The first budget I am tabling as Minister of Finance is guided by a commitment to discipline and transparency. It addresses the challenges of today’s Québec. It is an investment in our children’s future. Our budget contains well-defined priorities, laid out in six points.

• First, we are recognizing the value of work by reducing taxes for the middle class.
• Second, by gradually eliminating the tax on capital, we are promoting private investment to create jobs in all regions.
• Third, we are renovating our schools and hospitals and repairing our roads.
• Fourth, we are making a determined effort to pay down the debt.
• Fifth, we are making our administration a model of transparency.
• Sixth, we are continuing to modernize government and refocus it on its fundamental missions─health and education.

With this approach, we are addressing the main priorities of Quebecers. We are not only preparing our children’s future, but also improving the quality of life of their parents and grandparents.

With this budget, we are changing the course of things. We are taking up the most demanding challenges in order to ensure ourselves a better life and to leave our children the legacy of a more prosperous future.

In short, this budget is a budget of hope.

Monique JÉRÔME-FORGET

Minister of Finance
Minister of Government Services
Minister responsible for Government Administration
Chair of the Conseil du trésor