Manitoba Hansard — 26 May 2022 (Sitting 57B, 42nd Legislature, 4th Session)

42-4-57b

Manitoba — Debates (Hansard)

Fourth 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. LXXVI No. 57B - 1:30 p.m., Thursday, May 26, 2022 ISSN 0542-5492

MANITOBA LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY Forty-Second Legislature Member Constituency Political Affiliation ALTOMARE, Nello Transcona NDP ASAGWARA, Uzoma Union Station NDP BRAR, Diljeet Burrows NDP BUSHIE, Ian Keewatinook NDP CLARKE, Eileen, Hon. Agassiz PC COX, Cathy Kildonan-River East PC CULLEN, Cliff, Hon. Spruce Woods PC DRIEDGER, Myrna, Hon. Roblin PC EICHLER, Ralph Lakeside PC EWASKO, Wayne, Hon. 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, Hon.

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, Hon. Interlake-Gimli PC JOHNSTON, Scott, Hon. Assiniboia PC KHAN, Obby Fort Whyte PC KINEW, Wab Fort Rouge NDP LAGASSÉ, Bob Dawson Trail PC LAGIMODIERE, Alan, Hon. 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 MICHALESKI, Brad Dauphin PC MICKLEFIELD, Andrew Rossmere PC MORLEY-LECOMTE, Janice Seine River PC MOSES, Jamie St. Vital NDP NAYLOR, Lisa Wolseley NDP NESBITT, Greg Riding Mountain PC PEDERSEN, Blaine Midland PC PIWNIUK, Doyle, Hon. Turtle Mountain PC REYES, Jon, Hon. Waverley PC SALA, Adrien St. James NDP SANDHU, Mintu The Maples NDP SCHULER, Ron Springfield-Ritchot PC SMITH, Andrew, Hon.

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 Vacant Thompson

2413 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA Thursday, May 26, 2022 The House met at 1:30 p.m. Madam Speaker: Good afternoon, everybody. Please be seated. MATTER OF PRIVILEGE Madam Speaker: The honour able member for St. Johns (Ms. Fontaine), on a matter–or the honour- able Official Opposition House Leader, on a matter of privilege. Ms. Nahanni Fontaine (Official Opposition House Leader): I rise on a matter of privilege. This is a serious matter, Madam Speaker, and I request an op- portunity to properly lay out the facts of the matter as I understand them.

This is the first opportunity I have had to rise on this matter since learning the facts and reviewing the relevant authorities. The Minister respon sible for Manitoba Liquor and Lotteries Cor poration (Mr. Fielding) and the Liquor, Gaming and Cannabis Authority of Manitoba made numerous public comments to media yesterday regarding a bill that has not yet been introduced in the House: bill 42. The minister initiated these media briefings while knowing full well the legis lation had yet to be intro duced.

The responsi ble minister in - dicated this bill will be similar in detail, scale and scope as the previous legis lation the PC gov ernment was forced to scrap: bill 40. It is a long -standing tradition of the House that legislation should be put to the House first, prior to any other person or venue. It offends the author ity of this House to have legis lation first proposed to in - dividuals other than those who have been duly elected by the people of the province to consider, debate and vote on such important matters.

The most im portant author ity, House of Commons Procedure and Practice, second edition, on page 85, is clear, Madam Speaker. It notes the pro- vision of details of legis lation to t he media prior to members of the Legislature is a breach of privilege. They write, and I quote: For example, in 2001, the question of privilege was raised regarding briefing of the De partment of Justice held for members of the media on a bill that was yet introduced in the House while denying members access to the same infor ma- tion.

Speaker Milliken ruled that the provision of in- formation concerning legislation to the media without effective measures to secure the rights of the House constituted a prima facie case of contempt. End quote. Members of this Chamber who are elected to represent the people of this province have a mandated role to fulfill their parliamentary functions. As such, legislation should be presented to this House first, as this Chamber is where it will be debated and voted on. Even the Deputy Premier agrees.

On May 9th, 2018, he said in this Chamber, and I quote: "The contents of legislation being shared with both the public and the media before the members of this Assembly have had a chance to review and receive shows . . . a history of disrespecting your traditions and practices of this Assembly and the rights of MLAs receiving information first before we are asked to offer comment or debate. This has been a long-standing parliamentary tradition and one that is observed by this Chamber and its members." End quote, Madam Speaker. Those are the Deputy Premier's own words.

This is, sadly, not the first time this gov ernment has violated the privileges of members by speaking about legislation before it has been introduced in the House. It is before –it is disappointing, their flouting of our practices that they continue, Madam Speaker. As a result of these actions by the minister responsible for Liquor & Lotteries Cor poration– [interjection] Madam Speaker: Order. Ms. Fontaine: I move, seconded by the member for Concordia (Mr.

