Budget to axe 1,436 public-sector jobs.
EDMONTON – Today (Feb. 27), the UCP dropped a bomb on working Albertans, including over 97,000 Alberta Union of Provincial Employees (AUPE) members, with the release of the 2020-21 budget. It’s set to axe an estimated 1,436 public-sector jobs and reduce overall operating funding for crucial public services by $813-million.
“Just two days ago the UCP said they were obsessed with creating jobs, now we’re seeing them kill more good, full-time positions,” said AUPE President Guy Smith.
“I’ve never seen a more two-faced government in power. Premier Kenney says he’s for Albertans, but the reality is he’s only for big business. He’s given a $4.7-billion tax break to some of the same corporations that are laying off workers and short-changing rural communities by not paying their property taxes, and asking everyday people to pick up the tab.”
According to budget 2020, public-sectors worker’s compensation will take an estimated $610-million hit. This includes an estimated $212-million cut from Alberta Health Service’s (AHS) compensation and a $138-million cut from compensation for provincial government service workers.
“The UCP have been abusing the power of the state since they got into office. Budget 2020 is one more example of this. If AUPE members and other Albertans were already angry, this is sure to make them angrier.”
For more information:
Alexander Delorme, Communications: 780-264-9274