Prince George, B.C.- Later this afternoon, the Select Standing Committee on Finance and Government Services will hold a public consultation in Prince George.

"We need to find a way to strengthen the provincial economy while protecting the services that matter most to British Columbians" says Chilliwack MLA John Les, Finance Committee chair. "There are many factors which put B.C. in an excellent position to come out of the economic downturn and we need to make the most of this opportunity. The goal of the committee's public consultation is to meet with the various communities and give taxpayers a chance to provide insight on how we can maintain B.C.'s competitive edge and build on our provinces economic advantages."

"Community input is very important in determining the direction of our budget and the services we are delivering," says Prince George-Valemount MLA Shirley Bond. "It is so critical that the views of Northern residents are included in this process. The hearing isn't the only way to participate.  I encourage people to go to the website and provide input there as well."

The Select Standing Committee on Finance and Government Services will hold its public hearing, this afternoon from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. in the Skylight Ballroom at the Ramada Hotel.

The Prince George consultation is one of 13 hearings being held by the all-party committee.

 
The public is encouraged to attend the consultation meetings in their region or submit written response by letter or email. Written responses can be sent to: Select Standing Committee on Finance and Government Services, Room 224, Parliament Buildings, Victoria, British Columbia, V8V 1X4 and email response can be sent to financecommittee@leg.bc.ca.