We’re heading into the final weekend before Manitoba’s election next Tuesday – and the province’s finances are likely to dominate on the campaign trail today (Sept 29). The government is set to release the final results for the last fiscal year.
The Canadian Press reports that “Manitoba has run deficits in every year but one since 2009, and last year’s red ink was originally forecast at $548-million dollars.
The Progressive Conservatives and the New Democrats have both promised to balance the budget within the next four years, while the Liberals have said they’d take a little longer.”
———-
On Thursday (Sept 28), the Conservatives pledged to expand transit services in Winnipeg, while the Liberals said they’d increase coverage to address burnout among heath-care workers.
The NDP promised a balanced budget, more money for health-care, and an inquiry into the COVID-19 pandemic.
———-
Meanwhile, there’s been a big turnout at the Advance Polls this year compared to the last election.
Elections Manitoba reports that more than 150,000 Manitobans have already cast ballots which tops the total of 113,000 in 2019.
The CBC reports that Elections Manitoba says it’s been more convenient to vote at the Advance Polls this year. You can vote at any of the province’s 300 polling stations, not just the one nearest to your address. Advance polls close Saturday (Sept 30).
There’s more information at Elections Manitoba – Home
(With files from The Canadian Press and the CBC)
