By Canadian Press

NewsAlert: Manitoba government cuts some taxes, sets money aside for emergencies

Mar 19, 2020 | 1:21 PM

WINNIPEG — The Manitoba government is keeping a tight leash on spending and delaying some promised tax cuts as the province prepares for the economic effects of a stock-market plunge and COVID-19.

Today’s Progressive Conservative budget follows through on some tax-cut promises, such as eliminating probate fees and reducing vehicle registration costs.

But other tax cuts promised in last year’s election campaign, such as removing the sales tax from home insurance and salon services, are to wait until next year.

Finance Minister Scott Fielding says his budget is focused on preparing for fiscal and natural emergencies.

The government is putting another $300 million into its rainy-day fund and doubling to $100 million the amount it sets aside for emergencies.

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The budget keeps annual spending increases in areas such as health and family services to below two per cent.

Stalling measures by Opposition New Democrats in the legislature delayed the release of the budget for eight days.

The Canadian Press