The Canadian Federation of Independent Business is pleased with last week's provincial budget.

Director of Provincial Affairs Jonathan Alward describes it as a good budget, noting CFIB was looking for meaningful tax relief for small business owners.

Jonathan Alward (photo courtesy CFIB website)"They've been hit with a barrage of increases," he says, "Different costs -- federal tax changes, Canada Pension Plan premiums are going up, the threat of a carbon tax coming in April -- so small business owners needed tax relief right now, and we're really pleased that the province is doing that by reducing the PST."

Alward says it'll depend on the type of business, but he's certain it'll have a positive impact, starting with lower input costs.

"It's going to mean your customers can buy more because the cost of goods is lower, and they have more money in their pockets to begin with," he says, "This is going to be better for your staff as well -- they're going to have more money at the end of the day. And the money you have left over, you can decide to pay them more, or pay down your debt. Important things that business owners are having to trade off on too often now, with all these other costs going up."

Alward adds they're also pleased to see measures to eliminate red tape, as well as deficit reduction, and a return to balanced budgets.