Highlights of the 2013-14 Newfoundland and Labrador budget

ST. JOHN’S, N.L. – Highlights of the Newfoundland and Labrador budget presented Tuesday:

— A deficit of $1.6 billion over three years means public-sector job losses and spending cutbacks.

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— The province cuts about 1,200 government jobs and has approved another 200 early retirements.

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— Core services are protected with spending of $2.9 billion in health services and $1.3 billion for education.

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— No increase to personal or corporate income taxes but a new tobacco tax adds 1.5 cents per cigarette as of Wednesday.

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— Increased fees for historic sites across the province with free days eliminated as of April 1.