Wiebe), that the introduction of bill 42 be immediately stopped and treated as being out of order until such time as this matter can be ruled on by the Speaker. Madam Speaker: Before recog nizing any other members to speak, I would remind the House that re- marks at this time by honourable members are limited to strictly relevant comments about whether the alleged matter of privilege has been raised at the earliest opportunity and whether a prima facie case has been established. Hon. Kelvin Goertzen (Government House Leader): This is something new.

Generally, the gov- ernment–or the opposi tion, I should say –waits until bills are intro duced be fore they try to filibuster the

2414 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA May 26, 2022 bill. Now, they're trying to filibuster the bill even being introduced, Madam Speaker. It's a new tactic from the opposition. What isn't new, however, is this sort of an al - legation from the opposition. They will know, and you will remember, Madam Speaker, and others will re - member that it's often the case that government speaks in generalities about legislation before it's introduced. I can recall the NDP, for example, speaking about bills that they were going to bringing forward.

Sometimes they would signal them in the Throne Speech and they would say in the Throne Speech, during this session, during the coming year, the gov ernment will intro - duce legis lation that will do a variety of different things. That's not uncommon. Madam Speaker, I recall the former minister of Justice speaking about bringing in legis lation, for example, to fortify vehicles –or against fortified ve - hicles as a anti-gang measure, and speaking about that before the details of the legislation actually came for- ward.

It would not be unusual, of course, because gov- ernment has to consult with stakeholders, for example, on legislation. Often, the criticism that comes forward from the opposi tion is, well, why didn't you consult with individuals before bringing forward the legis - lation? Then you bring forward the legis lation and they say, why did you consult with people? Why didn't you tell us first?

So, of course, when it comes to general terms of legislation, there's going to be indic ations in the media, whether that's through a Throne Speech, whether that's through discussions because they see it on the Notice Paper, whether that's through discus - sions with the stake holders involved. But I know for certain that the text of legislation has not been shared with stake holders, Madam Speaker, and that'll be distributed if the gov ernment–or, sorry, the opposi - tion–doesn't want to block it in the next few minutes, when the minister is able to table the legislation.

Rather than trying to put up a fight against legis- lation before they even see it, I would encourage them to look at the legis lation, think about the legis lation, talk to others about the legis lation, and then, if they want to fight, they can fight it, but it's a 'premer ture' fight, and it's certainly not a matter of privilege. Hon.

Jon Gerrard (River Heights): Madam Speaker, when we're dealing with a matter like this of the government sharing details of a bill in advance, that there's a line here which is important, that the gov- ernment may mention a bill that is coming, but to share details is inappropriate. And in this case, we support the efforts of the member for St. Johns (Ms. Fontaine) to bring this to light, to bring the discussion open, and we support the efforts of the member for St. Johns to have the intro- duction of bill 42 delayed until this matter is resolved.

I think it is an im portant matter and is–we know that the Gov ernment House Leader (Mr. Goertzen), although he talks about the 'tacsics' of the opposition, is full of his own tactics. And we want to make sure that he has not crossed the line this time. Thank you. Madam Speaker: A matter of privilege is a serious concern. I'm going to take this matter under advise - ment to consult the a uthorities and will return to the House with a ruling. ROUTINE PROCEEDINGS INTRODUCTION OF BILLS Bill 42–The Liquor, Gaming and Cannabis Control Amendment and Manitoba Liquor and Lotteries Corporation Amendment Act Hon.

Scott Fielding (Minister responsible for the Manitoba Liquor and Lotteries Corporation): I move, seconded by the Minister of Justice (Mr. Goertzen), that Bill 42, The Liquor, Gaming and Cannabis Control Amendment and Manitoba Liquor and Lotteries Cor poration Amendment Act, be now read a first time. * (13:40) Motion presented. Mr. Fielding: Very pleased to intro duce the bill which amends The Manitoba Liquor and Lotteries Corporation Act and Liquor, Gaming and Cannabis Control Act in order to create convenience for consumers and r emove red tape for locally owned Manitoba small businesses.

Manitoba current retail liquor system unnecessary restricts what type of liquor can be sold at the type of stores. What this means is many Manitobans have to make multiple stops to –in order t o purchase liquor products. Bill 42, Madam Speaker, eliminates the in - convenience by allowing 482 existing liquor licence retailers the option to sell all liquor products sold by Manitoba Liquor & Lotteries. The amendment will be particular–beneficial to rural Manitobans, who cur - rently need to drive extended distances to purchase different liquor products at different locations.

May 26, 2022 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 2415 The proposed legis lation also enables Manitoba Liquor & Lotteries to adjust the rapidly changing retail landscape by creati ng the ability to conduct a pilot project on retail liquor. The pilot project could authorize up to five years under the conditions set by the provincial government after the mandatory public consultation period, Madam Speaker. This initiative is another step towards the govern- ment's priority to reduce red tape for Manitoba busi - nesses and provide more convenience, Madam Speaker, to Manitoba residents.

Madam Speaker: I would indicate that I – [interjection] Is it the pleasure of the House to a dopt the motion? Agreed? [Agreed] Point of Order Ms. Nahanni Fontaine (Official Opposition House Leader): Just on a point of order. We've just raised a matter of privilege, and typically, Madam Speaker, as you are well aware and have routinely cautione d us, we are not allowed to speak to the issues at hand that have–are before you in respect of your consideration of a matter of privilege.

