CALGARY, AB – British Columbia’s provincial budget will serve taxpayers best if it focuses on greater tax efficiency, continues to pay down provincial debt and ensures citizens get the greatest possible services for the dollars they pay, says the Canada West Foundation.
In advance of today’s provincial budget, the Foundation released its list of criteria to assess the budget by. They were developed in consultation with people across the province:
Put more money into the pockets of residents. Although the province has shown recent fiscal prudence, $1,098 of what an average taxpayer pays yearly results in no services – merely services the $65-billion debt (highest of the four western provinces).
Encourage job growth through tax efficiency, creating jobs by encouraging companies to grow to global scale.
Improve transportation infrastructure and public transit to ease the movement of people and goods.
Give workers the skills they will need for the jobs that are coming.
Develop regulatory processes that build public trust and improve consultation with First Nations.
The full statement from the Foundation, can be read here. The Foundation’s Senior Economist, Janice Plumstead, will be available for comment when the budget is tabled in the legislature.
The Foundation will comment on the budgets of the three other western provinces in the coming weeks.
The Canada West Foundation focuses on the policies that shape the West’s quality of life. For more than 40 years, we have been a passionate advocate for western Canada.