EDMONTON — Alberta Chambers of Commerce (ACC) President and CEO Ken Kobly released the following statement on Alberta Budget 2022:

"Despite tough economic times, Alberta's business community continues to prioritize a balanced budget. Throughout the fiscal strain of the pandemic and commodity price collapse, our market research has shown this support has stayed strong.

"I'm pleased to see that today's budget delivers on this priority. By exercising fiscal restraint now, Alberta will be better positioned to weather the inevitable economic challenges of the future. And this budget isn't balanced on one sector alone; its strength lies in progress towards economic recovery across industries.

"While this is a restrained fiscal plan, we do see some notable investments. Budget 2022 invests in rural broadband, training for in-demand skills, and improved labour market information—key priorities not just for our network, but for Alberta's continued economic recovery.

"With a balanced budget, there is still work to be done to solidify Alberta's economic footing. A comprehensive review of our province's revenues is in order, particularly as we continue on the path of diversifying our economy. Such a review would complement the MacKinnon Report on Alberta's finances, providing a more complete fiscal picture and helping to target finite provincial resources."

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