And so I'm raising that with the intro duction of the minister's new bill, which is, again, the subject of the matter of privilege that I just raised. Madam Speaker: The honour able Gov ernment House Leader, on the same point of order. Hon. Kelvin Goertzen (Government House Leader): Well, I think it's a lot of tactics and no strategy over there, Madam Speaker.

If the member opposite is suggesting that she is concerned that she's not able to raise questions now about this parti cular bill because it's under ad vise- ment–if that's her concern, then maybe she should've thought about that before she raised the mat ter of privilege. Madam Speaker: On the point of order raised– [interjection] Order. Order. On the point of order raised by the honour able member for St. Johns, I should note for the House that there are several im portant aspects involved in this.

First, although a matter of privilege has been raised, it has not yet been ruled prima facie by the Speaker and nor has the House agreed to proceed with the remedy proposed in the motion that has been raised by the honourable member for St. Johns. Second, I should note that remarks at first reading are not considered to be debate of the bill but instead are explanatory comments to explain the purpose of the bill. Third, I have a concern about the potential use of parliamentary privilege to prevent a Cabinet minister or a private member from intro ducing a bill.

It could be unduly punitive for any member wishing to bring a bill forward if they are prevented from doing so until a ruling on the issue has been delivered by the Speaker. For this reason, I w ill allow the first reading to proceed, and I have, but I will not allow second read- ing to proceed until a ruling on the issue has been delivered to the House. Accordingly, there is no point of order. * * * Madam Speaker: Routine proceedings. Moving on to committee reports? Tabling of reports?

Ministerial statements? [interjection] Oh, the honour able Minister of Justice – [interjection] Is there will of the House to revert back to tabling of reports? [Agreed] TABLING OF REPORTS Hon. Kelvin Goertzen (Government House Leader): I am pleased to table the revised Estimates order. Madam Speaker: And we thank the minister for that tabling. MINISTERIAL STATEMENTS Madam Speaker: The honourable Minister of Sport, Culture and Heritage –and I would indicate that the required 90 minutes notice prior to routine proceedings was provided in accordance with rule 26(2).

Would the honour able minister please proceed with his statement. Filipino Heritage Month Hon. Andrew Smith (Minister of Spor t, Culture and Heritage): Good afternoon. Mabuhay. [Live.] I rise today to recognize and celebrate Philippine heritage month, which our province observes annually in the month of June.

2416 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA May 26, 2022 This upcoming June marks the 124th anniversary of Philippine independence and the 63rd anniversary of the community's initial establishment in Manitoba. From its humble beginnings, the community has grown to become one of the largest in Canada, with more than 83,000 people of Filipino origin now calling Manitoba home. Philippine heritage month provides all Manitobans with the opportunity to learn about the rich heritage, history and ongoing contributions of the Filipino community.

Manitobans of Filipino descent have played a historic role in making our province the place we know and love, with their knowledge, skills and leadership contributing to our collective success. Madam Speaker, the roots of Manitoba's Filipino community are deep, with over 100 groups represent- ing the diverse interests, activities and events of the community. Whether it be the Philippine Heritage Council of Manitoba, the Manitoba Filipino Journal, the Pilipino Express or the CKJS, I commend all the Filipino-representing groups for their leadership in organizing over 40 years of heritage celebrations.

Madam Speaker, I'd like to acknowledge and thank members of the Manitoba Filipino community who have joined us here today in the gallery, whose names I will include in Hansard. Wherever you may find yourself in Manitoba, the contributions and accomplis hments of the Filipino community are evident. In addition to the many doctors and nurses in our hospitals, 30 per cent of our nurse aides, orderlies and parent service workers are from the Filipino community.

As political representatives, our province has elected the highest number of elected officials of Filipino descent at every level of government, with the election of the first Filipino Canadian MLA in 1981, the first Filipino Canadian MP in 1988 and the first female MLA of Filipino descent in 2007. Whether it be in health care, arts, business or in this very Chamber, the impact of Manitoba's Filipino community cannot be understated. Madam Speaker, like many of my colleagues, I have attended events in the community over the years and can attest to their welcoming and com munity spirit.

I have been joined by many colleagues in this Chamber to a number of vents here in Manitoba. Some of these include the flag raising at the PCCM, the Philippine Independence Ball, Manitoba Filipino Street Festival, Folklorama and many, many more events. In addition to Winnipeg, there's a growing Filipino community in areas around the province such as Brandon, Steinbach, Neepawa and many other municipalities around the province. These activities are just a handful of the many Filipino celebrations around Manitoba.

With a grow- ing population throughout the province, I know that there will be even more opportunities to celebrate this amazing community in the coming years. As we transition into warmer weather this month, I encourage all Manitobans to engage in the multiple festivals, programs and activities offered by the Filipino community organizations. On behalf of the people, the province of Manitoba, I extend my best wishes to the Filipino community in honour of Philippine heritage month. Thank you, Madam Speaker. Salamat po. [Thank you.] Thank you.

