New Brunswick.

• Author: Myles, Diane Taylor
• Position: Legislative Reports

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During the first six weeks of the spring sitting of the New Brunswick Legislature, the government introduced the 2009-2010 budget; a number of Bills were introduced, the Law Amendments Committee tabled a report following public consultation, Members reaffirmed their support for New Brunswick's principles of linguistic equality, and the House welcomed a new Member.

Budget

The Third Session of the Fifty-Sixth Legislature, adjourned on December 19, 2008, resumed March 17, 2009, when Finance Minister Victor Boudreau delivered his third budget address stating: "Today's budget builds on the initial plan that the government announced in December to respond to the prevailing economic and fiscal climate facing the province and to position our economy for recovery and growth."

The budget focused on a five-point plan to provide Leadership for a Stronger Economy. Key elements: four-year plan to return to balanced budgets; $1.2 billion for infrastructure and support for businesses; The Plan for Lower Taxes in New Brunswick--a record one-time tax reduction plan that is a vital part of the government's long-term economic development strategy for job creation, economic growth and competitiveness; investing in priorities including health and education-preserving the social safety net for New Brunswickers; and, responsible management of government expenditures.

A $65 million increase for the Department of Health includes support for the prescription drug program and hospital services; integrated provincial trauma system; long-term care services; nursing homes; home support agencies; poverty reduction; child welfare; and grant-funded children's residential facilities.

The budget includes an $8 million investment toward the cost of building infrastructure to deliver highspeed Internet to those who do not currently have access.

An additional $4.7 million is budgeted for Crown land silviculture.

The Finance Minister noted that spending pressures continue to increase; the impact of weakened market returns on the provincial pension expense and the increased costs of delivering social programs are major factors affecting the province's spending plan. For 2009-2010, spending will be $7.838 billion.

In his response to the budget address during the second of six days of debate, Official Opposition Leader David Alward stated:

This is a government that has lost its way. A home heating plan, which not only took away people's dignity but which was...