LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA
Thursday, May 23, 2019
Madam Speaker: Good afternoon, everybody. Please be seated.
Mr. James Allum (Fort Garry-Riverview): I move, seconded by the member for Minto (Mr. Swan), that Bill 219, The Protecting Communications on Public Interest Matters Act (Court of Queen's Bench Act and Defamation Act Amended), be now read a first time.
Motion presented.
Mr. Allum: I'm proud to bring forward to this House Bill 219, The Protecting Communications on Public Interest Matters Act.
This bill will protect civic-minded citizens from strategic lawsuits against public participation when they are speaking up on a matter of public interest. This bill would limit the abilities of wealthy individuals and large corporations to intimidate or silence individuals' freedoms of expression and speech with a lawsuit.
Thank you, Madam Speaker.
Madam Speaker: Is it the pleasure of the House to adopt the motion? Agreed? [Agreed]
Mr. Derek Johnson (Interlake): I move, seconded by the member from Swan River, that Bill 233, The Wildlife Amendment Act (Protecting Property from Water and Wildlife Damage), be now read a first time.
Motion presented.
Mr. Johnson: It's my pleasure to introduce Bill 233, The Wildlife Amendment Act. This bill amends The Wildlife Act.
A municipality, local government district or incorporated community may authorize a person to destroy a beaver lodge, a beaver dam or to remove an obstruction to water flow caused by an accumulation of debris if it adversely affects local water flow or land use. An authorized person may enter into affected land for that purpose.
Currently, a landowner has the right to kill or take a certain wildlife in defence of their property. This bill extends the right to tenants of private or leased Crown land.
Thank you.
Madam Speaker: Is it the pleasure of the House to adopt the motion? Agreed? [Agreed]
Mr. Scott Johnston (St. James): I move, seconded by the member from Riding Mountain, that Bill 241, The Public Health Amendment Act (Banning Cosmetic Eye Tattooing and Eye Jewellery), be read for a first time.
Motion presented.
Mr. Johnston: It's my pleasure today to introduce Bill 241, The Public Health Amendment Act (Banning Cosmetic Eye Tattooing and Eye Jewellery) to this House. This bill amends The Public Health Act to ban eye tattooing and the implementation of eye jewellery.
The ban does not apply to health professionals who comply with their profession's requirements. This bill is addressing concerns raised by the Manitoba Optometrists Association and the Eye Physicians and Surgeons of Manitoba.
Thank you.
Madam Speaker: Is it the pleasure of the House to adopt the motion? Agreed? [Agreed]
Mr. Greg Nesbitt (Chairperson): Madam Speaker, I wish to present the first report of the Standing Committee on Private Bills.
Clerk (Ms. Patricia Chaychuk): Your Standing Committee on Private Bills–
Some Honourable Members: Dispense.
Madam Speaker: Dispense.
Your Standing Committee on PRIVATE BILLS presents the following as its First Report.
Meetings
Your Committee met on May 22, 2019 at 6:00 p.m. in Room 255 of the Legislative Building.
Matters under Consideration
· Bill (No. 207) – The Manitoba Conservation Officers Recognition Day Act / Loi sur la Journée de reconnaissance des agents de conservation du Manitoba
· Bill (No. 226) – The Presumption of Death and Declaration of Absence Act and Amendments to The Insurance Act / Loi sur la présomption de décès et la déclaration d'absence et modifiant la Loi sur les assurances
· Bill (No. 228) – The Sikh Heritage Month Act / Loi sur le Mois du patrimoine sikh
· Bill (No. 240) – The Elections Amendment Act / Loi modifiant la Loi électorale
Committee Membership
· Mr. Allum
· Mr. Bindle
· Hon. Mrs. Cox
· Hon. Mr. Gerrard
· Mrs. Guillemard
· Mr. Isleifson (Vice-Chairperson)
· Mr. Kinew
· Mr. Micklefield
· Mr. Nesbitt (Chairperson)
· Hon. Mr. Pedersen
Public Presentations
Your Committee heard the following presentation on (No. 226) – The Presumption of Death and Declaration of Absence Act and Amendments to The Insurance Act / Loi sur la présomption de décès et la déclaration d'absence et modifiant la Loi sur les assurances:
Gord Perrier, Winnipeg Police Service
Bills Considered and Reported
· Bill (No. 207) – The Manitoba Conservation Officers Recognition Day Act / Loi sur la Journée de reconnaissance des agents de conservation du Manitoba
Your Committee agreed to report this Bill without amendment.
· Bill (No. 226) – The Presumption of Death and Declaration of Absence Act and Amendments to The Insurance Act / Loi sur la présomption de décès et la déclaration d'absence et modifiant la Loi sur les assurances
Your Committee agreed to report this Bill without amendment.
· Bill (No. 228) – The Sikh Heritage Month Act / Loi sur le Mois du patrimoine sikh
Your Committee agreed to report this Bill without amendment.
· Bill (No. 240) – The Elections Amendment Act / Loi modifiant la Loi électorale
Your Committee agreed to report this Bill without amendment.
Mr. Nesbitt: I move, seconded by the honourable member for Brandon East (Mr. Isleifson), that the report of the committee be received.
Motion agreed to.
Madam Speaker: Tabling of reports?
Hon. Cathy Cox (Minister of Sport, Culture and Heritage): I am pleased to rise in the Chamber to celebrate and recognize United Empire Loyalists Day, which will officially be commemorated on June the 12th by the United Empire Loyalists' Association of Canada.
The United Empire Loyalists were, for the most part, settlers in the Thirteen Colonies who chose to remain loyal to the British Crown at the outbreak of the American Revolution.
And during the 18th century, displaced United Empire Loyalists fled the United States to Canada among other destinations. They came from every class, occupation and economic status. They were English, Dutch, German, French Huguenot, First Nations, Scottish and African.
And of the approximately 70,000 Loyalists who left the United States, about 50,000 migrated to the British colonies of Quebec, Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island. This influx of diversity played a very important role in shaping Canada's history.
The Loyalist tradition and commitment to the parliamentary system of government and the common law legal system influenced the passage of the Constitutional Act of 1871, now known as the Canada Act. This framework lays the foundation for the future development of Canada as a nation.
And today, Madam Speaker, we remind ourselves of the spirit of these very early pioneers who, because of the–loyalty to the British Crown, sacrificed their lives, their homes and their professions to migrate to a new land, with hopes of building a better life for themselves and their descendants.
Madam Speaker, I encourage all Manitobans to join me in acknowledging United Empire Loyalists' Day in Manitoba on June 12th, 2019, and to recognize the historic contributions that the United Empire Loyalists have made here in Manitoba.
Madam Speaker: I would indicate that the required 90 minutes notice prior to routine proceedings had been provided in accordance with rule 26(2).
Ms. Flor Marcelino (Logan): In May of 1783, the first United Empire Loyalists arrived on the shores of Canada to take refuge under the British Crown in Parr Town, Saint John, Nova Scotia. These Loyalists had been dispossessed of their land, their belongings, and forced to leave due to their loyalty to the British Empire.
Upon Confederation in 1870, many of these Loyalist settlers immigrated to our province of Manitoba and were known as the United Empire Loyalists.
Among the United Empire Loyalists who came to Canada were many peoples from a diverse range of ethnic, cultural and religious backgrounds. They arrived in Canada seeking a new beginning and represent a part of the mosaic that makes up both our nation and our province.
Through their hard work, they established a vibrant economic multicultural community within our province, and their descendants continue that tradition today.
The story of the Loyalists speaks to the desire of many Canadians to have their home be a place where people can live together despite their differences.
I would like to recognize the United Empire Loyalists for incredibly important contributions they have had in building Canada, in creating a unique aspect of our country, our province and our cultural heritage.
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Mr. Dougald Lamont (Leader of the Second Opposition): Today we recognize United Empire Loyalist Day, and we commemorate the ancestors of six million Canadians, the Loyalists, who fled the colonies during the American War of Independence. It was an era of profound and dangerous discontent and revolution, and these refugees from the American Revolution lost everything and went on to change Canada.
As Manitobans living in the 21st century, we may look at that period of history with a different lens. History is not one-sided, nor it–should it be. We should remember that history is sadder, richer and more complex, and that one person's or people's 'triumphses'–triumphs are another's losses.
When the Loyalists arrived, there were conflicts between indigenous peoples as well as with French-Canadians, and there was sometimes an expectation of assimilation, but this was the birth of Canada as a diverse nation.
Since that time, the simple conception of Canada as two solitudes, or of French and English, has evolved as we have recognized that the story is not so simple and never was. Since before the first explorer from Europe ever set foot on our shores, there have been many peoples living here, and the place we know as Canada has been home to many people–indigenous, English, French, African, Asian–for centuries.
There are times we've been united and fought shoulder to shoulder. There are times we’ve been divided and at war with ourselves.
Today, as we remember those Loyalists who changed Canada, let us also recall the spirit in which indigenous peoples first welcomed us and the diversity that has always defined Canada.
Thank you.
Mr. Kelly Bindle (Thompson): Madam Speaker, northerners love the North, and we believe we live in the most beautiful part of the best province in the best country in the world. Some northerners, like Volker Beckmann, believe so strongly in the potential of northern Manitoba, they dedicate their lives to promoting it outside the province and around the world.
Volker started his own graphic design and marketing company, Design North, in Thompson 47 years ago, and has been promoting northern Manitoba through his business and as a volunteer ever since.
