The Manitoba government set out its key priorities during the speech from the throne on Tuesday, November 19, 2019. Due to health issues with Lt-gov Janice Filmon the throne speech was delivered by the Chief Justice Richard J.F. Chartier.
Among the long list of promises was tax relief for families, eliminating the education portion of property taxes, job growth and eliminating restrictions on Sunday and holiday shopping.
The Tories also promised to hire 200 more nurses by 2023 and 80 more rural paramedics and improve health services like home care.
13 more schools have been committed to being built over the next ten years as well as an additional 1,510 school-based child-care spaces within the new schools.
“Today’s speech from the throne is our roadmap to build a new Manitoba where young people will stay and fulfil their dreams, where families and seniors will enjoy peace and security, and where entrepreneurs and risk-takers will find opportunities to grow and prosper,” said Premier Brian Pallister.
Law enforcement will get a boost to fight crime with $10 million for the development of a comprehensive strategy between police and business owners that included coordination and enforcement. As part of the funding enhanced resources will be given to the Public Safety Investigations Unit targeting drug dealers.
Other promises include reducing vehicle registration fees by 10%, removing PST from salon services over $50, wills and having taxes prepared.
25% more funding will be allocated to tourism promotion and an enhanced Manitoba Film and Video Tax Credit will be implemented to boost film and TV production in the province.
If you are a fan of craft beer, craft breweries will be exempt from government markup on products they produce and sell at their facilities.
The second session of the 42nd legislature is expected to sit for the next three weeks.
LINK | Throne Speech video
LINK | Throne speech document
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