WINNIPEG — Manitoba’s deficit continues to climb.
The 2015 budget projects a $422-million deficit, up from $357-million last year, and the promise to balance the books has been pushed back to 2019.
There were no major new announcements for infrastructure spending in the 2015 budget. Previously announced improvements for Highway 75 as well as an interchange at Highway 59 at the North Perimeter are among the infrastructure items. The provincial government expects to spend $1.8 billion on core infrastructure this year.
The province is pledging its support for an underpass at Waverley and Taylor and another at Marion and Archibald, but the finance minister admitted he doesn’t know the cost of Manitoba’s share of the projects.
READ MORE: 8 highlights from the 2015 Manitoba budget
The province expects to bring in an additional $18 million annually through an increase in its tax on banks, trust and loan corporations.
“We are asking them to make a small contribution so we can provide tax relief,” said Finance Minister Greg Dewar.
There is a new tax credit for volunteer firefighters and search-and-rescue volunteers. It works out to a maximum of $324 if a person performs 200 hours of service.
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The maximum seniors’ school tax rebate will increase to $470 from $235.
People who can claim the primary caregivers’ tax credit will also see some more money. The credit is going up to $1,400 from $1,275.
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There is a modest tax increase on tobacco products that works out to 12.5 cents per pack. That money will go towards funding smoking cessation initiatives.
The budget also draws $105 million from the province’s rainy day fund, leaving $115 million in the bank.
This fall the minimum wage also jumps to $11.
READ MORE: Who wins and who loses in the 2015 Manitoba budget?
The finance minister said there will be another budget before the spring provincial election.
“We have absolutely no confidence in this government at all,” said Loren Remillard of the Winnipeg Chamber of Commerce, who was disappointed a deficit continues to be posted.
The feeling is echoed by the Canadian Taxpayers Federation.
“This government is like a roommate that promises to pay the rent every month but never does,” said Todd MacKay, the prairie director for CTF.
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