This release was issued under a previous government.
If passed, Bill 3, the Appropriation (Interim Supply) Act, reverses reckless cuts to health care and invests in stable, predictable funding for the vital public services that matter most to Alberta communities.
Reversing proposed cuts to the health budget brings stability to health-care delivery and peace of mind to Alberta families. The interim supply budget means the government will avoid cutting more than 1,500 nurse and health-care positions. It is the first step in ensuring our front-line workers have what they need to deliver the health care upon which Alberta families rely.
“At some point, every family relies on the health-care system and deserves the best quality care our providers can offer. Stable and predictable funding assures Albertans that the health professionals, hospitals, clinics and services they depend on will be there when needed.”
The funding dedicated to Kindergarten through Grade 12 education will ensure that 12,000 new students will have the tools they need to get the education they deserve. The interim supply bill covers all regular operations, including school capital commitments, the Teachers’ Agreement, and the commitment made by this government in May to reverse grant cuts and fully fund enrolment.
“Our focus is to provide students with the best possible education. Bill 3 provides school boards with financial stability so they can focus on meeting the needs of students – including English Language Learners and First Nations, Metis and Inuit students.”
An investment in post-secondary education will mean an immediate tuition freeze at institutions across the province. Bill 3 would also roll back market modifier increases that were introduced in December 2014 for 25 programs across the province.
“Stabilizing government’s investment in post-secondary education means educators can focus on delivering some of Canada’s best education and training to more than a quarter of a million full- and part-time learners. Our government is committed to helping students develop the skills they need to enter our diverse workforce.”
Increased funding to Human Services programs will strengthen services for 7,100 children in care, ensuring vulnerable families have the supports they need to lead successful lives in their communities. It will also support an initiative to help aboriginal children live in culturally appropriate homes. Interim supply funding will also expand the Family Community Support Services program and add beds in second stage women’s shelters.
“We believe that every Alberta family should be able to live in a safe, stable and secure home. We are taking steps towards this goal by putting resources into programs that directly affect the quality of life of vulnerable families and support children in our communities.”
Interim supply will maintain stability in essential public services while Alberta’s new government reviews the province’s economic situation, its finances and its budget priorities.
The government intends to introduce a full budget in the fall.