatchewan’s future. A education and training system. Government is greater proportion of Aboriginal people are providing funding to ensure schools have better currently socially and economically disadvantaged, access to high-speed Internet and can upgrade but this group also offers potential for meeting infrastructure to ensure in-school Internet Saskatchewan’s future labour market needs. connectivity. In addition, support is also being provided for the development of made-in- The following section identifies some key Saskatchewan educational resources for use on- initiatives planned for the coming year to help line and in classrooms. prepare our youth for a successful transition into adulthood. Campus Saskatchewan (www.campussaskatchewan.ca) is an example of innovation from the post-secondary sector to Help Youth to Stay in School increase access to education and training for and Succeed in Learning Saskatchewan residents. Campus Saskatchewan, a partnership of post-secondary institutions, is Keeping all students in school until they helping to remove barriers to education and successfully complete Grade 12 allows for provide the flexibility today’s students need. Over greater opportunities in the world of work and 150 courses are in development or are being greater potential for success in life. delivered by the universities and SIAST through [Saskatchewan Education Campus Saskatchewan. Indicators Report, 2000] Higher education and training are key to the success of our young people participating in the The 2002 youth in transition survey reported that knowledge-based economy. Saskatchewan, at 7.3 per cent, enjoyed the lowest high school dropout rate in the nation, well below Action Plan for 2003-04 the national dropout rate of 12 per cent, a tribute This Budget contains a significant commitment to to the hard work, vision and leadership of our support the participation in and completion of educators and their community-based partners. high school and post-secondary education and training, including:

32 • A three per cent increase in operating grants to needs not met by the Student Loan Program the universities. More than 30,000 full-time and [Learning] part-time students attended the Universities of • Approximately 4,500 training clients will Regina and Saskatchewan last year [Learning] receive income support through the Provincial • A three per cent increase in funding for SIAST Training Allowance. The Apprenticeship and regional colleges to enable them to Training Allowance will provide income maintain existing programs and capacity. support for a further 1,700 individuals receiving Regional colleges will provide more than training in the skilled trades [Community 30,000 university, technical and other Resources and Employment; Learning] education and training opportunities for people • In total, over 300 new bursaries will be in rural and northern Saskatchewan [Learning] available in a variety of health disciplines • Increased funding will be provided for the third which will benefit, in part, our youth. Some of intake of additional students at the College of these include: medicine, RN, LPN, RPN, Medicine and the continuing nursing expansion primary care, nurse practitioner, physical [Learning] therapy, occupational therapy, speech language, • SIAST will provide more than 40,000 on- and clinical psychology, respiratory therapy, off-campus training opportunities with more emergency medical technician, and public than 4,000 available through private vocational health inspection. In addition, there are schools. More than 5,300 apprentices will be approximately 150 continuing bursaries for registered with the Apprenticeship and Trade students in medicine, nursing and a variety of Certification Commission and approximately allied health disciplines [Health] 1,200 other work-based training opportunities • 23 bursaries for young teachers in specialty will be provided [Learning] training will support them to secure • $66 million in Saskatchewan Student Loan employment with Saskatchewan School Boards assistance will be available to help that need these specialties [Learning] approximately 16,800 students. Over half of this • 10 Prince of Wales Scholarships will be awarded amount ($36 million or 55 per cent) will be this year to encourage Grade 11 students in provided as bursaries and/or grants, reducing community schools to complete high school Saskatchewan student debt levels to among the [Learning] lowest in the country [Learning] • The Centennial Merit Scholarship Program • Funding to the Student Aid Fund will increase recognizes high achieving, successful high to provide for an increase in the in-study school students and awards scholarships to earnings exemption (from $600 per study period provide support for first-year education and to $1,700 per 34 week study period) and the training at post-secondary institutions. scholarship exemption ($600 per study period Approximately 300 scholarships will be awarded to $1,800) [Learning] this year, bringing the total scholarships • Funding will also be provided this year for an awarded under this program to about 950 interest subsidy to enable medical students to [Learning] obtain an interest-free line of credit to address

33 • Continued implementation of the Mathematics encourages post-secondary graduates to remain Action Plan through classroom and here. Over 28,000 tax credit certificates have community-based resources and supports, been issued up to the end of February 2003. In including workshops for teachers emphasizing addition, the recent reform of personal taxes has the value of linking math to the real world and significantly reduced income taxes, making it learning assessments focused on improving teaching and learning [Learning] more financially attractive for new graduates to stay and work in Saskatchewan. • Infant care for teen parents attending high school will be available in 20 schools [Community Resources and Employment] The net out-migration of our youth is a long-term issue that we must continue to address. In 2002, • Funding will be provided for the development of on-line courses in all subject areas necessary net out-migration (of youths aged 15 to 24) was for Grade 12 completion, and 90 on-line post- 3,651, the highest since 1991. When looking at secondary courses, more than triple the number the motivation of people to move to their current available in 2000-01 [Learning] province, a survey of western Canadians (Looking • The partners in Campus Saskatchewan will West, 2001) determined that the primary continue to expand on-line educational motivator was employment (38.6 per cent). opportunities and enhance services to learners, including access to computers and the Internet, A number of key initiatives are targeted at counseling and study support [Learning] creating jobs here in Saskatchewan, so that our • The Public Service Commission, in partnership youth stay here. Recently, government announced with the Aboriginal Government Employees new mining and oil and gas incentive packages to Network, will establish an Aboriginal Speakers Bureau to help encourage Aboriginal students stimulate increased exploration and development to stay in school and consider a career with the activity. This initiative will generate new jobs for public service [Public Service Commission] Saskatchewan people, including many for youth.

