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The figures are buried deep within the line estimates of the budget itself, and conveniently never mentioned in the many pages of semi-factual government communications material.

“Budgets are about choices,” James told reporters at the Feb. 18 budget lockup.

“It’s about taking a look at the resources we have, and the priorities that we have as a government. I think if you had taken a look at the past governments what often would happen at this time, when you saw moderation in the economy, is that you would see programs and services cut. You would see programs eliminated. You would see services and supports for families eliminated. We’re not doing that.”

Photo by Don Craig | Government Communica / PNG

James is on year two of mandatory cuts across all ministries, to achieve $300 million in annual “discretionary” spending.

What’s been trimmed so far? James and her ministry won’t produce a list, insisting it’s hard to track because the money goes back into services (despite the fact each ministry is required to submit to her a clearly itemized list of potential cuts and consequences).

Still, you can spot the cracks in the facade.

B.C. Transit has warned about a stall to ridership growth after government shrunk its operating grant. James told transit to draw from its operating surplus to make up for the changes. By next year, what was once a $42-million financial cushion against any unexpected changes to bus service levels will be gone, as B.C. Transit empties its piggy bank to help the NDP balance its budget.