Equipment Dealers Association to develop and subsequently launch the SaskEnergy Network. The network was developed as a response to the deregulation of the natural gas industry that was occurring at the time. In addition, it responded to the changing and evolving needs of customers. Today the programs continue to give custom- ers easier access to natural gas appliances, installations, services and financing. When the network was being developed there was widespread support in the industry for the SaskEnergy Network, and member- ship criteria were developed with an Industry Dialogue Committee, including representatives from the Mechanical Contractors Asso- ciation of Saskatchewan, the Natural Gas Appliance & Equipment Dealers Association, and independent contractors. Network membership continues to be an option open to ev- ery licensed contractor in Saskatchewan who meets the criteria established by the industry. This is a key point; industry setting a standard for itself. The criteria help to ensure that the Network maintains a quality commitment to service and customer choice, while being an accessible, open business decision for large and small contractors throughout the province. It was critical that there be set criteria put in place. Only those con- tractors who met the criteria would demonstrate their commitment to the Network. The criteria still requires that items such as liability insurance, workers compensation, regulations related to safety, legal and environmental as well as the ability to display exterior signage at the place of business are met. Industry Dialogue Group 29 A Century in Review MCAS FEATURE