Expense

Response to the COVID-19 pandemic

Alberta’s government provided unprecedented funding for COVID-19 related expenditures, including treatment, testing and contact tracing, support for self-isolation, masks to Albertans, and funds for schools to purchase personal protective equipment. In 2020-21, the government spent more than $5.8 billion to address the COVID-19 pandemic and economic recovery. A further $3.1 billion is budgeted in 2021-22 for economic recovery, and an additional $1.25 billion to ensure the health care system and other crucial areas remain adequately resourced.

Alberta’s Recovery Plan

Alberta’s Recovery Plan is a framework for restoring economic prosperity and was the first of its kind in the country when it was released in June 2020. As part of the recovery plan, the government is providing strategic support to business sectors including tourism, film and television, aviation and manufacturing. In addition to ministry funding, a contingency of $500 million has been established in 2021-22 to support the recovery effort.

Expense summary

In 2021-22, operating expense is increasing by $1 billion from the 2020-21 forecast. This is because demand for regular government services is starting to pick up again after slowing down as a result of earlier public health restrictions. Operating expense remains relatively flat over the next 2 years as the government returns the focus to efficient delivery of government programs and services.

Table 1. Budget 2021 Operating expense by ministry (billions of dollars – totals may not add due to rounding)