“While Canada’s economy is showing encouraging growth, the global economic recovery remains fragile,” said Flaherty. “During this crucial period, we are bringing together some of Canada’s most talented business and economic innovators to help us continue to make economic progress and return to budget balance.”

It is a position MacKinnon is highly qualified and well-suited for as she was the Minister of Finance for the Province of Saskatchewan from 1993-97.

“It is a tremendous honour to be appointed to the Economic Advisory Council and be given the opportunity to provide my advice on economic issues at this level,” said MacKinnon. “I am looking forward to the opportunity to collaborate on the national scale.”

The council was established in December 2008 to provide economic advice to the government following the global financial crisis. They will meet periodically in the future to provide advice to the government as required. Flaherty said the council members have agreed to a salary of $1, with their expenses being reimbursed by the government.

“I would like to thank these outstanding Canadians for agreeing to share their expertise,” said Flaherty. “I am looking forward to hearing the ideas proposed by such a distinguished group.”

“This appointment is another example of how members of the U of S community make contributions, not just in Saskatchewan, but across Canada,” said MacKinnon. “Being involved in this council is the chance to make a very real contribution to the economic health of our country.”

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For more information, contact:

Kris Foster, University Communications
University of Saskatchewan
Tel: (306) 966-1806
Email: kris.foster@usask.ca