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Shaping the Future proposes a plan for the province's long-term financial security. Debt reduction is an element of this plan. Our debt now costs Nova Scotians $1 billion a year to service. How important is debt reduction, and the consequent reduction in these debt-servicing costs, to the future of Nova Scotia. Would you say it is: (check one)
Critically important
Important but not critical
Not very important
Not important at all
The long-term financial plan proposed in Shaping the Future is based on the province's ability to consistently balance its budget and eventually run a surplus -- that is, take in more money than it spends. Which of the following should be the highest priority when those surplus funds are allocated: (Rate each: 1 - highest priority; 2 - lower priority; 3 - lowest priority)
Reduce the debt and debt-service costs
Spend more on government programs
Reduce taxes paid by Nova Scotia businesses and individuals
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This plan proposes a law that would force governments, present and future, to live within their means. As long as the law is on the books, government spending would be restricted to government income. Borrowing to pay for programs and services would not be an option. Do you favour or oppose such a law? (Check one)
Favour
Oppose
In order to maintain a balanced budget, and run a surplus, the government may need to become smaller and more efficient. To what extent do you believe it is possible to further reduce the size and cost of government before these reductions substantially harm programs and services. Do you think there can be:
(check one)
Significant reductions
Moderate reductions
minor reductions (see question 4a)
No further reductions (see question 4a)
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Would your opinion change if health and education were excluded from these reductions?
No
Yes
Partnerships between the public and private sector may be one way to reduce the cost of providing some government services. Would you support greater private sector involvement in providing the following: (indicate yes or no for each)
Yes No
Corrections
School bus service
Non-medical hospital serves
Parks
Transportation (toll roads)
No opinion
or
Other (please explain)
One way to reduce the cost of government, pay off some debt and reduce debt payments is to sell provincially-owned assets. Would you favour or oppose the sale of the following provincial assets: (indicate yes or no for each)
Yes No
The Nova Scotia Liquor Commission
The Halifax-Dartmouth bridges
Provincial office buildings
Crown-owned forest land
Loan agencies of government
No opinion
or
Other (please explain)
Tax reductions to stimulate economic growth and make Nova Scotia more competitive are a central element of the government's proposed long-term financial plan. Which one do you believe would be better for Nova Scotia's economy: (check one)
Reducing business taxes to stimulate investment, create jobs and improve our
competitive position; or
Reducing personal taxes (income, sales taxes) to stimulate spending and consumer
confidence.
Both equally important.
Tax reductions would have no impact on job creation.
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How confident are you that the government of Nova Scotia can:
(1 - not at all confident; 2 - not very confident;
3 - somewhat confident; 4 - very confident)
1 2 3 4
Maintain a balanced budget
Lower taxes to promote economic growth, job creation
Secure the future of important public services