Beginning Jan. 13, Wild Rose MP Blake Richards will hold a series of pre-budget consultation meetings across his constituency to seek public input for the federal government’s 2014 budget.
“My top priority is to ensure that the wishes of people in our constituency are heard,” said Richards.
“I have held these pre-budget consultations each year since I was first elected in 2008. The suggestions I gather help me provide input directly to the finance minister and Prime Minister Stephen Harper.”
Constituents are also encouraged to provide their insights and priorities at any of the nine community office hours regularly scheduled each month, at Richards’ main constituency office in Airdrie, or by emailing [email protected].
In addition to broader input, Richards is seeking specific direction from constituents.
“Our government is deeply committed to continuing to focus on job creation, economic growth and returning to a balanced budget in 2015,” said Richards, “To achieve these goals I am seeking direction from constituents in four specific areas.”
These include:
1. While Canada is still doing better than many other countries, we are still vulnerable to economic shocks from beyond our borders. Are there measures we can take to strengthen our economy in the face of global economic threats?
2. Canada is on track to balance the federal budget in 2015. In this context, are there any cost-neutral or low-cost measures the government can introduce in order to bolster Canada’s economy and position our nation to compete and prosper over the long-term?
3. Last year’s budget included a number of measures to ensure Canada’s finances remain on a sustainable track. In what other areas should we look for more efficient and effective spending?
4. How can our government further encourage private sector growth and leadership in the economy?
· Canmore: Town council chambers (902-7th Ave.) Jan. 13, 6-7:30 p.m.
· Cochrane: Cochrane Toyota Community Room (#8 River Heights Dr.) Jan. 14 6-7:30 p.m.
· Airdrie: Cam Clark Ford Board Room (1001 Highland Park Blvd. NE) Jan. 15, 6 to 7:30 p.m.
· Olds: Town Council Chambers (4512-46 St.) Jan. 16, 6-7:30 p.m.
