GOVERNMENT PUTTING MORE MONEY BACK IN THE HANDS OF SASKATCHEWAN PEOPLE

Premier Brad Wall today said Saskatchewan families and individuals will save thousands of dollars this year thanks to tax reductions and increased benefits introduced by their provincial government over the past year.

"It does cost a little more to live in places with a thriving economy like Saskatchewan, and that's why our government is taking steps to make life more affordable for everyone," Wall said. "The tax reductions and benefit increases we have introduced will put hundreds, even thousands of dollars back in the hands of Saskatchewan people this year."

Wall said a family of four with a $35,000 income will save $2,648 this year in combined tax reductions and benefit increases. A single parent with two school-aged children and a $35,000 income will save $2,888, while a senior couple with a $25,000 income will be $2,196 better off.

The government has introduced five key measures which together benefit all Saskatchewan people. These are:

• the largest income tax reduction in Saskatchewan history;
• an increased Low-Income Tax Credit;
• a new Active Families Benefit for children's activities;
• a significant increase in the Employment Supplement for low-income working parents; and
• more than doubling the Seniors Income Plan - the first increase in this benefit in 16 years.

"Everyone in Saskatchewan is contributing to our growing economy and everyone in Saskatchewan should benefit from our growing economy," Wall said. "Our government will continue to ease the tax burden on Saskatchewan residents and keep the province as affordable as possible while maintaining a balanced budget."

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For more information, contact:

Kathy Young
Executive Council
Regina
Phone: 306-787-0425
Email: kathy.young@gov.sk.ca
Cell: 306-526-8927