Manitoba Hansard — 17 May 2012 (Sitting 36B, 40th Legislature, 1st Session)

40-1-36b

Manitoba — Debates (Hansard)

First Session - Fortieth Legislature of the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba DEBATES and PROCEEDINGS Official Report (Hansard) Published under the authority of The Honourable Daryl Reid Speaker Vol. LXIV No. 36B - 1:30 p.m., Thursday, May 17, 2012 ISSN 0542-5492

MANITOBA LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY Fortieth Legislature Member Constituency Political Affiliation ALLAN, Nancy, Hon. St. Vital NDP ALLUM, James Fort Garry-Riverview NDP ALTEMEYER, Rob Wolseley NDP ASHTON, Steve, Hon. Thompson NDP BJORNSON, Peter, Hon. Gimli NDP BLADY, Sharon Kirkfield Park NDP BRAUN, Erna Rossmere NDP BRIESE, Stuart Agassiz PC CALDWELL, Drew Brandon East NDP CHIEF, Kevin, Hon. Point Douglas NDP CHOMIAK, Dave, Hon. Kildonan NDP CROTHERS, Deanne St.

James NDP CULLEN, Cliff Spruce Woods PC DEWAR, Gregory Selkirk NDP DRIEDGER, Myrna Charleswood PC EICHLER, Ralph Lakeside PC EWASKO, Wayne Lac du Bonnet PC FRIESEN, Cameron Morden-Winkler PC GAUDREAU, Dave St. Norbert NDP GERRARD, Jon, Hon. River Heights Liberal GOERTZEN, Kelvin Steinbach PC GRAYDON, Cliff Emerson PC HELWER, Reg Brandon West PC HOWARD, Jennifer, Hon. Fort Rouge NDP IRVIN-ROSS, Kerri, Hon. Fort Richmond NDP JHA, Bidhu Radisson NDP KOSTYSHYN, Ron, Hon. Swan River NDP LEMIEUX, Ron, Hon. Dawson Trail NDP MACKINTOSH, Gord, Hon. St.

Johns NDP MAGUIRE, Larry Arthur-Virden PC MALOWAY, Jim Elmwood NDP MARCELINO, Flor, Hon. Logan NDP MARCELINO, Ted Tyndall Park NDP McFADYEN, Hugh Fort Whyte PC MELNICK, Christine, Hon. Riel NDP MITCHELSON, Bonnie River East PC NEVAKSHONOFF, Tom Interlake NDP OSWALD, Theresa, Hon. Seine River NDP PEDERSEN, Blaine Midland PC PETTERSEN, Clarence Flin Flon NDP REID, Daryl, Hon. Transcona NDP ROBINSON, Eric, Hon. Kewatinook NDP RONDEAU, Jim, Hon. Assiniboia NDP ROWAT, Leanne Riding Mountain PC SARAN, Mohinder The Maples NDP SCHULER, Ron St. Paul PC SELBY, Erin, Hon. Southdale NDP SELINGER, Greg, Hon. St.

Boniface NDP SMOOK, Dennis La Verendrye PC STEFANSON, Heather Tuxedo PC STRUTHERS, Stan, Hon. Dauphin NDP SWAN, Andrew, Hon. Minto NDP TAILLIEU, Mavis Morris PC WHITEHEAD, Frank The Pas NDP WIEBE, Matt Concordia NDP WIGHT, Melanie Burrows NDP WISHART, Ian Portage la Prairie PC

1345 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA Thursday, May 17, 2012 The House met at 1:30 p.m. Mr. Speaker: Good afternoon, everyone. Please be seated. ROUTINE PROCEEDINGS INTRODUCTION OF BILLS Bill 31–The Bilingual Service Centres Act Hon. Ron Lemieux (Minister of Local Government): I move, seconded by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General (Mr. Swan), that Bill 31, The Bilingual Service Centres Act;

Loi sur les centres de services biling ues, be now read for a first time. Motion presented. Mr. Lemieux: Le projet de loi vise à garantir un rôle permanent pour les centres de services bilingues. Ces centres sont des guichets uniques où les citoyens, citoyennes peuvent obtenir des services des gouvernements en français ou anglais. Translation This bill is de signed to guarantee a permanent role for the Bilingual Service Centres. These centres are single windows where citizens can obtain government services in French or in English.

English The bill primarily focuses on enshrining principles and practices that are already in existence for the operation of bilingual services centre. One of the attractive features of the bill is that it would be beneficial for both the English- and French-speaking communities –dans la mesure où l'accès à des services gouvernemen taux pour la population locale serait garanti. Translation –as it would guarantee access to government services for the local population. English Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. Merci, Monsieur le président. Translation Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr.

Speaker: Is it the pleasure of the House to adopt the motion? [Agreed] Bill 215–The Results-Based Budgeting Act Mrs. Heather Stefanson (Tuxedo): I move, seconded by the member for Brandon West (Mr. Helwer), that Bill 215, The Results-Based Budgeting Act;

Loi sur la budgétisation axée sur les résultants, be now read a first time. Motion presented. Mrs. Stefanson: This bill requires the budgets for all government programs, services, agencies, boards and commissions to be reviewed on a regular cycle to ensure that they are delivering the outcomes that the public needs. Once the review process is completed for a given program, the budget for the progra m will be re -established. The process is to be transparent, with the findings and recommendations of program reviews made public. Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. Mr.

Speaker: Is it the pleasure of the House to adopt the motion? [Agreed] Bill 33–The Election Financing Act and Elections Amendment Act Hon. Jennifer Howard (Minister of Family Services and Labour): I move, seconded by the Attorney General, that Bill 33, The Election Financing Act and Elections Amendment Act;

Loi sur le financement des élections et Loi modifiant la Loi électorale, be now read a first time. Motion presented. Ms. Howard: Mr. Speaker, there's a number of changes brought forward as part of this bill. First, the existing formula which sets out the annual allowance for registered parties is replaced by a process whereby an allowance commissioner will determine the allowance. The allowance is intended to assist registered parties in defraying their administrative and certain operating costs, including costs incurred in complying with this act.

Secondly, if a fixed election date scheduled for October will conflict with a federal fixed -date election, Manitoba's election is postponed to the following spring.

1346 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA May 17, 2012 Thirdly, the chief electoral officer must examine and report on whether a permanent voters list should be established. Lastly, The Elections Finances Act is rewritten to make it clearer and easier to understand. Mr. Speaker: Is it the pleasure of the House to adopt the motion? [Agreed] Any further introduction of bills? PETITIONS Cellular Phone Service in Southeastern Manitoba Mr. Cliff Graydon (Emerson): I wish to present the following petition to the Legislative Assembly.

And this is the background to this petition: During early October 2011, parts of southeastern Manitoba were hard hit by wildfires. Thanks to the swift action of provincial and municipal officials, including 27 different fire departments and countless volunteers, no lives were lost and property damage was limited. However, the fight against the wil dfires reinforced the shortcomings with the communications system in the region, specifically the gaps in cellular phone service. These gaps made it difficult to co -ordinate firefighting efforts and to notify people that they had to be evacuated.

The situation also would have made it difficult for people to call for immediate medical assistance if it had been required. Local governments, businesses, industries, and area residents have for years sought a solution to this very serious communications challenge.

We petition the Legislative Assembly as follows: To urge the appropriate provincial government departments to consider working with all stakeholders to develop a strategy to swiftly address the serious challenges posed by limited cellphone service in southeastern Manitoba in order to ensure that people and property can be better protected in the future. And this petition has been signed by W. Sawatzky, C. Hébert and G. Laurie and 10,000 other fine Manitobans. Mr. Speaker: In accordance with o ur rules 132(6), when petitions are read they are deemed to have been received by the House.

Personal Care Homes and Long-Term Care–Steinbach Mr. Kelvin Goertzen (Steinbach): Good afternoon, Mr. Speaker, I wish to present the following petition to the Legislative Assembly. These are the reasons for this petition: The city of Steinbach is one of the fastest growing communities in Manitoba and one of the largest cities in the province. This growth has resulted in pressure on a number of important services , including personal care homes and long-term care space in the city.

Many long -time residents of the city of Steinbach have been forced to live out their final years outside of Steinbach because of the shortage of personal care homes and long-term care facilities. Individuals who have lived in, worked in and contributed to the city of Steinbach their entire lives should not be forced to spend their final years in a place far from friends and family. We petition the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba as follows: To request the Minister of Health ensure additional personal care homes and long- term care spaces are made available in the city of Steinbach on a priority basis. Mr.

Speaker, this petition is signed by D. Boychuk, V. Robertson, J. Robertson and thousands of other Manitobans. TABLING OF REPORTS Hon. Nancy Allan (Minister of Education): Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to table the 2012 -2013 Departmental Expenditure Estimates for Manitoba Education. Hon. Jim Rondeau (Minister of Healthy Living, Seniors and Consumer Affairs): Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to table the Supplementary Information for Legislative Review, 2012 -2013, for the department expenditures Estimates for Manitoba Healthy Living, Seniors and Consumer Affairs. Hon.

Peter Bjornson (Minister of Entrepreneur - ship, Training and Trade ): Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to table the Supplementary Information for Legislative Review, 2012 -2013, departmental expenditures for Entrepreneurship, Training and Trade.

May 17, 2012 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 1347 Mr. Speaker: Any further tabling of reports? MINISTERIAL STATEMENTS Sagkeeng's Finest Hon. Eric Robinson (Minister of A boriginal and Northern Affairs ): Yes, Mr. Speaker, I have a statement for the House. I rise today to congratulate Dallas and Brandon Courchene and Vince O'Laney of Sagkeeng's Finest for taking the top prize at the first ever Canada's Got Talent competition in Toronto earlier this week. These young men represent the dreams and aspirations o f people from all backgrounds.

They serve as outstanding positive role models for Aboriginal youth and young people in general. They have brought a sense of pride to their home community of Sagkeeng First Nation and to Aboriginal people across the country. Here in our traditional territory of Treaty 1, the province of Manitoba, and all of Canada, we give our thanks to you, Brandon, Dallas, and Vince.

On behalf of all of us, we are very proud of you, and may your spirit and determination continue to guide you and continue to inspire us. * (13:40) They began jigging in 2006 with the Sagkeeng First Nation's drama and arts program and became part of the Sagkeeng Elders of the Past Memorial Square Dancers, which was named in honour of all their grandparents. Both Dallas and Vince also play the fiddle. These remarkable young people, through discipline, determination, and creativity, have incorporated traditional jigging with tap dancing, clogging and hip hop.

For the final showdown, Sagkeeng's Finest performed a fusion of traditional jigging and tap dancing. Their highly imaginative and original performance overwhelmed the judges and the nation. They have been active members in their community and have been giving back to their community by teaching, fiddling, and dancing after school. They've had to put this on hold for the competition. Sagkeeng First Nation community is rightly proud of these young men and view them as leaders among the youth of the community.

Already they have announced that they plan to support a dance studio in Sagkeeng where othe r young people can learn. Earlier today at a ceremony honouring them at the Legislature, the First Minister awarded Dallas, Brandon, and Vince the Order of the Buffalo Hunt for their achievements and their dedication to their community. This honour was well deserved. They also performed in the –in front of a large, appreciative audience on the Legislative grounds who recognized the talent and professionalism of these young people.

I want to thank Sagkeeng's Finest, their families, Chief Donavan Fontaine, and the other performers, along with J.J. Lavallee, for putting on an inspirational and memorable event on short notice to commemorate their success, and may I add, to their manager, George Boyd. I am very pleased to note that Sagkeeng's Finest will be also performing at the nationally televised seventh annual Manito Ahbee Aboriginal Peoples Choice Music Awards November 2nd at the MTS Centre. In celebrating the achievement of Sagkeeng's Finest, we are supporting the potential of youth to realize their dreams. And I thank you very much, Mr.