Help Youth Make a Successful ... we want to change the pattern of our young Transition to the Workforce people going to the oil patch. Instead, we want

Youth employment reached a five-year high in the oil patch to come to our young people. Saskatchewan during 2002 with the youth [Premier Calvert, November 2002] employment rate (the percentage of youth aged 15 to 24 with a job) at just under 60 per cent. In addition, the recent increase to the minimum wage, now $6.65 per hour, helps young people Saskatchewan’s post-secondary graduates are make ends meet with their first jobs. successfully finding employment in the province. The $350 Saskatchewan Graduate Tax Credit

34 Action Plan for 2003-04 • Significantly increase the number of Practical • Approximately 24,000 individuals, including and Applied Arts high school students receiving many youth, will receive services through the instruction in the Ready to Work program Canada-Saskatchewan Career and Employment through its extensive use as a resource in the Services offices. Services range from assistance new Career and Work Exploration curriculum, in preparing a resumé and searching for a job, to be fully implemented by 2004-05 [Learning] to developing a career action plan [Community Resources and Employment] Encourage Youth to Lead Healthy Lifestyles • The Centennial Student Employment Program provides summer and part-time jobs throughout Government is delivering and supporting the year for high school and post-secondary programs and services that engage youth in new students planning to return to school. The jobs and innovative ways, helping them to improve relate to the student’s chosen field of study and their personal health and well-being. career goals. To date, this program has provided more than 3,000 employment opportunities for Action Plan for 2003-04 students. In 2003-04, this program will provide more than 700 jobs for students planning to • Engage youth in a dialogue regarding youth return to school [Culture, Youth and retention, leadership, employment, Recreation] entrepreneurship and community through a newly formed Provincial Youth Advisory • Grants will be provided through the Northern Committee [Culture, Youth and Recreation] Development Fund to encourage and support northern youth entrepreneurship [Northern • Implement a single-window youth website that Affairs] will facilitate and enable youth to access information on youth services, build youth • A total of 11 interns are now active in the resources, networks and supports and facilitate Aboriginal Management and Professional communication between youth with Internship Program. To date, four interns have communities, businesses, government and other secured permanent public sector employment. youth [Culture, Youth and Recreation] New interns are being recruited for the fall 2003 intake and interns who are graduating • Continue to assist youth in acquiring leadership from the program in September are actively skills and gaining access to mentorship pursuing permanent opportunities in the public opportunities – such as those offered in our service [Public Service Commission] multi-sport games programs [Culture, Youth and Recreation] • Help young people prepare for work, by delivering at least 100 awareness and education • Work in partnership with the Crown presentations to young people in high schools, Investments Corporation to develop the post-secondary education settings, employment Leaders of Tomorrow initiative that will provide centres as well as First Nations and Métis for the designation of one position for youth communities, to inform youth about their rights representation on each subsidiary Crown board and responsibilities in the workplace [Labour] [Culture, Youth and Recreation]

35 • Implement the Physically Active Saskatchewan ~ Personal Acceptance and Change project strategy to reduce physical inactivity in all age [Regina] groups, including youth. Since 1981, the ~ Urban Youth Fund project and Youth number of overweight children and youth has Transportation Services program [Prince tripled, from 10 per cent to 32 per cent Albert area] [Culture, Youth and Recreation] ~ Community Youth Enhancement project • Provide funds through the Community [Meadow Lake area] Initiatives Fund that support the [Culture, Youth and Recreation] implementation of the “In Motion” strategy in schools across the province and contribute to • Enhance programs that integrate custody and active and healthy living [Culture, Youth and community services for youth: Recreation] ~ Implement policies and services for youth • Support a variety of cessation and public under the early release provisions of The Youth education resource materials for youth, Criminal Justice Act (YCJA) [Corrections and including “Kick the Nic” and “Students Public Safety] Working Against Tobacco (SWAT)” [Health] ~ Implement an integrated case management • Provide funds to Regional Health Authorities process with Saskatchewan Health to deliver for child and youth mental health services, the High Risk and Violent Offender Program including support for Community Based and the Intensive Rehabilitative Custody and Organizations (CBOs) that provide services for Supervision sentence [Corrections and Public youth [Health] Safety; Health] • Implement the YCJA in collaboration with the Departments of Corrections and Public Safety, Effective Supports for Youth At Risk Justice, Community Resources and The focus of our efforts for at-risk young people is Employment, Health and Learning and with Aboriginal organizations, including: to provide more effective, integrated support ~ Implement an integrated case management services so that youth faced with significant system and a risk, needs and strengths challenges are able to move towards safer, assessment healthier lifestyles and become contributing ~ Expand the alternative measures program members of their families and communities. ~ Enhance youth addictions and mental health Action Plan for 2003-04 assessment capacity • Provide $2 million annually in grants to • Develop a community-supported continuum of communities through the Community services for youth in Regina and Prince Albert Initiatives Fund to develop and/or implement using the structure of the Youth Services Model programs for at-risk youth. Some examples of [Corrections and Public Safety; Health; programs supported in 2002-03 include: Learning; Justice] • Provide $120,000 for the Saskatchewan Youth in Care and Custody Network to provide

36 support to youth who are in care of the Minister of Community Resources and Employment, or who were formerly in care, and to give these youth an advocacy group on child welfare programming and other youth serving developments [Community Resources and Employment]

37 Contact Information

For further information or additional copies, contact:

Saskatchewan Finance 2350 Albert St., 5th Floor Regina, Saskatchewan S4P 4A6 (306) 787-6774

All budget material is available online: www.gov.sk.ca/finance/budget

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