Budget 2026 invests in us

Transcona

It has been a busy start to the spring here in Transcona, and I’m proud to share that on March 24, our NDP government brought forward Budget 2026: Good Jobs. Lower Costs. Better Health Care.

This budget reflects what I hear every day from folks in our community. People want a strong health-care system, affordable everyday costs, and opportunities to build a good life right here in Transcona.

As a former school vice-principal, I know first-hand that one of the best investments we can make is in our young people and in our classrooms. That is why I am especially proud that this budget includes $80 million in new funding for schools. For the third year in a row, school funding is increasing above the rate of inflation, bringing the total to nearly $2 billion for the 2026 and 2027 school year. These investments support classrooms, technical vocational education, and school infrastructure.

We are also continuing to strengthen the universal school nutrition program, which provided more than 30 million meals and snacks to students last year. Through Nello’s Law, we’re protecting this program for years to come so that no child has to try to learn on an empty stomach.

Health care continues to be a top priority, and it is something I hear often from folks here in Transcona. For the third year in a row, our NDP government is increasing investments in health care, including adding 4,054 net new health-care staff to the front lines since 2023.

We are taking steps to lower emergency room wait times by adding new mental health beds, alternate level care beds, and creating ER zones where patients can be seen by specialists more quickly. We are also moving forward with new emergency rooms and restoring the cardiac centre of excellence at St. Boniface Hospital.

Right here in Transcona, I am especially pleased that this work includes an addition to Park Manor personal care home. This will help ensure that seniors in our community can receive the care they deserve close to home.

This budget is also focused on making life more affordable. We are taking action to help families manage everyday expenses like housing, gas, and groceries, while continuing to invest in good jobs across the province.

At its core, this budget is about building a Manitoba where folks can afford a good life, with access to quality health care, strong schools, and good jobs.

It is truly an honour to serve Transcona. If you have any questions, concerns, or ideas, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our constituency office at 204-219-1189 or by email at shannon.corbett@yourmanitoba.ca.