Prince Edward Islanders are being asked for their views on the upcoming provincial budget, says Finance, Energy and Municipal Affairs Minister Wes Sheridan.

“We want to hear from Islanders about how they believe government should address the fiscal challenges of 2012 while continuing to deliver high quality public services,” said Mr. Sheridan. “The government has already announced that spending will be reduced as we move to a balanced budget in the coming years, so it is important that Islanders share their thoughts on budget issues.”

Islanders are invited to participate in one of three ways. They can attend one of four pre-budget consultations held in February, fill out an online questionnaire or send a written submission.

The online questionnaire is available at www.gov.pe.ca/budgetsubmissions and will provide valuable feedback as government proceeds with its fiscal planning for the 2012-13 budget.

Individuals, corporations, community groups and associations who wish to take part in pre-budget consultation sessions must register by telephoning (902) 620-3679 prior to Monday, January 30. All consultations are held from 2 to 4 p.m. as follows:

∙ Monday, February 6, O’Leary;

∙ Tuesday, February 7, Montague;

∙ Wednesday, February 8, Summerside; and

∙ Tuesday, February 14, Charlottetown.

Written submissions can be sent prior to 4 p.m. Tuesday, February 14, to the Minister of Finance, Energy and Municipal Affairs through email budgetsubmissions@gov.pe.ca or by mail to the following address:

Minister of Finance, Energy and Municipal Affairs

Shaw Building Second Floor South

95 Rochford Street

PO Box 2000, Charlottetown PE C1A 7N8

“I look forward to hearing from Islanders as we continue to address the fiscal challenges we face,” said Mr. Sheridan.