The provincial government is launching a new online tool to help Manitobans give their two cents about the upcoming budget.
Your Province, Your Plan includes an interactive budget website, in-person consultations at different locations around the province, and a citizen budget tool that lets Manitobans learn firsthand about the budget process.
“Your Province, Your Plan will allow us to reach out directly to Manitobans for input and ideas that will help us develop a strong fiscal plan for the year ahead,” said Finance Minister Cameron Friesen in a news release Wednesday.
Manitobans who log onto the website can use an interactive tool to build their own provincial budget. They’ll be asked a series of questions about their preferences on topics from health care to infrastructure.
From there, they can choose to share their ideas with the province or through social media.
In-person meetings will also be held from October 17 to 26 in different communities across the province. Invitations have also been extended to representatives from all parties in the Manitoba legislature, Friesen said.
“We believe these consultations will help guide decisions to help us spend within the province’s means and support responsible, targeted measures that will balance the provincial budget,” said Premier Brian Pallister.
Those who make submissions received before Oct. 10 may be invited to present at an in-person meeting.
Anyone wanting to attend should pre-register by emailing minfin@leg.gov.mb.ca or by calling 204-945-3952 in Winnipeg.
The deadline for written submissions, which can’t be any longer than 1,500 words, is Nov. 9. They can be made online, by email or mail.