Speaker. Mr. Wayne Ewasko (Lac du Bonnet): Mr. Speaker, it is my absolute pleasure to stand up today to say a few words of congratulations to Sagkeeng's Finest. Watching them this afternoon, there is no doubt that V ince O'Laney, Brandon, Dallas Courchene are an extremely talented and creative dancing trio. Their modern take on traditional dancing has been a pleasure for viewers across Canada and here in Manitoba to watch. The overwhelming enthusiasm and support for Sagkeeng's Finest has been well earned.

I congratulate these young men for earning the top prize from Canada's Got Talent by outperforming more than 11,000 fellow competitors. Vince, Brandon, and Dallas clearly worked tirelessly to perfect their every dance step and to synchronize their every move. But what especially was impressive was the creativity that they infused with combining the modern music and dance elements with traditional. For Sagkeeng's Finest, a Manitoba First Nations dance troupe with humbl e beginnings, to going on to take the top prize has been truly inspirational.

In addition to their incredible dance talent, I think what judges and viewers back home were most

1348 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA May 17, 2012 impressed with was the work ethic and constant striving to improve what they de monstrated. It was clear from week to week that these boys were determined to perform their best, which garnered high praises from the judges. They have captured our admiration, praise and our hearts and have proven to be real stars, rock stars. On anothe r note, I think that the story of Sagkeeng's Finest is quite remarkable. Growing up in Sagkeeng First Nations, Vince, Brandon, and Dallas learned traditional dancing from their family and community.

They only practised jigging for a few years before performing–or before forming a trio and entering the competition. Sagkeeng's Finest faced some tough competition from acts from across the country, many of whom had much longer to perfect their craft. However, their triumph in overcoming these obstacles and winning against their competitors shows that anything is possible. Mr. Speaker, I am certain that Vince, Brandon, and Dallas have a very bright future in dancing and the creative arts, as they are truly among the best in Canada.

The world is now their oyster , as I understand that they will be performing at Citytv's New Year's Eve bash and have a chance to perform in Vegas. I'm sure that I'll be joining many other Manitobans by continuing to watch and cheer for Sagkeeng's Finest for years to come. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Hon. Jon Gerrard (River Heights): Mr. Speaker, I ask leave to speak to the minister's statement. Mr. Speaker: Does the member for River Heights have leave to speak to the ministerial statement? [Agreed] Mr. Gerrard: Mr.

Speaker, I want to join the rest of the MLAs at the Legislature in congratulating Vince O'Laney, Dallas Courchene, and Brandon Courchene for the incredible performance, for your incredible tenacity and perseverance and ability to come through and surprise so many people in s uch a wonderful way. I think it is a tremendous example to all Manitobans, but a tremendous example, in particular, to Manitobans in First Nations communities around the province about what can be achieved, that the goals and the dreams are there to be achieved and can be achieved. So I salute you and congratulate you.

I want also to congratulate the chief, Donavan Fontaine, and the members of Sagkeeng First Nation, who've been very supportive and created the community which has provided the nurturing for Dallas and Vince and for Brandon, and I think it is a tribute to the good things that have been done at Sagkeeng and the leadership that is there and certainly speaks well, not just in this case but for the future, in terms of First Nations leadership around the province.

It is a great day for all of us, a day to really celebrate, and thank you for what you've done, and I thank you for the performance that you provided just a short while ago. Introduction of Guests Mr. Speaker: Prior to oral questions, I' m sure honourable members are already aware of our very special guests in the Speaker's Gallery with us today. But I would like to draw the attention of honourable members to the Speaker's Gallery where we have with us today Chief Donavan Fontaine and the tap dancing trio Sagkeeng's Finest, who won the national competition on Citytv's Canada's Got Talent earlier this week.

They're–and with us this afternoon is Vince O'Laney, Brandon Courchene, Dallas Courchene, and, of course, their manager, George Boyd. On behalf of all honourable members, we welcome you here today. ORAL QUESTIONS Budget Tax and Fee Increases Mr. Kelvin Goertzen (Steinbach): I'll add my congratulations to Brandon, Dallas, and Vince, Sagkeeng's Finest, and they've made Manitoba proud. We all agree of that in the Chamber, Mr. Speaker.

As we get closer to the long weekend Manitobans are making their plans, and while they're keeping their eye on the weather they're also keeping the eye –their eye on their wallet, on their pocketbook, as they plan to travel around the province. And as a result of this Premier's broken promise, they're going to have less money in their wallet. He said one thing before the election. He said: Read my lips. No new taxes. And then after the election we read the b udget, and there were new taxes, particularly on gas taxes. Will he admit today that he broke his promise, and as a result of that broken promise, Manitobans

May 17, 2012 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 1349 this long weekend will have less money in their pockets because that money went into the pockets of the provincial government? Hon. Greg Selinger (Premier): It bears repeating that Vince and Dallas, Brandon, their manager, George Boyd, Chief Donavan Fontaine, we're very pleased to have them here today. It's been a great honour to have the community here as well. The community was tremendously supportive of these young persons' great success, and you know what?

We can all be proud of what they've achieved on behalf of Manitoba, on behalf of the country. * (13:50) With respect to the member's questio n, he clearly has not read the entire budget. Every Manitoban this weekend, Mr. Speaker, will be benefiting by an increase in their personal deduction and an increase in their spousal deduction and an increase in their dependent's deduction. Seniors will be benefiting from an education property tax credit. And for the first time in many decades, we'll be investing in the roads that they travel on. Gas Tax Increase Mr. Kelvin Goertzen (Steinbach): Mr.

Speaker, Manitobans might remember that the Premier, he went on CJOB radio before the budget. He was so mad about gas prices, he vowed to write the Prime Minister about this very serious issues. He was so mad about gas prices, he was going to get a pen, buy a stamp, and fight Ottawa on gas prices. And then virtually at the same time, he did a one -eighty right after he said he was upset about gas prices and raised the gas prices two and a half cents a litre on every Manitoban. Mr.

Speaker, I can only imagine what that letter said to the Prime Minister, because o ne day he was the fighter for lower gas prices and the next day he was increasing gas prices. I wonder if he can table the letter so we can find out whether he was fighting for lower gas prices or advocating for higher gas prices. Hon. Greg Selinger (Premier): I just want the member from Steinbach to know I have a few stamps left over in case he'd like to mail in his declaration with respect to Jets tickets. I would like to make that available to him.

We now have the people at city hall, the people on this side of the House, that have agreed that we need a new policy. We've seen no policy statement from the members opposite. We've seen no declaration from the members opposite. And, you know, Mr. Speaker, we still have the second-lowest gas tax in the country. And for every dollar we raise in gas tax, we spend $2 on roads. When they raised gas tax in the 1990s, they were spending 25 cents of every dollar on roads and pocketing the difference. Government Performance Premier's Accountability Mr. Kelvin Goertzen (Steinbach): Mr.

Speaker, you know, this is a Premier, he doesn't know who he wants to be. One day he's demanding accountability from municipal officials. The next day he says, oh, it doesn't matter if my Cabinet ministers break the law. One day he's saying, oh, we're going to demand an apology from the Minister of Energy (Mr. Chomiak). The next day he says, we don't really need an apology from the Minister of Energy. One day he says, I'm furious –I'm furious–about high gas prices. The next da y he increases gas prices himself. Isn't the real reason he has two positions on every issue is that he can't be trusted by Manitobans?

Hon. Greg Selinger (Premier): Mr. Speaker, unlike the members opposite, we actually have a policy on the receipt of tickets, and we've said, well, it can't be done anymore. We've made it very clear– Some Honourable Members: Oh, oh. Mr. Speaker: I'm sure all honourable members recognize how valuable the time is in question period. I ask for your co -operation please. Allow for the questions to be posed, and the answers as well. The honourable First Minister, to conclude his remarks. Mr. Selinger: Yes, thank you, Mr. Speaker. As I stat ed earlier, we have the second lowest gas tax in the country.

We spend $2 for every dollar we raise in gas tax. This contrasts quite dramatically with when gas tax was raised in the '90s by the official opposition; they only spent a quarter –they only spent 25 cents of every dollar they raised on roads. We're doing the –we're doing double what we raise in the gas tax and maintaining the so– second lowest gas tax in the country.

1350 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA May 17, 2012 And, Mr. Speaker, that road to Steinbach is the best condition it's ever been in in the history of province of Manitoba. Provincial Debt Government Reduction Strategy Mrs. Heather Stefanson (Tuxedo): Mr. Speaker, raising taxes on the backs of hard- working Manitobans is not the answer. And members on this side of the House, we have introduced a five -point plan that will help grow our economy so that future generations are not left to pick up the tab for this NDP spending addiction. Mr.

Speaker, since the NDP came to power, the debt in the Province of Manitoba has doubled. I'm wondering what the NDP government's plan is to help retire that debt. Or is there a plan? Hon. Stan Struthers (Minister of Finance): It's interesting, Mr.

Speaker, that someone from that side of the House would actually get up and start talking about the books of the Province of Manitoba after how many years they walked into this Legislature, budget after budget, debate after debate, with one set of books up here on the top and another set of books underneath–underneath–hiding from Manitobans their spending, hiding from Manitobans their tax increases, hiding from Manitobans their expansion of the provincial sales tax to such items as baby food. Mr. Speaker, they have no credibility when it comes to budgeting in Manitoba. Mrs. Stefanson: The

summary net debt as a percentage of GDP has been on the rise in this province for the last five years. This is a very alarming trend, Mr. Speaker. It's gone from 2007-2008, where it was 21.6 per cent, all the way now up to 27.4 per cent, and this is a direct result of this NDP government's spending addiction. Mr. Speaker, what is their plan to reduce this trend, and is there a plan? Mr. Struthers : This is the same group of people who, in 1999, was at 32.7 per cent in terms of debt to GDP. I put our record on debt to GDP up against their record any time, any place. Servicing Costs Mrs.

Stefanson: Well, here's an NDP government now standing up and taking credit for low interest rates, I guess, Mr. Speaker. What's next? The cost to service the debt is up 6 per cent from last year. It's now at $857 million, and, Mr. Speaker, we know the governor of the Bank of Canada has warned that we could see interest rates on the rise. And I'm wondering if the Minister of Finance could explain what his government's plan is to reduce the cost of serving –servicing the debt, or is there a plan? Mr.

Struthers : A short time ago, when it was obvious that there was a global downturn in the economy, this government did not take the advice of members opposite. If you remember correctly, that advice was to cut deeply into health and education, cut deeply into services for kids, cut deeply into infrastructure. We rejected that model in favour of a plan, a five-year plan, an economic strategy recovery plan, that we are working our way through now. I wonder if the member opposite is suggesting that we shouldn't stand with the people who are victims of the flood last year.

I'm wondering if members opposite are telling us that we should start turning away kids who need our help. Mr. Speaker, we have a plan. We've outlined that plan, not only to members opposite, but we've outlined that plan to the people of Manitobans, and unlike flip -flopping Conservatives across the way, we stuck to that plan through the election, and we're honest with people. Some Honourable Members: Oh, oh. Mr. Speaker: Order, please. I know the member for Charleswood is anxiously awaiting the opportunity to ask a question. Please give her the opportunity. Hospital Stays Coed Patient Rooms Mrs.

Myrna Driedger (Charleswood): Susan Parent is in tears this week because, following major surgery at St. Boniface Hospital, she is being forced to share her hospital room with up to four men–one, an elderly man, who she says is naked most of the time–and she is feeling very, very humiliated by all of this. Susan said that this is the third time she's been in a coed room in the last year at St. Boniface Hospital. Can the Minister of Health tell Susan why she failed to keep a promise that she made two years ago to end the practice of coed rooms in hospitals? Hon.

T heresa Oswald (Minister of Health): I thank the member for the question. It is a very important issue, indeed.

May 17, 2012 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 1351 I want to inform the member that I've spoken this morning with the deputy minister, who will be in contact with the Winnipeg Regional Health Authority to make every possible effort to ensure that the individual that she's mentioned today finds her way into a room that's much more comfortable and appropriate for her. I would say further, Mr. Speaker, that for some people going into a hospital situation, being in a room with a member of the opposite sex is in no way upsetting.