He was a dedicated volunteer, developing, maintaining and promoting Mystery Mountain ski hill for over 20 years, and has worked on and developed many promotional initiatives such as mystery country international, tourism north, sub-zero testing and the Spirit Way campaign.
In 2010, Volker received the Order of Thompson for his contributions promoting economic development and tourism in the North. Volker was instrumental in developing and promoting Thompson as the wolf capital of the world, and helped organize the first ever international wolf conference to be hosted in Thompson.
With grants from the federal government he worked tirelessly, along with many volunteers, hosting a 10-day AuroraFest in Thompson on Canada's 150th anniversary, celebrating wildlife and wilderness. In recognition of the AuroraFest event, Volker was one of 12 Manitobans to be awarded the Canada Senate 150 medal in 2017.
Volker also recently received an Ambassador Award of Distinction at the first ever Northern Manitoba Tourism Awards ceremony hosted by Travel Manitoba in The Pas this past April 12th, 2019. Volker continues to promote Thompson as a wolf centre of excellence, and has agreed to come to the Legislative Assembly today because it helps promote northern Manitoba.
Please join me in welcoming Volker and his wife Marsha Beckmann, who are here in the Chamber, and thank them for their devotion to promoting northern Manitoba.
Mr. Jim Maloway (Elmwood): In the 2016 election, the Premier (Mr. Pallister) made no mention of his plans to close three Winnipeg ERs, including the Concordia ER. Northeast Winnipeg was deliberately singled out as a quadrant that was going to have all emergency health care eliminated. Residents clearly remember the Premier promising no front-line health-care cuts in the election.
The Concordia ER closure, initially slated for March of 2018, was delayed until June 2019, a month from now. When the hundreds of bright yellow keep Concordia ER open signs kept springing up, the government conjured up the hare-brained idea of opening up another part-time walk-in clinic in the empty Concordia ER space sometime in the future.
Well, the public could see they were continuing to get second-class treatment from this government. The Premier's internal polling surely has told him this closure is overwhelmingly opposed by the residents of northeast Winnipeg.
On May 16th the minister made things worse by missing an opportunity to keep the ER open, instead substituting an urgent care, which, without an ICU, is merely a glorified walk-in clinic. This government is delusional if they think residents are happy about this.
The government cannot be trusted. Even their friends in the Winnipeg Sun characterized the May 16th announcement as a proof that the revamp is falling apart. The simple solution is to leave our ER open just as it is today, restore and improve it–restore staffing levels and improve service.
I'm knocking on doors every day and I can tell the Premier that residents are sharpening their pitchforks in anticipation of an early election call.
Anything less than keeping our ER open is a serious downgrade in emergency health services and is unacceptable to residents of northeast Winnipeg and Transcona.
Hon. Jon Gerrard (River Heights): Madam Speaker, some would consider it odd that under a Conservative government we are seeing one of the biggest increases in criminal activity of the last 20 years. In River Heights alone, property crimes have increased from 3,020 in 2015, the year before the Pallister government was elected, up to 4,811 last year. This massive increase of 59 per cent is of great concern to people in River Heights, as is the increase throughout Winnipeg.
Often in the past, Conservative governments have been associated with efforts to decrease crime, but that is certainly not the case for the Pallister government. The Premier instead has played the fiddle as Rome burns.
The Pallister government has cut funding for programs designed to decrease crime, including the SafetyAid program–[interjection]
Madam Speaker: Order.
Mr. Gerrard: –for seniors, Restorative Resolutions, Neighbourhoods Alive! and the Block by Block program.
The Pallister government has failed to initiate preventive action to prevent meth use and to prevent crimes as a result of the increased use of methamphetamine. The Pallister government has failed to take sufficient steps to address mental health and addictions. The result, for these many reasons, has been a dramatic increase in crime under the Pallister government.
In light of this alarming trend in our community, there will be a forum this evening for residents in River Heights to talk about local measures that they can take to address crime. The public forum on community safety, hosted by city councillor John Orlikow and the Winnipeg Police Service, will be from 7 to 8 this evening at the Crescentwood site of the Corydon Community Centre.
I will be attending and looking forward to discussions with River Heights residents about the measures we can take together and need to take to decrease crime in our neighbourhood.
Mr. James Teitsma (Radisson): I've decided I'm going to retire–these are words you don't want to hear, especially when they are said by one of the most energetic and motivated seniors' resource co-ordinators in Manitoba.
Colleen Tackaberry has been an advocate for seniors in Transcona for many years. I remember chatting with her about how the Transcona Council for Seniors she works with was having a rough go of things keeping their amazing congregate meal program going. She had lost her cook and recruiting a new one was proving to be a challenge.
So, she looked over at me and said: I think perhaps I will retire. But then came her signature smile and little twinkle in her eye that made me doubt the sincerity of that sentiment, at least a little.
I recall that soon after I was elected I resolved to do a private member's statement about Colleen and the amazing work that she does for seniors in Transcona: organizing the threetimes-weekly congregate meal program; making regular presentations on a wide variety of health topics; organizing the massive annual seniors' health fair in Kildonan Place every year; providing transportation to seniors who can't get to their medical appointments; organizing exercise classes; pickleball; distributing ERIK, the Emergency Response Information Kits; connecting seniors with social services and programs through health, educational, cultural and recreational resources in Manitoba.
But I thought I'd wait–I'd wait until she'd officially retired. But it turns out that no one–even Colleen–is entirely sure when or if that will ever happen.
So Madam Speaker, today, retired or not, I want to honour a pillar in my community, a seemingly indefatigable bundle of energy, compassion, caring and love, someone who puts the interests of others ahead of her own and who apparently never stops working to make life better for seniors in Transcona.
Please join me in saying thank you, thank you, to Colleen Tackaberry.
Mr. Derek Johnson (Interlake): It's my pleasure to rise in the House today to bring recognition to the 100th anniversary of the Icelandic National League of North America and their celebration they held this past weekend.
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I would like to thank Judy Bradley, the president of the Icelandic Canadian Frón club for her countless hours of work and dedication to not only the Canadian league, but keeping Icelandic roots alive throughout North America.
I was privileged to enjoy the company of some very distinguished guests: Guðni Jóhannesson, president of Iceland, and the first lady, Eliza Reid. It was an honour to have these dignitaries join us at this momentous occasion.
In 1885, a large group of Icelandic immigrants arrived in Manitoba and settled here just off the shores of Lake Winnipeg. They called their settlement New Iceland, and the region remains a symbolic centre of Icelandic heritage in Canada today.
There's approximately 31,000 Icelandic-Manitobans, making our province home to the largest Icelandic population outside of Iceland. I am inclusive in these numbers.
Manitoba's Icelandic community continues to maintain ongoing connections with Iceland. In particular, the Icelandic Canadian Frón has worked to ensure that the bonds of Icelanders here and in the homeland grow locally and globally.
The pride, enthusiasm and hospitality of Icelandic-Manitobans reminds us that there's–are extraordinary benefits to embracing multiculturalism in our communities.
This celebration demonstrates a tremendous 'prine'–pride shown in our community and culture. It also provides all Manitobans with the opportunity to learn more about the important role Icelandic-Manitobans have had and continue to have in our province.
I extend my best wishes for continued prosperity and growth in the years to come.
Thank you, Madam Speaker.
Madam Speaker: The honourable member for Radisson?
Mr. Teitsma: My apologies. I forgot to ask for leave to include the names of Colleen's guests in the Hansard as well.
Madam Speaker: Is there leave to include those names in Hansard? [Agreed]
Reverend Carol Fletcher, Iris Kupchuk.
Introduction of Guests
Madam Speaker: Prior to oral questions, we have some guests in the gallery that I would like to introduce to you.
Seated in the Speaker's Gallery we have with us today: Lois Fowler, Connie Laliberte, Cathy Gauthier, Rose Neufeld, Mark Olson, Ron Wescott and Hans Wuthrich, who are the guests of the honourable First Minister.
On behalf of all members here, we welcome you to the Manitoba Legislature.
And seated in the public gallery from Manitou Elementary school Glee Club we have 41 grade 3 to 6 students under the direction of Meghann Turner, and this group is located in the constituency of the honourable Minister of Growth, Enterprise and Trade (Mr. Pedersen).
On behalf of all members here, we welcome you to the Manitoba Legislature.
Mr. Wab Kinew (Leader of the Official Opposition): I'd like to begin by honouring the member for Logan (Ms. Marcelino), who is celebrating her 42nd wedding anniversary today.
Madam Speaker, the chaos that the Premier is causing in our health care continues unabated.
The WRHA was supposed to tell staff today about what the plan was as far as closing the emergency room at Concordia in just a month's time, but at the last minute there was a change. The meeting was cancelled and it has not been rescheduled. That's the level of preparation this Premier and his government have when it comes to health care. It's a complete mess and they're making it up as they go along.
Will the Premier reverse course and announce a plan to keep the emergency rooms at Seven Oaks and Concordia Hospitals open?
Hon. Brian Pallister (Premier): Well, I appreciate a preamble from any NDP member on chaos, Madam Speaker. They know what that's all about.
I hope that the kids get a chance to–who are in the gallery–to talk to some of those world, national and provincial curling champions over there before they leave, because we are blessed with having some of the finest curlers in the world and we have some of those finest curlers today with us. So I know the member for Minto (Mr. Swan) and I both appreciate fine curling when we see it. We've seen a lot of it from them today and so I just wanted to add those words.
Madam Speaker, the level of preparation the member refers to wasn't there under the previous government and it is under this one.
Madam Speaker: The honourable Leader of the Official Opposition, on a supplementary question.
