| July 8, 2010 Infrastructure Spending Up and Deficit Down CHILLIWACK – Chilliwack MLA John Les is applauding the Province’s efforts to reduce the deficit while continuing to move the local economy forward. “What’s important here is that we are not adding to the next generation’s debt load,” says Les. “Not only did the provincial deficit come in lower than anticipated, economic spending in our community continues to increase. Chilliwack is a perfect example of the Province’s smart spending. Infrastructure projects continue to improve our communities by creating more jobs for local residents. Just some of the major projects in Chilliwack over the past year include: • $7.4 million to the University of the Fraser Valley • $4.9 million for East &West Dyke upgrades • More than $5 million spent on Hwy 1 upgrades. • $1.63-million joint federal-provincial investment in JIBC • Three new modular classrooms to support full day kindergarten Compared to the previous fiscal year, government expenses rose by $1.1 billion, or 2.8 per cent, to support health care, education and other social services. Health care spending rose by $420 million for a record total of $15.5 billion, and education funding increased by $594 million for a record total of over $11 billion. Other social-service spending, including housing, income assistance and support for children and families in need, increased by $119 million in 2009-10. “The deficit is $1B less than anticipated, and that’s something in which our government can take great pride. B.C. is a leader in prudent fiscal management and we will continue to lead the country out of recession,” adds Les. The government's fiscal plan continues to project deficits in 2010-11, 2011-12 and 2012-13, before returning to balanced budgets by the 2013-14 fiscal year. Online versions of the public accounts and related documents can be found at the following link: http://www.fin.gov.bc.ca/OCG/pa/09_10/Pa09_10.htm. -30- | |
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