The speech from the throne that officially opens the third session of the 42nd legislature was delivered in the house this afternoon by Lt-Gov. Janice C. Filmon.

Although the pomp and ceremony surrounding the event was noticeably absent due to social distancing requirements, the speech focused on five areas that the government is committed to – Health Care, Jobs, Income, Education & Child care and Manitoba’s future.

“Our government has been taking thoughtful and deliberate action from the very beginning of this pandemic, and we will keep doing so to protect the services Manitobans need, the jobs they have or want back, and their incomes for themselves and their families, now and well into the future,” said Premier Brian Pallister.

Health Care

The government has committed to ensure funding and resources from across government are dedicated first and foremost to health-care needs.

That means there will be more money spent on personal protective equipment for front-line health workers and more COVID-19 testing sites will be set up.

A commitment to reducing wait times further for cataract surgery and joint replacements, and providing additional renal dialysis services where they are needed

The province will also call on the federal government to increase Health Transfers and become a full funding partner in providing health care to Canadians.

Funding to Manitoba’s personal care homes for significant capital upgrades for the health and safety of residents.

Manitobans with disabilities will be protected with a new income support program.

Jobs

Create an independent, private sector-led economic development agency to attract investment and promote international trade for all of Manitoba.

Prepare Manitobans for the jobs of the future, and ensuring workers get the education and labour market training they need to be job-ready.

Transform and modernize apprenticeship training, enabling more Manitobans to become skilled journeypersons.

New immigrants to Manitoba would be able to have their existing credentials recognized through a special immigration credential recognition program.

Incomes

The government plans on lowering taxes, keep Manitoba Hydro rate increase to below 3% and ensuring Manitoba Public Insurance continues to lower rates.

Continuing the 2020 Tax Rollback Guarantee with new tax relief.

The province will also begin the phased elimination of the education property tax.

The Employment Standards Code will be amended to ensure Manitobans are able to access paid federal sick leave promptly while protecting themselves and others

Private retailing of liquor would be allowed in the province

Education & Child Care

The government has committed to keeping schools open and students safe during the pandemic.

A provincial blended learning strategy will be established that will consist of remote and in-class learning.

The commitment to build 20 news schools in the province will continue.

More than $1.6 Billion increase will be earmarked for education over the next four years.

The government also committed to provide affordable and accessible child care.

Manitoba’s Future

The government has committed to balancing the budget to eliminate the COVID-19 deficit over two-terms as well as:

Continuing to plan and take steps to protect Manitoba’s financial future, Manitoba’s climate future and Manitoba’s energy future

Protecting Manitoba’s clean energy advantage with a strong and secure Manitoba Hydro.

Continuing to implement the Made-in-Manitoba Climate and Green Plan with new initiatives to reduce carbon emissions across all sectors of the economy.

Ensuring the sustainability of Manitoba’s fish and wildlife populations, while protecting natural resource jobs and conservation traditions

“This year has been like no other, yet we have weathered it better than most,” said Pallister. “The resilience of Manitoba’s economy, finances, public services, and most of all, our people, have stood out strong. I am confident that if we keep working together, guided by Manitoba values, we will come out of this pandemic stronger and more prosperous.”

© News4.ca 2020