Manitoba Hansard — 20 May 2020 (Sitting 30, 42nd Legislature, 2nd Session)

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Manitoba — Debates (Hansard)

Second Session – Forty-Second Legislature of the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba DEBATES and PROCEEDINGS Official Report (Hansard) Published under the authority of The Honourable Myrna Driedger Speaker Vol. LXXIV No. 30 - 1:30 p.m., Wednesday, May 20, 2020 ISSN 0542-5492

MANITOBA LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY Forty-Second Legislature Member Constituency Political Affiliation ADAMS, Danielle Thompson NDP ALTOMARE, Nello Transcona NDP ASAGWARA, Uzoma Union Station NDP BRAR, Diljeet Burrows NDP BUSHIE, Ian Keewatinook NDP CLARKE, Eileen, Hon. Agassiz PC COX, Cathy, Hon. Kildonan-River East PC CULLEN, Cliff, Hon. Spruce Woods PC DRIEDGER, Myrna, Hon. Roblin PC EICHLER, Ralph, Hon. Lakeside PC EWASKO, Wayne Lac du Bonnet PC FIELDING, Scott, Hon. Kirkfield Park PC FONTAINE, Nahanni St. Johns NDP FRIESEN, Cameron, Hon. Morden-Winkler PC GERRARD, Jon, Hon. River Heights Lib.

GOERTZEN, Kelvin, Hon. Steinbach PC GORDON, Audrey Southdale PC GUENTER, Josh Borderland PC GUILLEMARD, Sarah, Hon. Fort Richmond PC HELWER, Reg, Hon. Brandon West PC ISLEIFSON, Len Brandon East PC JOHNSON, Derek Interlake-Gimli PC JOHNSTON, Scott Assiniboia PC KINEW, Wab Fort Rouge NDP LAGASSÉ, Bob Dawson Trail PC LAGIMODIERE, Alan Selkirk PC LAMONT, Dougald St. Boniface Lib. LAMOUREUX, Cindy Tyndall Park Lib. LATHLIN, Amanda The Pas-Kameesak NDP LINDSEY, Tom Flin Flon NDP MALOWAY, Jim Elmwood NDP MARCELINO, Malaya Notre Dame NDP MARTIN, Shannon McPhillips PC MOSES, Jamie St.

Vital NDP MICHALESKI, Brad Dauphin PC MICKLEFIELD, Andrew Rossmere PC MORLEY-LECOMTE, Janice Seine River PC NAYLOR, Lisa Wolseley NDP NESBITT, Greg Riding Mountain PC PALLISTER, Brian, Hon. Fort Whyte PC PEDERSEN, Blaine, Hon. Midland PC PIWNIUK, Doyle Turtle Mountain PC REYES, Jon Waverley PC SALA, Adrien St. James NDP SANDHU, Mintu The Maples NDP SCHULER, Ron, Hon. Springfield-Ritchot PC SMITH, Andrew Lagimodière PC SMITH, Bernadette Point Douglas NDP SMOOK, Dennis La Vérendrye PC SQUIRES, Rochelle, Hon. Riel PC STEFANSON, Heather, Hon.

Tuxedo PC TEITSMA, James Radisson PC WASYLIW, Mark Fort Garry NDP WHARTON, Jeff, Hon. Red River North PC WIEBE, Matt Concordia NDP WISHART, Ian Portage la Prairie PC WOWCHUK, Rick Swan River PC

1035 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA Wednesday, May 20, 2020 The House met at 1:30 p.m. Madam Speaker: O Eternal and Almighty God, from Whom all power and wisdom come, we are assembled here before Thee to frame such laws as may tend to the welfare and prosperity of our province. Grant, O merciful God, we pray Thee, that we may desire only that which is in accordance with Thy will, that we may seek it with wisdom and know it with cer tainty and accomplish it perfectly for the glory and honour of Thy name and for the welfare of all our people. Amen. Please be seated. Good afternoon, everybody.

ROUTINE PROCEEDINGS INTRODUCTION OF BILLS Bill 300–The Winnipeg Humane Society Foundation Incorporation Amendment Act Ms. Nahanni Fontaine (St. Johns): I move, seconded by the member for Point Douglas (Mrs. Smith), that Bill 300, The Winnipeg Humane Society Foundation Incorporation Amendment Act, be now read a first time. Miigwech. Motion presented. Ms.

Fontaine: As an animal welfare advocate, I was happy to be approached to bring forward public Bill 300, The Winnipeg Humane Society Foundation Incorporation Amendment Act, which will change the composition of the foundation's board and facilitate the appointment of members. This bill will also ensure the long- term success of the foundation's assets, which will make sure that all animals can find the care they need and the hope of new home well into the future. I look forward to the House passing this bill. Miigwech.

Madam Speaker: Is it the pleasure of the House to adopt the motion? [Agreed] Bill 216–The Abortion Protest Buffer Zone Act Ms. Nahanni Fontaine (St. Johns): I move, seconded by the member for Point Douglas , that Bill 216, The Abortion Protest Buffer Zone Act, be now read a first time. Madam Speaker: It has been moved by the honourable member for St. Johns, seconded by the honourable member for Point Douglas – [interjection]–order–that Bill 216, The Abortion Protest Buffer Zone Act, be now read a first time. Ms.

Fontaine: I'm proud to introduce bill 16, The Abortion Protest Buffer Zone Act, which establishes buffer zones or safety perimeters around any clinic, hospital or health- care facility offering abortion services, in addition to buffer zones around schools–public schools, Madam Speaker. This bill prohibits any protest, demonstrations or picketing within these zones to protect Manitoba women, girls and trans persons, alongside health-care providers, against harassment, intimidation or persuasion on abortion. Finally, anti -choice adults have no business protesting at our children's schools here in Manitoba.

Anti-choice protestors are more than welcome to protest here at the Legislature anytime they want. Miigwech, Madam Speaker. Madam Speaker: Is it the plea sure of the House to adopt the motion? Agreed? [Agreed] Committee reports? TABLING OF REPORTS Madam Speaker: I do have a report to table. In accordance with

section 28(1) of The Auditor General Act, I am tabling the Auditor General's report titled Quarry Rehabilitation Program Investigation, dated May 2020. MINISTERIAL STATEMENTS Madam Speaker: The honourable Minister for Sport, Culture and Heritage –and I would indicate that the required 90 minutes notice prior to routine proceedings was provided in accordance with our rule 26(2). Would the honourable minister please proceed with her statement.

