Reiter Defends Saskatchewan's Rising Deficit Amid Higher Oil Prices

Saskatchewan's finance minister, Jim Reiter, defended the province's rising deficit on the Evan Bray Show. The deficit is currently at $800 million, and while an additional $331 million in revenue has been attributed to higher oil prices, it will go towards regular operating funds.

The minister explained that Saskatchewan's economy relies less heavily on oil production compared to Alberta, which produces massive amounts of oil. This difference contributes to the disparity in provincial treasuries between the two.

Healthcare expenses played a significant role in offsetting the additional revenue, with pressures on doctors' costs and collective bargaining agreements contributing to the deficit. Reiter emphasized that affordability was the top priority for this year's budget, citing income tax cuts and measures such as the Active Families Benefit.