But for others, it's very, very different; it is upsetting, which is why I've asked the CEO of the regional health authority, all regional health authorities, to make every effort, wherever possible, to have same -sex–gender rooms and to ensure that while people are on the road to wellness that they are feeling as–most–as comfortable as they can. * (14:00) Mrs. Driedger: Mr. Speaker, two years ago, I brought up this same issue of women patients being forced to share a room with men, and I'll remind the Minister of Health what she said at the time.

She said: If man can–sorry–if man can walk on the moon, there's no reason why Manitoba hospitals can't figure out a way to reduce the use of coed hospital rooms. And she committed two years ago to work really hard to fix this because she didn' t like it two years ago. So can the Minister of Health tell us why she didn't work hard enough to fix this over the last two years? Ms. Oswald: I meant it then; I mean it now. I want Susan to have a room wherein she is comfortable in her recovery. Certainly, Mr.

Speaker, one of the most important efforts that we're making is in capital construction in our hospitals where we're endeavouring to transform multiple -bedded rooms into single rooms so individuals can have that privacy, which is what they ultimately desire. That is part of our plan. Until we get to that point, Mr. Speaker, there is a direction and a plan in place, wherever possible, to ensure that individuals who are not wishing to be in an environment where there is a coed situation, that we amend that so that they are in same-sex rooms.

I do believe if you can put somebody on the moon, you can fix this, and we're going to continue to do that. Mrs. Driedger: Well, Mr. Speaker, two years ago the minister said she would fix it. Here we are two years later and this is a serious problem. And she didn't find it acceptable two years ago. Mr. Speaker, another woman said that she, too, was forced to share a room wit h a man who exposed himself to her every time she walked by. I imagine this is a very frightening experience for some people. This Minister of Health could find time to break an election law during the last election, Mr. Speaker.

I would like to ask her if she could also find time to fix this problem where patients don't have to be humiliated and frightened by being forced to share rooms with the opposite sex. It is not something that she agreed with two years ago. Why hasn't she done something? She's had two years to do something, Mr. Speaker. Ms. Oswald: Again, Mr. Speaker, I would reiterate for the member that we are working hard with capital projects to transform into having single rooms.

We are working with our regional health authorities and their hospitals wherever possible to have this not happen in cases where people are uncomfortable. And I would hasten to add, Mr. Speaker, that while we're doing capital construction to provide more single rooms, we're not calling for the de-bedding of our sy stem as was advocated for and supported by members opposite. You can check it out. It's in Hansard by the member for Charleswood. Mathematics Education Provincial Exam Cancellation Mr. Cameron Friesen (Morden -Winkler): Mr.

Speaker, yesterday, teachers, pr ofessors and stakeholders gathered to discuss math education. They were brought together by the current public debate over whether students in this province are receiving an adequate math education, and they were brought together by our poor standing in the Pan-Canadian Assessment Program test results where Manitoba students finished second last. The minister said that we needed to strengthen math education in the province, and yet the headline today reads: minister expels math exam. Mr.

Speaker, is thi s the minister's idea of strengthening math education in Manitoba, getting rid of the grade 12 math exam next year? Hon. Nancy Allan (Minister of Education): I appreciate, actually, getting this question today,

1352 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA May 17, 2012 because it provides me with the opportunity to correct information that is in the Winnipeg Free Press. Thank you very much. Next year, Mr. Speaker, is the first year that we will be implementing the new math curriculum, and it is a standard procedure in the Department of Education when we are impl ementing and piloting new math curriculum that we take a pause on a standards test where a student gets a 30 per cent – when a student gets a 30 per cent mark on that exam in grade 12. And there will be a test.

I can guarantee everyone in this Chamber and everyone in the public that there will be a test. That test is under discussion right now in my department, and there will be a mark for– Mr. Speaker: Order, please. Order. Mr. Friesen: Mr. Speaker, something's not clear. The minister says there will be a test. I want to quote from a March 2012 letter to school superintendents and principals: Grade 12, please note that while the piloting process will continue, there will be no provincial math test in 2012- 13. New provincial mathematics achievement tests will be –begin in the 2013-14 school year. Yet, Mr.

Speaker, in a radio interview today, the deputy minister contradicted this letter, saying there will be a provincial mathematics test next year after all. What are teachers supposed to believe? How are schools supposed to plan? Mr. Speaker, who's right and who's wrong, and how does the minister explain the breakdown in communication? Ms. Allan : Well, Mr. Speaker, there is a big difference between a standards test and a teacher-directed test.

It's commonly known by teachers in our public education system what that test is and what those differences are, and I have every confidence in the people that are on the front line in our 'peblic' education system, that they know what they're talking about and that we will work this out in co-operation and in collaboration, as we always do, with our education partners, unlike what they do. Mr. Friesen: Mr. Speaker, still something isn't clear. Is there going to be a test or won't there be? The deputy minister says one thing; the minister says another.

This letter from the department seems to say another thing altogether. Mr. Speaker, in talking about education and math education in the province of Manitoba, the minister stated that the new curriculum is proving to be p roblematic. What problems is the minister referring to? And is that the reason that the test won't be taking place in 2012 and '13? How can the minister guarantee that things are actually on track for the implementation of the new provincial-wide math exam for the following school year?

In the same week when this minister is trumpeting a new report card format that's supposed to use plain language and communicate clearly to people, why is this minister sending mixed messages on whether the math exams are on or off? Ms. Allan: Well, that's what–I guess that's what you get, Mr. Speaker, when you're inclusive and you invite your Tory critic to a math summit. All you do is get them more confused. I'm going to try one more time, Mr. Speaker.

We are in the process of piloting a math curriculum, and it is no surprise to anyone in this Chamber that we have a certain number of people in this province that have raised some concerns about that math curriculum that is being implemented, and we are in discussions with our education partners and those math professors that have concerns about those –that math curriculum. We are taking that very, v ery seriously, and before we consider moving forward, we must take– Mr. Speaker: Order, please. Time's expired. Headingley Correctional Centre Cottage Design and Contents Mr. Kelvin Goertzen (Steinbach): Yes, Mr.

Speaker, last month I had the opportunity, along with the member for St. Paul (Mr. Schuler), to tour a beautiful home. And in this home there was a beautiful flat- screen TV on the wall. It had a beautiful kitchen, looked like granite countertops. There was new appliances in this kitchen. Now, this wasn't the Parade of Homes. This was actually the parade of prisons, Mr. Speaker. This beautiful home was at the Headingley prison, the new Headingley prison that was designed, that was built, and that was paid for now by Manitoba taxpayers.

May 17, 2012 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 1353 Mr. Speaker, can this Minister of Justice tell us why he built these beautiful homes for inmates that taxpayers could only dream of owning? Hon. Andrew Swan (Minister of Justice and Attorney General): In hearing the member for Steinbach, I believe he's speaking about cottages that are built that are actually quite unlike anything else in the provincial system, and they're actually cottages which are built to specifications of the federal government to house federal prisoners. Mr. Goertzen: Well, you know, Mr. Speaker, I kind of anticipated that response.

So, I contacted corrections services Canada. I actually have some friends there, and they were surprised that the government threw them under the bus last week. In fact, they sent me an email just this morning, and they said in that email–and I'll give him the copy if he wants –we have made no requirements for flat-screen TVs. We made no requirements on the countertops. We made no requirements on the furniture other than how many people they need to seat. We do not set the design requirements for provincial institutions. * (14:10) Mr. Speaker, he designed it; he built it; Manitoba taxpayers paid for it.

Don't blame anybody else except yourselves. Why are you building this kind of thing on taxpayers' dime? Mr. Swan : Again, the federal –the place housing federal institutions is going to look much different from where provincial inmates are housed. And I know the member has his political channels, but what the member doesn't understand is the level of communication, the level of discussion that's happened between Correctional Service of Canada officials and Manitoba Justice. And there are a lot of specifications put in place for federal inmates that will be housed within the Headingley Correctional Centre.

We're hopeful we can get a memorandum of agreement completed very soon which is going to be positive for the Correctional Service of Canada, also positive for Manitoba Justice. And I'm very concerned th e member for Steinbach asked questions, then goes and puts very misleading information out in the public domain that could actually impact on the ability of Correctional Service Canada and Manitoba Justice to come to an agreement which is going to be beneficial for both of those organizations, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Goertzen : I had correspondence this morning from Correctional Service. In fact, right at the top, Mr.

Speaker, and then say –they said they were surprised by this Attorney General who last week blames Correctional Service Canada. They were shocked. They were–in fact, the words were, thrown under the bus by the provincial government. In fact, they said they had nothing to do with the flat -screen TVs. In fact, what they told me is they have one flat - screen TV through the entire federal corrections system and that's for training. They said they had nothing to do with the countertops. They said they had nothing to do with the appliances in these beautiful, beautiful houses. Mr.

Speaker, in fact, they said, you know who built it? You know who designed it? The Attorney General for Manitoba. I want to ask him whether or not he's going to apologize to taxpayers. No wonder he didn't let them go on a tour, and I will table the text of that email, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Swan: Mr. Speaker, it's days like today I'm just so disappointed–I'm so di sappointed the member for Steinbach is not going to be seeking the leadership of his party, because the member opposite has put incorrect information– Some Honourable Members: Oh, oh. Mr. Speaker: Order, please.

I'm having a great deal of difficulty heari ng the response to the question posed by the honourable member for Steinbach. The honourable Minister of Justice, to continue your remarks. Mr. Swan: Well, thank you very much. And I'll put on the record again the fact that these cottages are very differe nt from anything else contained in the provincial system. These would not be cottages that would be built under the provincial system.

However, because of the lengthy discussions extending over a lengthy period of time between Correctional Service of Canada and Manitoba Justice in connection with Infrastructure and Transportation, there are some very different-looking premises out at Headingley Correctional Centre. I'm glad that the member from Steinbach was able to tour it, and I'm very happy to answer any further questions the member may have. What is very important to recognize is that we're on the verge

1354 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA May 17, 2012 of having a very positive memorandum of agreement between Correctional Service of Canada and Manitoba Justice that we think is going to work for female inmates in Manitoba. Mr. Speaker: Order, please. Regional Development Corporations Funding Cancellation Mr. Blaine Pedersen (Midland): Well, the fallout has begun for the regional development corporations as a result of this NDP government's unilateral decision to cut funding to these community -based organizations.

The general manager of the Pembina Valley Development Corporation, as we know it as PVDC, has resigned as a direct result of the funding shortfall from this government. As PVDC board chair Ralph Groening noted, half of their budget has been cut and replacing that at short notice is an almost-impossible task. Mr. Speaker, will the Minister of Agriculture now restore funding to the regional development corporations to avoid further job layoffs and allow these valuable commodity organizations –community organizations to continue their good work with helping start-up companies create local jobs? Hon.

Ron Kostyshyn (Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Initiatives): Yes, as I indicated in the last couple days, as far as the Province goes, our government is committed to helping rural communities in achieving their goals when it comes to economic development. Front -line staff in MAFRI, such as business development specialists and rural leadership speci alist, support rural communities and they pursue economic development opportunities for their regent.

And may I remind the member opposite there all alternative programs and tools in place to assist the entrepreneurs, and I would be glad to share the information with the member opposite, as I've indicated in the last couple of days, the four different other programs that are available for such an improvement. Mr. Pedersen: Mr. Speaker, during Estimates the Minister of Agriculture has noted the vacancy rate in MAFRI offices, GO offices, is about 15 per cent, including a number of business development officers.

So I don't know where this staff is that's supposed to replace the Pembina Valley Development–for the Pembina Valley Development Corporation has been successful in assisting start -up businesses create jobs and stimulate the economy in their local communities. Just one example would be the Pembina Valley Challenge, a huge tourism event which attracts over 400 participants each fall to the Pembina Valley. Now the PVDC general manager is–has resigned due to a lack of vision of his–this government. Mr.

