The Manitoba government is forecasting a $128-million improvement in its deficit over the previous budget year, Finance Minister Greg Dewar announced with the release of the third quarter financial report.
“Our government continues to invest in the priorities of Manitoba families despite the ongoing global economic uncertainty,” said Minister Dewar. “Thanks to the hard work of Manitoba business and its skilled workforce, our province is among the leaders in economic growth.”
Budget 2014 projected a $357-million summary deficit for this year as part of the Manitoba government’s plan to protect front-line services, create jobs and grow the economy while working toward a balanced budget, the minister said.
Minister Dewar said the deficit is now projected at $394 million, which is an improvement over the $402 million projected in the second quarter but is $37 million more than was forecast with the release of Budget 2014.
“Earlier this week, the Conference Board of Canada projected that we will be among the nation’s leaders in growth in 2015 and 2016,” said Minister Dewar. “The report supports our balanced approach to invest in steady growth, good jobs and the services Manitoba families count on.”
Minister Dewar also advised the Manitoba government has approved a special warrant to address continuing pressures in health care and child protection, as well as disaster financial assistance and compensation programs resulting from the heavy summer rains which caused extensive flooding in western Manitoba.
“Despite the pressures caused by another year of very serious flood damage, our government remains committed to responsible financial management,” the minister said. “We will continue our balanced approach to reducing the deficit responsibly while protecting front-line services, meeting demands for health and social services, and helping to protect Manitobans from flooding.”
