Provincial report

Agriculture Minister Bob Bjornerud released an independent review of the proposed acquisition of Viterra by Glencore International.

Bjornerud said the report highlights both potentially positive and negative aspects of the deal that now must be considered by the federal government's review process under The Investment Canada Act.

The Province of Saskatchewan wants the federal government to ensure, as part of the approval process, that Glencore International's acquisition of Viterra:

establishes Regina as its North American headquarters;

maintains or enhances current levels of employment in field operations;

invests in the western Canadian grain handling industry by increasing capital expenditures by $100 million over five years;

continues strong commitment to funding research and development, including investment in the proposed Global Institute for Food Security;

continues Viterra's support for community-based and philanthropic activities and investments; and

has no adverse effect on competition in farm inputs.