Mr. Kinew: Well, the evidence suggests otherwise, Madam Speaker.
The Premier does not know when this meeting will happen to inform staff about whether or not they have jobs at the Concordia emergency room, and it's clear from the members' statements we hear day after day that it's not clear whether the MLAs for northeast Winnipeg on the Conservative side know whether or not they will have jobs in a month's time.
What's more concerning, however, is the fact that the Premier does not even know how many doctors or lab technicians are working in the Winnipeg health region. Again, just yesterday we tabled the documents which show that the WRHA says, and I quote, the reporting of all other positions apart from nurses and aides within the facility cannot be reported on with accuracy at this time.
Day after day the Premier stands in the House and he claims to know with absolute certainty that the emergency rooms must close.
But how can he be so certain when he doesn't even know how many doctors or technicians are working in Winnipeg's hospitals?
Mr. Pallister: Well, to get to step 1 in solving a problem, Madam Speaker, one has to admit there's a problem. The member opposite can't even get to step 1.
We've certainly inherited a mess. We understand that we inherited a mess and we're doing our best to clean it up. It's pretty obvious every day from what the member offers up as alternative ideas, which is zero, that he hasn't gotten to step 1, that he can't admit that there's a problem having the longest wait times in Canada. If he can't even get–[interjection]
Madam Speaker: Order.
Mr. Pallister: –to step 1, Madam Speaker, I don't think we need his advice on how we're going to clean up a system that he and his party broke.
Madam Speaker: The honourable Leader of the Official Opposition, on a final supplementary.
Mr. Kinew: Well, we know what the Premier has done during his time overseeing the health-care system in Manitoba. He's announced the closure of emergency rooms in Winnipeg. He's overseen the rapid increase in wait times both month over month and year over year according to the Winnipeg Regional Health Authority. He's also overseen the increase of surgical wait times for procedures like hip and knee surgeries, not to mention the increasing cancellation of heart surgeries in Winnipeg.
It's clear that the plan is not working. It's one that is not popular. It's one that they can't even administer correctly. First, there's a meeting; they're going to inform staff. Now, there's no meeting; staff have no idea. It's a cascading series of chaotic events rippling through our health-care system.
Will the Premier please just cancel the misguided plan and announce today that the emergency rooms at Concordia and Seven Oaks hospitals will stay open?
Mr. Pallister: I'll assure the member that we'll continue to clean up the mess that we inherited from the NDP and we'll do it without one smidgen of–[interjection]
Madam Speaker: Order.
Mr. Pallister: –suggestion of any positive idea emanating from the NDP. We'll do it by listening to experts the NDP hired and ignored. We'll do it by listening to front-line workers who understand the need to change the system so that it works better for Manitobans.
As far as cascading chaos is concerned, Madam Speaker, I think the member when he says those words is more revealing of himself and his party than he is of anything else. [interjection]
Madam Speaker: Order. I'm going to ask for everybody's co-operation please. I'm hearing a lot more noise than I expected at this stage of the game and I would ask for everybody's co-operation, please, that we allow members to be heard when they are asking and answering questions.
The honourable Leader of the Official Opposition, on a new question.
Mr. Wab Kinew (Leader of the Official Opposition): It's a simple question: do we need more nurses in our health-care system or less? We can answer that question absolutely clearly on this side of the House, Madam Speaker. We should have more nurses in Manitoba, more nurses working at the bedside.
Yet this Premier has done the exact opposite. In April of 2017 when the Premier announced his rushed plan to close emergency rooms there were 5,379 nurses working in the Winnipeg health region, almost 5,400 nurses; two years later, on April 1st, 2019, there were 5,282 nurses in the Winnipeg health region, less than 5,300.
Question is very simple: Why did the Premier fire 100 nurses in Winnipeg?
Hon. Brian Pallister (Premier): At least it's down from 1,000, Madam Speaker. The member puts false information on the record, yet again; it's all he has.
But what's missing from his preamble and every preamble of every NDP member that talks about health care is this: patients. They're not talking about patients. They're not talking about anything except–[interjection]
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Madam Speaker: Order.
Mr. Pallister: –short-term pain that's inevitable when you're cleaning up a mess. Nurses know that they want to work in a system that works for patients.
We remember the patients that they forgot.
Madam Speaker: The honourable Leader of the Official Opposition, on a supplementary question.
Mr. Kinew: Well, he can pitch them at me and I'll keep knocking them out of the park every day. Because the one thing patients–[interjection]
Madam Speaker: Order.
Mr. Kinew: –want in our health-care system, Madam Speaker, are nurses working at the bedside to take care of them.
Now the Premier states a desire to review evidence. So I'll table the documents here which clearly show that the number of nurses from when he announced his health-care plan to today have decreased by more than 100 in the Winnipeg health region. The last thing that our health-care system needs is fewer nurses. This will only exacerbate all of the other cuts and closures and chaos that the Premier has brought to health care in Manitoba.
Will the Premier simply admit that his rushed plan is failing and that he needs to reverse course, beginning by hiring back those 100 nurses?
Mr. Pallister: Well, I'm not sure about the member's degree of capability in knocking things anywhere, Madam Speaker, but he certainly didn't respond very well to the challenge over the last two years of coming up with any better ideas than the ones that have been brought to us by the same experts the NDP hired.
And so we are implementing those ideas in the sincere hope and with the expectation that we can help Manitobans get better health care sooner.
Madam Speaker: The honourable Leader of the Official Opposition, on a final supplementary.
Mr. Kinew: Again, the suggestion is fairly direct: hire back the 100 nurses that he has fired and keep the emergency rooms open at Seven Oaks and Concordia hospitals. And then, after that, you know, take action to address addictions, which is a massive public health crisis both in Winnipeg and across the province of Manitoba.
We know, however, that the Premier, in just a few short years since he's announced this misguided and, to be frank, terrible plan for health care in Manitoba, we know that he's already fired 100 nurses.
So the question would be: How many more nurses, how many more nursing jobs will this Premier cut before he's done with this plan?
Madam Speaker: The honourable first–[interjection] Order. Order.
The honourable First Minister.
Mr. Pallister: I'm sorry, Madam Speaker, did the member have a supplementary he wanted to ask? That would–I would certainly entertain that if he has another question he wanted to ask.
Madam Speaker: The honourable Leader of the Official Opposition, on a third question–a new question?
Mr. Kinew: Oh, no, sorry. Somebody else is getting up in the third spot.
Madam Speaker: The honourable First Minister, to respond to that last final supplementary.
Mr. Pallister: Sure, Madam–[interjection]
Madam Speaker: Order.
Mr. Pallister: –Speaker. The member had an opportunity for self-improvement and passed on it like he does on most opportunities for self‑improvement.
That being said, we inherited a mess. The NDP created a giant mess. We had the longest wait times in Canada.
The member from Point Douglas–[interjection]
Madam Speaker: Order.
Mr. Pallister: –apparently disputes that, and that would be why the NDP has no plan: because they can't come to grips with the reality that there were the longest wait times in Canada in emergency wards here in Winnipeg.
Now they say, let's do nothing. They say their plan is to retreat. Their plan is to hire more people so that we can have more people working in a system that doesn't work for patients.
And, again, Madam Speaker, the member fails to recognize there are more nurses working than ever before, that we've just allocated close to four million additional dollars to hire new nurses. He fails to recognize many things, but what he mostly fails to recognize is that he has a problem, that Manitobans have a problem and that we're prepared to solve it while he is not.
Ms. Nahanni Fontaine (St. Johns): Non-binary Manitobans who do not conform to traditional gender identification face significant social barriers and difficulties when accessing services. A small change to Manitoba's Vital Statistics Act would ensure all Manitobans feel included no matter how they choose to identify.
Providing an option of choosing non-binary identification on important personal government documents like birth certificates, health care, driver's licence, would ensure that all Manitobans feel included and empowered.
I'll ask the Premier (Mr. Pallister) today: Will he commit to amending The Vital Statistics Act to ensure that all Manitobans are included on identification forms?
Hon. Kelvin Goertzen (Acting Minister of Justice and Attorney General): The member knows that this is an issue that is being discussed across Canada and is being looked at across Canada. She'll also know that it's a matter that is currently before the Manitoba human rights tribunal and we wouldn't speak about the specifics of that situation.
Madam Speaker: The honourable member for St. Johns, on a supplementary question.
Ms. Fontaine: This isn't a partisan issue; rather, it is one of respect and inclusion. Currently government documents require gender designation. That may not accurately reflect a person's identity. There can be real psychological harm and trauma for people who are misgendered and forced into a situation that they can't explain themselves.
Six other provinces and one territory already offer identification options that are inclusive of non-binary citizens. It's time for Manitoba to make this change.
Will the Premier commit to making this change today?
Mr. Goertzen: Again, Madam Speaker, the member acknowledges in her own question that there are different ways that this is being handled across the country, but there's no question that this discussion is happening across the country, as it should.
There is a situation that's currently before the Manitoba human rights tribunal. I won't speak to that specific situation, Madam Speaker, but there are a number of provinces that are having discussions on this issue.
Madam Speaker: The honourable member for St. Johns, on a final supplementary.
Ms. Fontaine: There are also other jurisdictions and provinces and territories in this country that have actually already done something, and this government had an opportunity to do something and to ensure that all Manitobans feel safe and included, but actually chose to do nothing and now they find themselves in the situation that they're currently in.
So, we know that non-binary Manitobans can develop huge amounts of anxiety trying to fit themselves within gender conformities that both society and governments force them into. It's time for the minister and the Premier to ensure that Manitobans feel respected and are included.
