Brad Wall, Saskatchewan’s Premier, explains that Saskatchewan has some of the world’s most sought-after commodities, including oil and agriculture products, and 46 per cent of the world’s potash, a key fertilizer helping to feed the world’s growing population.

Indeed, because of this economic growth, there is a labour shortage, with Wall setting out to lure workers from places such as the United States and Ireland.

“ supported the economy by reducing income and property taxes, paying off debt, investing in infrastructure and improving quality of life,” said Wall. His government is also looking forward to capitalize on other strengths, including uranium, clean coal, crop science, and biotechnology.

Because of the increase of immigrants settling in Saskatchewan, the province is receiving more of the share of federal funds allocated for immigrant settlement.

Further, Rupen Pandya, the assistant deputy minister of immigration services in Saskatchewan, said that, “by this year, 100 per cent of labour force growth will be led by immigration.”

The majority of immigrants to Saskatchewan come through their Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), but there are also a lot who come as temporary workers and international students.

Saskatchewan is expecting 9,000 new residents in the 2011-2012 window.