Speaker, how many more development corporations will have to lay off st aff, fold entirely, before this minister will stand up for rural and northern communities and reinstate funding? Or should they just throw in the towel and quit now? Mr. Kostyshyn: And thank you again–the question from the member opposite, and I want to re peat the question–or the answer to the question being brought forward.

We do have other agencies that will provide assist in the rural entrepreneurship assistant program through MASC; Canadian-Manitoba business service centre businesses and start loans, ' yoot' entrepreneur programs and Canadian youth business programs. And I–just almost seemed that, the fact that we work on a three -year contract with the membering municipalities, and it was three years ago, and there was letters sent out well in advance o f the proposed changes.

And let me remind the members opposite, the program has been in existence in 1960, and I'm sure they can somewhat relate to what's been tramped – what has been happening with programs that have been in existence, such as the partner ship we have between the federal and provincial governments, and let me use an example, the Canadian Wheat Board. Mr. Pedersen: Mr. Speaker, when will this minister start defending his portfolio within this government? His department's mandate is to assi st vibrant rural communities, something that seems to be lost on this minister.

When will he realize the damage he's done with his arbitrary, stealth-of-the-night letter to regional development corporations? Job creation is just as important in rural and northern Manitoba as it is in urban Manitoba. This minister needs to respect his department's mandate and 'reastate' –reinstate the funding to these community-based, job-creating focused entities. Mr. Speaker, when will this minister finally stand up for rural and northern Manitoba? Mr. Kostyshyn : And let me remind the member opposite again, on uncertain time, families look for

May 17, 2012 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 1355 creative ways to cut expenses, and we do. We're seeking ours out savings, we're making sure that we spend our money that are effective for the families, the hospitals and the education system in the province of Manitoba. And let me remind the members opposite, the days when they were in power in 1991 and 1993, the Tories cut $25 million out of the Agriculture budget, and then again in 1996 they cut $12 million. So I really consider, what are they talking about today when we are concerned about the rural?

First Nations Communities Water and Sewer Infrastructure Hon. Jon Gerra rd (River Heights): Mr. Speaker, for the last two weeks in question period, I've been asking the Premier for his plan to bring clean, running water to 1,400 homes which so desperately need it in northern Manitoba. Clean, running water is a human right and is recognized as such by the United Nations, and this NDP government is clearly directly responsible for all of the citizens in Manitoba. We've heard repeatedly from this Premier that when the federal government is willing to partner, so will we.

We've a lso heard that he has a proposal to the federal government, which he mentioned on Monday. I ask the Premier: Will he finally table this alleged proposal? * (14:20) Hon. Greg Selinger (Premier): I appreciate the member raising this question again, Mr. Speaker, because it allows me to once again state that we have money in the budget for labour market training for people in First Nations communities, including the Island Lake area.

We have a very substantial commitment in the budget for an east -side road, to allow goods and services to access those communities all year round instead of an increasingly short winter road season. We're working with the Frontiers Foundation who are adapting new technologies to provide sewer and water in those communities. The minister –the deputy premier and the Minister of Aboriginal and Northern Affairs (Mr.

Robinson) has met on more than one occasion with his counterpart in Ottawa to advance this project, and we continue to do all things that we can to support this project an d to ensure that Manitobans get access to clean water and sewer. The member knows very well that when he was a federal Cabinet minister, not one inch of progress was made on this; it wasn't even raised. Now we have the chance to move it forward. We look forward to doing that. And we look forward to the federal government coming up with their part of the resources necessary to do it.

And we will certainly be with them there, every step of the way. Mr. Gerrard: Mr. Speaker, we can debate another time about what happened in the '90s at the federal level, but certainly this Premier, who has been in power for more than 12 years, still is at the point where there are 1,400 homes in this province which desperately need clean, running water, and he has not achieved that goal. The MKO has set a deadline. There has been a precedent, Mr. Speaker, in Ontario and I table the second Ontario- Canada agreement, which brought clean, running water to many, many homes in Ontario.

And the fact is that this agreement specifies specifically the retrofitting to get clean, running water. And that was the Ontario role. I ask the Premier: Does he realize that with the stroke of a pen he can immediately support retrofitting homes for running water, as Bob Rae did in Ontario? Why has the Premier not acted? Mr. Selinger: Mr. Speaker, I've indicated earlier that we have acted. I've identified that we've got money – training money for First Nations people. I've identified that we've got money with respect to road access to those communities.

I've identified that we've done things like provide dialysis treatment to those communities for the first time ever. I can also indicate that Manitoba Hydro has set up a special unit to work with First Nations communities on energy efficiency, including retrofits to homes. So, all of these resources have been put in place during our term in office. I do remind the member opposite that the federal Liberals were in power from '93 to about 2006; no progress was made during that time when he was a federal Cabinet minister.

We will work with any federal government, of any political stripe, when it comes to improving water and sewer for First Nations communities in Manitoba. We do think the First Nations communities in Manitoba should have the same level of services as all other Manitobans, and we're willing to go beyond our normal mandate to work with them to achieve that.

1356 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA May 17, 2012 Mr. Gerrard: Mr. Speaker, this is the Premier who is shamefully responsible for the fact that there's 1,400 homes which, in this province today, don't have clean, running water. This Premier has failed to do–make the decisions that will get the job done. MKO has set a target: December 31st, 2012. The Premier has known about this target for almost a year and a half now, and yet he has not got the agreement with the federal government that will get this done. And he hasn't even shown us the proposal which he's put forward. Will the Premier put forward the proposal?

Not a–an agreement with a band; an agreement with the federal government, a proposal for the federal government. Where is it, Mr. Premier; why can't you table it? Hon. Eric Robinson (Minister of A boriginal and Northern Affairs ): Well, Mr. Speaker, I thought I addressed this yesterday, including a brief

summary of my conclusions on the Ontario- Canada agreement from 1992. That agr eement was really land owed by the Ontario government to the federal government, much like what we have here in the province of Manitoba under what is called the Treaty Land Entitlement process. We have been working with Aboriginal Affairs Canada at the regional level here in the province of Manitoba, the Island Lake First Nations. And what the federal department of what used to be Indian Affairs has requested, is band council resolutions. I indicated that to the member from River Heights, as well, you will recall.

One community is left to provide such a band council 'reshelution,' and that being the St. Theresa Point First Nation. The Mennonite Central Committee has indicated that they will co -operate, and this government, unlike any other governments in this country, have been working with First Nations regardless of their residency. English as an Additional Language Funding Increase Mr. Ted Marcelino (Tyndall Park): Manitoba has seen record immigration over the last few years as a result of our outstanding Provincial Nominee Program.

Will the Minister of Education please inform the House about her exciting announcement today that will help newcomer and war-affected students get the support they need to succeed in school? Hon. Nancy Allan (Minister of Education): Well, I was honoured to be at General Wolfe School this morning with the MLA for Minto to announce another $1.2 million for English as an Additional Language. Many of –because of our successful Provincial Nominee Program, many of the students that enter our public education system come from war -torn countries and refugee camps where they have gaps in their education, Mr.

Speaker, and this funding provides resources to schools so that they can provide programming to these vulnerable students. It–they can provide programming in early literacy and numeracy that –so that they can get them up to speed and get them up to grade level. And we heard from a child that came here from Burma, this morning, who spoke eloquently about the difference this funding has made in his life, Mr. Speaker. PTH 5 Bridge Upgrade Requirements Mr. Stuart Briese (Agassiz): Mr. Speaker, almost two years ago, a set of lights were put up on the bridge over the Turtle River south of Ste. Rose.

PTH 5 is one of the main highways in this province. It's now been almost two years; it's been cut down to one lane. Are one -lane bridges now the new standard on provincial highways in this province? Hon. Steve Ashton (Minister of Infrastructure and Transportation): Well, Mr. Speaker, I always appreciate members raising issues in their area, and I always do respond and, in fact, I was going to suggest that I will respond probably in a very short period of time in Estimates.

I can provide a detailed update to the member, and, in fact, that 's one of the reasons we have had some pretty extensive discussions in Estimates. It is an important area for members of this Legislature, Transportation, and I look forward to responding to the member with full details at that time. Mr. Briese: Mr. Speaker, I listened to the minister answer the member from Charleswood on her bridge questions the other day, and he talked about engineering and safety issues on bridges. I really would like to know what the engineers are saying about the one -lane bridge over the Turtle River on PTH 5 south of Ste.

Rose.

May 17, 2012 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 1357 Is it not a safety issue? Mr. Ashton : Well, Mr. Speaker, I'm glad the member did recall the discussion yesterday where we've been very upfront as a department in indicating the safety issues. And I want to reiterate again, whether it's the bridge on the Perimeter or this bridge, the fundamental issue here –it's not political– it comes down to engineering safety. And I realize that there are certain people, perhaps in the opposition, who at times think t hey know more than our engineers. I can tell you, if I have to choose between the member for Charleswood (Mrs.

Driedger) or this member, in terms of engineering advice–I'm not an engineer, Mr. Speaker–I'll choose my engineer's advice. In fact, each and every bridge in this province, that's how we decide what access we use, what bridges need repairing. We rely on some very competent staff in the–this province, some of the best engineers, not only in Manitoba, but in Canada. I'm very proud of those engineers and we'll follow their advice. Mr. Speaker: Time for oral questions has expired. MEMBERS' STATEMENTS Bonnycastle Parent Advisory Council Mr. Dave Gaudreau (St. Norbert): Mr.

Speaker, the success of our education system hinges on parents and community members being actively involved in their schools. The Bonnycastle Parent Advisory Council exemplifies the commitment to our children's education with their ongoing and impressive efforts to support and fundraise for École Bonnycastle School. I feel it's im portant to highlight the important work of the Bonnycastle PAC and the impact dedicated parents, educators and community members can have on providing the best schools for our children.

The Bonnycastle PAC meets monthly and is made up of elected members alongside the principal, vice-principal and teacher representatives. The PAC provides parental and community perspective and advice to the principal and staff about the school and its programming. At the same time, they act as the liaison between the school , parents, community and support organizations, and promote community understanding, interest and involvement in the school.

The hands -on approach of the PAC ensures that everyone from the educational staff to the parents and the students are informed and engaged in supporting the success of Bonnycastle students. * (14:30) Mr. Speaker, the Bonnycastle PAC throws many events throughout the year and I've had the pleasure of helping out at their garage sale on May 5th. This wildly popular event raises money for the school canteen and I can attest how successful it has become. I served muffins and coffee at this sale where the steady stream of people all day were there as always. People were shopping in the gym.

The PAC is following up on success of the garage sale with their fourth annual walkathon tonight. This event is a fun way for the entire student body to get involved in making the school community a better place while at the same time raising funds for the school. In the past, the walkathon has raised money for smart boards, musical instruments and gym equipment that provide a benefit to all the students there. Mr.

Speaker, from the garage sale to the walkathon, from the hot lunch program that I volunteered at and in the monthly meetings that we go to, the Bonnycastle Parent Advisory Council exemplifies the positive impact parents and community can have on their schools. I'd like to recognize the Bonnycastle PAC for their dedication, passion and commitment to the education of our children. And I ask l eave to include the names of the members of the Bonnycastle PAC in this statement in Hansard. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr.

Speaker: Is there leave of the House to include the names that the member referenced? [Agreed] Bonnycastle Parent Advisory Council : Chair Robyn Jones, Vice- Chair Sarah Rosnes, Past Chair Kim Thiessen, Secretary Susan Crichton, Treasurer Chris Durston, Lunch Co- ordinators Sharmela Balkaran, Principal Cristina Molinari, Vice -Principal Lise Denis Charleswood Hawks Hockey Team Mrs. Myrna Driedger (Charleswood): Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Charleswood Hawks hockey team on winning their fourth straight Manitoba Minor Junior Hockey League championship.