Will they commit to changes to The Vital Statistics Act today?
Mr. Goertzen: Madam Speaker, I accept the member's comments that this is a non-partisan issue.
But it is not partisan to point out the fact that where the member is demanding action, while she was a senior adviser within the government that sat in the government benches for 17 years this was never a priority for members of the government, never, I suppose, a priority for her as a senior adviser.
However, our Minister of Justice (Mr. Cullen) has been having discussions with other provinces across Canada. Won't speak to the specifics around the cases before the Manitoba Human Rights Commission, but, certainly, this is a issue that many provinces are fully engaged in.
Mr. Andrew Swan (Minto): Madam Speaker, the Premier's remaining sole reason for breaking Manitoba's fixed-date-election laws, is his claim that somehow Manitobans can't celebrate Manitoba's 150th birthday and vote in a provincial election the same calendar year.
Bill 236, The Celebrating Manitoba 150 Act, would have ensured, made it very clear the Province could promote events and other activities for Manitoba's 150th anniversary without the fear of breaching election rules, yet the Premier ordered his caucus to vote against this legislation even going to a committee this morning.
Why does the Premier believe he's entitled to break the fixed-date-election law?
Hon. Kelvin Goertzen (Acting Minister of Justice and Attorney General): Well, Madam Speaker, it seems that the member opposite is desperate to cling to his role as an MLA. He wants to be here a little bit longer. We're going to give him his freedom a little bit sooner so he can go about with his life in other methods that he wants.
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But Manitobans have a lot to celebrate. They have a lot to celebrate every year, Madam Speaker. In the 149-year history of Manitoba there are many great things to celebrate in our province, but particularly in our 150th birthday there'll be a number of things.
We believe that all members, including members of the opposition–and I hope they'll still be in the opposition then–should be able to go to these events and celebrate freely and without any sort of conflict with Manitobans.
Madam Speaker: The honourable member for Minto, on a supplementary question.
Mr. Swan: Well, had the bill gone to committee, all of the people in Manitoba who allegedly think we can't have Manitoba 150 and election could have presented at committee. But they won't because there aren't any, aside from the person sitting in the Premier's chair. This is a Premier who tells us he believes in the rule of law. The Premier's now made it very clear he will break the law which mandates the election for October 6, 2020.
Now, this bill would have allowed the Premier to celebrate without breaking the letter or the spirit of Manitoba's election laws, but the Premier refused to support the bill because it's really his last remaining excuse to break the law.
If the Premier believes in the rule of law, why does he say he's going to break our fixed-date- election laws?
Hon. Brian Pallister (Premier): Oh, Madam Speaker, the member hasn't read the actual legislation or he'd know that his preamble is totally false.
That being said, let's hear it from the NDP about how much they respect the law. They walked, they knocked, they looked people right in the eye. They said we won't–we promise you we won't raise your taxes, and they got elected in 2011 on that promise, a false promise, a phony promise, a broken promise, a broken vow.
And they–[interjection]
Madam Speaker: Order.
Mr. Pallister: –then went further, Madam Speaker, and they said let's not let Manitobans vote on it.
I don't need any lessons from any NDP member on disrespecting the law. I've seen how it's done, and it was done by them repeatedly. [interjection]
Madam Speaker: Order. Order.
The honourable member for Minto, on a final supplementary.
Mr. Swan: Well, just to be clear, this Premier orders members to vote against Bill 236 and that shows his comments about the importance of Manitoba 150 were just a fake pretext, the same Premier who in the last election campaign promised that he would respect Manitoba's fixed-date-election laws.
Premier's trying to use anything to justify his desire for an early election, and today now it's very clear, every Manitoban now knows the only possible reason the Premier can rely upon are his own personal, political, partisan reasons. And Manitobans know those aren't good reasons at all.
Will the Premier put his partisanship aside, stop dragging Manitoba's democracy backwards and commit to the House today that he will not break Manitoba's election law?
Mr. Pallister: Well, the member himself seems to be withdrawing from democracy. It seems NDP caucus members are voting with their feet. The member for Wolseley (Mr. Altemeyer), the member for Fort Garry-Riverview (Mr. Allum), the member for Minto, they're all walking away.
Madam Speaker, the NDP can't raise money. They can't work. They need a subsidy. If they're not ready to run an election campaign, what makes any Manitoban believe that they would ever be ready to run a province?
Mr. Dougald Lamont (Leader of the Second Opposition): The Premier's been telling shifting stories about his Treasury Board investigation into a report on licensing and permitting in Manitoba, especially around the City of Winnipeg. It is supposed to have, quote, broad, province-wide scope, end quote, yet it deliberately excludes exploration, mining and prospecting permits.
Even when we consider the many failures of this government on economic development, the complete failure to do the basic work of issuing permits for mining and resource exploration stands out. It is taking 18 months to two years for permits to be processed and entire seasons are being lost, pushing off the potential of billions of dollars of development ever future–ever further into the future.
Does the Premier admit that this report is designed to give his government a pass, when given the current rate of exploration it'll take 250 years to build a sustainable mining industry in this province?
Hon. Brian Pallister (Premier): I appreciate the absolute definition of liberalism in that preamble, Madam Speaker.
First, the member gets up recently, as recently as last week, and says that we have used the expertise of international and knowledgeable people too often. Now, he says we shouldn't do an internal review with experts within our own province, and, basically, Madam Speaker, I guess what he's saying is that we should just do nothing.
Now he has added to his previous criticisms that our investigations into permitting and inspections was too broadly focused to say it's too narrowly focused. This is perfect liberalism in action.
Now, Madam Speaker, we have a problem in our province with permits and inspections. We have a problem internally, we've admitted to that, and we're working on solving our problem. We've expanded to include the City of Winnipeg's permitting and inspection process because we oversee that and they are interfacing with other processes that we oversee provincially. It is no good to solve one problem and leave the other continuing to exist.
We've got independent civil servants investigating this issue because we believe it's important to free up capital for investment and create jobs in our province. I would hope the member would recognize the importance of it and support the exercise.
Madam Speaker: The honourable Leader of the Second Opposition, on a supplementary question.
Mr. Lamont: Again, I don't know what advice this government could possibly give to the City of Winnipeg on 'permadating'–on permitting when this government can't get mining permits out the door. [interjection]
Madam Speaker: Order.
Mr. Lamont: It's also worthy consider–worth considering what happened at the City of Winnipeg in the last 10 years, Madam Speaker.
Somehow a fire hall was built on land the City of Winnipeg did not own. The new police headquarters is still under criminal investigation. The police headquarters property was purchased without an estimate of its value, the contract in–to the company had not applied and it was tens of millions of dollars over budget.
Somehow this happened while the–some very able people had the wool pulled over their eyes, including the Premier's current Minister of Finance (Mr. Fielding), who was a city councillor and member of the mayor's Executive Policy Committee at the time.
Has the Premier asked his Minister of Finance to contribute to this review about what went wrong with the City permitting at that time?
Mr. Pallister: The member takes it a step too far when he goes personal on our Minister of Finance, Madam Speaker, and he should know that. Any Liberal attacking someone with pulling the wool over their eyes at the time of SNC-Lavalin is really desperate–[interjection]
Madam Speaker: Order.
Mr. Pallister: –for a point, a talking point.
The member asks what we could–good we could possibly do. That's the fundamental nature of the exercise: to determine what good we could do. The Canadian Federation of Independent Business has acknowledged that Manitoba leads all North American jurisdictions in reducing unnecessary barriers of red tape and barriers to investment.
This is about job creation. I recognize members opposite aren't familiar with the concept, but this party and this government is, and Manitobans are. And having permitting processes that are unnecessarily extensive and expensive, that delay investment in our province, is a serious concern and we are dealing with it seriously.
Madam Speaker: The honourable Leader of the Second Opposition, on a final supplementary.
Mr. Lamont: The Premier has changed his story about this review. He said it would be independent but it isn't. And the idea that it is politically independent is questionable.
It leaves out the critical issue of mining permits, which might prove politically embarrassing, it excludes environmental permits without an explanation and the list of stakeholders appears to be limited to industry groups who stand to benefit from reduced protections while excluding people who could be affected, communities and members of the public at large.
Their view has a so-called working thesis, enlists built-in assumptions which guarantee that the results will be a foregone conclusion whatever the facts may be. It will be about regulations and not about this government's massive cuts to infrastructure or leaving $1.1 billion in federal funding on the table.
Will the Premier admit that this review, like just about every other report he's commissioned, is designed to tell him just what he wants to hear?
Mr. Pallister: Well there you go with the definitive problem with Liberal governments wherever they happen to accidentally occur, Madam Speaker. And that's they can't focus on anything, they have to focus on everything. They deal with optics, not with results.
This is guaranteed to result in an investigation into what the problems may be around getting permits and getting inspections done. This is about trying to create a better environment to attract capital so that we can create jobs in our province. This is about an important aspect of economic development that other jurisdictions have already dealt with but that have not been dealt with to the satisfaction of this government here in our beautiful province.
That is what this is about. And this is what it will continue to be about as we focus on repairing the economy of this province, its services and its finances.
* (14:20)
Mr. Ted Marcelino (Tyndall Park): Pest control experts estimate that Winnipeg and Manitoba Housing has one of the worst bedbug infestations in all of Canada. It is a situation that only seems to be getting worse.
Can the minister please address this?
Hon. Heather Stefanson (Minister of Families): I appreciate the question from the member opposite.