1036 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA May 20, 2020 Vyshyvanka Day Hon. Cathy Cox (Minister of Sport, Culture and Heritage): I'm exceptionally honoured to rise in the House today to celebrate Vyshyvanka Day. Vyshyvanka Day is an annual celebration where Ukrainian communities all over the world wear beautiful shirts adorned with our traditional Ukrainian embroidery, or vyshyvankas, as a symbol of unity and our pride in our Ukrainian heritage. Vyshyvankas are much more than just beautiful garments. They are steeped in our deep Ukrainian tradition and heritage.

Archeological research in Ukraine shows that the very detailed embroidery depicted on vyshyvankas has existed there since prehistoric times. They have long been a symbol of hope for a brighter future and showcase the incredible creativity of Ukrainian people. Canada and Manitoba have made Ukrainian ties to Ukraine–have many Ukrainian ties to Ukraine and its people. Thousands of Ukraines, like my babas and gigis, came to our province seeking a hope and a dream for a better life in the late 1800s and early 1900s.

These resilient and hard- working individuals built so much of Manitoba and the very Manitoba that we call home today. They made sacrifices, worked hard and ensured that their heritage was deeply rooted in their communities. That sense of community and heritage remains strong today, Madam Speaker, and I am proud to say that Manitoba is even the home of Canada's National Ukrainian Festival, which I can't wait to attend in Dauphin in 2021.

Today in the Chamber there are many members of Ukrainian descent, and I know how incredibly proud our ancestors would have been to see so many Ukrainian legislators here in this Chamber. Our government recognizes the important contributions that Ukrainians have made in our province. We are proud to support Vyshyvanka Day, which raises awareness of the tremendous pride that Ukrainians have in their community and culture.

Thank you to our Ukrainian community for helping to make Manitoba the vibrant, multicultural mosaic that we have here and the mosaic that we all love, share and appreciate, and really make Manitoba the best province to live all across the country. Thank you, Madam Speaker. Mr. Mark Wasyliw (Fort Garry): Vyshyvanka Day is an opportunity for Ukrainian Canadian commu - nities and the numerous Ukrainian communities around the world to stand in solidarity with the people of Ukraine. Canada is one of 50 countries around the world in which Ukrainians take

part in International Vyshyvanka Day. The vyshyvanka is a traditiona l attire for Ukrainian celebrations. It's worn by people regardless of their gender, social status and religious beliefs. The traditional vyshyvanka is a piece of artistic cultural expression. Masterful hands embroider colourful patterns and designs specific to the regions of Ukraine into the traditional white frock.

With the clothing's increasing popularity in contemporary fashion across the world, a day has been dedicated to the vyshyvanka to acknowledge the Ukrainian heritage these garments represent an d promote Ukrainian cultural awareness worldwide. * (13:40) The artistry behind a traditional vyshyvanka was inspired by the power of protective symbols. Meanings behind the embroidered symbols and patterns range from circles that represent the sun and harmony, grape bunches that symbolize happiness and horses that symbolize aspiration.

Today is an opportunity for Ukrainians, as well as their descendants and supporters, to wear a vyshyvanka and show their Ukrainian pride. Ukrainians today unite to celebr ate their identity, display their beautiful vyshyvanka designs, creating a sense of cultural pride and national solidarity. I encourage you all to use this day to learn more and immerse yourselves in the Ukrainian history and cultural traditions. Thank you, Madam Speaker. Ms. Cindy Lamoureux (Tyndall Park): Madam Speaker, I ask for leave to respond to the minister's statement.

Madam Speaker: Does the member have leave to respond to the ministerial statement? [Agreed] Ms. Lamoureux: It gives me great p leasure to join my colleagues in the Legislature to celebrate Vyshyvanka Day, vyshyvanka being a colourful garment that provides symbols of inspiration, opti - mism and hope for the future. Madam Speaker, this day is very important to Ukrainians, descendants from Ukraine and our larger

May 20, 2020 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 1037 community, and I am exceptionally grateful for the strong presence of Ukrainian heritage here in Manitoba. We are incredibly fortunate to have many active community members around us of Ukrainian descent who have made huge co ntributions to our province in virtually all areas of life, from agriculture to science to health care. I take great pride in our Ukrainian community and our province when thinking about the contributions of the community to the labour movement here in Manitoba.

As many of my colleagues will know, as I've seen them there at events throughout the year, the only surviving labour hall associated with the 1919 General Strike is the Ukrainian Labour Temple, and it continues to be a great source of pride and a gathering place for the community. I know growing up, Madam Speaker, my parents really instilled in me the importance of community and heritage.

My father took me on a trip to Ukraine to better understand the country as a whole, and for the last seven or eight years, my father and I have continued to host an annual perogy lunch specifically to thank the Ukrainian community. These opportu- nities have allowed for me to learn so much and build some amazing relationships within the community. And lastly, Madam Speaker, unfortunately, even in 2020, Ukrainians must be vigilant about their own sovereignty because of ongoing actions from the Russia government.

We will stand in solidarity with the people from Ukraine of–and of Ukraine as they are forced to defend their independence. Thank you, Madam Speaker. MEMBERS' STATEMENTS Wayfinders Program Mr. Shannon Martin (McPhillips): Good afternoon, Madam Speaker. It gives me great pleasure to recognize the Wayfinders of Seven Oaks School Division. Established in the fall of 2008, Wayfinders is an after -school mentorship and advocacy program for high- school students living in poverty or marginalized in northwest Winnipeg.

Through a four -pillar model of the additional opportunities and supportive programming outside of the school day –meaning mentorship, tutoring, post-secondary and career exploration, service learning programming–in -school support and advo- cacy, financial support for students and a bursary program, Wayfinders struggle –or, strives to be a program that fills the gaps and provided additional opportunities for all 425 students it serves. It was created as a program to addresses the gaps and provide the additional supports to students.

Through intentional and multi-year relationships that they build with students they serve, Wayfinders works for an intervention strategy to create belonging, mastery, independence and generosi ty in students' educational lives. These strategies are developed in concert with students, their families, caregivers, school personnel and other community -minded individuals to –in a wraparound model that students can thrive and succeed in.

Wayfinders delivers 25 hours of evening and weekend programming each week, and to date they have supported more than 500 students graduating from high school and transitioning to post -secondary programming of their choosing. On October 17th, 2019, Wayfinders celebrate d its 10th anniversary. Held at the program centre at 950 Jefferson Ave., the open house was attended by more then 200 current students, program graduates, families, community members and stakeholders.

The event was an opportunity for the official unveiling of the student -led mural project that acknowledges and celebrates the strength of the Wayfinders community and students who attend. The mural was created as a result of student workshops and was led by local artist Jordan Stranger. I would like to th ank and congratulate the dedicated staff and volunteers of Wayfinders and wish them another helpful and happy 10th–10 years. Thank you. Consumer Protection for Door-to-Door Sales Mr.

