Ontario Sets Budget Date for March 28

Charles Sousa, Minister of Finance, announced today that he will deliver the 2018 Ontario Budget on March 28. The Budget will outline the government’s plan to create more fairness and opportunity for everyone and help families manage the costs of caring for their loved ones.

In order to invest more in hospitals, mental health, long-term care and child care across the province, Ontario is choosing to run a deficit.

Minister Sousa made the announcement during a speech to the Economic Club of Canada in Toronto, and provided an update on Ontario’s economic outlook and fiscal plan.

The province has exceeded its fiscal targets every year since the recession, and is forecasting a surplus in 2017-18. Since 2014, Ontario’s economy has outperformed all G7 nations, and the unemployment rate is at its lowest level in nearly two decades.

While Ontario’s economic growth is strong relative to other jurisdictions, the government recognizes that it must take further action to bolster growth and ensure more people and families have opportunities to get ahead.

The 2018 Budget will outline a path to return to balance, building on the province’s long track record of strong fiscal management.