Of course, this is another issue that we inherited from the previous NDP government. Bedbugs was very significant back–[interjection]
Madam Speaker: Order.
Mrs. Stefanson: –under their watch. We inherited a complete mess–[interjection]
Madam Speaker: Order.
Mrs. Stefanson: –from the members opposite when it comes to deferred maintenance charges, more than $1 billion in cleaning up Manitoba Housing units.
We will continue to fix the issues where they broke them.
Madam Speaker: The honourable member for Tyndall Park, on a supplementary question.
Mr. Marcelino: I assure the minister that these are new, Conservative bedbugs.
The Integrated Pest Management was recently moved into Manitoba Housing from Manitoba Health, and there's concern that important services and resources will be lost.
Can the minister say: Is she cutting back on any of the supports to the Integrated Pest Management program?
Mrs. Stefanson: Well, Madam Speaker, it is perhaps a fact that these bedbugs were, perhaps, the decedents of previous NDP bedbugs back in their time.
But what I will say, because this is a very serious issue that people are living with, we will continue– [interjection]
Madam Speaker: Order.
Mrs. Stefanson: –to work with people in the community to ensure that we eradicate this very serious issue for many Manitobans. This is nothing new. It has been something that dates back to the previous NDP days.
We inherited a mess when it comes to Manitoba Housing and the deferred maintenance charges of more than $1 billion. We're committed to cleaning up their previous NDP mess.
Madam Speaker: The honourable member for Tyndall Park, on a final supplementary.
Mr. Marcelino: Most of the bedbugs are brown, but I found that there are a lot of them are blue, and the–when I speak to many of my constituents, they tell me that bedbugs are a growing problem. [interjection]
Madam Speaker: Order.
Mr. Marcelino: It requires a bigger response than a blame game.
Can the minister, please, put more resources against those blue bedbugs?
Mrs. Stefanson: Well, Madam Speaker, I'm speechless. I'm not sure how to respond to that. It's unfortunate colour, I guess, that I'm wearing today. Maybe it's full of bedbugs, too, I don't know.
But it is a fact that this is a problem that has existed in our province for a number of years. It is something that we take very seriously and we are continuing to clean up the mess of the previous NDP government.
Mr. Blair Yakimoski (Transcona): Last Saturday, May 18th, was International Museum Day and was marked by many Manitobans with a visit to a local museum.
Manitoba's museums, like the Transcona Museum in my constituency of Transcona, help us tell the stories of our communities and preserve our history for generations to come.
Can the Minister of Sport, Culture and Heritage please tell the House the actions our government is taking to promote and enhance museums across Manitoba?
Hon. Cathy Cox (Minister of Sport, Culture and Heritage): I'd like to thank the colleague–my colleague, the MLA for Transcona, for that great question about museums.
Our government recognizes the important role that museums play in our province. They tell our story. And that's why we've invested $5 million in the first-of-its-kind Heritage Trust Program.
Manitoba is home to over 200 museums all across the province, and each museum has a very important story to tell. The Manitoba Heritage Trust Program supports local communities in preserving and enhancing museums and archives. This innovative fund has already provided 30 museums with long-term, sustainable funding, Madam Speaker.
As we approach Manitoba 150, I encourage all Manitobans to get out and visit one of our Manitoba museums.
Hon. Jon Gerrard (River Heights): Under the Pallister government, there has been a substantial increase in crime, as this material I table shows. The rise in property crimes for the city of Winnipeg is from less than 29,000 in 2015, before the government was elected, to more than 44,000 in the most recent year. This is a 53 per cent increase.
The Pallister government has failed in one of the most basic aspects of government, that of keeping our streets and our homes safe.
Why has the Pallister government failed to prevent this substantial increase in property crime in Winnipeg?
Hon. Kelvin Goertzen (Acting Minister of Justice and Attorney General): Madam Speaker, it's always nice to get a question on crime from a Liberal member.
I know that the member opposite is having a forum tonight. He mentioned it earlier. I would be happy to provide him news releases from an announcement that was made by the Minister of Justice and the Attorney General (Mr. Cullen) today investing more than $2.7 million into a policing and public safety strategy, Madam Speaker. That strategy will include better intelligence for police officers so they can work and go after those who are committing crimes within the community, as well as community mobilization.
I'll provide him with those news releases. I'm sure he'll want to–distribute of–those who come to his community forum this evening, Madam Speaker.
Madam Speaker: The honourable member for River Heights, on a supplementary question.
Methamphetamine Addiction
Mr. Gerrard: Madam Speaker, we know the press release this morning was just an election gambit to cover up three years of inaction.
In River Heights alone, Madam Speaker, there were 3,020 property crimes in 2015, the year before the Pallister government was elected. In the latest year, as the–[interjection]
Madam Speaker: Order.
Mr. Gerrard: –information that I tabled shows, there were 4,811 property crimes in River Heights. This is a 59 per cent increase from 2015. The timing of the increase is such that it's likely that much of the increase is related to the increased use of methamphetamine in Winnipeg.
Why has the Premier (Mr. Pallister) and his government failed to act to prevent the increased methamphetamine use and the accompanying increased crime in Winnipeg?
Mr. Goertzen: Well, it's an interesting question coming from a Liberal, Madam Speaker, a party who has talked about making all drugs legal, regardless of what those drugs are, in Canada.
However, it's important that he be reminded that this is a government–and our Attorney General (Mr. Cullen)–who has invested $2.3 million in policing in the last budget. And when the member opposite–the member for River Heights–had the opportunity to support that increased investment in police officers, he decided to vote against it.
I hope he tells his community this evening–to those who come to his forum–how he voted 'ingainst' more resources for police officers, Madam Speaker.
Madam Speaker: The honourable member for River Heights, on a final supplementary.
Community Safety Programs
Mr. Gerrard: Yes, we're wondering on this side why the increased property crime wasn't specifically mentioned in the government press release this morning.
This evening, there will be a forum in River Heights at the Crescentwood site of the Corydon Community Centre. It's being hosted by Councillor John Orlikow and the Winnipeg Police Service. It will include a discussion of measures which property owners can take to reduce property crimes.
I ask the Premier why he has cut programs like SafetyAid, Restorative Resolutions, Neighbourhoods Alive! and block to block, cuts which have contributed to the increased crime in Winnipeg.
Mr. Goertzen: Madam Speaker, in fact, community mobilization was mentioned in the press release this morning. I suppose the member didn't have the opportunity to read it. And that certainly would have an impact on property crime. What would also have an impact on property crime is the $2.7 million that the Minister of Justice (Mr. Cullen) announced today when he was releasing his policing strategy and public safety strategy; of course, also $2.3 million more in policing, which was announced by the Attorney General in the budget.
* (14:30)
Madam Speaker, all those initiatives are initiatives that the member for River Heights has voted against. He needs to go to his community forum tonight, apologize to his residents for voting against those important initiatives.
Mrs. Bernadette Smith (Point Douglas): What happens when you put profits before patients, Madam Speaker? Straight chaos and confusion, which is exactly what this Premier and his ministers have created in the health-care system.
The WRHA was supposed to tell staff at Concordia today what their plan is but, of course, you know, at the final hour, plans change and the meeting was cancelled. This is indicative of this government not knowing what they're doing when it comes to health care.
Will the minister admit his plan is failing and keep Concordia and Seven Oaks ERs open?
Hon. Cameron Friesen (Minister of Health, Seniors and Active Living): What happens when, for 17 years, a government fails to plan to keep the health-care system strong and sustainable for the future? What happens is you end up with the most expensive and least effective system with the longest wait times in all of Canada. Madam Speaker, it could not be more clear what their legacy is.
It could not be more clear what our plan for health care is: better health care sooner for all Manitobans.
Madam Speaker: The honourable member for Point Douglas, on a supplementary question.
Mrs. Smith: Well, that minister fired 100 nurses in this province that are needed for patient care. They are putting patients at risk and the nurses are telling them this. Are they listening? No, they're worried about listening to consultants instead of front-line workers who are the actual experts that are working with these patients.
What did this government do? They've–$345 million on health care they've cut, just in operating and capital costs last year alone. And now $120 million this year.
When will this minister wake up, realize that his plan isn't working and keep Concordia and Seven Oaks ERs open? [interjection]
Madam Speaker: I've given some cautions earlier on about heckling and I would call the member for Southdale (Mr. Smith) to order, please.
There's been a lot of noise throughout oral questions and I would ask for his support, please.
Mr. Friesen: Today we saw–[interjection]
Madam Speaker: Order.
Mr. Friesen: –a graduation ceremony that added 109 new doctors to Manitoba, new nurses in Manitoba; 32 more nurses practising than what they actually said.
Madam Speaker: The honourable member for Point Douglas, on a final supplementary.
Mrs. Smith: Well, Madam Speaker, they fired 100 nurses.
Here we go again: another day, another question period where we have to listen to the minister and the Premier trying to deny their cuts and the straight chaos that they've–they are creating in our health-care system. This is just unacceptable. They can't deny it. They've cut $340 million last year and another $120 million this year. The disarray has caused–that they have caused in our health-care system is unacceptable.
Will the minister, today, get up and apologize to nurses who are dealing with the straight chaos and keep Concordia and Seven Oaks ERs open?
Hon. Brian Pallister (Premier): Nobody believes that member when it comes to health-care facts. Nobody. False information. False information on the record, Madam Speaker.
Here's the facts: they went to–they went from close to three dozen MLAs down to one dozen and shrinking because they failed to pay attention to the needs of Manitobans, the needs of Manitoba patients, the needs of Manitoba students, the needs of Manitoba working families–[interjection]
Madam Speaker: Order.