Jim Maloway (Elmwood): Last November 25th, 2019, I raised the issue of door -to-door direct selling with the Minister of Finance (Mr. Fielding). Media reports and complaints from my constituents gave proof to the urgent need for this government to honour their commitment to help the growing supply of victims of unethical door-to-door sales practices. At the time, I highlighted a particular scam perpetrated by Utilebill, where Manitoba consumers signed contracts promising to pay over $37,000 for a furnace, a HEPA filter, water filter and electronic air cleaner, when all of these products should've cost less

1038 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA May 20, 2020 than $10,000, including the equipment and installation. At the time, the minister offered his deepest sympathy to the victims and he ensured that the House–that his government was taking consumer protection issues serious ly. I am pleased to see the minister has introduced Bill 38, a bill amending The Consumer Protection Act, prohibiting the direct sale of furnaces, air conditioners, windows and other household systems and supplies. This will bring Manitoba more into line with Ontario and Alberta when it comes to banning this practice.

This is a welcome step in the right direction that–to protects consumers going forward. However, the minister has done absolutely nothing–zero–to compensate victims of these scams. The minister is aware that direct sellers in Manitoba are required to be bonded in order to compensate victims. I would like to know: has this government called these bonds, and if they have, what day did they call them? Has this been done, and if not, why not? Why is this such a big secret? Is he going to let these bandits walk off scot-free? Evangeline Mance Mr.

Jon Reyes (Waverley): Madam Speaker, today I have the great pleasure of delivering a private member's statement honouring Waverley constituent– [interjection] Madam Speaker: Order. Mr. Reyes: –and my good friend, Ms. Evangeline Mance. For the past several years, Vangie, as she is known by most, has been committed to serving her community. As someone who had made the journey to immigrate to Canada, she understands the hardships that many newcomers face.

In 2014, Vangie and her late husband, Mario, decided to kick- start the Life of Peg Association of Manitoba, a unique platform with a mission to assist and guide newcomers as they settl e in our province. As a full-time volunteer, spending thousands of hours in her organization, she can be found picking newly landed immigrants up from the airport, finding living spaces and directing them towards the right organizations for professional evaluation. Vangie always keeps her social media open for questions and has even provided her own rental property spaces for families.

To help make these individuals feel at home, Vangie also began a sports fest with games of volleyball and badminton. This way, newcomers had the opportunity to play the sports they love, meet new friends and network with others, especially others who emigrated from the Philippines. Vangie has been recognized for her outstanding contribution and dedication–commitment to her volunteering initiatives. In January of 2018, she was the recipient of the Pasasalamat, meaning gratitude, award for the categories of sports, fitness and immigration settlement. In May 2019, she launched the Mario T. Mance P.

Eng Memorial Scholarship to continue her husband's legacy. Since its inception, six scholarships have been awarded for professional engineers from the Philippines who wish to continue their profession here in Manitoba. And most recently, Vangie provided a total of 210 free meals to fr ont-line workers during this COVID-19 pandemic, just to show some deserved appreciation for their hard work in this difficult time. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honouring Ms. Evangeline Mance for her positive work in the community and f or all the lives she has touched through her love of service.

Thank you, Madam Speaker. Youth Mental Health and Addiction Services Mrs. Bernadette Smith (Point Douglas): On May 7th, to mark national youth mental health day, the Manitoba Advocate for C hildren and Youth released their report on the persistent gaps in youth mental health and addictions services here in our province. The report paints a dark picture of the last six years in our province and the ways that, frankly, we are failing Manitoba's youth–young people. Rural and northern youth are not met with the services they need in their own communities.

They are asked to travel to Winnipeg, where the demand vastly outpaces supply. The leading cause of death of children in Manitoba aged 11 to 17 is suicide. Manitoba's youth suicides are more than double the national average. We've known this for some time. Yet, nothing seems to have changed. We continue to deal with a hodgepodge of services that the advocate says are not child-friendly nor youth-focused. The VIRGO report

May 20, 2020 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 1039 told us where and how we were failing back in 2018, and today, very little progress has been made. * (13:50) A vast majority of these children are indigenous and we have a responsibility to not only the children, their parents, but to the First Nation and the Metis communities to work collaboratively to help keep children mentally healthy so that we can eliminate suicides and the deaths of children. The advocate released her report in the wake of COVID-19 because, and I quote her here–and I'm sure the Premier (Mr.

Pallister) should be listening to this: If we've learned anything from the COVID -19 pandemic response it's that governments are capable of moving quickly on pressing issues. Children cannot wait any longer to become the priority of this government. Madam Speaker, this really isn't–there really isn't any excuse here. We have seen how quickly things can be done when we see them as urgent, and we've prioritized lives and public health. Thank you to all the workers who live who are– Madam Speaker: The member's time has expired.

Was the member asking for leave to– Can the –is there leave to allow the me mber to complete her statement? Some Honourable Members: Agreed. An Honourable Member: No. Madam Speaker: I heard a no. Mark Fosty and Ben Hildebrandt Mr. Wayne Ewasko (Lac du Bonnet): Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to two of my constituents, Mark Fosty and Ben Hildebrandt, who recently competed and completed the Iron Dog 2020 snowmobile race in Alaska. Mark and Ben made up Team 37 and were deemed the Friendly Canadians as the pair became fan favourites on social media.

For those of you who are unfamiliar with the Iron Dog, it is the longest snowmobile competition in the world, covering over 2,400 miles through the rugged terrain and adverse weather conditions of Alaska's back country. The route of the race begins in Fairbanks and makes its way to the finish point in Big Lake. Without the advantage of having GPS maps or other navigation equipment that other teams benefitted from, Mark and Ben relied mainly on their instincts to route their way through the Alaskan wilderness.

Besides derailing with mechanical issues and Mark's sled having to be pulled out after getting swamped along the Kuskokwim River the pair got turned around on the trail in error, costing them considerable time and took a toll on their momentum. After taking some time to re -evaluate their situation over a hot meal, Team 37 made the decision to forge on and complete the race. Iron Dog Executive Director John Woodbury was quoted in the media saying: Can't keep those determined fellas on Team 37 down.

They're a pair of the most jovial, good-spirited folks we've ever had on the trail and if their riding sk ills and sleds don't get them across the finish line in Big Lake, their positive attitudes will. We are rooting for you, Canada. Team 37 were one of 11 teams out of 29 to finish the Iron Dog 2020 snowmobile race. I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate Mark Fosty from Thalberg and Ben Hildebrandt from Stead in the RM of Brokenhead, who are watching from home, Madam Speaker, on their amazing accomplishment – and thank you for representing Canada in true Manitoba style. Thank you, Madam Speaker.

