Today, as we enter yet another wave of the global COVID pandemic, the Stefanson Government tabled a provincial budget that falls short on investment in people. After enduring both the public health crisis and resulting economic downturn, Manitobans were looking for the Government to invest in the public services that have pulled us through these difficult times.

“MGEU members have stepped up in a big way over the past several years. Now, they are looking for the Government to step up for them,” said MGEU President Kyle Ross.  “This budget fails to address the chronic under-funding and aggressive vacancy management that has left public services in a state of crisis,” said Ross.

Since taking over government in 2016, the Progressive Conservatives have cut over 2,600 jobs from the civil service which has impacted important public services provided by health inspectors, conservation officers, child and family service workers, snow plow operators, sheriffs and correctional officers to name a few.

“Despite the Premier’s reassurance that relief was on the way for the Civil Service, this budget looks like more of the same. MGEU members were looking for concrete action and resources earmarked to bolster staffing levels in the Civil Service and assist in recruitment and retention of qualified staff,” said Ross. “It’s people who deliver public services, and without enough staff, you can’t improve services.”

Some more targeted announcements were encouraging today, which include, $18 million for improving the wages of front-line workers in the community living disability, children’s disability and family violence prevention sectors, and $32 million for investments into long term care.

There continues to be a big need for more funding across the board. Services have been suffering for years.  Unfortunately, Budget 2022 froze grants to colleges and universities along with funding for child and family service agencies.  As well, the budget for custody corrections was cut again.

“After years of battling the pandemic, MGEU members are burned out and were desperately hoping for some real support,” added Ross.

To view the 2022 Manitoba Budget documents go to https://www.manitoba.ca/budget2022/.