The Chamber of Commerce for Greater Moncton believes the provincial government is finally on the right track in balancing the books.
After 10 years of deficit spending, CEO John Wishart is pleased the province is reining in New Brunswick’s debt and deficit.
“We’re relieved and encouraged that this government seems to get it. But it is important for the province to keep in mind – in terms of spending priorities – the difference between wants and needs,” he says.
When it comes to homelessness, Wishart notes how the province has cut funding for subsidized rents and the number of affordable housing units being developed over the next three years is not adequate.
He believes more balance in spending is needed going forward.
Wishart adds the Chamber will be preparing a brief for the finance minister in advance of the next provincial budget in March.
He expects it will contain items such as continued fiscal discipline and anything unlocking the potential of the private sector such as tax rates or fewer regulations.
