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Government must find ways to reinvest in public services, says PEIUPSE

"This budget falls short of reinvesting in public services that Islanders depend on. However, if there is a silver lining, it’s that Government has shown some restraint in curtailing further austerity." - Debbie Bovyer, PEIUPSE President.

Charlottetown (02 April 2013) – Debbie Bovyer, President of the Prince Edward Island Union of Public Sector Employees (PEIUPSE/NUPGE) said, "The 2013 provincial budget fails to reinvest in public services that were cut in 2012. Last year the province cut every department except Health by three per cent and approximately 400 public service employees received layoff notices.”

President Bovyer continued saying "this budget falls short of reinvesting in public services that Islanders depend on. However, if there is a silver lining, it’s that Government has shown some restraint in curtailing further austerity. I think they are being somewhat mindful about the effects further cuts would have on the economy.”

Going forward, President Bovyer urges the PEI government to make the provision of public services their number one priority. “Islanders want to see a return on their investment. Our tax dollars pay for our roads and highways, hospitals, schools, mental health programs, environmental protection and countless other important services that maintain our quality of life.”

“In regard to Minister Sheridan’s mention of the provincial pension plan, I want to assure our members that no decisions have been made in consultation with Government and other unions regarding a move to a “shared risk” format. We are confident that a solution regarding the long term health of the plan can be found that doesn’t involve major changes to the pension and continues to best meet the needs of the members.”

NUPGE
The National Union of Public and General Employees (NUPGE) is one of Canada's largest labour organizations with over 340,000 members. Our mission is to improve the lives of working families and to build a stronger Canada by ensuring our common wealth is used for the common good. NUPGE