AIMS AND PRINCIPLES
The P.C. Party of New Brunswick
At a policy convention held in Saint John, in april of 1998, members of the New Brunswick Progressive Conservative party adopted the following statement of aims and principles:
1. The Will of the People
We believe that government is an extension of the will of the people; therefore, we must answer to the people for the responsibilities which we accept. We will consult with New Brunswickers on public policy matters before implementing solutions.
2. New Brunswick and Canada
We strive to build and preserve a prosperous, united New Brunswick within a prosperous, united Canada.
3. Equality of the Two Linguistic Communities
We believe the diversity of our two linguistic communities is a unique strength of our province. We believe in official bilingualism, and that we must protect and promote our cultures and heritage, while treating each community with fairness and justice.
4. The Individual
We respect the rights of the individual, but are mindful of the responsibilities which those rights demand. It is by accepting their responsibility and acting on their own initiatives that individuals will achieve their full potential.
5. Free Enterprise
The creation of prosperity can best be achieved by a free enterprise economy.
6. Living Within Our Means
As managers of the public accounts, we must fulfill our fiscal and economic objectives: a diversified economy which will maximize employment in all regions, and a fiscal plan which will enhance essential programs while minimizing taxation.
7. Access to Education and Health Care
The strength of our province is derived from our ability to educate our citizens and to encourage a healthy lifestyle so that they may fulfill their potential, and by our ability to provide care for New Brunswickers when they are in need.
8. Social Policies Which Promote Individual Responsibility
Our social programs should ensure dignified and meaningful lives for those who need assistance, but also recognize the importance of providing the support and resources necessary for an environment in which New Brunswickers can work together, be self-reliant and take responsibility for their own lives.
9. Protection of the Environment
We must ensure that economic growth and resource development take place in an environmentally sustainable manner and that decisions taken reflect the shared role of government, business, and individuals as stewards of the environment for the current and future generations.
10. An Open, Accessible Party