B.C. government handling its finances responsibly

Editor: It is easy to support the B.C. government’s 2017 budget not only from what has been presented recently, but from the consistent and prudent record that government has demonstrated for many years.

Clearly the intention of this government is to handle yours and my taxes in a way which would lead to paying down our debt and maintaining B.C.’s excellent credit rating ñ all the while understanding the need to responsibly act on the needs of the people of B.C. when fiscally able to do so.

One prime example stated in the budget is the intention to eliminate the MSP premiums when B.C. is fiscally capable of doing so. I applaud the prudent first step of reducing the premium by 50 per cent at the beginning of 2018. I also applaud the committed plans to address social support, improve public education and ensure economic development is broadened even further.

It takes courage to bring down a budget like the one just presented in light of the uncertainty the world faces today. It also takes very prudent planning for today looking forward to ensure we do not head towards greater debt in the near future. This government continues to ensure that we do not go too far too fast, while monitoring external influences that may create issues which can be addressed far more effectively with the planned surplus, should the need arise.

What is gratefully recognized is how we got to the point where we can afford to do this. This government resisted the temptation to get us further in debt by handing out cash and getting us further in debt. As a result of our AAA rating, we taxpayers are less burdened by larger interest payments on our debt. Thus money is freed up to benefit us all. Thank you.

I look forward to this government getting re-elected so this prudence and good planning will continue to benefit all of B.C.

Jim Edgson, Vernon