The Progressive Conservatives held onto majority power in Manitoba, however finishing with several seats fewer than the record-40 they won last time to end nearly 20 years of NDP power.

Premier elect Brian Pallister won his second majority government in Tuesday’s election with promises to carry on with tax reductions and streamlining health care.

Pallister called an election more than a year before it was scheduled.

The Tories captured 36 seats in the 57-seat legislature, with Pallister retaining his own seat in Winnipeg’s Fort Whyte riding.

New Democrats gained a few seats to finish with 18 remaining as the Official Opposition.

While Liberal Leader Dougald Lamont hung onto his own seat in Winnipeg, the party lost a riding and won only three, losing official party status.