ORAL QUESTIONS Public Service Layoffs Economic Impact Mr. Wab Kinew (Leader of the Official Opposition): It's cheque day for seniors in Manitoba, with each letter sealed by a kiss from the Premier. However, we know that one thing this Premier won't sign are the layoff notices that he's sending out across the province of Manitoba: 700 layoffs at Manitoba Hydro, thousands of people laid off from schools and many–[interjection] Madam Speaker: Order. Mr. Kinew: –many more cuts taking place right across the province of Manitoba.

What's more, Madam Speaker, we know that these cuts have nothing to do with the pandemic, that it's simply been the Premier's plan all along: $860 million cut, just as he promised in last year's election platform. Will the Premier stand in his place today and admit that all these cuts are not only going to damage our economy, but are simply not necessary?

1040 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA May 20, 2020 Hon. Brian Pallister (Premier): Well, the member is right in one aspect only of his

preamble, Madam Speaker: on this side of the House we respect, we love and we appreciate our seniors very, very much in this province. We've been acknowledged, actually, as a govern- ment, Madam Speaker, as the Province which has , through its suite of programs and plans , some of the most ambitious supports for our people here, our most vulnerable in particular, and we've also been acknowledged by independent analysis as having the third lowest impact of any Canadian province on our public sector to the tune of around 2 per cent impact.

Now, Madam Speaker, that, I think, is testament to the degree of support we have and affection and appreciation we have for our public servants as well. Madam Speaker: The honourable Leader of the Official Opposition, on a supplementary question. Manitoba Hydro Layoffs PUB Emergency Resolution Mr. Wab Kinew (Leader of the Official Opposition): Well, it seems there 's a bit of disagreement. We on this side of the House know that these cuts will be very damaging, all the members on this side of the House.

So, to settle this disagreement, we asked the Public Utilities Board to hold an emergency hearing to find out just how damaging these cuts at Manitoba Hydro will be. We received a response in the letter today. I'll table that for the benefit of the Premier. The PUB says they're happy to hold a hearing if they are asked by resolution of the Legislature to do so. We are going to give the Premier the opportunity to vote on just such a resolution this afternoon.

So the answer–the question that the Premier needs to answer right now is: Is he prepared to face the accountability and questions that Manitobans want answered, or is he going to duck transparency? Hon. Brian Pallister (Premier): I thank the member so much for raising the issue of transparency, Madam Speaker, in particular in the context of the Public Utilities Board.

The previous NDP government did not allow the bipole waste line–as many call it, multibillion -dollar project–to be heard by the Clean Environment Commission and, therefore, did not allow the Public Utilities Board the benefit of the full analysis and scrutiny that should've been provided on that mega - billion-dollar project, which went, Madam Speaker, billions of dollars over budget. So the member shouldn't throw stones from inside a glass house. Madam Speaker: The honourable Leader of the Official Opposition, on a final supplementary. Mr. Kinew: Madam Speaker, these cuts are unnecessary.

These cuts will harm our economy, and Manitobans deserve to hear the truth. What's more, the Public Utilities Board, in the letter that I just tabled, is saying that they are prepared to be the venue to have that hearing of the facts, so Manitobans can hear just how harmful these cuts are going to be. All that needs to happen is for this government and for these Cabinet ministers to agree to the resolution we're bringing forward this afternoon.

Then the PUB can investigate these cuts, we can have a full hearing of the facts, and Manitobans can know with confidence what the real impact on our economic recovery will be. So the question is simple: Will the Premier agree to pass our resolution this afternoon, or is he going to keep hiding from accountability? Mr. Pallister: Well, I accept that the member has some personal experience in hiding from accountability himself, Madam Speaker, but the fact remains that the changes that we have made are in response to a pandemic which is real.

The member opposite proposes, as the NDP does quite frequently, that we just borrow our way out of it, tax our way out of it and spend our way out of it, and that's why we're in the mess we're in as the most indebted province in the country. Madam Speaker, while the member only sees today, and the political and partisan advantages he tries to d erive from today, this governm ent sees the future and wants Manitoba to be, and knows it will be, the first to respond and the most resilient province in the country of Canada. Madam Speaker: The honourable Leader of the Official Opposition, on a new question.

K-to-12 and Post-Secondary Education Layoffs and Tuition Increase Mr. Wab Kinew (Leader of the Official Opposition): If the Premier is so confident about what he's just said, pass the resolution and let's have the Public Utilities Board be the adjudicator. We know that the cuts, however, unfortunate as this may be, will go much further than Manitoba

May 20, 2020 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 1041 Hydro. We are already seeing the impact of the cuts at the universities and colleges on Manitoba, and we know it is the young people, the students, the leaders of tomorrow, who will bear the brunt of these cuts. Now, we know that there has been a huge impact already, and the form that it's taking, that we've just heard about today, are the tuition hikes at the University of Manitoba.

In the faculties of arts, of education and in m edicine, the tuition will be skyrocketing by 7 per cent a year, Madam Speaker, and that is directly a result of the orders of this Premier. Will the Premier simply help students get through the pandemic and announce today that he's backing off from the cu ts and tuition hikes at post -secondary institutions? * (14:00) Hon. Brian Pallister (Premier): Well, let's do our best, Madam Speaker, to replace the pandemic panic of the hyperbolic member and let's talk about our support programs for students. Students need work.

The NDP was never very good, when they were in government for 17 years, of creating opportunities for students, but this government is pursuing that with enthusiasm, and we have already created over 2,000 new jobs just in the last few days for Manitoba summer students so that they can afford to go to post -secondary institutions and continue their studies. We've also increased by 50 per cent the amount of money available over last year's budget and by 500 per cent over the last NDP bud get the amount of money available for scholarships and bursaries for students.

Madam Speaker, these commitments are real; they're not hyperbole; they're the facts. We care deeply about the future of our young people in this province, and we're acting accordingly as a government. Madam Speaker: The honourable Leader of the Official Opposition, on a supplementary question. Mr. Kinew: Madam Speaker, it's pretty tough for this Premier to make the statement that he just did when he's putting thousands and thousands of Manitobans out of work.

We know that in the K -to-12 sector alone there have been nearly 5,000 Manitobans laid off at the orders of this Premier and his Cabinet: Portage la Prairie, 182 jobs cut; Mystery Lake, 68; Border Land, 133; Prairie Rose, 142; Red River Valley, 126; Interlake, 163. No one on that side is speaking up. We will: more than 5,000 Manitobans put out of work during a pandemic, during a recession, making the economic misery worse. I'll table correspondence from one of the s chool divisions, which illustrates that these cuts were ordered by this Premier, his ministers and this government.

