The “LET’S PAY FAIR” website launched recently is having an effect on provincial politicians. It draws attention to the concern of Manitobans about how education costs are funded in Manitoba. A quality education is the right of every child in Manitoba. All Manitobans benefit from a quality education for our students, and therefore all Manitobans should contribute to the cost of that education. Over the last few years the NDP has substantially placed the burden on funding education on property owners who pay school taxes on their property. This system does not reflect the ability of the property owner to pay. Seniors who are on fixed incomes are particularly vulnerable. Farmers who pay school taxes on their vacant farmland and on their homes are double taxed. Business owners who pay school taxes on their commercial property at higher rates than homeowners are unfairly targeted. The province has underfunded the education system from general revenues and this has resulted in an increased reliance on property owners. Compare your school tax bill 7 or 8 years ago to today – you will not be surprised to learn that your school tax bill has increased faster than the rate of inflation.

The Progressive Conservative caucus understands your concerns. We believe that the cost of education should be borne more from general revenues and less from property taxes. Look at our election platform regarding school taxes. We look forward to working with you to develop a fair and equitable tax system for the benefit of all Manitobans.