New Brunswick Finance Minister, Ernie Steeves, has subtly suggested that tax cuts may be on the horizon, albeit not necessarily in the upcoming provincial budget scheduled for announcement on Tuesday.
During a brief question and answer session with reporters, Steeves referenced the government’s track record of announcing tax cuts during the fiscal year. He stated, “We’ve implemented tax cuts throughout the year, along with numerous programs, and I believe that will likely be the approach this year as well.”
Despite the budget being labelled “Stronger than Ever,” Steeves reassured the public that it will not be an extravagant, election-style budget. He stressed the significance of fiscal conservatism and judicious spending of public funds.
Steeves and his cabinet have recognized the financial challenges experienced by many New Brunswickers, and have responded with initiatives such as the $300 affordability payment and a low-income energy efficiency program.
On the other hand, Liberal Leader, Susan Holt, expressed reservations about the “Stronger than Ever” slogan not aligning with the present sentiments of New Brunswickers. She urged the government to address the cost-of-living crisis in the upcoming budget, specifically calling for relief measures regarding power bills, the carbon adjuster, a complete school food program, and housing development.
Recent polling from Angus Reid indicates that health care and affordability are the primary concerns in the province. The survey revealed that 84% of respondents believe that the government is not taking adequate measures to address the cost of living, while 64% expressed dissatisfaction with the government’s management of health care.
Green Leader, David Coon, echoed the necessity to concentrate on health care and affordability, advocating for increased investment in primary health care, incentives for affordable housing, and targeted relief for vulnerable individuals. Coon also voiced support for the New Brunswick Medical Society and the New Brunswick Nurses Union, both of which have called for a substantial increase in health spending.
In conclusion, the landscape of New Brunswick’s budget planning appears to focus on the pressing concerns of affordability and health care. As the government prepares to reveal the upcoming budget, it is evident that addressing these critical issues will take precedence in policy decisions.
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