The Manitoba NDP government has announced the provincial budget for 2026, revealing a projected deficit of $498 million for the fiscal year 2026-27. Total spending is set to rise to $27.3 billion, marking an increase of $1.4 billion from the previous year.
Among the notable changes, the budget includes the elimination of the provincial sales tax (PST) on food and beverages sold in grocery stores, effective July 1. Additionally, the homeowners’ affordability tax credit will increase to $1,700 annually, up from $1,600, starting in 2027.
To support families, the budget introduces free child care for low-income households, removing the $2-a-day fee for approximately 3,500 families. Renters will also benefit from an increased tax credit of $675, up from $625.
Healthcare funding is a significant focus, with $22.1 million allocated for a new cardiac care clinic at St. Boniface Hospital. The budget also allows for a 4% tuition increase for the 2026-27 academic year at the University of Manitoba, alongside a $4.5 million allocation to address deferred maintenance needs at the institution.
Economic projections indicate a real GDP growth of 1.3% this year and 1.7% next year. In response to ongoing wildfire risks, the government plans to hire 19 additional wildfire fighters and enhance fire mapping capabilities.
Adrien Sala, the Minister of Finance, stated, “Good jobs, lower costs and better health [care] are what this budget is all about.” However, opposition voices, such as Obby Khan, criticized the budget, claiming, “We will continue to be a have-not province under this NDP government.”
Michael Benarroch, President of the University of Manitoba, emphasized the importance of funding for educational institutions, stating, “No other sector makes as great and diverse a contribution to our collective well-being as the universities and colleges of this province.”
Manitoba has run deficits in every year but two since 2009, highlighting ongoing fiscal challenges faced by the province.