Madam Speaker: The honourable Minister of Sport, Culture and Heritage (Mr. Smith). Mr. Smith: I'd like to ask leave to include the names in Hansard.

Madam Speaker: Does the member have leave to include the names in Hansard? [Agreed] Roselyn Advincula, Van Valdellon Afuang, Tes Aiello, Hipolito Alibin, Manny Aranez, Dante Aviso, Jovelle Balani, Ken Borce, Rod Cantiveros, Joyce Catenza, Dan Cleto, Gemma Dalayoan, J ose Delos Reyes, Lourdes Federis, Marianne Ferrer, Paris Fragkoulis, Faith Fundal, Perla Javate, Julie Javier, Katya Labelle, Vangie Mance, Muriel Masangkay, Bryan Mesias, Clarita Nazario, Ernesto Ofiazo, Allan Pineda, Babylyn Reyes, Cynthia Reyes, Gary Sarcida, JP Sumbillo, Genalyn Tan, Randy Viray Mr.

Diljeet Brar (Burrows): Mabuhay. [Live.] Filipinos have been central to the fabric of Manitoba for decades. Filipinos have played im port- ant roles in our health-care system, built up our infra- structure as engineers, helped support the gar ment industry in this province and drafted legislation in this very Chamber. Everyone in this Legislature is united in celebrating Filipino Heritage Month and all the many ways in which Filipinos contribute to this province. * (13:50) There are a number of specific organizations and people who deserve special recognition today. Groups

May 26, 2022 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 2417 like the Manitoba Filipino Business Council do great work to support businesses in the retail, manu- facturing and restaurant industries , among others. ANAK Inc. is an award -winning youth organization working to preserve and promote Filipino culture in Manitoba.

There are also a number of religious Filipino churches and organizations like Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal, Sacred Heart, S anto Niño, Our Lady of Fatima, Our Lady of Piat, Our Lady of Penafrancia, Lord of Pardon and Cenacle Prayer Group that have done important work supporting the Filipino community and Manitoba more broadly over the years. But Filipinos have also faced economic hardship and racism in this province and were dispropor tion- ately impacted by COVID-19 over the past few years.

So today, in addition to recognizing Filipino Heritage Month, the Manitoba NDP and I reiterate our commit- ment to address the challenges and barriers still faced by the Filipino community. We need to work together to reduce anti -Asian racism and eliminate systemic racism. So as we celebrate Filipino Heritage Month, let's commit to taking action on these important issues. Salamat po [thank you], Madam Speaker. Ms. Cindy Lamoureux (Tyndall Park): 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: June 1st, which is sneaking up quickly, marks the beginning of Filipino Heritage Month, and we just had an amazing kickoff to the celebrations just about an hour ago today in the Rotunda with all of our maganda [beautiful] guests who are up in the gallery here today. Madam Speaker, fou r years ago, in 2018, the national government passed a resolution recognizing June as Filipino Heritage Month, and I believe this has caused a ripple effect.

Since then, the member for Notre Dame (MLA Marcelino) had a private member's resolution about the quincentennial celebration of Christianity in the Philippines, and my colleague from Waverley had a bill proclaiming that provincially the month of June be recognized as Filipino Heritage Month. Madam Speaker, I must point out that both of these individuals are Sisler Spartans.

Now, the reason these pieces of legislation are so important is because June has become a month of op- portunity: opportunity to promote culture and heri - tage, opportunity to celebrate the many contributions that our Filipino community has made to our diversity and economy. And for myself personally, June is an opportunity to give back to the Filipino com munity, because they have been such a blessing in my life.

Madam Speaker, over the last few years my father and I have co-hosted events in celebration of Filipino heritage, and this year, we have a bit of a hybrid event going on which I will be providing more details of within the next couple of days. But what I want to focus on is the Philippine Heritage Council of Manito ba. They have organized events beginning on June 4th all the way up until June 25th, ranging from a flag raising ceremony to MAFTI cultural events to the Philippine Independence Ball and a multicultural music and arts show for healing and reconciliation, just to name a few.

Madam Speaker, I am very excited to be able to celebrate back in person, and I just want to say salamat po [thank you] to the minister for bringing forward this statement here today, say welcome to all our guests who have joined us here at the Legislature and thank you, Madam Speaker, for the opportunity. Madam Speaker: Further min isterial statements – the honourable Minister of Trans portation and Infrastructure–and I would indicate that the required 90 minutes notice prior to r outine proceedings was provided in accordance with rule 26(2). Would the honourable minister please proceed with his statement.

Flooding Update Hon. Doyle Piwniuk (Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure): Madam Speaker, our hydro - logic forecasting centre is monitoring a precipitation system that could affect south and central Manitoba this weekend; however, no significant precipitation is expected to occur over the next few days in these areas. With the exception of the Whiteshell area, all locations north and south of Winnipeg along the Red River are declining slowly, but we are expected to remain high until early June, Madam Speaker. Water levels in the–most drains, creeks and tributaries are also declining.

