REGINA: Nearly 7,300 Saskatchewan residents have signed a Canadian Taxpayers Federation (CTF) petition calling on Premier Calvert to balance the budget over four years without raising taxes. Since the January 15 launch of the "No Tax Hikes!" campaign, petitions have been pouring in at a rate of more than 100 per day.

"The overwhelming response to our campaign shows that people are sick and tired of this government's inability to manage the province's finances," said CTF Saskatchewan director David MacLean. "These 7,300 people are sending a clear message to the premier that the status quo is not on, that government must tighten its own belt before going to taxpayers for more money."

Saskatchewan's spending is out of control. Since 1999, government spending has grown 22 per cent faster than revenues. This spending splurge has continued while the population of Saskatchewan has declined.

At the same time, revenues are soaring. Total government revenues have increased by $1.4 billion (22 per cent) since 1998. Under Premier Calvert's watch, the province's debt has increased by $1.5 billion (19 per cent).

"This government is enjoying soaring revenues, yet they still cry poverty," said MacLean. "They have an amazing ability to spend more than every penny they collect from taxpayers."

Health Care, BSE not to blame
According to the Provincial Auditor, $480 million was spent on the crop insurance program in 2003, and $115 million on fire suppression. Had government spending been tied to inflation since 1997, we would currently be enjoying an $938 million surplus, or a rainy day fund worth $5.4 billion - even after you factor in increases in health spending. Responsible fiscal management over the last seven years would have provide more than enough of a fiscal cushion to address the drought conditions and the BSE crisis.

Since 2001 (the last surplus year), health spending has increased by $335 million - an increase of 15 per cent.

"Health is a big challenge for the province, but blaming the province's deficit on health spending is disingenuous," said MacLean. "All provinces face the health crunch, but most have balanced budgets."

"This government can not lay blame for their situation on anyone but themselves," said MacLean.