Consultations Begin on 2011-12 Budget

Finance Minister Graham Steele is asking Nova Scotians for their views on the province's path back to balance and living within its means.

Pre-budget consultations are taking place around the province until the end of February.

"Public input formed the backbone of our four-year Back to Balance plan, so it is important to check back with Nova Scotians to see if we're still on the right path," said Mr. Steele. "We're making progress, but there are still some tough decisions ahead before the province's finances are balanced and sustainable."

An online presentation provides the information being shared in face-to-face meetings. Participants can view a short video and submit comments confidentially to the minister.

"The more information people have, the better discussions can take place," said Mr. Steele. "So with these online tools, no matter where somebody is, they will have a way to get background information, and to make their views known to me. I will personally read every written submission."

Almost 1,500 Nova Scotians across 22 communities took part in the Back to Balance consultations last year, and close to 1,000 written submissions were received. This input was used to develop the four-year Back to Balance plan incorporated into the 2010-11 budget.

This year's pre-budget consultation tour will cover every region of the province, including the Annapolis Valley, Yarmouth, Digby, Truro, Pictou County, Sydney, the Strait Area, Cumberland County, Shelburne and meetings in Halifax Regional Municipality. Guysborough and Lunenburg counties had meetings earlier this month.

Nova Scotians can view the budget update and submit comments to the Back to Balance website at www.backtobalance.ca .