Finance Minister Jim Flaherty’s 10th budget all but balances the books this fiscal year, and is stuffed with low-or-zero cost promises.
Analysts see this as a pre-election document for the Tories, and constituencies perceived to be complementary to the Conservative brand get a break — including veterans.
The Conservatives are moving to staunch a gaping political wound by topping up the Last Post funeral fund for veterans and expanding the eligibility criteria to veterans of modern conflicts like Afghanistan.
While the budget is light on spending there is still some good news for people in isolated communities who want to get on the internet.
The 2014 budget includes $305 million over five years to enhance broadband internet service for Canadians in rural and northern communities.
The 15% mineral tax exploration credit has been extended for another year while $90 million will be poured into the forest industry transformation program.
As well Jim Flaherty’s financial plan also calls for funding to be enhanced for Nutrition north Canada.
The budget says there are also measures to improve the health and safety of aboriginal communities and to reduce violence against women and girls but it’s unclear how much that will be.
(With files from CP)