EDMONTON: Alberta government spending on programs this past fiscal year (ending March 31, 2001) was 14% higher adjusted for inflation than in 1991-92 under Don Getty, according to the Canadian Taxpayers Federation (CTF).

In 1991-92, the Getty administration spent $11.5 billion on health, education, social services, infrastructure and other programs, when Alberta's population was 2.6 million. In 2000-01, the Klein government spent $18.2 billion on programs for a population of 3 million. In 2000 constant dollars, the Getty administration in 1991-92 spent $5,319 per Albertan on programs, in contrast to the Klein administration's $6,072 in 2000-01.

After accounting for inflation, this amounts to a 14% increase per capita, in real terms.

"This government must control its spending to avoid a repeat of the Getty years," stated John Carpay, CTF-Alberta director. "Ultimately, program spending is what drives taxation. Albertans have clearly indicated that they want debt repayment and tax cuts, not increased spending," added Carpay.

"It's time for this government to focus on spending better and smarter, rather than spending more."

Program spending in 2000-01 was lower than Don Getty's 1987-88 spending. Adjusted for inflation, per capita spending in 2000-01 was $6,072, compared to $7,094 in 1987-88.