New Budget on April 22

Finance Minister Peter Christie today, April 20, announced he will introduce the government's 2004-05 budget in the Nova Scotia House of Assembly on Thursday, April 22, beginning at 2 p.m.

"This will be our third consecutive balanced budget," said Mr. Christie. "As promised, we will continue to invest in health care and education, which Nova Scotians tell us are their top priorities."

The minister said the government is facing difficult decisions in light of shortfalls in the federal budget last month and decreases in equalization funding from Ottawa. He confirmed that large scale public sector staff reductions is not an option the government will use to reduce expenses.

"This budget will protect our priorities, but it will also recognize our limitations," Mr. Christie said. "We are managing our available resources wisely, while still providing the much needed programs and services that Nova Scotians expect and deserve."