The simple question that we have is: Who on that side will be the voice of reason and stand up for Manitoba jobs? Mr. Pallister: Let's substitute an irrational rant with some facts, Madam Speaker. Here are the facts. Our gap program, which was designed specifically to complement the federal program and catch Manitoba small businesses that fall through the cracks, has got successful enrolment already from over 3,400 small businesses throughout our province. That's over $20 billion already paid out directly to small-business owners to help create jobs and opportunity for people.

The people in our province are suffering, Madam Speaker, as a co nsequence of a pandemic. They'd be suffering a lot more if we hadn't come to government and done the necessary things to correct the course the NDP had us on with three credit downgrades, with $1 billion of debt service costs and with absolutely no ability whatsoever to see anything but the present. This government sees the future, and it's a stronger future for the people of Manitoba because of the actions we've taken. Madam Speaker: The honourable Leader of the Official Opposition, on a final supplementary. Mr.

Kinew: Madam Speaker, I want to take a moment to put a human face on the impact of the cuts that this government is ordering. Now, we know that those 5,000 employees from schools who've been laid off, well, their families are on hard times because of this Premier and his Cabinet, but I will table this document from École Riverside, Madam Speaker, which puts a human face onto the impact of the students themselves. This is to all of those participants in the speech -language pathology stopgap services program helping kids who need more assistance learning how to speak, read and write.

It says that because of the orders of this government that this speech practice program has been suspended.

1042 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA May 20, 2020 Madam Speaker, these cuts are hurting not only the workers, not only the students across the province, but, indeed, some of the most vulnerable children in Manitoba. Will the Premier simply reverse course and start to invest in our people? Mr. Pallister: Madam Speaker, as far as a human face is concerned, I'm sure that the actions of this government can demonstrate our empathy and understanding very clearly and in a real way, rather than just in words.

So let's illustrate: the summer student job recovery program, which has given over 615 employers the opportunity to employ more than 1,500 young people across our province already and much more work to be done there. Multiply these personal situations and these individual circumstances by thousands, Madam Speaker, and you understand how inhuman and impersonal the actions of any government that would simply propose to dump a debt load onto the future children of our province are. What the member is proposing is that we go deeper in debt. [interjection] Madam Speaker: Order. Mr.

Pallister: What the member is proposing– [interjection] Madam Speaker: Order. Mr. Pallister: What the member is proposing is in keeping with the constant refrain of the NDP: borrow more on the backs of children, spend more on the backs of our future, tax more on the backs of all of us. That's the NDP proposal; always has been, is every day here, Madam Speaker. Our proposal is to help make this province No. 1 in recovery after this pandemic. Public Service Layoffs Impact on Front-Line Services Mr.

Mark Wasyliw (Fort Garry): Madam Speaker, we know that large cuts in the midst of a deep recession will only make things worse, but the Pallister government is rigid and ideological. They just can't help themselves. Why else did they arrive at cuts worth exactly the am ount they said they would cut during the election: $860 million. The pandemic has simply revealed the government's true intentions: cuts to schools, cuts to Crown corporations, cuts to front-line services. I ask the minister: Why are they making such short-sighted cuts? Hon.

Brian Pallister (Premier): According to analysis done by independent sources, Madam Speaker, we have the third lowest impact in our public sector in the country: less than 2 per cent overall. Madam Speaker, I rest my case with the facts, as opposed to the rhetoric of the member opposite. Madam Speaker: The honourable member for Fort Garry, on supplementary question. Mr. Wasyliw: Well, we see the Premier likes to quote statistics. Well, I have some for him this afternoon.

The most recent Labour Force Survey, which I will table in this House, it shows that there's 12,000 less people working in health care and social assistance in Manitoba than there was one year ago. That is the biggest percentage reduction in the entire country by a lot. Front -line health and social service care are being weakened in this province and this Labour Force Survey is just–[interjection] Madam Speaker: Order. Mr. Wasyliw: –the most recent data: 12,000 less on the front line in health care and social services.

Why has this government chosen again and again to make such short-sighted cuts? [interjection] Madam Speaker: Order. Mr. Pallister: Let's substitute enthusiastic rhetoric for facts, Madam Speaker. This year's budget alone there'll be over $1 billion more. That was the plan: more than $1 billion more invested in social services, education, health care – more people working in these services than ever before in our province, Madam Speaker. That's the facts.

And the fact is we'll be borrowing bil lions of dollars in addition to that to support those very front- line services that the member chooses to ignore in his phony rhetoric. Madam Speaker: The honourable member for Fort Garry, on a final supplementary. Mr. Wasyliw: Well, we have seen again an d again what the Pallister government really values. There are 12,000 less people working in health care and social services than one year ago, and thousands less than months ago. Those are the facts. These are the worst cuts in the entire country by a significant amount.

May 20, 2020 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 1043 This minister and this Premier would have us believe that the reckless cuts don't hurt, but here it is in black and white. Why won't the minister just state the obvious: they cut before, they cut now, they're going to cut tomorrow and they don't care about front -line services. Mr. Pallister: Well, the member needs to do a little of his own cutting, and maybe cut his

preamble down and leave some facts in, but then there wouldn't be anything left, Madam Speaker, because the fact of the matter is there are more doctors working right now in Manitoba than ever before. There are more nurses. We've had dozens of nurses–and thank you to them– come back out of retirement to assist during this pandemic. The member's rhetoric is phony.

What isn't phony, Madam Speaker, is the progressive protection plan that we're pursuing as a government to work in partnership with our health- care sector, with all our front-line workers and with the private sector so that we can lead the country in resilience. Madam Speaker, those are the facts. Those remain the facts. Those always will be the facts. Evictions and Rent Increases Request to Freeze Mr. Matt Wiebe (Concordia): Madam Speaker, we know that for many Manitobans, they've faced unimaginable financial s tress during this pandemic.

We know that with many families who are facing reduced pay or a loss of work, loss of work for a spouse, they still have rent to pay at the end of the month and for them it's a real hardship and it's a struggle. * (14:10) In the face of this uncertainty, the government's freeze on rent is set to expire in just a little while at the end of this month. Will the minister commit to extending freezes on rent increases today here in the House? Hon.

Scott Fielding (Minister of Finance): Our government takes great–proud of the fact that amongst everyone across the country, of all provinces our support programs for people as well as businesses is second to none other provinces. [interjection] We'll take nothing from that member opposite. In fact, we came to this Chamber not over a month ago to pass an additional billion dollars of support to support Manitoba's, whether it be residents or whether it be businesses. That's important. We encourage the members to support these types of initiatives.

