You may be aware that the Premiers discussed the issue of student assistance at their recent conference. They have agreed to seek solutions to the issue of student assistance involving both federal and provincial governments. In addition, they devoted their attention to the broader issue of youth employment. As a result of their discussions, the Premiers have asked their labour ministers to develop options that would enhance youth employment.

Prior to the Premiers' Conference, my predecessor, the Honourable Robert Mitchell, presented a brief to the Senate Sub-Committee on Social Affairs, Science, and Technology in April 1997. He raised the issue of student debt and assistance, and the need for national and provincial solutions. Since then, the Saskatchewan Student Assistance Task Group, which was organized to investigate and make recommendations on student assistance programs, has made its report. This group's report and recommendations are being considered in the development of Saskatchewan's position on student assistance.

I would like to thank the Round Table for Renewing Student Assistance for its commitment to this issue and I look forward to its continuing and valuable contribution.

Joanne Crofford
Minister, Post-Secondary Education and Skills Training, Saskatchewan