In her annual state of the province address, Premier Susan Holt admitted 2025 was a year of uncertainty with threats of tariffs. She went on to highlight to the crowd in Fredericton her government’s achievements while not shying away from some areas for improvement.

“We know that health care and the economy are top of mind for New Brunswickers, and tonight’s speech drives home our commitment to improve outcomes for both,” said Holt. “While we are seeing progress in New Brunswickers’ ability to access care within five days, there is much more to be done on attachment to primary care. We will be adding more fuel to our plan, building on the foundation laid in 2025, adding more primary health-care professionals and opening more collaborative care clinics so that New Brunswickers can get the care they need.”

The provincial government had set a goal to increase the number of people in the province with access to a primary care doctor or nurse practitioner to 81% but it came in at 72.5%.

While speaking of the upcoming budget Holt warned that this is a time for difficult but necessary decisions.

“It’s no secret that we are facing major economic headwinds – especially in a tariff environment,” said Holt. “But there are also many growth opportunities at our fingertips, with our natural and human resources. The world’s best products are found right here in New Brunswick alongside the world’s best people. In order to support them, we need to make the strategic investments that set us up for long-term economic success.”

The latest projections have the deficit for the province estimated at $835 million.

Holt was joined on stage by Health Minister John Dornan and Finance and Treasury Board Minister René Legacy, who spoke about progress made on the accountability metrics announced at last year’s state of the province address, the challenges faced, and plans for the year ahead within their portfolios.

You can find the government’s report card by clicking here.