Manitoba election: Leaders spar over deficits, jobs in Brandon debate

Three of Manitoba's major political party leaders sparredover jobs and deficits in a debate hosted by theBrandon Chamber of Commerce on Thursday.

Liberal Leader Rana Bokhari, PC Leader Brian Pallister and NDP Leader Greg Selingertookpart in theleaders forum, which began shortly before noon CT.

The CBC's Chris Glover was in Brandon to cover the debate. You can follow his updates in our liveblog recap below:

• ON MOBILE? Follow our live blog here.

As the debate began,Selingerdefended his government's record going into the April 19 election.He said his decision to run deficits longer to stimulate growth has helped the economy.

PallisteraccusedSelingerof hurtingManitobansby raising the provincial sales tax, running up deficits and getting a credit downgrade from a bond-rating agency.

Bokharisaid she wants to balance the budget, but says there are other social concerns that have to be weighed as well.