Mr. Pallister: –the needs of Manitoba seniors. Who paid attention to those things, Madam Speaker? A man who's being recognized tonight, deservedly so, as a tremendous community leader, Hartley Richardson.
And I hope we can all agree that he's a fine citizen of this province, an exemplary entrepreneur, a person who stood up for community events and promoted them, who has demonstrated the importance of citizenship, who has shown unparalleled leadership and dedication to not only his family business, an iconic business in our country, but also to our province, Madam Speaker.
In its 36-year history, the Asper School of Business has only recognized three Manitobans, and tonight they'll recognize, deservedly, a fine man: Hartley Richardson.
Madam Speaker: Time for oral questions has expired.
Hon. Jon Gerrard (River Heights): I wish to present the following petition to the Legislative Assembly.
The background to this petition is as follows:
(1) Early learning and child-care programs in Manitoba require increased funding to stabilize and support a system that is in jeopardy.
(2) Licensed, not-for-profit early learning and child-care programs have received no new operating funding in over three years, while the cost of living has continued to increase annually.
(3) High-quality licensed child care has a lasting, positive impact on children's development, is a fundamental need for Manitoba families and contributes to a strong economy.
(4) The financial viability of these programs is in jeopardy if they cannot meet the fiscal responsibility of achieving a balanced budget, as all operating expenses continue to increase.
(5) The workforce shortage of trained early childhood educators has continued to increase; quality child care is dependent on a workforce that is skilled and adequately remunerated.
(6) Accessible, affordable and quality early learning and child-care programs must be available to all children and families in Manitoba.
We petition the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba as follows:
To urge the provincial government to increase funding for licensed, not-for-profit child‑care programs in recognition of the importance of early learning and child care in Manitoba, which will also improve quality and stability in the workforce.
Signed by Kelsey Witherspoon, Nickole Jones, Carina Usmuro and many others.
Madam Speaker: In accordance with our rule 133(6), when petitions are read, they are deemed to be received by the House.
Mr. Tom Lindsey (Flin Flon): I wish to present the following petition to the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba.
The background to this petition is as follows:
(1) Early learning and child-care programs in Manitoba require increased funding to stabilize and support a system that is in jeopardy.
(2) Licensed, not-for-profit early learning and child-care programs have received no new operating funding in over three years, while the cost of living has continued to increase annually.
(3) High-quality licensed child care has a lasting, positive impact on children's development, is a fundamental need for Manitoba families and contributes to a strong economy.
(4) The financial viability of these programs is in jeopardy if they cannot meet the fiscal responsibility of achieving a balanced budget, as all operating expenses continue to increase.
(5) The workforce shortage of trained early childhood educators has continued to increase; quality child care is dependent on a workforce that is skilled and adequately renumerated.
(6) Accessible, affordable and quality early learning and child-care programs must be available to all Manitoba children and families in Manitoba.
We petition the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba as follows:
To urge the provincial government to increase funding for licensed, not-for-profit child‑care programs in recognition of the importance of early learning and child care in Manitoba, which will also improve quality and stability in the workforce.
* (14:40)
This petition, Madam Speaker, has been signed by Kyla Bellisario, Heather Nickel, Rylee Rothwell and many other Manitobans.
Mr. Cliff Graydon (Emerson): I wish to present the following petition to the Legislative Assembly.
And the background to this petition is as follows:
(1) The loss of sleep associated with the beginning of daylight saving time has serious consequences for physical and mental health and has been linked to increases in traffic accidents and workplace injuries.
(2) According to a Manitoba Public Insurance news release, collision data collected in 2014 showed that there was a 20 per cent increase in collisions on Manitoba roadways following the spring daylight saving time change when compared to all other Mondays in 2014.
(3) Daylight saving time is associated with a decrease in productivity the day after the clocks are turned forward with no corresponding increase in productivity when the clocks are turned back.
(4) There is no conclusive evidence that daylight saving time is effective in reducing energy consumption.
We petition the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba as follows:
To urge the provincial government to amend The Official Time Act to abolish daylight saving time in Manitoba effective November 4th, 2019, resulting in Manitoba remaining on Central Standard Time throughout the year and in perpetuity.
And this petition has been signed by Danielle Ruttan, Mark Decoos [phonetic] and Brent Vanderstein [phonetic] and many, many more fine Manitobans.
Mr. Rob Altemeyer (Wolseley): I wish to present the following petition to the Legislative Assembly.
The background to this petition is as follows:
(1) Early learning and child-care programs in Manitoba require increased funding to stabilize and support a system that is in jeopardy.
(2) Licensed, not-for-profit early learning and child-care programs have received no new operating funding in over three years, while the cost of living has continued to increase annually.
(3) High-quality licensed child care has a lasting, positive impact on children's development, is a fundamental need for Manitoba families and contributes to a strong economy.
(4) The financial viability of these programs is in jeopardy if they cannot meet the fiscal responsibility of achieving a balanced budget, as all operating expenses continue to increase.
(5) The workforce shortage of trained early childhood educators has continued to increase; quality child care is dependent on a workforce that is skilled and adequately remunerated; and
(6) Accessible, affordable and quality early learning and child-care programs must be available to all children and families in Manitoba.
We petition the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba as follows:
To urge the provincial government to increase funding for licensed, not-for-profit child-care programs in recognition of the importance of early learning and child care in Manitoba, which will also improve quality and stability in the workforce.
And this petition was signed by Tricia Sones-Zakaluk, Heather Viznaugh, Gerald Glaser and many, many other fine Manitobans.
Ms. Amanda Lathlin (The Pas): I wish to present the following petition to the Legislative Assembly.
The background to this petition is as follows:
(1) Early learning and child-care programs in Manitoba require increased funding to stabilize and support a system that is in jeopardy.
(2) Licensed, not-for-profit early learning and child-care programs have received no new operating funding in over three years, while the cost of living has continued to increase annually.
(3) High-quality licensed child care has a lasting, positive impact on children's development, is a fundamental need for Manitoba families and contributes to a strong economy.
(4) The financial viability of these programs is in jeopardy if they cannot meet the fiscal responsibility of achieving a balanced budget, as all operating expenses continue to increase.
(5) The workforce shortage of trained early childhood educators has continued to an–increase; quality child care is dependent on a workforce that is skilled and adequately renumerated.
(6) Accessible, affordable and quality early learning and child-care programs must be available to all children and families in Manitoba.
We petition the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba as follows:
To urge the provincial government to increase funding for licensed, not-for-profit child‑care programs in recognition of the importance of early learning and child care in Manitoba, which will also improve quality and stability in the workforce.
Madam Speaker, this petition has been signed by many, many Manitobans.
Thank you.
Ms. Flor Marcelino (Logan): I wish to present the following petition to the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba.
The background to this petition is as follows:
(1) Early learning and child-care programs in Manitoba require increased funding to stabilize and support a system that is in jeopardy.
(2) Licensed, not-for-profit early learning and child-care programs have received no new operating funding in over three years, while the cost of living has continued to increase annually.
(3) High-quality licensed child care has a lasting, positive impact on children's development, is a fundamental need for Manitoba families and contributes to a strong economy.
(4) The financial viability of these programs is in jeopardy if they cannot meet the fiscal responsibility of achieving a balanced budget, as all operating expenses continue to increase.
(5) The workforce shortage of trained early childhood educators has continued to increase; quality child care is dependent on a workforce that is skilled and adequately remunerated.
(6) Accessible, affordable and quality early learning and child-care programs must be available to all children and families in Manitoba.
We petition the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba as follows:
To urge the provincial government to increase funding for licensed, not-for-profit child‑care programs in recognition of the importance of early learning and child care in Manitoba, which will also improve quality and stability in the workforce.
Signed by many Manitobans.
Thank you.
Mr. Ted Marcelino (Tyndall Park): I wish to present the following petition to the Legislative Assembly.
And the background to this petition is as follows:
(1) Early learning and child-care programs in Manitoba require increased funding to stabilize and support a system that is in jeopardy.
(2) Licensed, not-for-profit early learning and child-care programs have received no new operating funding in over three years, while the cost of living has continued to increase annually.
(3) High-quality licensed child care has a lasting, positive impact on children's development, is a fundamental need for Manitoba families and contributes to a strong economy.
(4) The financial viability of these programs is in jeopardy if they cannot meet the fiscal responsibility of achieving a balanced budget, as all operating expenses continue to increase.
(5) The workforce shortage of trained early childhood educators has continued to increase; quality child care is dependent on a workforce that is skilled and adequately remunerated.
* (14:50)
(6) Accessible, affordable and quality early learning and child-care programs must be available to all children and families in Manitoba.
We petition the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba as follows:
To urge the provincial government to increase funding for licensed, not-for-profit child‑care programs in recognition of the importance of early learning and child care in Manitoba, which will also improve quality and stability in the workforce.
This petition was signed by Harmal [phonetic] Sandhu, Nardeet [phonetic] Brar, Diljeet Brar and many, many more Manitobans.
Ms. Cindy Lamoureux (Burrows): Madam Speaker, I wish to present the following petition to the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba.
The background to the petition is as follows:
(1) Early learning and child-care programs in Manitoba require increased funding to stabilize and support a system that is in jeopardy.
(2) Licensed, not-for-profit early learning and child-care programs have received no new operating funding in over three years, while the cost of living has continued to increase annually.
