Resolution 23-02A

WHEREAS, the Province of Saskatchewan is aware that roads are needed for oil companies to truck heavy oil and this causes an extraordinary amount of truck traffic in the heavy oil areas of the province; and

WHEREAS, the Province of Saskatchewan has issued press releases recognizing the windfall revenues from the oil and gas sector providing for budget surpluses; and

WHEREAS, the Province of Saskatchewan issued a press releases stating: "Better roads mean more economic growth and opportunity;"

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that SARM lobby the Province of Saskatchewan to enter into partnerships with municipalities to provide oilfield heavy haul roads to encourage further economic development and growth.

Response from the Honourable Mark Wartman:

Saskatchewan Highways and Transportation will continue to work with the RM of Britannia and other local RMs and industry regarding oil and gas transportation needs in the area to develop local solutions.

The broader provincial issue of municipal roads impacted by the oil industry is best addressed by Municipal Affairs and Housing (MAH).

On December 20, 2001, MAH Minister Ron Osika sent a letter to the RM of Britannia Council stating their department will research the issues and consult with other departments as required. He also stated that an interdepartmental committee involving MAH, Energy and Mines, industry representatives, SARM and the Rural Municipal Administrators' Association of Saskatchewan (RMAAS) is in place to deal with oil and gas industry and municipal issues. The committee has not met for some time but it could be reactivated with other provincial departments and municipal participants involved on an "as need" basis.