The current water level at James Avenue in Winnipeg is approximately 18.6 feet. It is established–

2418 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA May 26, 2022 estimated that the –without the operation of the Red River Floodway, the Portage Diversion and the Shellmouth Dam the water level at St. James Avenue would be approximately 27 feet. Madam Speak er, with water levels 27 feet, the impact to the city of Winnipeg would have been severe, devastating to the private and prov incial property, would be insurmountable. Winnipeg River in the Whiteshell area remains very high and its tributaries are expected to rise to reflect these water levels.

These historical water levels continue to impact many locations within the Whiteshell Provincial Park. In response, our prov incial crews are taking proactive measures to be–based on the hydrological forecast an d adjusting operations as updated–are as received–updates are received. The Depart ment of Natural Resources and Northern Dev elopment has offered ad ditional support by deploying personnel to assist with incidental management, security and mitigation o perations throughout the Whiteshell Provincial Park, Madam Speaker.

Madam Speaker, 33 local authorities and four northern affair communities, seven First Nation com- munities and one prov incial park remain under the state of local emergency. In southern and central por- tions of the province, some evacuees are beginning to return to their homes, such as in the RMs of Morris, Ritchot, Reynolds and Emerson-Franklin. Our provincial staff are monitoring dikes and road closures 24-7, Madam Speaker. And when it's safe to do so, we will begin to reopening these locations.

As part of the province continues to exper ience flooding, while others are seeing their water levels recede, I would like to encourage Manitobans to con- tinue to support each other through this difficult time, Madam Speaker. I am confident our provincial and municipal staff will do the same, and for that I thank them very much, Madam Speaker. Mr. Matt Wiebe (Concordia): Manitobans in every region of this province are still reeling from the impacts of this year's flooding.

Water levels continue to rise in the Winnipeg River, and farmers in the Pembina Valley are increasingly worried about how much they'll be able to seed this year. In particular, we note with concern the devasta - tion on Peguis First Nation, where around 500 houses have been damaged and 200 more destroyed. Pictures shared publicly show piles of household items that have been replaced because of water damage. Particularly tragic is the loss of items of ceremonial and cultural significance, like buffalo robes and ribbon skirts.

While some areas of the province are still at immediate risk of flooding, we urge the Province to begin supporting the rebuilding efforts in those areas in which the flooding has receded. Support for and partnerships with towns, rural municipalities and First Nations in their rebuilding efforts across the province will be key to our recovery. Community members like Robert Thomas have spent the last few weeks working around the clock sandbagging and running pumps in Peguis. They now have to clean up and rebuild, so we urge this gov ern- ment to continue to help them to do so.

We reiterate our appeal for them to begin a sub - stantial flood compensation program as soon as pos - sible so that Robert and all others with loss or damage to their homes can return home as soon as possible. Once again, I want to thank all of those who are working around the clock to help with flood response and to all those provincial employees, volunteers and so many around this province, thank you for your efforts. Thank you, Madam Speaker. Mr. Dougald Lamont (St. Boniface): I seek leave to respond to the minister's statement.

Madam Speaker: Does the member have leave to respond to the ministerial statement? [Agreed] Mr. Lamont: I thank the minister and everyone who's been working hard to gather and share infor mation and to fight floods on the front lines. The –a CBC reporter noted that this is–there's a record flood on the Winnipeg River, the sixth worst ever flood on the Red, the worst flood in decades on the Fisher. Flash flood- ing–the Parkland, Dauphin Lake and flooded Lake Winnipeg is on the rise.

After the deadly storms in Ottawa and Toronto, the federal Environment Minister recently said that we need to do more and to have better emergency com - munications to warn people of dangerous weather and emergency situations. One of the ways of doing this, clearly, is through emergency alerts on cellphones, though of course that requires people to have cellphones and to have

May 26, 2022 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 2419 a functioning cellphone network, which is absent throughout much of rural and northern Manitoba. So these are just some of the areas where we need to invest in order to make sure that Manitobans are safe and able to respond to emergencies. Just as, for years, infectious disease experts warn- ed that a pandemic was inevitable, we couldn't predict exactly where or when it would happen, the same is true of extreme weather events due to climate change. More heat, more cold, more storms, more damage and disruption.

And we've seen 25 years of warnings and attempts to act on climate change that have faced continual pushbacks and delays. * (14:00) We need decisive action because this is just a sign of more to come. Of all the jurisdictions in th e world, Manitoba is one of the best placed to fight climate change and to benefit from it. And there are extra ordinary success stories in Manitoba of restoration and recovery. We should be taking bold action to make Manitoba stronger and more resilient. Thank you, Madam Speaker MEMBERS' STATEMENTS Charles Carlos Hon.

