The projected annual deficit for the University of Saskatchewan has shrunk, but not by much.

The projected deficit by 2016 is down by 2 and a half million dollars to 42 million but the goal for the University is far from reached.

The acting Vice President of Finance and Resources at the U of S, Greg Faller, says a steering committee has been appointed to mitigate the deficit.

He says 70 percent of the University's budget is in salaries and benefits, and they've been looking in that direction since the committee formed earlier this summer.

Faller says some changes are already being looked at for 2013, including working on efficiencies for purchasing supplies and services, and utilities with heating and lighting.

(jl oct 8/12)