Building a stronger Manitoba

St. Vital

At the heart of Budget 2026, which was presented on March 24, is a clear focus on improving health care and everyday affordability, while continuing to build up our economy with more good jobs.

After years of strain on our health care system, we are continuing to make meaningful investments to strengthen care for Manitobans. Since 2023, our government has hired over 4,000 net new healthcare workers – including 317 doctors – and added hundreds of staffed hospital beds to improve access to care.

Here in St. Vital, I regularly hear from residents about the importance of timely, reliable care close to home. Construction is already underway on the new Victoria Hospital emergency room, which will reduce wait times and improve patient flow across the system. Similarly, our $22.1 million investment to restore the cardiac centre for excellence at St. Boniface will ensure people get the care they need when they need it.

We also continue to strengthen care for seniors. Budget 2026 includes $71.8 million to build four new personal-care homes, and $5 million to improve food quality at facilities across Manitoba. These investments ensure all Manitobans can live with dignity and independence.

At the same time, Budget 2026 takes direct action on affordability – something I know is top of mind for many households in our community. We are removing the PST from all food, drinks, and prenatal vitamins sold in grocery stores, helping families take advantage of immediate savings right at the till. We are also increasing the homeowners affordability tax credit to $1,700, the renters affordability tax credit to $675, and the seniors top-up to $386.

As a parent, I’m excited about our announcement to make transit free for kids and youth. This will help families plan ahead and manage costs, having a positive impact on our environment while creating a generation of life-long bus riders.

Importantly, this budget supports local economic growth. With major investments in infrastructure like schools and hospitals, $50 million in financing for small businesses, and more funding for training education, we are creating real opportunities for businesses to succeed by creating more good jobs for Manitobans.

Budget 2026 reflects what Manitobans have told us matters most: better health care, lower costs, and a strong economy. It is a plan that focuses on real needs and real solutions.

As always, I encourage you to reach out to my office at 204-219-5407 or email jamie.moses@yourmanitoba.ca with ideas, questions, and concerns. I look forward to continuing to work together to build a healthier, more affordable St. Vital for everyone.