A Common Sense Budget

Since the 2015-16 Provincial Budget was announced in March, the most common feedback I have received from people in Prince Albert is that it makes good, common sense.

As the global price for oil began to drop, our government had to make some very difficult decisions. We evaluated the options before the province. We heard what peoples’ priorities were, and used this good advice and common sense that the people of Saskatchewan are known for.

Despite the challenge to the Budget, our government’s top priority is to keep the economy strong. It is thanks to the hard work of Saskatchewan’s people that has turned the province around and into the nation-leading workhorse it is today.  And it is because of that strength that our government is able to make record investments in healthcare, hospitals, highways, schools, and more.

In the past we have seen how previous governments, when faced with a challenge, would simply fold their cards and slash spending.  Year after year, previous governments closed schools, shuttered hospitals and put off necessary infrastructure spending “for another time”. Over the years, this neglect added up. People of Prince Albert still remember when the previous government did everything they could to avoid investing in the upkeep of the Diefenbaker bridge.

Our government chose a different way.  When faced with the challenge of slumping global oil prices our government chose to continue investing.  We are investing highways and infrastructure through twinning projects, new passing lanes, clearing and repairing culverts and more. We continue to invest in keeping the Diefenbaker bridge a vital link in the province’s prosperity with over $5 million in repairs and upgrades since our government came to office.  And we stand ready to join with the city to build a second bridge for our community.

Safety first

Safety concerns and tips surrounding discarded needles in P.A.

15h ago

Liquor stores must change hours

Prince Albert limits liquor store hours

18h ago

skin care +

LUXE22 Clinic : Elevating Beauty with Expert Treatments

19h ago

We are investing in new long term care homes across the province like the recently opened Pineview Terrace here in Prince Albert.

We are investing in Adult Basic Education, adding 200 more seats in this year’s budget to a total of 8,780.  These new seats now mean that the once years long waitlist is now within striking distance of finally being eliminated. This will provide thousands of Saskatchewan people new opportunities for education and training and opportunities for new careers.

We took a common sense approach to job opportunities as well.  300 apprenticeship training seats were added this year.  There are now 7,000 apprenticeship training seats in Saskatchewan.  And then we created new tax incentives targeted specifically for job creation.  The Manufacturing and Processing Exporter Tax incentive provides tax credits to companies to expand their workforce. In the few weeks since this measure was introduced we have already seen two companies announce expansion plans, including the Edgewood mill in Carrot River.

Our government understands that there is more work to do.  But we know that the best way to invest in people here is to keep the province strong.  We also know, as do Saskatchewan people, that the best way to keep Saskatchewan strong is to keep investing and keep building for the future.  And for Saskatchewan, that future continues to look bright as long as the province stays strong.

Prince Albert Northcote constituents are always welcome to contact me.  Call 306-922-4220, visit my website at http://mlajurgens.ca or email mlajurgens@sasktel.net. My office is located at 5A 598 15 St. East across from Superstore.

The budget may be viewed here: http://saskatchewan.ca/budget