EDMONTON, AB (November 25, 2011): Premier Alison Redford’s spending problem will soon put a dent in the pocket books of Albertans as she refuses to commit to not raising or introducing new taxes, the Wildrose Caucus said today.

After continuous references  by members of her government considering a PST or new health tax both recently and over the last two years, Redford told reporters on Wednesday that “nothing is off the table” when it comes to new revenues for the government. In response to a question from Wildrose Deputy Leader Paul Hinman in question period on Thursday, Redford continued to waffle when asked whether or not she plans to raise taxes: “I have discussed the fact that through public consultations we’ve been talking about what all of the revenue options could be available for the future.”

“Alberta should be the easiest jurisdiction in the world to balance the books, keep taxes low and to save for future generations,” Wildrose Leader Danielle Smith said.  “This government has a spending problem, not a revenue problem.  It is inexcusable for Ms. Redford to ask Albertans to foot the bill to finance her government’s reckless spending of taxpayers’ dollars.  The government should balance the budget the way Alberta’s families, farms and businesses have to do.”

Wildrose Finance Critic Rob Anderson said that the Redford government needs to stay out of the wallets of Albertans and focus spending on priority areas.

“The Redford government has sent the message loud and clear that she is committed to a Liberal tax-and-spend agenda by first mortgaging our children’s future by raiding our savings and racking up debt and now by openly speculating about new ways to tax Albertans.  It’s time for Alberta to have a government that can balance the budget and doesn’t spend billions on personal pay raises, new MLA offices, and wasteful carbon storage programs.”

The Wildrose Caucus stands for free enterprise, less government, increased personal freedom and democracy.

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For further information or to arrange an interview, media are invited to contact:

Evan Menzies

Communications Assistant, Wildrose Caucus

Ph: 780-904-4913