(3) High-quality licensed child care has a lasting, positive impact on children's development, is a fundamental need for Manitoba families and contributes to a strong economy.
(4) The financial viability of these programs is in jeopardy if they cannot meet the fiscal responsibility of achieving a balanced budget, as all operating expenses continue to increase.
(5) The workforce shortage of trained early childhood educators has continued to increase; quality child care is dependent on a workforce that is skilled and adequately renumerated.
(6) Accessible, affordable and quality early learning and child-care programs must be available to all children and families in Manitoba.
We petition the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba as follows:
To urge the provincial government to increase funding for licensed, not-for-profit child‑care programs in recognition of the importance of early learning and child care in Manitoba, which will also improve quality and stability in the workforce.
This petition is signed by many Manitobans.
Mrs. Bernadette Smith (Point Douglas): I wish to present the following petition to the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba.
The background to this petition is as follows:
(1) All Manitobas–all Manitobans deserve the opportunity to pursue a university or college degree.
(2) The ACCESS program was introduced by the provincial government in the 1970s. It provided grants to Manitobans who were historically under-represented in professionals such as teaching and social work.
(3) Under the ACCESS program, northern, indigenous and low-income students were prioritized with significant and targeted assistance of up to 60 per cent of a student's needs, including living expenses, to counter the effects of historic and systemic barriers to education.
(4) In 2018, the provincial government cancelled the ACCESS Bursary Program as it existed and ACCESS students will now have to rely much more heavily on student loans.
(5) This situation presents a barrier for many under-represented students who have chosen not to pursue an education due to debt concerns. The change is especially unfair to students who are–who already are in the midst of completing multi-year degrees and did their financing–financial planning anticipating a long-term commitment from the program.
(6) The provincial government has already made it harder for all Manitoba students to afford post-secondary education. It cuts the tuition tax rebate, cuts funding to post-secondary institutions and lifted the cap on tuition fee increases, leading to the highest tuition fee increase in the country.
(7) The provincial government's cuts are making school a debt sentence and placing more barriers to education in the way of disadvantaged Manitobans.
We petition the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba as follows:
To urge the provincial government to immediately restore the ACCESS Bursary Program to ensure targeted funding for northern, indigenous and low-income students to help reduce barriers to access and ensure all Manitobans have equal opportunity to pursue post-secondary education.
And this is signed by Chris Higgins, Mary Hoogervorst and Craig Dorminant [phonetic] and many other Manitobans.
Mr. James Allum (Fort Garry-Riverview): I wish to present the following petition to the Legislative Assembly.
The background to this petition is as follows:
(1) Early learning and child-care programs in Manitoba require increased funding to stabilize and support a system that is in jeopardy.
(2) Licensed, not-for-profit early learning and child-care programs have received no new operating funding in over three years, while the cost of living has continued to increase annually.
(3) High-quality licensed child care has a lasting, positive impact on children's development, is a fundamental need for Manitoba families and contributes to a strong economy.
(4) The financial viability of these programs is in jeopardy if they cannot meet the fiscal responsibility of achieving a balanced budget, as all operating expenses continue to increase.
(5) The workforce shortage of trained early childhood educators has continued to increase; quality child care is dependent on a workforce that is skilled and adequately remunerated.
(6) Accessible, affordable and quality early learning and child-care programs must be available to all children and families in Manitoba.
We petition the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba as follows:
To urge the provincial government to increase funding for licensed, not-for-profit child‑care programs in recognition of the importance of early learning and child care in Manitoba, which will also improve quality and stability in the workforce.
And, Madam Speaker, this petition is signed by Francesca Cantalego, Stephanie Fiddler, Chi Ho Ngo and many other Manitobans.
Mr. Andrew Swan (Minto): I wish to present the following petition to the Legislative Assembly.
The background to the petition is as follows:
(1) Early learning and child-care programs in Manitoba require increased funding to stabilize and support a system that is in jeopardy.
(2) Licensed, not-for-profit early learning and child-care programs have received no new operating funding in over three years, while the cost of living has continued to increase annually.
(3) High-quality licensed child care has a lasting, positive impact on children's development, is a fundamental need for Manitoba families and contributes to a strong economy.
(4) The financial viability of these programs is in jeopardy if they cannot meet the fiscal responsibility of achieving a balanced budget, as all operating expenses continue to increase.
(5) The workforce shortage of trained early childhood educators has continued to increase; quality child care is dependent on a workforce that is skilled and adequately remunerated.
(6) Accessible, affordable and quality early learning and child-care programs must be available to all children and families in Manitoba.
We petition the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba as follows:
To urge the provincial government to increase funding for licensed, not-for-profit child‑care programs in recognition of the importance of early learning and child care in Manitoba, which will also improve quality and stability in the workforce.
And Madam Speaker, this petition is signed by B. Boroskae, Selina Desrochers, Jaret André and many other Manitobans.
* (15:00)
Mr. Matt Wiebe (Concordia): I wish to present the following petition to the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba.
The background to this petition is as follows:
(1) The provincial government's program of cuts and restructuring in health care have had serious negative consequences, reduced both access to and quality of care for patients, increased wait times, exasperated the nursing shortage and significantly increased workload and the reliance on overtime from nurses and other health-care professionals.
(2) Further cuts and consolidation are opposed by a majority of Manitobans and will only further reduce access to health-care services.
(3) The provincial government has rushed through these cuts and changes, and failed to adequately consult nurses and health-care professionals who provide front-line patient care.
(4) Ongoing cuts and changes appear to be more about saving money than improving health care.
We petition the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba as follows:
(1) To urge the provincial government to reduce–sorry–to reverse cuts and closures that negatively impact patients' ability to access timely, quality health care.
(2) To urge the provincial government to make real investments in Manitoba's public health-care system that will improve the timeliness and quality of care for patients by increasing the number of beds across the system and recruiting and retaining an adequate number of nurses and other health-care professionals to meet Manitoba's needs.
And this petition is signed by many Manitobans.
Ms. Nahanni Fontaine (St. Johns): I wish to present the following petition to the Legislative Assembly.
The background to this petition is as follows:
(1) Early learning and child-care programs in Manitoba require increased funding to stabilize and support a system that is in jeopardy.
(2) Licensed, not-for-profit early learning and child-care programs have received no new operating funding in over three years, while the cost of living has continued to increase annually.
(3) High-quality licensed child care has a lasting, positive impact on children's development, is a fundamental need for Manitoba families and contributes to a strong economy.
(4) The financial viability of these programs is in jeopardy if they cannot meet the fiscal responsibility of achieving a balanced budget, as all operating expenses continue to increase.
(5) The workforce shortage of trained early childhood educators has continued to increase; quality child care is dependent on a workforce that is skilled and adequately remunerated–pardon me.
(6) Accessible, affordable and quality early learning and child-care programs must be available to all children and families in Manitoba.
We petition the Legislative Assembly in Manitoba–of Manitoba as follows:
To urge the provincial government to increase funding for licensed, not-for-profit child-care programs in recognition of the importance of early learning and child care in Manitoba, which will also improve quality and stability in the workforce.
Signed by Rizzie Enriquez, Annabel Guanamnam [phonetic], thank you, and Marsha Coombe and many Manitobans.
Madam Speaker: Grievances?
Hon. Jon Gerrard (River Heights): Madam Speaker, I have a matter of privilege.
Madam Speaker: The honourable member for River Heights, on a matter of privilege.
Hon. Jon Gerrard (Second Opposition House Leader): Madam Speaker, the matter I raise arises from words that were said–[interjection]
Madam Speaker: Order.
Mr. Gerrard: The matter I raised arises from words that were said yesterday in the Legislature, and this is the first time that I have been able to raise them and to make sure that I had read the words correctly.
I will provide the–from Marleau and Montpetit, references which deal with this particular matter of privilege.
On page 86, Speaker Fraser stated that the privileges of a member are violated by any action which might impede him or her in the fulfillment of his or his duties and functions. On page 87, it says any action which impedes or tends to impede a member in the discharge of his duties is a breach of privilege.
On December 6th, 1978, in finding that a prima facie contempt of the House existed, Speaker Jerome ruled that a government official, by deliberating misleading a minister, had impeded a member in the performance of his duties, and consequently obstructed the House itself.
On page 95, the House of Commons enjoys very wide latitude in maintaining its dignity and authority through its exercise of contempt power.
Now, it is with those references in mind that I bring to your attention, Madam Speaker, the words of the MLA for Steinbach yesterday when he said, in quotes, I was hoping to call Estimates this afternoon, end of quotes.
I will table this so its abundantly clear what was said, and it will be on the record in tabled material.
I will now also table a memo that was provided to us Wednesday morning from the government which says: Hi, Mr. Gerrard, today we plan to call Bills 32, 22, 24 and 25. No mention of Estimates in this whatsoever. And the government–the MLA for Steinbach, in suggesting that he wanted to call Estimates, clearly was misleading the House and trying to impede our ability to do our duties.
And I want to also refer, and I will table this, communication today–in case the member for Steinbach (Mr. Goertzen) gets up and says, well, I wanted to call Estimates today. This says: Hi, Mr. Gerrard, today we plan to call continued second reading debate of the following: Bill 32, an act concerning the leasing of 800 Adele, Winnipeg, and then several other bills. There's no mention of Estimates.
Now, Madam Speaker, we do want to get to debating Bill 32, but we felt that we needed to raise this matter of privilege because it is imperative that it be raised at the earliest possible.
Now I move, seconded by the MLA for Burrows, that this matter be referred to a Legislative committee.