Madam Speaker: The honourable member for Concordia, on a supplementary question. Mr. Wiebe: Madam Speaker, with now over 80,000 Manitobans unemployed because of COVID-19, people in many cases have found t heir income significantly reduced or cut altogether. And for them it's very difficult to make the monthly rent, but the need to have safe, secure housing has never been more important in this province. Again, the government has only committed to freeze evictions until the end of May. Will the minister commit to extending the freeze on evictions today here in the House? Mr.

Fielding: We are amongst the first provinces to extend, ensuring there's a freeze on rent increases as well as evictions. In case t here's, you know, criminal activity that would be a part of it. We provided more support to our residents, not only just before COVID where we had the Rent Assist program with more than 3,000 more people supported.

We want to make sure people are support ed here in the province of Manitoba, and that's why we put our money where our mouth is and we're putting important projects, important initiatives forward that the Privy Council has suggested is No. 1 of all the provinces in terms of our supports for people. [interjection] Madam Speaker: Order. The honourable member for Concordia, on a final supplementary. Mr. Wiebe: Madam Speaker, for so many people time is running out and this minister continues to equivocate.

But it's no –it's not just individuals, we know Madam Speaker, but small - and medium -sized businesses that are also feeling the pinch. Commercial rent assist program has not taken effect and the program will not go to tenants who have now faced two months of reduced or no income. It's been estimated that 70 per cent of Manitoba restaurants may close if they can't make rent, and tenants haven't seen any direct help from this government. Will the Premier (Mr. Pallister) provide immediate rent relief for commercial tenants and freeze commercial evictions today?

1044 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA May 20, 2020 Mr. Fielding: The member doesn't highlight the important projects, the 'fortant' initiatives we brought forward. The gap program is supporting more than 3,400 businesses that would be–fall between the gaps. That's over $20 million of support. We are the first province in Canada to join with the federal government on a commercial rent initiative. We think that's important. The initiative happened this week, in terms of the applications at the federal level. We want to support that in the tu ne of $16 million and we want to work with the federal government.

That's exactly what we're doing. Hiring of Senior Public Servant Compensation Disclosure Request Mr. Adrien Sala (St. James): Madam Speaker, while the Premier lays off hundreds of front -line workers, creating huge amounts of anxiety for Manitoban families, he continues to pay out huge contracts to insiders, like the $2.5 million he's paying to Brad Wall. And now he's giving one of the highest paid positions in the civil service to his po litical campaign director, David McLaughlin. This position should be non- partisan and not beholden to a political party, and the payment of money undermines this fact.

Will the Premier tell this House how much money the PC party has paid or given to David McLaughlin– [interjection] Madam Speaker: Order. Mr. Sala: –this year? Hon. Brian Pallister (Premier): I recognize the inexperience of the member in asking the question he has just asked. He could do a little bit of research, talk to some of his NDP colleagues who've been around. The member for Elmwood (Mr. Maloway) was here earlier–I can't speak to his absence or presence, Madam Speaker. Let's just say the member for Elmwood would be a valuable source of insight for the member.

If political invol vement precluded anyone from becoming a clerk, there would have been 90 per cent fewer clerks appointed in this country over the last century. And so what the member raises today is an accusation of patronage is actually a practice undertaken by all poli tical parties who govern, including the NDP. Madam Speaker: The honourable member for St. James, on a supplementary question. Mr. Sala: According to the conflict of interest act, all members of this House must disclose any and all compensation they rece ive from a political party.

This requirement makes sense, and the requirement should clearly extend to the Clerk of the Executive Council as well. He's a senior public servant under the terms of that act. The Premier should be open and transparent on this issue and make sure his hand-picked clerk is held to the highest standard. Will the Premier require David McLaughlin to disclose how much money the PC Party has paid him in this year? Yes or no? Mr. Pallister: I appreciate that the member's inexperience allows him to pursue this hopeless line of questioning, Madam Speaker.

I will only say to him that if he was to endeavour to do just a wee bit of research, he might come up with NDP clerks who came with minimal experience in the public sector. David McLau ghlin has extensive experience at the highest levels of the public sector. The NDP clerks that were appointed in the past had limited experience: limited somewhat to door knocking, voter ID and putting up signs. That does not position the member to make a very good argument. He is throwing stones from inside a truly glass house, Madam Speaker. Madam Speaker: The honourable member for St. James, on a final supplementary. Mr.

Sala: There should be no problem in telling Manitobans whether or not the political party has been paying Mr. McLaughlin. He's supposed to be a non- partisan head of 12,000 front -line workers. It undermines the impartiality of the office if Mr. McLaughlin ha s been receiving thousands of dollars from a political party, and it makes a bad situation worse if the Premier won't tell Manitobans about it. Will the Premier be clear? How much money has the PC Party paid to his new clerk this year? Mr. Pallister: Well, again, the member clearly had a line of questioning which he refuses to depart from, Madam Speaker.

That speaks more to dumb stubbornness than it does to an ability to strategically ask a question. Madam Speaker, the actual fact of the matter is that the role of Clerk of the Executive Council is one which requires a vast array of experiences. We are going to benefit as a province from someone who has a vast array of experiences in both–

May 20, 2020 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 1045 Some Honourable Members: Oh, oh. Mr. Pallister: –the public sector and the private sector and also as a political partisan. Madam Speaker, the NDP had the same advice over many, many years from people who had similar backgrounds. So, again, I would suggest to the member if he does a modicum of research he would find that that was the case. That being said, I would put David McLaughlin's resume and personal accomplishments up against anyone who has served as a clerk of this Assembly, of this government, in the last 50 years. Madam Speaker: Order, please.

It's getting a l ittle bit tense in here. We haven't seen this in a little while, and so we're–we seem to be reverting back to some old habits. I would just encourage members that when they are putting words on the record to be careful and be kind in some of the descriptions we use for other people. So I would urge members, you might want to give this some thought. We still got a ways to go on oral questions, and I would just ask that appropriate language be used in the House when we are referring to other members. Legislative Session Request for More Sittings Ms. Nahanni Fontaine (St.

Johns): For weeks we've asked the Premier for real accountability, and, unsurprisingly, the Premier refuses while he continues his brutal cuts. I've repeatedly asked the Government House Leader for more sitting days to facilitate proper oversight of his boss's decisions. The Premier callously rushes through hundreds of millions of dollars in cuts while also laying off thousands of Manitobans, Madam Speaker. It's simply un- democratic to avoid accountability. What's the Premier's plan for more sitting days of the Manitoba legislative? * (14:20) Hon.