Jon Reyes (Minister of Advanced Education, Skills and Immigration): Madam Speaker, today I have the great pleasure of honouring Waverley con- stituent Charles Carlos. He has been a basketb all coach at Arthur A. Leach school in the Pembina Trails School Division since the 2015-2016 school year. Charles is a true advocate for the sport of basket- ball but also for his students, looking for every oppor- tunity to get them on the court through r equesting as many practices and tournaments permitted.

Since 2015, he has coached nine individual teams, and on two occasions, he coached two school teams at the same time, not to mention his concurrent work with his Ignite club program and other teams in the community. This year, the grade 9 boys basketball team went undefeated all year in league, tournament and cham - pionship games. At the end of March, they received the Pembina Trails Athletic Association banner for grade 9 boys after defeating St. Paul's High School in the finals. The Arthur A. Leach boys took home the March Madness tournament banner, winning 60-53 in a highly competitive game.

When the junior high provincials were cancelled this year, Madam Speaker, Charles rallied the basket- ball coaches and community together and planned one in its place. He organized everything from referees to scorekeepers and floor sweepers. He wanted to give the athletes not only on his team but throughout the province the amazing opportunity to play for a provin- cial title in front of a large crowd. Coach Charles and the boys put in numerous hours of practice and showed a high level of commitment and dedication.

Charles is able to develop different skills of his athletes, provide individuals with constructive f eed- back while empowering them and pushing them to strive for higher levels of play. His passion for coach- ing has resulted in him being named the coach of the provincial team Manitoba U-15 boys team. One of the greatest qualities that Charles has as a coach is that he works –he does outside of the sport. He develops character and community mindset with his athletes that extend greatly beyond the basketball court. He is shaping our youth to be constructive and positive members of society.

Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honouring the Arthur A. Leach grade 9 boys basket- ball championship team and Coach Charles Carlos for his dedication to the service in developing the lives of our kids at Arthur A. Leach through his hard work and dedication. Thank you, Coach Charles. Premier's Leadership Record Ms. Nahanni Fontaine (St. Johns): Max De Pree once said, and I quote: Leaders don't inflict pain; they share pain. End quote. So let's review the Premie r's (Mrs.

Stefanson) leadership: Forgot to disclose $31 million –because who doesn't forget millions of dollars? –broke Elections Manitoba rules ; stood up in the House to vote against the abortion protest buffer zone to protect Manitobans accessing essential health care; supported her–[interjection] Madam Speaker: Order. Ms. Fontaine: –Deputy Pre mier after his sexi st comments; in the midst of devastating waves of the pandemic, she didn't work one weekend and couldn't be bothered to meet with the federal minister; refuses to call a public inqui ry into the death of Krystal

2420 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA May 26, 2022 Mousseau; refuses to call a public inquiry into the corruption scandal at city hall; strategically schedules press conferences during question period and doesn't answer our questions; has failed at getting the surgical and diagnostic backlog under any significant control; told Manitobans that they were on their own; failed to commit to a living wage and is so proud to be the last province in Manitoba with the lowest minimum wage; let her MLA talk out a resolution to pr otect young athletes from sexual abuse from coaches; gave the same MLA $500,000; c apitulated to white national- ists; made a point of doing one of her first radio inter- views with Dave Wheeler, a man who's made trans - phobic comments and insinuated that t he pandemic was not as bad as people–[interjection] Madam Speaker: Order.

Ms. Fontaine: –make it out to be; t olerated anti - vaxxers in her Cabinet and continues–[interjection] Madam Speaker: Order. Ms. Fontaine: –to tolerate them in her caucus; refuses to make vaccinations mandatory in personal -care homes during the fourth wave; and, Madam Speaker, continues Brian Pallister's agenda. Madam Speaker, Manitobans must vote out each and every one of this caucus. Miigwech. Madam Speaker: The honour able minister of – [interjection] Order. [interjection] Order. [interjection] Order.

Reminder to members: we have a lot of guests in the gallery, including students, and I'm going to ask for your co-operation, please. You want to set a good example for them, to show where leadership can take people and that democracy does and can work. The hon ourable Minister of Health, on a mem - ber's statement. Peter Czehryn and Paulette Cote Hon. Audrey Gordon (Minister of Health): Madam Speaker, I rise to recognize the contributions of Windsor Park residents, Peter Czehryn and Paulette Cote.

Peter and Paulette, or more fondly known as the Soup Fairies, have been an integral part of my con- stituency of Southdale by providing relief and assist - ance to vulnerable memb ers of the community by partnering with multiple charities and non -profit organizations. Just like fairies, you can say Peter and Paulette are truly magical. At the beginning of the COVID-19 pan- demic and after the passing of a loved one, Peter and Paulette came up with the wonderful idea of providing soup to those affected by COVID as a gesture of solidarity, warming the hearts of those around them, one bowl of soup at a time.