Madam Speaker: Before recognizing any other members to speak, I would remind the House that remarks at this time by honourable members are limited to strictly relevant comments about whether the alleged matter of privilege has been raised at the earliest opportunity, and whether a prima facie case has been established.
Hon. Kelvin Goertzen (Government House Leader): Indeed, Madam Speaker, I was hoping to call Estimates yesterday. I live in a world of hope.
It was my hope to pass Bill 32, 22, 24 and 25, and then to call Estimates. But that didn't happen because the member for River Heights (Mr. Gerrard) continues to delay and to filibuster because he doesn't want to do the work of an MLA here, Madam Speaker.
He'll have to explain that to his constituents fairly soon.
Madam Speaker: The honourable Government House Leader, for the–or, the honourable House leader for the official opposition.
Ms. Nahanni Fontaine (Official Opposition House Leader): I do want to just echo some of the concerns brought forward for the House leader for the Liberal member in the House.
I think that we were all a little concerned that the Government House Leader (Mr. Goertzen) had noted that he had planned to bring Estimates forward when actually, like the member for River Heights, I also received an email indicating that the business of the afternoon were bills and to continue to call bills.
* (15:10)
I think it's important for folks, for Manitobans, to understand that we've actually been waiting for about 19 days with no Estimates called. And Estimates is, as you know, Madam Speaker, a vital component of House business. It allows us to execute our duties as MLAs to question the government on their budget. We are getting dwindled down on the number of sitting days in this sitting before we rise.
So I would have to say that, on this side of the House, we are concerned that Estimates have not been called, and that there was almost like a dangling of a carrot that they almost were going to be called and yet they still are not.
Miigwech.
Madam Speaker: On the matter of privilege raised by honourable member for River Heights, I would like to inform the House that a matter concerning the methods by which the House proceeds in the conduct of business is a matter of order, not privilege.
Joseph Maingot, in the second edition of Parliamentary Privilege in Canada states, on page 14, that allegations of breach of privilege by a member in the House that amount to complaints about procedures and practices in the House are by their very nature matters of order. He also states, on page 223 of the same edition, a breach of the standing orders or a failure to follow an established practice would invoke a point of order rather than a question of privilege.
On this basis, I would therefore respectfully rule that the honourable member does not have a prima facie case of privilege.
Mr. Gerrard: Yes, Madam Speaker, with due respect, I challenge that ruling.
Madam Speaker: The ruling of the Chair has been challenged.
The question before the House is shall the ruling of the Chair be sustained.
Voice Vote
Madam Speaker: All those in favour, please say yea.
Some Honourable Members: Yea.
Madam Speaker: All those opposed, please say nay.
Some Honourable Members: Nay.
Madam Speaker: In my opinion, the Yeas have it.
Recorded Vote
Mr. Gerrard: Yes, Madam Speaker, a recorded vote, please.
Madam Speaker: A recorded vote having been called, call in the members.
* (16:10)
Order.
The one hour provided for the ringing of the division bells has expired. I'm therefore directing that the division bells be turned off and the House proceed to the vote.
The question before the House is shall the ruling of the Chair be sustained.
Division
A RECORDED VOTE was taken, the result being as follows:
Yeas
Clarke, Cox, Eichler, Ewasko, Fielding, Friesen, Guillemard, Helwer, Johnson, Johnston, Lagassé, Martin, Mayer, Michaleski, Micklefield, Morley‑Lecomte, Nesbitt, Pedersen, Piwniuk, Reyes, Schuler, Smith (Southdale), Smook, Squires, Stefanson, Teitsma, Wharton, Wishart, Wowchuk, Yakimoski.
Nays
Allum, Altemeyer, Fontaine, Gerrard, Lamont, Lamoureux, Lathlin, Maloway, Marcelino (Logan), Marcelino (Tyndall Park), Saran, Smith (Point Douglas), Swan.
Deputy Clerk (Mr. Rick Yarish): Yeas 30, Nays 13.
Madam Speaker: The ruling of the Chair has been sustained.
Madam Speaker: And I have a statement for the House.
I would like to clarify something from private members' business this morning. Prior to the noon recess, the member for Point Douglas (Mrs. Smith) had moved resolution 13 and, to correct the record, the debate will be listed in her name, with 10 minutes remaining.
* * *
Madam Speaker: Grievances?
Hon. Blaine Pedersen (Deputy Government House Leader): Can we continue second reading debate on Bill 32, followed by Bill 22, followed by Bill 24, and then we will finish off the day on Bill 25.
Madam Speaker: It has been announced that the House will resume debate on second readings of bills 32, 22, 24, and 25.
And I would just like to advise the House that I have received a letter from the Leader of the Official Opposition (Mr. Kinew)–[interjection]
So, just for the record, I would like to advise the House that I have received a letter from the Leader of the Official Opposition designated–designating his unlimited speaking time for second reading of Bill 22 to the honourable member for Minto (Mr. Swan).
Madam Speaker: We will now move to second reading of, or debate on second reading on Bill 32, An Act concerning the Leasing of 800 Adele Avenue, Winnipeg, standing in the name of the honourable member for River Heights, who has four minutes remaining.
Hon. Jon Gerrard (River Heights): Madam Speaker, just to very briefly recapitulate, this bill is brought in at the last minute, it was brought in without a lot of the background information and some information which may be inaccurate, so we have a lot of concerns about this and I'm looking forward to my colleague from Burrows speaking on this bill.
Ms. Cindy Lamoureux (Burrows): I'm certain that we in this House all believe that promises are something to be kept. And while I believe that each of us tries our best to uphold the ones we make, the one made by our government can have the biggest impact.
There is a certainty that has to exist in society, particularly in the realm of business. This is that promises and contracts made with the government are to be held to the highest degree. If companies and the people lose their faith and trust that this government is willing to deal fairly and honestly, who can you fully trust in business?
Bill 32 seeks to destruct a contract made between the government and a private company. Now, while the NDP may have made that deal, there is a precedent that breaking government contracts with legislation is a recipe for failure. When the previous NDP government sought to end a deal with the Manitoba jockeys association, they were sued and were defeated in the courts.
Even with clauses in this bill aimed at preventing legal action from the company, what idea does this send to the business community of Manitoba when they seek to enter an agreement with the Province, especially if we continue to build upon a history of legislating our ways out of contracts that we no longer want to be a part of?
Madam Speaker, that's only what's wrong with the possibility of the messages that this bill sends out, never mind the fact that we should be in Estimates discussing the budget and getting answers to the pressing needs of our constituents and communities.
It's astonishing that this government did not bring this bill up sooner if it mattered so much, instead of the eleventh hour where they would rather force this bill through instead of answering pertinent and necessary questions from members of the opposition.
Breaking contracts is no simple thing, Madam Speaker; it is not something that you or I can do freely without severe consequences from the other involved parties.
Thank you.
Madam Speaker: Are there any further members wishing to speak in debate?
Is the House ready for the question?
Some Honourable Members: Question.
Madam Speaker: The question before the House is second reading of Bill 32, An Act concerning the Leasing of 800 Adele Avenue, Winnipeg.
Is it the pleasure of the House to adopt the motion? Agreed?
Some Honourable Members: Agreed.
Some Honourable Members: No.
Madam Speaker: I hear a no.
Voice Vote
Madam Speaker: All those in favour of the motion, please say yea.
Some Honourable Members: Yea.
Madam Speaker: All those opposed, please say nay.
An Honourable Member: Nay.
Madam Speaker: In my opinion, the Yeas have it.
Recorded Vote
Hon. Jon Gerrard (Second Opposition House Leader): Madam Speaker, a recorded vote, please.
Madam Speaker: A recorded vote having been called, call in the members.
The question before the House is second reading of Bill 32, An Act concerning the Leasing of 800 Adele Avenue, Winnipeg.
* (17:00)
Division
A RECORDED VOTE was taken, the result being as follows:
Yeas
Allum, Clarke, Cox, Cullen, Eichler, Ewasko, Fielding, Fontaine, Friesen, Goertzen, Guillemard, Helwer, Johnson, Johnston, Lagassé, Lathlin, Maloway, Marcelino (Logan), Marcelino (Tyndall Park), Martin, Mayer, Michaleski, Micklefield, Morley-Lecomte, Nesbitt, Pedersen, Piwniuk, Reyes, Schuler, Smith (Point Douglas), Smith (Southdale), Smook, Squires, Stefanson, Swan, Teitsma, Wharton, Wishart, Wowchuk, Yakimoski.
Nays
Gerrard, Lamont, Lamoureux.
Deputy Clerk (Mr. Rick Yarish): Yeas 40, Nays 3.
Madam Speaker: I declare the motion carried.
* * *
Madam Speaker: The hour being past 5 p.m., this House is adjourned and stands adjourned until 1:30 p.m. on Monday.
LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA
Thursday, May 23, 2019
CONTENTS
Bill 233–The Wildlife Amendment Act (Protecting Property from Water and Wildlife Damage)
Bill 241–The Public Health Amendment Act (Banning Cosmetic Eye Tattooing and Eye Jewellery)
Standing Committee on Private Bills
Community Safety Forum–Crime Rates
Icelandic National League of North America
Concordia and Seven Oaks Hospitals
Non-Binary Option on Government ID
Concordia and Seven Oaks Hospitals
Early Learning and Child-Care Programs
Early Learning and Child-Care Programs
Early Learning and Child-Care Programs
Early Learning and Child-Care Programs
Bill 32–An Act concerning the Leasing of 800 Adele Avenue, Winnipeg