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Budget Consultations Asks What Choices You Would Make

Sept. 16, 2008

VICTORIA – British Columbians will be asked about the choices they would make for the next provincial budget, Finance Minister Colin Hansen announced today with the release of the 2008 Budget Consultation Paper.

“Our government’s commitment to fiscal responsibility has led to five consecutive balanced budgets,” said Hansen. “The advice of ordinary British Columbians and the recommendations of the Select Standing Committee will guide us as we build a budget that meets the needs of B.C. families and communities.”

The Budget Consultation Paper is being mailed to all B.C. households, with a questionnaire that invites British Columbians to express their ideas on choices that need to be made in developing the provincial budget. The questions in the budget paper are intended as a guide but comments on any budget topic or issue are welcomed.
 
The paper describes how British Columbians can provide input to the Select Standing Committee – at one of 17 public meetings, through an online survey, or by mailing the committee directly.

Hansen started the dialogue at the downtown Vancouver Simon Fraser University Campus, meeting with a group of public policy students. The students shared their thoughts on the 2009 budget with the minister during an informal discussion.

“B.C. students have valuable input and insight into the future of this province,” said Hansen. “It’s their future, and being able to hear directly from them was an inspiring way to start this consultation process.”

The paper is expected to start reaching households in late September, with distribution completed at the latest the second week in October. The budget paper can also be viewed online at www.leg.bc.ca/budgetconsultations.

Input can also be given by e-mail, phone, letter, fax or on the web:

For more information on the Select Standing Committee on Finance and Government Services, how to participate in the budget consultation process and public meeting dates, visit www.leg.bc.ca/budgetconsultations online. 
Budget Consultations Asks What Choices You Would Make
British Columbians will be asked about the choices they would make for the next provincial budget with the release of the 2008 Budget Consultation Paper.
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