Archived News Releases

October 13, 2004

Manitobans will be asked for their input into the preparation of the 2005 provincial budget at a series of provincewide, pre-budget consultation meetings hosted by Finance Minister Greg Selinger.

The first meeting will be held on Wednesday, Oct. 20 from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Westwood Inn in Swan River.

The second meeting will be held on Thursday, Oct. 21 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Chief and Council Chambers in Norway House.

"I am looking forward to hearing the views, ideas and concerns of Manitobans in every region of the province," said Selinger. "I encourage all Manitobans to exercise their voice in the budget process and share their views on the many important issues facing our province."

Selinger noted that managing growth will be one of the issues the budget will address. The province is also committed to continuing with an approach of balancing the budget while providing support to important social programs such as health and education, reducing Manitobans' tax burden and paying down the debt.

Additional public consultation will be held in the following locations:

• Nov. 3 from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Parish Hall in St. Laurent (bilingual meeting with simultaneous English/French translation);
• Nov. 5 from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. at the Legislative Building in Winnipeg;
• Nov. 8 from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Campus Manitoba Carman and Region Facility in Carman;
• Nov. 9 from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Good Neighbours Senior Centre in Winnipeg;
• Nov. 17 from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Travelodge Canadian Inn in Brandon; and
• Nov. 18 from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Hadashville Recreation Centre in Hadashville.

Manitobans can also share their views by writing the minister c/o Budget Consultations, Room 103, Legislative Building, Winnipeg, MB R3C 0V8; or by e-mailing the minister at minfin@leg.gov.mb.ca.

"The provincial budget has an impact on all Manitobans and we value the input we receive during the process," said Selinger. "The public consultations ensure that all have a chance to help shape the priorities of government for the upcoming fiscal year."

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