For immediate release: Feb. 26, 2003

EDMONTON – The $1.8-billion 2002-2003 provincial surplus estimate announced by the government this morning clearly demonstrates that Alberta can afford fair settlements for provincial employees and adequate funding for programs important to Albertans, says the president of the Alberta Union of Provincial Employees.

"AUPE has members in health care, education and employed directly by the government who are in negotiations at the present time, and who are concerned about the future of the important services that they provide for the people of Alberta," said AUPE President Dan MacLennan.

"Today’s announcement by the province demonstrates clearly that Alberta can afford to give these employees settlements they deserve, and to properly fund and enhance the important programs they deliver," MacLennan said.

The province published its third-quarter financial report this morning, which stated that the province now expects a $1.8-billion surplus in 2002-2003 – $1 billion higher than originally forecast.

"Our members in the education and health sectors see the effects of programs being under-funded every day," MacLennan said. "It’s time to implement policies that do not reflect the strongest economy in Canada and the fastest growing population."

"Albertans expect their provincial government to manage the economy responsibly and prudently," he said. "But that means recognizing that the population is growing rapidly and services have to be maintained and increased to meet the growing demand."

MacLennan will be in Lethbridge today for meetings with AUPE members. He will be available by cellular phone – 780-910-83292 – and in person in Lethbridge to comment for media on the provincial announcement.

For more information, please contact:
Dan MacLennan, President, AUPE, 780-930-3301 or 780-910-8392 (cellular phone)
David Climenhaga, Communications Director, AUPE, 780-930-3311 or 780-717-2943 (cellular phone)