They raised over $9,000 and provided 1,750 people with delicious soups and much-needed support. This year, in light of the recent war in Ukraine, Peter and Paulette felt the need to extend their charit- able efforts globally. With 40 years of experi ence in egg writing, Peter, alongside other artists, created beautiful Ukrainian Easter egg artwork, also known as pysanky. This is a traditional folk art using wax, dyes, etching and other techniques to decorate eggs. Peter and Paulette also collaborated with others in the community, accepting donations of various pieces of art and auctioning them off.

In total, Madam Speaker, they raised $6,683 in support of Manitoba Operation Blue Skies, a project of the Canadian Ukrainian Institute Prosvita that is supported by the Ukrainian Canadian Congress Manitoba Provincial Council. They help deliver relief to displaced Ukrainian individuals. The donations raised through the artwork will go directly to funding bus passes for new Ukraine arrivals, helping to ease the burden of travel– Madam Speaker: The member's time has expired. Some Honourable Members: Leave. Madam Speaker: Is there leave to allow the member to complete her statement? [Agreed] Ms.

Gordon: –helping ease the burden of travel as they navigate through a new life in Canada. Please join me in honoring Peter Czehryn and Paulette Cote and recognizing their efforts to make life better for their community. Thank you, Madam Speaker. Winnipeg Pride Ms. Lisa Naylor (Wolseley): Winnipeg Pride week starts tomorrow with a flag raising at City Hall. This is an exciting time for the 2SLG BTQ+ communities experiencing the first in -person Pride since 2019. Winnipeg Pride is also hosting Canada Pride's second national human rights conference.

Madam Speaker, 35 years ago, in the summer of 1987, 250 people gathered at this Legislative Building

May 26, 2022 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 2421 awaiting the results of the Pawley NDP government's decision to include sexual orientation in the Manitoba Human Rights Code. The crowd was prepared to pro- test or celebrate, depending on the outcome. Fortunately, the first Winnipeg Pride parade took place that day as 250 people celebrated in the streets, although some participants wore paper bags over their heads at the first Pride parade out of fear for their jobs or safety. We've come a long way since 1987, although not always moving fast enough to ensure human rights and equity for all.

Ten years ago, the NDP government was one of the first provinces to include gender identity in the Manitoba Human Rights Code and we continue to push for non- binary and gender -diverse Manitobans to be treated with respect and dignity in this Legislature and across the province. None of these legislative changes would have happened without the incredibly hard work and cour- age of countless community advocates. * (14:10) We all have loved ones and community members to celebrate, so I want to wish a happy Pride week to all MLAs, staff, pages and guests in this Chamber and to all Manitobans.

I will close by highlighting an event taking place in the Wolseley con stituency. The evening of June 2nd, five West Bro adway busi nesses on Sherbrook will be hosting a Pride block party. I'll be there as Tallest Poppy, Good Neighbour taproom, Roughage Eatery, Chips Vintage and Public General Store celebrate our 2SLGBTQ+ busi nesses and community. Thank you. Dates and Activities in Manitoba Ms. Cindy Lamoureux (Tyndall Park): As the Legislature prepares to rise for the summer, I want to briefly recognize some im portant days and exciting events coming up.

Firstly, graduations: I want to wish all of those who are farewelling and graduating a very happy cele- bration for the adventures to come. Secondly, when it comes Manitoba's rich divers- ity, we have a lot going on. June 1st marks the begin- ning of Filipino Heritage Month where we have many activities celebrating al l the con tributions of our Filipino com munity here in Manitoba. June 21st marks National Indigenous Peoples Day, and it's a day providing all of us the opportunity to reflect on recon- ciliation and to learn more about history and culture of Indige nous peoples.

On June 27th is Canadian multicultural day, a day where we intentionally work towards furthering our values of diversity. And July 1st, Madam Speaker, is Canada Day. And I want to extend an open invitation for all to join us this year as we restart our annual event where there will be games, face painting, cultural performances, entertainment, pizza and fireworks and a special tri - bute to Ukraine. Canada Day is also a time where we need to reflect on Canada's true history and recommit to real action on reconciliation and support healing.

We all must do our part and recognize that this day will bring up traumas for many across the country, and that is why we are ensuring that there will be Indigenous representation and storytelling to educate all of us in attendance. Then, of course, Madam Speaker, two weeks of Folklorama pavilions begin- ning on July 31st, and personally, I'm deter mined to get a camp trip in this summer, as well. Madam Speaker, with a few seconds left, I want to thank everyone from our clerks to our Hansard to our pages, everyone who works inside of the Manitoba Legislature, for all of your efforts this session, going hybrid.

And I want to wish all of my colleagues here in the House well over the summer break. I hope y ou have lots of joy -filled memories over the summer and remain safe. Thank you. Introduction of Guests Madam Speaker: Prior to oral questions, we have a number of guests in the gallery, and I would like to introduce them to you and just add that it is a pleasure to see so many guests that we do now have back in our Manitoba legislative gallery, so we welcome you all.

