Budget 2023-2024 Reflects Growth and Opportunity in NB

Budget 2023-2024 was tabled today, which outlines significant investments in priority areas including health, education, and supporting vulnerable populations, while also maintaining a sustainable and responsible approach to managing its finances.

“Our government is proud of the commitment we have made to being responsible with taxpayers’ money, and offering a balanced approach to spending on priorities, while ensuring a sustainable financial future,” said Finance and Treasury Board Minister Ernie Steeves. “Today’s budget builds on that foundation of delivering for New Brunswickers and investing in opportunities for growth and services that will support an increasing population."

For more information on the 2023-2024 budget, visit https://www2.gnb.ca/content/gnb/en/corporate/promo/budget.html?fbclid=IwAR2VCACZSLsvcnZ23TsoM5J1VRF0PT6QTFeIaZC_zXrhMlLlBcyoe4QMq0A

Applications for NB Medicare Cards Can Now Be Completed Online

Applications for New Brunswick medicare cards can now be completed online.

“Improving access to primary care is a pillar of New Brunswick’s Health Plan,” said Health Minister Bruce Fitch. “I am very pleased to see this new option available for New Brunswickers.”

To be eligible for New Brunswick medicare coverage the applicant must be:

-a Canadian citizen or legally entitled to remain in Canada and a resident who makes his/her permanent and principal home in New Brunswick; or -an international student who meets the eligibility criteria. -More information about eligibility is available online.

“We have discovered new ways of working over the last few years, harnessing technology like never before,” said Fitch. “I am certain these new ways will continue having a ripple effect in the community.”

Once an application and accompanying documentation has been received by medicare, it takes four to six weeks for processing. Those who have already submitted an application by mail, email or in person at a Service New Brunswick centre are asked not to submit a duplicate application online.

More information about medicare coverage in New Brunswick and further information on how to apply for a medicare card is available on the GNB website.

Funding for Roads and Fire Stations Announced Through Canada Community-Building Fund

The provincial and federal governments have announced $17.92 million for infrastructure projects, fire departments and municipalities with increased populations due to local governance reform that took effect Jan. 1.

“The Canada Community-Building Fund’s support of projects throughout our province has made New Brunswick a better place for all residents,” said Local Government and Local Governance Reform Minister Daniel Allain. “While this phase of the program is coming to an end, we look forward to partnering with the federal government on another round of projects.”

Infrastructure projects around the province will share $5.93 million; $6.75 million will be distributed among eligible local governments; and $5.24 million has been allocated for fire hall improvements or construction.

“Communities across New Brunswick are welcoming new residents, and our government is investing to ensure that their infrastructure keeps up with the pace of growth,” said federal Intergovernmental Affairs, Infrastructure and Communities Minister Dominic LeBlanc. “Better services, modernized infrastructure, more dynamic local economies – that is what we are delivering by working with our provincial and municipal partners.”

In the riding of Sussex-Fundy-St. Martins, the following projects will be funded:

-Resurfacing of Bloomfield Ridge Road South

-Resurfacing of Parleeville Road

-Construction of a new fire station for the Penobsquis Fire Department

Of the $6.75 million being distributed to local governments, the following will be distributed to our communities:

-Sussex: $4,586

-Fundy-St. Martins: $182,261

-Butternut Valley: $200,904

-Valley Waters: $110,657