The Hawks defeated the Fort Garry-Fort Rouge Twins 6 to 2 to take the series in six games and win their fourth championship in a row, their 17th in franchise history. Three first -period goals and some strong play from goaltender Lucas Felbel proved to be more than

1358 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA May 17, 2012 enough to lead the Hawks to a 6- 2 victory over the Fort Rouge Fort–sorry, Fort Garry-Fort Rouge Twins in game 6 action of the MMJHL championship final at the St. James Civic Centre. Charleswood won the best-of-seven series 4 to 2. It's the Hawks' fourth straight year they've hoisted the Jack McKenzie Trophy and the ninth time in 11 tries they've been able to boast being the cream of the crop in the MMJHL. The Charleswood Hawks are affiliates of the Manitoba Major Junior Hockey League which was established 40 years ago.

They are the only remaining original team in t his 10-team city league. Players range in the age from 18 to 21 years and are selected primarily from the southwest Winnipeg area. They promote community involvement through player participation in skill camps for young players, hosting the Assiniboine Par k Hockey Association Christmas tournament, and generally making themselves available for hockey -related activities. They also promote the continued improvement and development of skills and abilities of both players and coaches. They promote sportsmanship and teamwork on and off the ice.

Their motto is "Win on the ice, in the classroom and in community through hockey." The executives are all volunteers and include local business persons, parents and those who just enjoy the game. Mr. Speaker, t heir mission is to provide the best possible experience for all participants by encouraging, developing, advancing and administering. Following is a list of executives, coaches and players who are all to be commended for providing exciting entertainment in Charleswood. And we, just on behalf of all of Charleswood, want to say how much we appreciate all of their efforts and wish them continued good luck.

And, Mr. Speaker, I would ask for leave to include all of the names in Hansard. Mr.

Speaker: Is there leave of th e House to include the names that the member referenced? [Agreed] Executive: Wayne Deschouwer, Reg George, Ted Szypowski, Wilf Erichsen, Renee Danchuk, Russ Killbery, Joe Cefali, Larry Ring, Wayne Warren, Gen Conte, Joe Walker, George Kellestine, Vern Taylor and Brenda Smith Coaching staff: Stephen George, Adam Rath, Charlie Brown, Dave Ouimet, Darryl Thompson, Kevin Todd Players: Eric Beaudin, Riley Court, Colin David, Nic Demski, Jack Josephson, Sean Kubas, David Lafleche, Matthew Lorange, Mike Peroff , Connor Staub, David Taylor, Jesse Toth, Brody Warren, Joel Ballard, Tyler Bell, Kyle Krzyzaniak, Dallas McDougall, Tyler Pope, Dillon Smith, Tyler Smith, Lucas Felbel, Luke Sirant, and affiliated members Alex Hollyoake, Mike Lorange, Tyler Morwick, Cory Yeroschak, Cole Benedictson and Garrett Shaw Jeannette Montufar Hon.

Christine Melnick (Minister of Immigration and Multiculturalism): Mr. Speaker, I rise today to speak about an amazing woman, Jeannette Montufar, who is an associate professor of civil en gineering at the University of Manitoba. Recently, Jeannette was awarded a YMCA -YWCA Woman of Distinction Award. She was recognized in the Leadership and Management category in which there were more than a dozen worthy nominees. Jeannette has undertaken groundbreaking research related to a wide range of transportation issues, particularly with older pedestrians and people with physical disabilities.

She was the first Manitoban to receive the Engineers Canada Young Engineer Achievement Award and she holds the honour as having been the youngest female Fellow of the Institute of Transportation Engineers. In addition, she is also principal of Montufar & Associates, a transportation consulting firm specializing in road safety and freight transportation. Through her engineering work, Montufar has led many breakthroughs in the accommodation of transportation users, most notably with regards to older pedestrians and persons with disabilities.

Significantly, Jeannette has done innovative work on developing the Nati onal Guide for Pedestrian Crossing Control. This has led to increased safety for pedestrians and has been attributed to improving the mobility of older Canadians. With an aging society, Jeannette's work will continue to go a long way towards aiding large numbers of Canadians to be safe on our transportation networks. As a world -renowned civil engineer, Mr.

Speaker, Jeannette's work has taken her across the US and Canada on projects dealing with road safety, freight transportation, the application of advanced technologies to commercial vehicle operations, truck size and weight policy, goods movement in urban areas, traffic information systems and an automation of data -collection systems. However, we are glad that she has stayed here in Winnipeg, as her expertise

May 17, 2012 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 1359 and groundbreaking work have put this city on the map as a centre for equitable transportation. I urge all members to join me in congratulating Jeannette Montufar on her Woman of Distinction Award and thanking her on behalf of all Manitobans for the contributions she has made to fair and accessible contribution for all. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Shelley Chuchmuch Mrs. Leanne Rowat (Riding Mountain): It gives me great pleasure to rise in the House today , Mr. Speaker, to share an amazing story about a former constituent of the Riding Mountain constituency, Ms.

Shelley Chuchmuch. Today, I would like to recognize Shelley's incredible work in the education sector in Doha, Qatar. After living and teaching in Qatar for a number of years, Shelley has made it a goal of hers to open the Alberta Canadian school in Qatar. Currently in the final stages of choosing her partners for the project, Shelley has met with numerous people in Qatar in order to help the school move forward. Growing up in Angusville, Shel ley graduated from Major Pratt collegiate in Russell before moving to Brandon to complete her bachelor of education degree.

Shelley often comments on growing up in a rural community in Manitoba and garners a lot of her beliefs and inspiration from her earl y rural roots. After Brandon University, Shelley went on to complete a master's degree of arts in educational administration from the Michigan State University. Shelley's project in Doha, Qatar, is focused on opening the Alberta Canadian school, working with the support from Alberta Education. Shelley will move forward on her exciting project to introduce the Alberta program of study into the school in Qatar.

The school will focus continual –will focus on continual development of education through the ABC framework goals. These goals include the development of a support centre for tuition, a support centre for writing skills in English and Arabic, a point of contact for local parents or families who wish to send their children to boarding schools in Canada, the development of diagnostic testing, support for children with special needs, and for the Alberta Canadian school to become a model so the public Qatari education system can learn from them.

Shelley's ambition, creativity and perseverance have proven to be important contributing factors in her many successes and goals. Her latest project shows that Shelley is a leading force in advancing education to different parts of the world. She is also currently working on creating a foundation, the Currnie Chuchmuch foundation, in honour of her father who is a respected and valued community leader in Angusville. This foundation will provide the financial support for Shelley and her partners to achieve their goals. Mr.

Speaker, I am proud to stand in the House and recognize Shelley and the tremendous work she is doing to broaden education to children in Qatar. Having also grown up in Angusville, I can say today that the entire– Mr. Speaker: Order pleas e. Member's time has expired. Amanda Furst Ms. Deanne Crothers (St. James): Today I would like to recognize an incredible person who recently won one of the YMCA -YWCA Winnipeg's Women of Distinction Awards. Amanda Furst was awarded the Young Woman of Dist inction prize for her work as an international community advocate.

Sometimes, as Manitobans and Canadians, we forget how lucky we are to live here. Amanda is working to improve the quality of life for people in her community and in other countries. Amanda was born in Winnipeg and she began volunteering at local community organizations at a young age. With funds raised by Westwood Collegiate, Amanda helped build a nursery school in Rwanda. Now in its fourth year, the school provides free education to mor e than 150 students. She graduated from the University of Winnipeg with a bachelor of education in 2005 and went on to volunteer for several years in Tanzania and Rwanda.

Amanda worked, not only with students, but with other teachers and even created a teachers manual for the Rwandan grade 9 biology curriculum which is currently in its second year of use. Upon her return to Canada, Amanda co- founded a not -for-profit organization called Growing Opportunities International, or GO! GO! is currently partnered with Tabitha Martin, a Tanzanian single

1360 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA May 17, 2012 mother, and together they are hoping to create a home for street children and orphans in Tanzania. * (14:40) In Canada, Amanda continues to advocate for social justice and sustainable development. She also makes presentations to local students to teach them about Africa and to help them understand the false representations of that continent that are often portrayed in the media. The winner of the Young Woman of Distinction Award is always someone who is making he r mark on the world, and Amanda's dedication and drive are helping her do just that.

As a representative of St. James, I am delighted to know that Amanda grew up there and is now making a difference for people all over the world. I ask all members to joi n me in thanking Amanda Furst for her contributions to local and international communities. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker: Seeing no grievances, we'll move on to orders of the day. ORDERS OF THE DAY (Continued) GOVERNMENT BUSINESS House Business Hon. Andrew Swan (Acting Government House Leader): Yes. In government business, Mr.

Speaker, I'd like to advise the House that the Opposition Day motion on the Order Paper submitted by the Leader of the Official Opposition (Mr. McFadyen) will be considered under orders of the day on Wednesday, May 23rd. Mr. Speaker: It has been announced that –to the House that the Opposition Day motion on the Order Paper submitted by the Leader of the Official Opposition will be considered under orders of the day on Wednesday, May the 23rd. Mr. Swan : I ask that we move into Committee of Supply. Mr. Speaker: We'll now resolve into the Committee of Supply. Mr. Deputy Speaker, will you please take the Chair?

COMMITTEE OF SUPPLY (Concurrent Sections) INFRASTRUCTURE AND TRANSPORTATION * (14:50) Mr. Chairperson (Mohinder Saran): Order. Will the Committee of Supply please come to order. This

section of the Committee of Supply will now resume consideration of the Estimates for the Department of Infrastructure and Transportation. As previously agreed, questions for the Department will proceed in a global manner. The floor is now open for questions. Hon. Steve Ashton (Minister of Infrastructure and Transportation): Yes, I do have some responses, in some cases preliminary respo nses, to questions, and I was going to read them into the record; there may be some follow up. We're still dealing with the question of staffing level. T his reflects full staffing complement as a certain percentage of vacancy.

We did provide some information, I think, in an overall level so we'll get that. Contracts are awarded directly without going to tender. There's approximately –were 92 from our initial analysis. It's important to note that there are a lot of tendered, you know, it really depends on t he circumstance, but we, you know, primarily we do file a tendering. Capital grants –the reduction is because of the Canada-Manitoba Infrastructure Secretariat funding being transferred. Under the gates and border crossing fund, how much money was flowed in that particular department? We're getting those numbers.

CentrePort Way –I know that question was asked. Our current estimated completion date is 2014. Then, questions were asked about the south Perimeter bridge project. Did we recover any money from the contractors, and, if so, how much? Yes, and how much was spent on legal fees? The answer is no; this is not an issue with the contractor. It's involving the design firm, and we are currently in litigation with the design firm and, obviously, there are fees attached to that.

May 17, 2012 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 1361 The–what was the original estimated cost of repairs to Pierre Delorme Bridge and what was the final projected–final cost of the project? Projected cost: $15 million, and very pleased that the actual cost is actually under budget and– $13.48 million. Highway 75: How much money has been spent, to date, by the federal and provincial governments on this particular project? To date, expenditures have totalled $19.702 million, so we've had a significant investment. What was the federal-provincial share? It–the cost share is 50-50 on the eligible projects.

The rest is that–the question was asked if it was cost shared. Is it federal-provincial? And the –there's no–the no cost sharing beyond that. And the infrastructures– our infrastructure, obviously, at the end of the day: Is there a deadline for the Building Canada Fund program? Yes, the deadline for the Building Canada Fund major program end date is March 31st, 2017. Highway 59: The question was asked about the total cost of the bicycle path project.

The total cost is $4 million. 18th Street bridge in Brandon: Is there a cost – updated cost–that they share– The original cost was $17 million–what, we're at what, 27–it's in the –it's in the –it's in 25 -, 26 -, 27-million-dollar range. And I do want to stress again that we –the settling that took place was actually anticipated. There's sand –there was a sand issue there, and the sett ling does not affect the bridge; it only affects the approach. Again, this is not unusual when you have that kind of terrain, so that is not a fault in the project and won't add to the cost of the project.