Brian Pallister (Premier): First of all, the member again throws stones from a glass house inhabited by her for close to a decade, wher e she cashed cheques but demonstrated no ability to produce work of any value for the people of Manitoba. Secondly, the member had the opportunity to serve the people of Manitoba and to function respectfully as a House leader and chose not to, and, instead, decided to erect a blockade against any work being done just a few weeks ago. Manitobans won't soon forget that, Madam Speaker. [interjection] Madam Speaker: Order, order, order, order.

Just a reminder to members that when the Speaker is standing the House is to be silent. And I–as I was just indicating to members, too, we need to tone it down a little bit, getting a little bit excitable in here and not going to serve our purpose very well. Ms. Fontaine: Miigwech, Madam Speaker. The Premier fe els he doesn't need to be accountable to Manitobans for the decisions that he is currently making. The Premier has ordered the largest single-day cut in our province's history. Thousands of people are being laid off.

I have asked repeatedly for this House to sit more days to facilitate oversight of his decisions. The Premier must be accountable for his decisions and he must face scrutiny in this House. Will the Premier be accountable to Manitobans? Will he guarantee more sitting days in the Legislature? Hon. Kelvin Goertzen (Government House Leader): Madam Speaker, each and every day this government shows its accountability, whether that is through press conferences with the Premier or other ministers where they take questions from the media and then, of course, are speaking to the public.

Madam Speaker, there are Crown Corporations committees that are coming up, where members opposite will have the opportunity to ask questions. When I look back statistically, though, at this session as difficult that it is, I've noticed that the opposition, led by the very member who asked a question, has filibustered about a third of the question periods that we've been scheduled to have. Madam Speaker: The honourable member for St. Johns, on a final supplementary. Ms.

Fontaine: Ensuring that we sit more days in the House is fundamentally about ensuring democracy and accountability on behalf of all Manitobans, Madam Speaker. Only a small fracti on of this government's $860 million worth of cuts have actually been revealed thus far. The Premier's doing everything in his power to avoid accountability and transparency. We need more

1046 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA May 20, 2020 sitting days in this Legislature to ensure that the Premier explai ns why he's making these egregious and callous cuts in the midst of a global pandemic. Will the Premier immediately commit to more sitting days beyond May 27th? Miigwech. Mr. Pallister: Madam Speaker, just two points for the member. If she would do s ome research, which I know is difficult for her, but she might find that we are sitting more frequently than six other Canadian provinces and about the same as the federal government right now.

But she might also, if she, on reflection, chose to examine her own behaviour in wasting over a week of this House's sitting time by offering up nothing but a blockade during a pandemic. By doing this the member gives the lie to her argument that she cares about accountability and simply demonstrates, as she did again just now, that she puts partisanship ahead of partnership every single time. Madam Speaker: Just a reminder to members that making reference about lying in the House is not an– acceptable language to be used, and I would urge caution to members.

Premier's Letter to Seniors Printing and Postage Costs Mr. Dougald Lamont (St. Boniface): The Premier has announced that aside from sending a $200 cheque to himself, he's also going to write himself a personal thank-you and include a letter to 225,000 senior s in Manitoba. It is mind -boggling that at a time the Premier is forcing layoffs and wage cuts for thousands of Manitobans that we are going to spend even a dime on a letter promoting himself. Printing and postage for a quarter of a million cheques and letters adds up pretty fast. How much is this–[interjection] Madam Speaker: Order. Mr.

Lamont: –exercise in self -promotion going to cost compared to, say, direct deposit? Hon. Brian Pallister (Premier): Well, I do appreciate sincerely the member raising this issue yet again in the House. It is refreshing, over and above his constant argument for a larger office, Madam Speaker. Let me say, though, that he does oppose a program that we introduced out of respect and appreciation for our seniors and out of acknowledge - ment, Madam Speaker, that they are at the greatest risk of dying as a consequence of COVID -19.

To show that respect is something we think is worthwhile and so does the federal government, so he’ll have to take this up with Justin Trudeau as well. Madam Speaker: The honourable member for St. Boniface, on a supplementary question. Provincial Finances Update Request Mr. Dougald Lamont (St. Boniface): In a crisis, we still need to make decisions based on evidence. The Premier has yet to offe r a shred of evidence that any cuts at all are necessary. The government finances are a black hole, and instead of facts or figures, we hear manipulation.

This government has not been able to keep its story straight–even the claim that two–that there were three credit downgrades that're the responsibility of the NDP, when two of them happened under this government. The Treasury Board document was a fraud, and the appropriate level of job losses in this – wage cuts in this crisis is zero. Because pandemic, is not a reason. When is this government going to show us some actual, non- made-up numbers on income, revenue and, most important of all, the supposed benefits of their cuts? Hon. Brian Pallister (Premier): I thank the member for raising fiscal issues.

I would say, Madam Speaker, that we are headed towards the largest deficit in the Province of Manitoba's history. We also have inherited the highest debt of any Canadian province. That being said, we will be responsible managers of the public purse, as we always have been. We are able, on this side of the House, to differentiate between wants and needs, and, Madam Speaker, we are able to see the future and make decisions accordingly.

We will make decisions w hich bear up the strength of Manitobans, support the vulnerable, leave more money on the kitchen tables of Manitoba families and help us lead, in terms of economic growth and recovery, Madam Speaker, once again after this pandemic's consequences are over.

May 20, 2020 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 1047 Madam Speaker: The honourable member for Tyndall Park, on a final supplementary. Provincial Park Use Rules and Guidelines Ms. Cindy Lamoureux (Tyndall Park): This government has outsourced provincial park permitting to an American company, which has increased the cost of entering provincial parks. This is the opposite of what we should be doing as Manitobans are currently faced with strict travel restrictions a nd financial hardships caused by the pandemic. Now more than ever, we should be supporting local businesses, not outsourcing to an international company.

Madam Speaker, will this government better communicate rules and guidelines for provincial parks and make provincial parks free this year for Manitoba 150, the way Canada did with our national parks, so that more Manitobans can enjoy our beautiful province? Thank you. Hon. Sarah Guillemard (Minister of Conservation and Climate): I do appreciate any opportunity to talk about our beautiful parks in this province.

We are one of the very few provinces that left our parks open to the public, because of their wonderful work keeping social distance, and we will continue to reflect on the hard work of Manit obans and reward them with access to our parks. And, Madam Speaker, the program that we have established for our park passes is used by two other provinces within this beautiful country. And it was an open-tender process, done fairly and properly by this government, and we will continue to follow proper rules when it comes to properly sending out those RFPs and finding the best possible service for the lowest price.

