FREDERICTON (CNB) - Finance Minister Blaine Higgs today invited New Brunswickers to participate in a pre-budget questionnaire which is available online.
"The online survey is an important tool designed to give the public an opportunity to provide meaningful input into the development of the upcoming provincial budget," Higgs said.
In fiscal 2010-11, the provincial deficit is projected to reach $820 million, with the provincial net debt expected to reach $9.6 billion. In an effort to reduce the deficit, the provincial government has asked each department to find savings totalling one per cent this budget year.
"Our government is committed to being fiscally responsible, but we need to hear from New Brunswickers as we develop the upcoming provincial budget," Higgs said. "We need to hear what they feel are the highest priority areas for investment, and also their ideas on the best ways to achieve efficiencies and save tax dollars."
Higgs will host pre-budget consultation sessions throughout the province beginning in the new year. More details about locations and dates for specific consultation sessions will be released in early January.
LINK:
• Department of Finance (online questionnaire): www.gnb.ca/finance
17-12-10