We Heard From You

Developing a provincial budget requires thoughtful choices. You need to look at where the money comes from, where it goes and where it should go. As an Albertan, it is important that you have a say in shaping the provincial budget that will shape our future.

Our commitment to you is to bring more discipline to public spending through stable, multi-year budgets for essential public services. We will make the tough decisions; we will spend wisely and save intelligently, managing our finances to protect future Albertans from debt.

The recession of 2008-2009 affected Albertans and the province's finances. While overall our province is in an enviable economic position, we still face uncertainty.

The tough decisions made in the past to eliminate Alberta's debt and build a short-term savings account — the Sustainability Fund — have allowed us to keep taxes low and maintain public services during the recent economic downturn.

Global Uncertainty

While Alberta's economy is stronger than most, we are not immune to the ongoing global economic uncertainty. This uncertainty affects demand for Alberta's energy resources and products. We need to adapt to weather these challenges and take action to open new opportunities for growth.

Budget Choices

With discipline and choices, Alberta can return to a balance budget. Once this has happened, we can start to replenish the Sustainability Fund, which was used during the recession to support spending that was important for the economy and the needs of Albertans. People have also said they want to grow the Alberta Heritage Savings Trust Fund. All these things require money.

This is the environment driving the choices for next year's budget. It's a balance between delivering the programs and services Albertans expect today and being able to provide them tomorrow, even in the face of global economic uncertainty.

Thank you for your input

Doug Horner, President of Treasury Board and Enterprise
Ron Liepert, Minister of Finance