Independent analysis shows that attempts to balance the budget too quickly would dramatically magnify job losses

Edmonton – The Alberta Federation of Labour is releasing an independent analysis showing the impact that austerity budgeting would have on the province.

Over the past year, right-wing politicians have vowed they would balance the budget and roll back taxes. On Thursday, February 18, the Alberta Federation of Labour released a report that analyses what it would mean for the province if these proposals were enacted.

“This isn’t the time to add to Alberta’s unemployment by hack-and-slash budgeting,” Alberta Federation of Labour president Gil McGowan said. “Laying off teachers and nurses won’t bring back jobs lost in the energy sector; it will only mean more unemployed Albertans. The austerity prescriptions offered by the Wild Rose and the PCs won’t end the recession; they’ll make it worse.”

What: Release of analysis that models outcomes of right-wing budget proposals on Alberta’s economy and labour market

Who: Alberta Federation of Labour president Gil McGowan

Where: Prism Room, 2nd floor, Matrix Hotel 10640 100 Ave NW, Edmonton

When: 1 p.m., Thursday, February 18

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MEDIA CONTACT:

Olav Rokne, Communications Director, Alberta Federation of Labour at 780.218.4351 (cell) or via e-mail orokne@afl.org

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