Vehicle accidents damaging bridge –bridges: Actually, 1.610 million, so $1,610,000 of damage. Have there been any charges laid? Yes. And I know it's not just bridges, by the way, because there was a–my legion, now, has a very large poppy canopy because somebody went and drove and knocked out the old canopy, and they were able to use that for insurance, so it does happen, generally. How many firms are in the Manitoba trucking improvement fund? For the past year, 17 firms.

And, on May 18th, the question was asked, Highway 251 between Highway 21 and 83, is there any intention to move forward on the shoulder repairs, widening of that highway? There will be minor repairs –minor spot repairs. We're not looking at widening the highway. And I believe that's a fairly comprehensive list of the MIT questions that were asked, and we did table the EMO answers at the last sitting. Mr. Cliff Graydon (Emerson): I'd like to ask the minister if he could explain a current revenue - sharing practices for the First Nations casinos in Manitoba. Mr.

Ashton : First Natio ns casinos are under the gaming commission. The minister of–responsible for the gaming commission is the lead minister. I'm the Lotteries Minister, and, obviously, there are questions that have been asked at the last hearings in terms of Lotteries, but the gaming commission and the minister responsible for the gaming commission are the lead –is the lead minister on Aboriginal gaming issues. Mr. Graydon: Can the minister provide a status update on the Spirit Sands Casino project? Mr. Ashton: I have nothing directly to do with that project, and, again, this is MIT and EMO.

Even as–if we were in Lotteries, which we're not, I'm not the lead minister. The lead minister is the minister responsible for the gaming commission. That has been the case, by the way, throughout our 10 years governing. I can't recall if that was the case in the previous government, but issues related to Aboriginal casinos are under the gaming commission; that's the lead minister. Mr. Graydon: Can the minister indicate whether his government assessed the–has assessed the impact of a casino on the rural municipality of Elton? Mr. Ashton : Yes, I'm a bit surprised by the questions.

The –we're not in the –we're not dealing with lotteries. And again, I'm not the lead minister on this issue, anyway. It is MIT and EMO, and I'm not trying to do anything other than point the member in

1362 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA May 17, 2012 the direction of where those questions should be asked. Those are questions that would be appropriately asked of the gaming commi ssion minister's lead minister. And, again, we do have standing committees for Lotteries. I believe we did have a meeting recently and, again, there's opportunity at future meetings with Lotteries if there's any Lotteries dimensions. But, again, Aborigi nal casinos, it's the gaming commission that's the lead minister. I was former minister and I was lead minister then, so that hasn't changed. Mr. Graydon: I thank the minister for that.

Mr. Cameron Friesen (Morden -Winkler): It's my pleasure to be here th is afternoon to ask a few questions of the Minister for Infrastructure and Transportation. In particular, I'd like to just speak for a moment about Manitoba's Highway Renewal Plan for 2011 and 2015. And I've had a chance to go through the document, and, unfortunately, I can't find any indication in there of Highway 32 south in Winkler. So I've perused the document and I assure you that it's not there.

In any case, as the minister knows, this roadway through Winkler is both an important road for the local community as well as it's a regional roadway that provides a major and important transportation link from Winkler to the international border, and throughout the region it connects other communities as well. It also helps to funnel traffic to and from and through the industrial park in Winkler. I know that the minister has had a chance to meet with the city.

Just wanted to ask him if he believes there would be any chance of revisiting the Highway Renewal Plan to include upgrades to Highway 32 south in Wi nkler in the plan for this coming year. Mr. Ashton : Well, I'm very pleased to answer the question and also indicate that, certainly, we are very cognizant of the growth in Winkler. And we have been there in terms of some of the significant infrastructure needs. Actually, the mayor actually did remind me of the fact that I was minister at the time, it was our government that paved the Main Street in Winkler; it's actually part of the provincial highway system.

And certainly that reflects our commitment. In fact, our entire Cabinet was out in Winkler just recently, the member knows, for a Cabinet meeting, and I think that really speaks to the significant recognition of the growth in Winkler and, of course, Morden as well, other areas in the region, Steinbach, you know, significant growth areas. And we're certainly cognizant of some of the additional pressures that's putting on infrastructure. And again, we're there on the school side, as the member knows.

We've been committed there in terms of the increased enrolments, matching on the school capital side with the necessary schools. And, in fact, the member for Gimli (Mr. Bjornson) was a significant part of that when he was minister of Education. So, we did meet with the mayor and council from Winkler. They–and I don't want to get into, sort of, some of the discussion, details of the discussion, but they did discuss some other options as well that we could look at. There are other infrastructure priorities in Winkler, so we obviously have also referenced that.

So we are following up from that meeting looking at some of the suggestions and ideas and proposal that were put forward by Winkler, so it's under discussion. And I can indicate, by the way, with the highway capital program, we do have a capital progra m. It's very significant in terms of dollar numbers. We're exceeding our 10- year, $4 -billion commitment this year, you know, a total of $589 million on the system. But what we also do is –it does evolve. We do have some flexibility in terms of projects.

Right now, that–a lot of that flexibility, we're having to use for floods, you know, the $50- million commitment this year and next year strictly for bridges. So, we do constantly review that capital program and we do make adjustments as necessary. But I do want to stress that we had very good discussion, and I do want to commend the mayor and council from Winkler for –I think, for a very constructive approach, and we will continue those discussions. * (15:00) Mr.

Friesen: Thank you, and I do want to underscore one term that the minister used when he talked about the growth in the region, and I just want to quantify that a little bit. I know that you're aware, Mr. Minister, but the latest StatsCan figures show that Winkler's now at a population of 10,670, whi ch would indicate a 17.2 per cent increase in the population since 2006. At the same time, Stanley's

May 17, 2012 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 1363 population–the RM of Stanley's population is up 31.2 per cent since 2006 and Morden's is up 18.9 per cent since 2006. The combined growth rate is 22.4 per cent. So these communities are growing significantly, as you also indicated.

And you're aware of some of the reasons for that growth; a lot of that has to do with the expanding commercial -industrial base in that region and the need for workers to come in and assist–or to meet the need and, of course, that means that there are new immigrants that continue to come from Europe and eastern Europe, but also from South America, from Central America, from eastern Asia. And there's also migration from other Manit oba communities more and more to the area, and all of that creates congestion on roadways.

And I know that the minister is aware of this, and he referenced the fact that the NDP caucus was in Winkler back in–I believe about–sorry, Cabinet was in Winkler in– or just in February of this year of 2012, and I know they got to see, first -hand, some of the busy roadways in that community. In any case, I guess the question comes to this. Because of the significant increase in population–and truly there probably are not many communities in Manitoba that can boast more significant growth rates in population over the last five years.

I know that this is outstripping the provincial growth rate in the last five years by about 15 per cent of the province's average. Given this, does this perhaps increase the importance of proceeding with an expansion to Highway 32 south sooner rather than later? Mr.

Ashton : Well, I thank the member for documenting some of the growth rates, and certainly I think we should all be very proud in the province of what is happening, and I think one of the things that's often missed is that we've not only turned around the stagnant, in fact, even declining population and economic development from certainly the 1990s, but we're now actually dealing with the challenges of growth.

And I do want to acknowledge that whether it's Morden -Winkler and the RM, as well, or in Brandon which has grown very significantly over the last number of years, whether you look at a number of the communities impacted by growth in the southwest, and I think a lot of the times people are also not seeing some of the significant growth in the communities in the Interlake, for example. I mean, you could go throughout the province and you see some significant shifts. In some c ases, and it's not the case in the member's area, you also have some shifts within, you know, from rural to urban municipalities.

But we are dealing with that. The unique feature here is outside of the city of Winnipeg, our department is essentially responsible for what are, in effect, very significant urban transportation links, and we look at each one in their own merit. I certainly acknowledge with the mayor from Winkler that we're more than aware of some of the pressures that are there. I do want to s ay we're, you know, we're still dealing with some significant elements of the infrastructure deficit, and I look at Highway 75, which is not far out of the member's area.

We continue to do major work through Morden this year, and I've always felt that Highway 75 was an absolute embarrassment to Manitobans, you know, just a short 10 years ago, and we've been significantly investing in that and, in fact, as I read into the record, with some support from the federal government. So we're continue to deal with all of those pressures. I mention the oil industry, you know, bridges, you know, we –the Coulter bridge, for example, that we're reconstructing, which the member for Arthur-Virden (Mr. Maguire) is certainly more than aware of, we've had discussions on that .

It will be a $12-million project. So a lot of our–a lot of what we're dealing with – yes, there's the flood impacts –but is to do with the growth in the province, and the flip side, by the way, is a lot of what we have done, in getting highways back to RTAC-level loads or reducing restrictions in other areas, is also driving that economic growth. So, you know, we're –we are going to continue discussions with Winkler. They did put forward some interesting suggestions on managing traffic issues.

So we're into it with discussions, and I do want to, again, without getting into all the details again–so, you know, that's really something that's better done between our staff and staff from Winkler–I do want to commend the mayor and council for, I think, engaging in some solutions or entering the discussion, and we're, you know, we'll take very seriously some of the ideas that they have put forward. Mr. Friesen: I appreciate the minister's response and I can appreciate, as well, that the flood put some strain on resources significantly, and I appreciate that.

At the same time, I know it did also come out when the NDP caucuses visited Winkler for meetings there. Th e First Minister, at that time, indicated to

1364 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA May 17, 2012 media that there were some reasons that they couldn't proceed at this time with an expansion to Highway 32 south, and at the time, he indicated, though, that the project would continue to remain on his to -do list. I guess what I would seek from the Minister for Infrastructure and Transportation is any kind of suggestion about when the project might proceed to the Province's to -do list. And, I guess, in order to underscore the importance of it, I just want to re fer again to traffic counts on that roadway.

And I'm aware, as well, that MIT has basic standard designs that they outline in their transportation planning manual, the TPM, which advises when, basically, to increase a roadway from two to four lanes. And I wonder if the minister can advise at this time, what do the most recent numbers in traffic count indicate for 32 south in Winkler? Mr. Ashton: I could get the latest information. I was going to suggest what we've done with detailed questions is, you know, I can bring it back at the next [inaudible] there.

I certainly want to indicate they're very significant, and we are aware of a lot of the development issues. What's also happening in Winkler, too, which is not unlike like other communities, is you're getting some significant traffic issues, actually, outside of the actual urban area itself, and that, again, is very much part of what the member identified, the growth of what you might want to call light manufacturing in the region. And so you're getting, you know, some significant shifts in terms of commercial traffic.

You also have, obviously, you know, when you do construct a new school, you end up with issues of that nature as well. So we're certainly aware. I can get the exact numbers, and certainl y they are –they've increased quite significantly over the last number of years, and that is not unusual in areas where we've had significant growth. In Winnipeg where we're not responsible, you'll also find areas in the city where that's the case as well. So it is one of the factors we do look at, and we are involved in some discussions right now with Winkler.

There was some suggestions and ideas that were put forward at the last meeting we had, and we're certainly prepared to consider them. Mr. Friesen: Thank you for that response, and I'm – thank the minister for agreeing to supply those numbers to indicate the traffic–the most recent traffic counts in Winkler on 32 Highway south. I know that the road is categorized as a–where is the term that I have in front of me? –a secondary arterial road.

And, according to the information I have–it might be outdated, but it indicates that on such a road, the road like that should have a 10- year average daily traffic or AADT count of between 1,000 and 6,000 vehicles. A nd, certainly, the most recent statistics that I have seen coming forward from MHTIS indicate that traffic counts at some places on that road exceed 17,500 cars.

So I actually made the joke to someone that I said I had hoped that the Minister for Transport ation, when he was out with the NDP caucus, had a chance to try to turn left onto 32 Highway south from one of the roads, and they weren't sure if that had been the case or not, but I thought it might be a good place for a long meeting on the state of the roadway, because it does result in some significant delays. In any case, the information I have indicates 17,500.

