It’s clear that the plan outlined here today relies heavily — and wisely — on the people of Alberta in order for success to be achieved. But there is one part of the plan that relies directly on government.  That area is the wise, prudent management of public dollars.

Today, as North America’s only debt-free jurisdiction, Alberta has a unique opportunity to secure long-term prosperity for its citizens — and your government pledges to make the very best of that opportunity.

It will introduce a new savings strategy with a revitalized Alberta Heritage Savings Trust Fund, and a renewed commitment to save for the future.  It will continue to give Albertans the opportunity to keep as much of their own hard-earned income as possible.

Fundamental to this philosophy is the principle that all Albertans must benefit from the opportunities that Alberta creates, and enjoy, as much as possible, the fruits of their labour. To support that principle, the government will maintain Alberta’s competitive tax advantage.

In 2008, your government will go even further to achieve this principle. This year, it will introduce legislation to phase out Alberta Health Care insurance premiums for all Albertans.

But in today's Alberta, the time is right for Albertans to reap additional direct rewards of their ingenuity and their hard work. The elimination of premiums is a reward whose time has come.

This legislation will lay out a plan for the elimination of premiums within four years.  This will be achieved in a measured and fiscally responsible manner.

Premiums have served their purpose in Alberta over the years.  But in today’s Alberta, the time is right for Albertans to reap additional direct rewards of their ingenuity and their hard work.  The elimination of premiums is a reward whose time has come.