Finance Minister Wants Input for 2008-09 Budget

Finance Minister Michael Baker is encouraging Nova Scotians to provide input as the province prepares for the 2008-09 budget.

Mr. Baker today, Feb. 19, asked Nova Scotians to fill out an online survey that will help inform important budget decisions over the next several weeks. Written submissions will also be welcomed.

"This year's budget will involve some difficult choices," said Mr. Baker. "We simply won't be able to do all that we want to do. And that's why we'd like to hear from Nova Scotians on their priorities."

The 2008-09 budget will follow six balanced budgets. Mr. Baker said the province will look to balance the budget and reduce the debt.

"Those are things that are integral to the future of the province. Of course we want to invest in the programs and services that Nova Scotians rely on, but we also need to live and spend within our means."

The online survey will allow Nova Scotians to rank government priorities, and suggest how government should reduce spending and increase revenues.

Local and international economic challenges such as soft provincial revenues, the Canadian dollar, and high world oil prices pose significant risks for the province this year.

The online survey can be found on the Department of Finance website at www.gov.ns.ca/finance . A message from the minister is also available at the same site.

Written submissions can be mailed to:

2008-2009 Pre-Budget Submissions Minister of Finance P.O. Box 187 1723 Hollis St., Halifax, N.S. B3J 2N3

The deadline to participate is March 4.