I would, of course, be interested to know if there have been any subsequent or more recent studies conducted to measure traffic counts on tha t road and whether he could also supply any other information about northbound and southbound traffic for different intersections on that road, both south of the 14 Highway and also, then, south of some –south of the berm that leads south of the city. It's–to supply some of that information as well, would be helpful. * (15:10) In any case, the– I just wanted to refer to a word that the minister used.

He indicated that the department does have some flexibility, and he does, as minister, have some flexibility to consider projects, and I appreciate that. And I actually read on page 10 of the Highway Renewal Plan that there is a fund that's referred to as the flexible response fund.

And while the minister has made plain that the flood is an important priority and dealing with the effects of the flood last year in Manitoba is an important priority, I also notice here that the wording of this particular funds mentions that long- term planning's essential for cost -effective–or cost-efficient roadway construction, as is the capacity to respond effectively and immediately to emerging needs.

And I would like to ask the minister whether some of the things that we've discussed this afternoon in regard to traffic counts, in regard to increasing population, in regard to the roadway being used not simply by the population of the city of

May 17, 2012 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 1365 Winkler but by surrounding communities, whether there would be an opportunity under specifically the flexible response fund for this project to be, I don't know if the term would be fast tracked, but to be advanced. I notice there are four criteria stated under the flexible response fund, and certainly, they don't all present a possibility, but I do notice that one category specifically states, address an emergent need.

My question for the minister would be: Would this level of population growth, exceeding 22 per cent in five years and would that perhaps indicate–and traffic levels exceeding 17,500 vehicles per day on certain segments of this road, would that indicate a possibility to address this project as an emergent need? Mr. Ashton : If you're –have some sense of what we'd consider as emergent need, I think it would probably be best to point to the Pierre Delorme Bridge in the St. Adolphe area where you had a bridge that was seriously compromised in the 2009 flood. So that is an emergent need.

In the case of th e Coulter bridge, that would be very much an emergent need, something that wasn't obviously anticipated prior to the flood of last year. The Souris, Killarney, I could run through, you know, various –the projects are out there. So when we're talking emergen t need, it really wouldn't be comparable to, you know, what is the case in Winkler, which is an ongoing, developing traffic issue. It's an urban- related issue, and the key thing I want to stress is we are engaged in discussions with Winkler, and certainly I'd appreciate the opportunity to go out as the minister.

I can also indicate, by the way , in addition obviously the capital issues. We're also involved in many cases on traffic control issues. Steinbach recently–for example, we opened a new set of lights in an area just on the outskirts of Steinbach, very similar situation that the member's aware of. It related to a lot of commercial traffic in this case that has–is part of a, you know, some industrial development in the area. So we're certainly aware of it. You know, I want to be very upfront, we're –there are numerous pressures across the system.

The key thing we have done is significantly increase the capital budget. It's now about quadruple what it was in 2000–pardon me, in 1999. We are spending a si gnificant amount on our highway system generally, $589 million. That compares very well to the amount that's actually raised in gas taxes. So we are putting a significant investment in, and we will look at this, and I will continue to stay in touch with the department.

And our officials are meeting with Winkler because there's a series of what–you know, when I say urban- related issues, you know, we're almost getting to the point of the twin cities of Morden and Winkler. Well, we got one right now, we got one that's in, one that's on the way. And, if you look at the developments taking place, I still believe Boundary Trails was the most brilliant–I don't know if it was a diplomatic move but, you know, I want to stress that we're more than aware of the growt h in, not only Winkler, but Morden and in the RM as well, and it really does bode well for the province.

And I–just on a side note, I think a lot of people aren't even necessarily aware of the degree to which– we're probably the only provincial jurisdicti on in the country where you get a significant amount of immigration that is going outside of urban areas. So that, again, is driving it. It's–you have–there's a lot of newcomers to Canada in the area, and that's putting pressures on schools; it's putting pressures on roads; pushing pressures on municipal services.

I'll be upfront with the member: I'd much rather deal with the pressures of growth than the pressures of decline, and that's the spirit win which we will continue to work co- operatively with Winkl er and other communities. Mr. Friesen: Well, I would agree with the minister and I would agree that it's far better to be addressing problems of growth than attrition, and I think there's no better place to paint a target than on this road.

And I would just, you know, make the comment that with 17,500 vehicles on that road per day, it's difficult to conceive that there would be any project– similar road product that would be more suitable for action, and any project that would exceed this project's eligibility criteria. In any case, there's one more place I would like to make a comment and that –or a question to the minister, and that is, under the flexible response fund, there's another category I see.

It's –it indicates projects that are candidates for cost-effective repairs, and a number of times in our conversation, the minister has referenced the most recent meeting that he–and I know that his, I believe, some of his

1366 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA May 17, 2012 assistant deputy ministers might have attended recently to discuss, perhaps, a way to bri ng this project forward. I'm also aware of that meeting that had took place, and I believe that there may be an avenue here for the projects –the project to be addressed inasmuch as it would satisfy the criteria of cost-efficient repairs. And I'm aware th at at this time a proposal has been made to reduce the cost of the overall project from $28 million to about $14 million, and that proposal has been brought to your attention as minister.

And I think it's a very progressive approach, certainly one that has got to get the minister's attention because it's –it comes from a group that has indicated that it can be very progressive and very ingenious when it comes to solving infrastructure challenges. And, certainly, the most recent example of the reverse osmosis water treatment plant in Winkler, shows how this community can articulate some very ingenious ways of doing projects for a very reasonable amount of dollars.

So I would suggest to the minister that this would be a way forward that I could see for this project under the category of the flexible response fund, of being a cost -efficient repairs. Certainly this would reduce the cost of the project from $28 million to $14 million. And I would just like to ask the minister if he would agree that this might be a cost - efficient way to bring this project finally forward to completion. Mr.

Ashton: Well, the reference in the highway plan is probably more akin to situations where you have highways that have been significantly used or significant amount of damage on the highway, where you get to the point where actually a major capital project is a more–it's a more efficient way of dealing with it than ongoing maintenance.

So I think that's the reference in the document, but notwithstanding that, we balance a series o f pressures and needs every year, And I always enjoy working with municipal leaders because the first question I always ask is, do you have a capital wish list, and the answer is yes, and do you have enough money in your capital budget every year to meet every one of those projects on the wish list, and the answer is no.

And–so municipal leaders are the first to know that they have the same pressures, both in terms of capital needs, but also, you know, ensuring affordability issues, you know, for local tax base et cetera. So, you know –and I also, when I meet with the municipalities or the stakeholders generally, I always say that the quick answer usually is no when it comes to a project. Yes usually takes some time longer and that is not unusual in any capital area, and I do want to put forward that we certainly appreciate the work that Winkler is doing. Winkler's a very progressive, forward -thinking community.

I also want to acknowledge the work that is being done by our regional staff as well, too. You know, if you look at the kind of challenges we're dealing with, I mean, you know, with last year, with a flood in many areas–but we're dealing with some of the ongoing issues that they're –affecting communities. So, you know, our staff work, you know –I think, deserve a lot of credit for the ongoing work they do.

We often thank them for the work they do on the floods, but a lot of the work they do, whether it's the maintenance side or on the capital-planning side. * (15:20) So it's no different in this case with Highway 32. Soon as the member walked in, I said I would have been very surprised if he hadn't asked about 32, you know, I know as an MLA has a number of key highways. I actually have communities that don't have highways so, you know, even that becomes part of the agenda.

I'm more aware of the importance of highways are –particularly in the Winkler area and we'll continue to work with the city on the challenging urban traffic issues that they're dealing with. I want to acknowledge that we will get the exact count; I think the member's number is not far off the official count, but I want to make sure we get it. And, yes, there are pressures and we're trying to meet those pressures with a significant capital investment. Mr. Larry Maguire (Arthur- Virden): I want to thank my colleague from Lakeside for a few moments to ask the minister a few questions.

Seems when I–shortly after I was first elected, I had the opportunity of being the shadow Cabinet member for this particular minister, when he was Transport m inister at that time as well, and I've worked forward to working with him over the years. I think he knows the questions I've got. It's only a couple. As he said, there isn't time for all of them, but, in particular, the Coulter bridge. He's mentioned it a number of times, and I'm just wondering if he can provide me with any update. First of all, the only thing I'd like to say, is that, well, you know, I appreciated him coming to

May 17, 2012 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 1367 Brandon and meeting with the reeves, both Mr. Trewin and Mr. Stewart, that d ay–Shirley Kernaghan, Betty Miller, the group–the two that have been –the local citizens that have been spearheading the group that wants to get a bypass around the washed- out bridge. I appreciate that the minister's department has taken the old bridge down and moved it out. There is a group there, though, that from a safety perspective, as the minister knows, wants to see a sho ofly or a detour with a Bailey bridge or that style of bridge, something to cross the Souris River with.

At this time the water is s till excessively low. It's probably the extreme of last year when it was 27 feet higher than where it was on March the 1st this year. But they have a report virtually done, as requested by MIT, to design to Manitoba standards the approaches needed to com e off of 251 Highway to allow the bridge to be built. They have the okay from DFO as long as nothing is put in the water, in the river, and so they have that assurance that it will go ahead.

They have spent –the–both councils, the RM of Arthur and the RM of Brenda, have spent considerably thousands of money of their own into this at this point. All of the funds to build this project would come from, virtually, private industry and the municipalities involved in this one. They're not asking the government f or a lot of money–maybe a little bit here to help develop the engineered plan, but once that was in place, they just want some assurance that they could go ahead with it if the plan comes in at Manitoba government standards as we talked that day in Brandon.

To the level of Manitoba standards, they know what those are; the engineering company doing this has designed it to that. And, two things there, I guess, No. 1, does the minister see himself being able to put a few dollars on the table to help them with their engineering plan? And then would he allow it to go ahead if it comes forward to Manitoba standards? Mr. Ashton: Yes, I did appreciate the opportunity to go out.

I want to commend the community representatives, obviously, the municipal leaders from the two municipalities that are impacted, and also the two retired school teachers –I believe, both retired school teachers, is that correct? An Honourable Member: I think they are. Mr. Ashton : That's right, and–a very thorough approach. And I actually fe lt like I was back in school again, too, because there were some tough questions–and I mean it in the best sense of the word.

But I do give them credit, you know, it shows the degree to which these kind of disruptions that we faced last year –the flood–can impact on communities. I do want to stress, obviously, our No. 1 goal is the reconstruction of the bridge. When I say reconstruction, we are going to be constructing, basically, a $12- million bridge. Our goal, subject to environmental approvals and const ruction issues, is to get it done as soon as possible, which is, basically, next year. I want to stress that it's going to be there for decades to come, as well, so it will be a new and improved bridge. So that's our No. 1 goal.

In terms of the immediate access issues, we certainly recognize there are access issues. And, as I've outlined in the House, number of interrelated issues, you know, other areas of the province, we look at each one on its own specific situation and specific merits. I do want to acknowledge a lot of work has been done by the communities in terms of approaching the oil industry–one particular company, I know, which is significantly impacted by the disruption. It's not the only area. I know we've been in discussion with them as a dep artment as well, so I do want to acknowledge that.

The key issue here, I mean, I do want to caution, when it comes to DFO, not to assume anything because if there is any even a minor issue involving fish habitat, they will most definitely be involved, I can speak from experience as minister of this department. But all throughout rural northern Manitoba we have examples of that, so again, there's no guarantee of that but, you know, I appreciate some of the due diligence has been done. That's a wise thing.

Where we left off at the last meeting –took place when I attended, along with a number of people, you know, from the department, including a regional director, we were waiting for some of the engineering work back from the community and I'm not sure if that's been received or not. The key issue I want to stress, by the way, is when you replace a bridge that's a key component of the highway system, you're replacing a bridge that will have everything from school buses, to farm equipment, to heavy -duty equipme nt from the oil

1368 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA May 17, 2012 industry and that area, to light vehicle traffic, you name it. So, when we're talking about a bridge, I do know what a Bailey bridge is, an Acrow panel bridge, because when I was a kid in Thompson, for many years in the early days of Thom pson, it was actually a Bailey bridge that connected the airport on the other side of the community to Thompson. It wasn't until Joe Borowski became the Highways minister, I remember that that replaced it. And actually the Bailey bridge is actually in Thom pson. It's just become a bit of a historic area.

