Page Content
Alberta residents have until Feb. 3 to provide online feedback as the provincial government gathers input in preparation for its 2017 budget.
Alberta Teachers’ Association president Mark Ramsankar is encouraging members to participate.
“It’s important that teachers’ voices be part of this process as we have a unique front-line perspective on government funding in action,” he said.
As the Association and government continue to bargain at the central table, Ramsankar was careful to avoid laying out a specific budgetary wish list.
“We must allow negotiations to continue without interference, but I know teachers would like to see the upcoming budget continue to fund enrolment growth while providing more support for inclusion in our complex classrooms,” he said.
Throughout January, Finance Minister Joe Ceci held several meetings with community leaders and the public while visiting towns and cities around the province. As low global oil prices continue to have a profound impact on Alberta’s finances, the government is projecting a $10.8 billion deficit for 2016–17.
The website that’s been set up to gather input contains some parameters.
“To help us prepare the upcoming budget, we want to hear your priorities and ideas on how to best meet Albertans’ needs without increasing costs or affecting front-line services,” it states.
