The official opposition criticizes the Sask Party government for not restoring all of the $54-million cut from education in last year’s budget, with the reinstatement of $30-million.
NDP finance critic Cathy Sproule says Saskatchewan people are paying more and getting less.
Municipalites and their ratepayers will be on the hook for cuts in infrastructure spending and changes to grants in lieu for government offices.
However, the NDP is pleased the Sask Party followed through on the official opposition’s lobby to fund HIV medication and support for children with autism.
Saskatoon’s Mayor feels the province listened to municipalities after concerns were raised last year with the cut of grants-in-lieu of taxes funding from Crown Corporations.
Charlie Clark says the City lost over $11-million with no previous consultation, but with this budget, will get close to $6-million back with the restoration of the SaskEnergy surcharge.
He emphasizes there will be no increase in energy bills.
The Canadian Taxpayers Federation gives the provincial budget a thumbs up.
Prairie director of the CTF, Todd McKay applauds that spending is down by 1.4 per cent.
One area of concern is the promised cuts to personal income taxes being suspended, which will cost taxpayers about $120-million this year.
The North Saskatoon Business Association is encouraged that the province is working toward a balanced budget.
Executive Director Keith Moen says they would like to see the establishment of a rainy day fund when resource revenue bounces back, which would help the government be better prepared in challenging years.
The Saskatchewan Heavy Construction Association is glad to see that Highways and Infrastructure projects promised previously haven’t been curtailed.
SHCA president Shantel Lipp says to continue to grow the economy and get products to market, the investments in roads and highways need to be maintained and given the deficit situation the province is in, maintaining these commitments is a good thing.
The Saskatchewan Foster Families Association welcomes the funding increase for foster parents and family-based caregivers in the provincial budget.
The Social Services budget includes a $982-thousand increase.
SFFA Executive Director Deb Davies says the need for foster homes in this province is high, despite efforts to raise awareness, and they will continue to work closely with the ministry to encourage foster family retention.