Most people wouldn't appreciate what a Bailey bridge involves. In this case, it was lining up a fairly lengthy span and having to wait to cross. When you get into an Acrow panel bridge, there are various issues. First of all, can it be put in place and can it survive flooding, ice conditions? Clearly in this case, because of the placement, there would potentially be some issues of that. So you have to have–would have to have a contingency plan to remove it.

But, most importantly would be, would it be able to meet the standards, both in terms of the bridge and the access lane–the access road itself, and I know there's been various discussions. I don't want to get into all the details, but involving, you know, perhaps having go through private land, et cetera. But one thing I know is, the oil company will not be in a position to use a bridge or any access into that bridge unless it meets full highway standards and unless they're able to persuade their insurance company that it is a safe bridge.

Otherwise, they will be outside of their insurance and they will not use it. And, what we're into now, because I think, you know, with some of the discussions back and forth, you know, you can take a bridge, you can put it pretty well anywhere in the province, Acrow panel bridge, I have no doubt you can do it for half a million dollars, which is the figure that was quoted. The question, though, becomes, is it a bridge that will provide safe access, and I listed all th e kind of uses out there. So, we're not making the assumption it can't be done.

We are waiting for, you know, some of the engineering drawings, you know, in terms of that. I know there was some concern about the situation vis -à-vis other areas of the province, you know, Killarney area as well. Each case is assessed on its own basis. There's a very different situation with the Coulter bridge in terms of the span, where it would be located, et cetera, so it's a–and it's no different. I know the member for Portage has raised the issue of putting a low -level crossing in around the Portage Diversion.

We do have some other situations throughout the province, so No. 1 goal to get the bridge replaced but in terms of temporary access, we're more than prepared to continue discussions. I would not have gone out to the meeting if I hadn't intended to find out first -hand what the concerns were, obviously, but also find out what the proposal is and we'll continue discussions based on the last meeting. Mr. Maguire: Thanks, Mr. Minister. We appreciate that.

The people know that there's going to be a good bridge built and they're very appreciative of that, what they're concerned about is that it won't be built until November of '13 and they're not even that worried about it as the minister heard that day in Brandon. They would sooner have it done right and done properly and they respect that the minister's moved it up the chain to get it done quickly because of the flood.

The concern here is for the safety of school buses and other people and they would allow the minister to put whatever restrictions on that bridge he needs to, I think, in regards to being able to slow the traffic down. It's n ot going to be a 100- kilometre bridge; nobody's asking for that.

It would be a one - lane style bridge over the river, people would have to slow down, just as we did out here at Headingley when we built the bypasses and shooflies around the No. 1 Highway to fix the cement culverts in the bridges there. * (15:30) There's lots of other examples around the province, but this is probably a unique one in the fact that they're not asking the government for any money, at least not to this stage, as long as it was built to the point of a half a million dollars, something to that effect.

I think the community there, and the people around it, recognize that that's a –you know, there's some limits to what they can do. But they really need to have this done for the safet y of the area and the–just the being able to keep as much of the flow of traffic split between the present detour, where these wide farm equipment air seeders are going to go down. And we'll have two more falls –or springs of that, and two more falls of wide combine headers and that sort of thing.

May 17, 2012 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 1369 And so if he could provide them with some assurance, I mean, we're into May already. They've been dealing with this since last fall. If we don't do something in the next month or two, then maybe it's the idea of the minister that we'll just drag this out till it's too late to bother building it. I would hope not, and I don't think that's what the minister is doing but I have had that put to me, and I hope I'm wrong, and I've told those people they're wrong, so–in r egards to that.

So I just want to put that on the record, and so if there can be some early opportunity to meet with them so that there is a way that the government can help them get this done, we'd appreciate that. Mr. Ashton: Yes, and I'm surprised the re would be anybody even suggesting that, because we've had discussions back and forth, yes, and, you know, I know that some people can get cynical, but I –given the fact we're going to replace the bridge with a $12-million bridge, that's a huge statement o f commitment to the communities. We're going to do it as soon as possible.

It's a huge statement of commitment to the communities impacted. And, you know, I'll put on the record, as well, that at the last meeting, where it had been left off, previously, wa s that the group would provide the engineering information, which had not been provided following from the past meeting, and I have no doubt that there was every intent that that would take. Perhaps it has since. So the key issue here, and I know, you know, in the other context in that other place, I've talked about safety, et cetera; that really is the only issue of concern in the department.

And we also have to look at, you know, obviously, cost -effectiveness. I mean, the first indication from the depar tment was it would cost as much as $5 million. And I know, again, there was some cynical with that, but if you just –cynicism with that from people that we met with, but if you build something that provides exact equivalent to what you have, on a temporary basis, given the circumstances at that site, when engineers tell me it's $5 million, I believe them.

And, you know, I do really believe that when they also say that for half a million dollars we can't do a bridge that meets highway standards, I also believe them, now. Between $500,000 and $5 million, with some discussion back and forth, who knows? I'm not prejudging it. The file, to my mind, is still open, and the last delay, if you like, really wasn't from the highway side, it was really the follow-through from this engineer that has been associated with this project.

I'm not being critical, I just–just when I walked out of that meeting, that was where it was left at and, you know, we will continue to look at it. I just want to stress, again, that we –in each and every one of the situations of the 80 bridges, and, particularly, the ones which were significantly impacted by the flood, either significantly compromised or destroyed, we do look at temporary access if it's possible. We're moving ahead. The member knows, you know, what's happening in Killarney, and if we can find a feasible, safe way to do it in Coulter, we would certainly look at it.

So discussions are earnestly ongoing. There's no intent to delay anything. It's really at trying to narrow down a very big difference on –not just cost, but the safety issue as well. Because I made it very clear there, you know, I don't make any apologies for the department and our engineers, our bridge engineers, particularly, but also the people who deal with the traffic approaches, in ensuring that it meets every last need we have. Because, you know, moving heavy equipment one by one across a bridge for the oil industry is one dynamic.

It has weight issues, and, you know, the rest of it, but I tell you, I wouldn't want a school bus on a highway access or on a bridge unless it was beyond safe. You know, and I want safety for the heavy equipment as well, but there are various different, you know, safety elements that go into it, and when we responded, it's always been a, you know, with two real dynamics. One is the cost, obviously, but really more than that is safety. And if we can find a safe way to do it and it's cost effective, we'll consider it, yes. Mr.

Maguire: The–I forgot to mention, too, that his colleague fro m Brandon East was with me in February when we had a joint meeting with the community there. I appreciated his involvement in this and the joint letter that we wrote the minister at that time. It's not a matter of whether it's $5 million or $500,000. This community's willing to do it for no cost to the government, so I guess that's the issue here. It's just allowing them to go ahead. There's also the Hartney bridge, and I appreciate the work that the minister's done there.

He might want to answer why th ey're building a new mile of road, moving the bridge 50 feet to the west, instead of just replacing the hundred- foot bridge that's presently there, taking it out and doing that. But, my –in light of time I want to ask the minister–the other situation that I have is in Virden;

1370 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA May 17, 2012 King Street and No. 1 Highway. Government has indicated that there's an overpass in the books there. There's a business that wants to build a 14,000-square-foot business warehouse, all that sort of thing, and on one of the corners of that particular intersection. It's been on the books, this overpass, since 1997, I'm told. I'm told the town and the planning area have never agreed to it. There's been indications in the last few days that it has to stay on the books, that the department can't take it off.

I haven't had that confirmed from the minister or the deputy on this. And I want to appreciate the staff's efforts that they've made on this, because it's just come up in the last few weeks. And there needs to be some way to find a way to help our rural businesses stay in Manitoba. The alternative for this fellow is to go to Saskatchewan, to Moosomin, because of course the potash industry is–he thinks he can sell as many of these pieces of items that he sells in Saskatchewan as he can in Moosomin, as opposed to Virden, because traffic does move back and forth every day between those two communities.

There's people living in each that work in the other and there a lot of traffic there. This business would bring about $700,000 in PST alone to the government every year, if it was established, if the government would allow it to go ahead. He can't move back on the lot because there's an oil well behind the building where he would build in relation to it. That was a –would have been a very vi able alternative. And so I guess there's a bigger picture here, too. The rest of that bypass would be overtop of several of bills –businesses that are already in place. The government may own a lot of the property.

Certainly they own the properties on the twinned highway that's there at the present time. But I wonder if he can indicate to me what is the likelihood of being able to have that particular plan of an overpass on King Street and No. 1 Highway in Virden removed from the government's plans. There are lots of other alternatives that would come 50 years down the road if it was ever needed. The–probably the bigger intersection at that particular time in our history will be, in our future, will be No. 1 and 83 highway. That's where a lot of the oil industry is starting to locate their businesses now.

Big interests there and on the west side of Virden, because there just isn't enough space to build everything. There was an

article on TV on Williston Basin last night or the night before. I don't know if the minister saw it, but this –we haven't hit the level of things that are happening in the Williston Basin yet, in all of our small towns in southwest Manitoba, but we're getting very close. The communities there, as the minister indicated earlier, certainly don't have the resources to build the things that they need. Melita's struggling in regards to getting a lagoon built. They know they need to, as a result of the flood and they certainly do appreciate it.

But, having just put water– waterfication in, in their community, there –there's a lot of –you know, there's a development issue in Deloraine in regards to a new motel that wants to go up there that I appreciate needs to have some clarity quickly as well so that they can get it built. These types of b usinesses are being built. They're sold out before they start building. That's the concern that we're having.

We've got a –an unprecedented demand for construction in southwest Manitoba, my–virtually all of it in my constituency, as 99.9 per cent of the oil in Manitoba is still located in Arthur-Virden, thanks to the expansion that took place in the last election, I guess with Miniota, Hamiota, McAuley becoming part of that area, in Whitewater municipality. But, nevertheless, I digress. I just –my question to the minister is: Can he or his department help the community develop by removing that plan from the records? Mr.

Ashton: I thank the member for giving a good description of the growth that's taken place in terms of the oil industry, southwest Manitoba. I do want to just stress that we are attempting to deal with that, both in terms of infrastructure, but also some of the moves we've made working with Saskatchewan co - operatively on spring road restrictions, to have more harmonization there. Also on RTA C, waiting for highways, harmonization there.

So we're very committed to that, and I'm sure my colleague, the Minister of Energy, would also want me to put on the record that we've also got a very competitive royalty system and a very competitive regulatory system for the oil industry as well, yes. So I think there's a lot more potential than we currently have, and I certainly thank the member for pointing to that. * (15:40) I'm very bullish on Virden and, I think, partly because of the oil industry, but just, you know, the

May 17, 2012 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 1371 general health of the economy in southwest Manitoba. We're going to see some of the same pressures, and it seems to be the theme of the day here: growth and some of the challenges of growth. And I do want to put on the record that i t's particularly welcome, because if there was an area that was seeing some population decline until recently, it was southwest Manitoba.

And it's not that there aren't still some rural-to-urban movements, but, if you look at the trend, particularly with t he hot oil economy right now where, actually, there's a shortage of workers –there's been some significant recruiting efforts by companies in the area –it does point to the fact that, you know, the next Morden- Winkler could very well be Virden. Certainly– An Honourable Member: Here. Here. Mr. Ashton : Yes. Yes. That's right –in which case we'll probably be facing some of the same challenges, and I'm not trying to set up a competitive dynamic here, bu

Document details

Collection	Manitoba — Debates (Hansard)
Citation	40-1-36b
Type	hansard
Volume / chapter	40th 1st hansardpdf 36b.pdf
Language	en
Format	pdf
Source	PROVINCIAL
Identifier	05bb6637ab516e9abee47923648caba916e8e731

Source file is stored in the law ingest library (pdf).