The 2012 Throne Speech outlines the direction to be taken by the provincial government over the next four years to protect and build on gains and create a stable and prosperous economy, says Premier Robert Ghiz.
“The Throne Speech identifies a course of action towards economic growth and stability, an educated workforce, and a sustainable health care system,” said the Premier. “Over the next four years, we will build on the significant progress we have made since 2007 in health, education and infrastructure, and we will strengthen our focus on improving health and education outcomes and return on these investments.”
The Speech outlines four priority areas: economic growth, fiscal balance, education and health.
Economic growth -- A strengthened economic development strategy will focus on private sector job creation, export development and return on government investments. A renewed focus on private sector growth will see employment levels increase from 72,000 to 75,000 jobs and a rise in the provincial GDP from $5.3 billion to $6 billion.
Fiscal balance -- A multi-year plan will return the province to fiscal balance and economic stability. The provincial government is seeking a removal of the ceiling on equalization.
Education -- Investments in education will continue to focus on enabling Islanders to participate fully in a knowledge society and a global economy. Priorities will include student achievement, post-secondary education and skills development.
Health -- Measures will be taken to ensure that health care remains accessible and affordable by realigning health services and improving the use of existing health resources.
Among several other measures announced in the Speech are the introduction of Prince Edward Island’s first Social Action Plan, a provincial wellness strategy, measures to improve mental health and addictions services, and the creation of one English school board.
The Throne Speech is available on the provincial government website at www.gov.pe.ca/thronespeech.
Backgrounder: New Throne Speech Initiatives
• A revamped economic strategy with a renewed focus on private sector growth, jobs, exports and a better return on investments
• Increased employment with a goal of 75,000 jobs and GDP of $6 billion by 2016
• Population growth to 150,000 by 2022
• Return to fiscal balance through a combination of revenue and expenditure measures
• Conversion of a number of public facilities across the Island to biomass heating
• An independent review of current land ownership policies
• Request for proposals to determine private interest in the four provincial golf courses
• The establishment of one English school board
• Adoption of all student achievement recommendations in the 2012 Education Governance Commission report
• Implementation of a wellness strategy to promote population health
• An independent expert review of mental health and addiction services
• The establishment of Prince Edward Island’s first Social Action Plan this spring
• Legislative committee to review the role of the Senate