N.B. legislature opens with throne speech focused on education, economy

Exterior view of the New Brunswick legislature in Fredericton on Saturday, June 7, 2003. (CP / Andrew Vaughan)

FREDERICTON -- The New Brunswick government reiterated its intent to focus on economic growth and education in the latest speech from the throne, promising to implement the first year of its 10-year education plan.

Lt.-Gov. Jocelyne Roy Vienneau delivered the speech as the legislature reconvened for the fall sitting Wednesday.

The government promised to increase the amount provided to New Brunswickers to help pay for daycare, though no specifics were included.

It also pledged to increase opportunities for students to learn coding and trades, and to enhance opportunities for adult learners to study a second language.

The speech repeated promises made earlier this year to provide free tuition to students from low-income families and to reintroduce French immersion in Grade 1 starting next September.

Additionally, the government pledged to focus on improved economic growth by extending the home energy assistance plan, supporting low- and middle-income families through the provincial HST credit, and promoting locally produced food and beverage consumption.