Thank you. Personal Protective Equipment Locally Designed and Produced Mr. Wayne Ewasko (Lac du Bonnet): Madam Speaker, one of the most effective tools in the fight against COVID -19 is quality personal protective equipment, or PPE. Even though global supply chains have been impacted by this pandemic, Manitobans have stepped up to the plat e with creative, can -do solutions that are helping us to meet our PPE needs so we can keep Manitobans safe. Madam Speaker, can the Minister of Central Services please tell the House about some of the made-in-Manitoba success stories? Hon.

Reg Helwer (Minister of Central Services): Thank you to the member for the question. In the face of this pandemic, Manitobans are doing incredible work in the fight against COVID-19. There is– Some Honourable Members: Oh, oh. * (14:30) Mr.

Helwer: We have so many gr eat examples: Winpak in Winnipeg and Icon Technologies of Winkler have retooled their factories to make protective face shields for our front -line health-care workers; the Decker Colony in western Manitoba is one of the many Hutterite colonies who have collectively produced over 30,000 fabric masks for health facilities and other groups across the province; and a pair of Winnipeg physicians have designed and tested a reusable N95 mask which is being manufactured by Precision ADM here in Winnipeg.

Our government is ordering 1 million of these masks, but a special– Madam Speaker: The member's time has expired. Reopening the Economy Request for Child-Care Plan Ms. Danielle Adams (Thompson): Just a couple of weeks ago we asked the minister what her plan was for child care in Manitoba as we begin to–reopening the economy, and two weeks later we have still not heard or seen a plan on how they're reopening daycares and how they'll keep workers and kids safe. This is concerning because we know that par ent– many parents and businesses can't return to work if – safely if their children do not have child care.

When will the minister release a comprehensive plan for child care that aligns with the economy reopening? Hon. Heather Stefanson (Minister of Fam ilies): We've been working closely with the Manitoba Child Care Association, with early childhood educators, with parents, Madam Speaker, parents who are looking to find child-care facilities that are open and matching them and we have been quite successfu l in doing so. We have over 500 facilities that are open in

1048 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA May 20, 2020 the province of Manitoba. We have just under 900 vacancies within that. By the end of this month we'll have more than 275 more child -care facilities opening up. There's more work to be done, Madam Speaker. We'll continue to work with parents and childhood educators to ensure that child care is there for parents when they need it. Madam Speaker: The honourable member for Thompson, on a supplementary question. Ms.

Adams: The minister claims she w ants to open 6,000 homes to child care, but we know that this was a failure as we continue to hear from families across– that child -care services is needed. We simply don't have the child -care capacity right now to meet the demands of Manitobans returning to work because the minister has spent more time focusing on this failed plan than providing a real plan. Child care is essential. The Premier (Mr. Pallister) and this government should make it a priority. How much of the $18 million devoted to home child care has been spent to date? Mrs.

Stefanson: As a result of that program we've been able to open up more than 100 new child- care spaces in the province of Manitoba. I hardly think that that's irrelevant for those parents that need to access child care in our province. So, again, we'll continue to work with parents. We'll continue to work with stakeholders to ensure that child care is there for parents when they need it, especially as they start to move back towards employment, going back to work in the province of Manitoba. We'll make sure that child care is there for them when they need it.

Madam Speaker: The honourable member for Thompson, on a final supplementary. Ms. Adams: This is million dollars in funding that could have been put towards front -line child -care centres to pay for protective –personal protective equipment and aid in their reopening. So without a plan and without proper funding no economy recovery plan will be successful. We need a real investment in publicly funded, accessible and affordable child care. We need a plan that shows we actually believe child care is essential. Will the minister redirect the funds and produce a comprehensive plan for child care immediately? Mrs.

Stefanson: Well, as a result of 17 years of NDP mismanagement in the area of child care, where they took a very ideological approach to child care delivery in the province of Manitoba, Madam Speaker, I will tell you that we take a very different approach. We want to ensure that child care is there for Manitoba families when they need it. We will develop a system and a program that is there for those families when they need it, because that is what child care should provide in the province of Manitoba. Madam Speake r: The time for oral questions has expired.

Speaker's Ruling Madam Speaker: And I have a ruling for the House. Immediately following the prayer on March 11th, 2020, the honourable Leader of the Official Opposition (Mr. Kinew) raised a matter of privilege contending that the government was violating his privileges and the privileges of all Manitobans by having a large number of government bills placed on the notice and order papers. He stated that this was undermining democratic processes and was intended to supress debate and discussion.

At the conclusion of his remarks he moved that, and I quote: that the issue of the Pallister's government abuse of the rules of this House and its undemocratic practices be immediately referred to a committee of the House. End quote. The honourable Government House Leader (Mr. Goertzen) and the honourable member for River Heights (Mr. Gerrard) also spoke to the matter of privilege, which was then taken under advisement. I thank all honourable members for their advice to the Chair.

There are two conditions that must be satisfied in order for the matter raised to be ruled in order as a prima facie case of privilege. First, was the issue raised at the earliest opportunity, and second, has sufficient evidence been provided to demonstrate that the privileges of the House have been breeched in order to warrant putting the matter to the House. On the first issue of timeliness the ho nourable Leader of the Official Opposition (Mr. Kinew) advised that he was raising the issue at the earliest opportunity on Wednesday, March 11th.

However, the government bills he was referring to appeared on the Notice Paper on Tuesday, March 10th. Therefore, I conclude that the issue of timeliness was not met.

May 20, 2020 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 1049 Regarding the second issue, I would like to advise the House that a matter concerning the methods by which the House proceeds in the conduct of business is a matter of order, not privilege. Joseph Maingot, in the second edition of Parliamentary Privilege in Canada, states on page 14 that, and I quote, allegations of breech of privilege by a member in the House that amount to complaints about procedures and practices in the House are, by very nature, matters of order. End quote.

He also states, on page 223 of the same edition, and I quote, a breech of the standing orders or a failure to follow an established practice would invoke a point of order rather than a question of privilege. End quote. I s hould also note that the protection of parliamentary privilege only applies to members of the Legislative Assembly and is not applicable to the public.

Although the honourable Leader of the Official Opposition may have a difference of opinion regarding t he timing of and volume of government legislation coming forward it falls more into a category of a complaint against the government, and nor has it been demonstrated that a bre ach of parliamentary privilege has occurred. With the greatest of respect I t herefore rule that the matter raised does not fulfill the criteria of a prima facie case of privilege. PETITIONS Dauphin Correctional Centre Mr. Matt Wiebe (Concordia): I wish to present the following petition to the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba.

And the background to this petition is as follows:

(1) The provincial government plans to close the Dauphin Correctional Centre, DCC, in May 2020.