LEGISLATURE PASSES THRONE SPEECH

Speech Includes Historic Commitments to Tax Deduction, Debt Reduction

The government's 2008 Throne Speech was passed today in the Saskatchewan Legislature by a vote of 36 to 19. Government MLAs supported the Throne Speech while Opposition MLAs voted against it.

This year's Throne Speech outlines a number of historic commitments, including:
• the largest income tax reduction in Saskatchewan history;
• the largest commitment to debt reduction in Saskatchewan;
• the largest commitment to infrastructure in Saskatchewan history;
• the largest increase in the Seniors Income Plan for low-income seniors in Saskatchewan history;
• a new Low Income Tax Credit to assist low-income individuals and families; and
• improvements to the Graduate Retention Program designed to keep more young people in Saskatchewan and attract more young people to the province.

In addition to these measures, the government has already acted on several measures to make a better life for Saskatchewan people, including:
• a $76.9 million investment to end the current waiting list for residential, day and specialized programs for people with intellectual disabilities;
• enhanced services and supports for Saskatchewan children with autism;
• off-setting increases to home heating allowances for clients of the Provincial Training Allowance and Transitional Employment Allowance; and
• an increase of five cents per kilometre in the mileage rate under the Saskatchewan Assistance Program. From now on, social assistance mileage rates will be reviewed semi-annually.

Premier Brad Wall said the Throne Speech sets a direction that will create a stronger Saskatchewan and a better life for Saskatchewan people.

"Our government is working to continue Saskatchewan's strong economic momentum and to make sure everyone shares in the benefits of our growing economy," Wall said. "This Throne Speech outlines our government's direction for the next year and includes many measures that will have a positive impact on the lives of Saskatchewan people."

To see all of the measures outlined in the 2008 Throne Speech visit www.gov.sk.ca.

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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