December is a festive month full of gatherings with family and friends, community events, celebrations and at the end we ring in 2020!
Your government continues to move ahead on its pledge to Albertans in reducing the deficit. Budget 2019 acts on our first priority—getting Albertans back to work—through our Job Creation Tax Cut, the elimination of the carbon tax, and efforts to reduce red tape. These steps are necessary to bring investment back to our province, bring back jobs and grow our economy with the goal of generating revenues that can be invested in our public services.
There is still much work to be done and the government has made the decision to modestly reign in spending by 2.8 percent over four years. This will allow us to address inefficiencies by implementing best practices and innovative solutions as we move forward.
We are also delivering on our commitment to improve the employability of our youth by increasing funding to CAREERS: the Next Generation. This program will double the number of schools where this program is provided. Students in 550 high schools and 400 junior highs will now have access to apprenticeship and hands on learning programs in areas such as technology and the trades. Over the next five years, nearly 20,000 skilled workers are expected to retire, and this program will help fill that gap.
A few of my December traditions are to attend the Calgary Nativity Pageant which is held every year at Heritage Park. It runs from December 19 to 24, 2019 featuring actors and live animals. I also love the annual Calgary Community Menorah Lighting which takes place this year on December 23 at 5:30pm at Calgary City Hall Atrium. I hope to see many of you over the holiday season. I wish you and your families a happy holiday season and all the best in 2020.
Whitney Issik, MLA Calgary-Glenmore