We have seated in the public gallery , from Rock Lake School, 13 grade 7 to 9 students under the direction of Tim Rempel, and this group is located in the con stituency of the honour able Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure (Mr. Piwniuk). I would also like to draw the attention of all hon- ourable members to the public gallery where have with us today parti cipants and leader s from the Peaceful Village Program in Winnipeg, a program which provides supports to new Canadian students to help them thrive and succeed in school. They have

2422 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA May 26, 2022 also brought along participants and leaders from their sister program, Peaceful Village in Halifax. And this group are guests of the honour able member for St. James (Mr. Sala). Also in the public gallery we have with us today Ms. Babylyn Reyes from Vancouver, Washington, United States, who is the guest of the honour able Minister of Advanced E ducation, Skills and Immigration (Mr. Reyes).

And also in the public gallery today, from North Bay, Ontario, we have with us Lance and Alexandra Johnson, who are the brother and sister -in-law of the honourable Minister of Agri culture (Mr. Johnson), along with their four daughters Adora, Ari, Asta and Ayvy. Also in the public gallery we have with us today grade 9 students from Murdoch MacKay Collegiate under the direction of Ms. Dudeck, who are the guests of the honour able member for Transcona (Mr. Altomare). That may have been the group that had to leave.

And on behalf of all honour able members, we welcome all of you to the Manitoba Legislature. * * * Madam Speaker: Now to the part where we say goodbye to two of our pages. Prior to oral quest ions, we always do this as our pages are leaving. One of our pages, Quirin Stetefeld, is serving his last day in the Chamber today, and I wanted to share some of his comments with the House: If I had to briefly summarize my experience as a page into thr ee simple words, I would simply say it was extremely eye -opening. This is because this en- lightening experience of being able to directly take

part in the legislative process in a way that many young people at my age are not given the privilege to do so, allowed me to grow as a person. It also allowed me to gain valuable knowledge that without a doubt, I will carry with me as I continue to move forward in my life as well as in my studies, which I plan to continue at the Asper School of Business next year. I just want to conclude by saying that I am forever grateful for having had this opportunity to be a page, as the many lessons I have learned have made it an extremely memorable experience.

And another one of our pages, Prabhnoor Singh, is serving hi s last day in the Chamber today, and I wanted to share some of his personal comments with the House: Sat Sri Akal [truth is G od], everyone. Being a legislative page was once- in-a-lifetime opportunity which brought with it many life -long memories, lessons and friends. I will definitely miss this place, its ambience and the small interactions I had with the MLAs, clerks, journals and Chamber branch members.

I leave this Legislature with an inspiration of making a difference in the province, whether that is through an elected position in this Chamber, being a community worker or doing small acts of kindness. Thank you, everyone, for making this experience an incredible one. I look forward to seeing you all again.

Introduction of Guests Madam Speaker: And I would indica te that his parents are here, and I would like to introduce them to you: Tejinder Singh and Arvinder Kaur. * * * Madam Speaker: And as you can see, this place does have a profound effect on our pages, so we thank them for their service and wish them the very best as they go forward. Now, to the next part. [interjection] Yes. ORAL QUESTIONS Leader of the Opposition Public Gallery Acknowledgements Mr. Wab Kinew (Leader of the Official Opposition): Well, of course, you meant the best part, when you said that, Madam Speaker.

I do want to take a moment just to welcome all of our guests to the building here. This is the people's building and I hope that you know that you're always welcome here. So, shout -out to the parti cipants with Peaceful Village, shout-out to the students who have joined us from Rock Lake, those from Murdoch Mackay who had to depart to catch their bus, and also a big shout - out to all the guests from the Filipino com munity, as well as visitors from Ontario and the US. Welcome to Manitoba, a province that we're all so proud of.

May 26, 2022 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 2423 I also want to say that it's been one of the high- lights of this spring sitting that we've been able to wel- come people back into the people's building. And, of course, I say the same to the pages. It sounds like we have two thoughtful, inspiring young people, so I wish you all the best in what's next. I do have a question on the situation in health- care, but wanted to just say those few words. It's starting to feel like grad season around here, Madam Speaker. Hon.

Cliff Cullen (Deputy Premier): Thank you very much, Madam Speaker, and you see, it's not all that bad. I, too, want to echo the comments from the Opposition Leader. Welcome, everyone, to the Chamber here today. We ap preciate you b eing with us, and it seems like it's been a long couple of years since we've had people here. So nice to see so many people from all over, not just Manitoba, but other jurisdictions as well. It is nice to see family and friends of members in the galle ry; that way we know for sure that those members will be on their best behaviour and that is appreciative.

To all of our pages, certainly appreciate the work that you're doing here every day and we wish you all the best in the future. Thank you very much. Madam Speaker: The honourable Leader of the Official Opposition, on a supplementary question. Nurse Shortage in Emergency Rooms Use of Paramedics as Replacement Staff Mr. Wab Kinew (Leader of the Official Opposition): Madam Speaker, in welco ming our guests to the people's building, I want them to know that one of the important functions we carry out here is to ensure that the services that Manitobans rely on are defended.

It just so happens it's the folks on this side of the Chamber who do that defending. * (14:20) On the issue of health care, our province -wide health-care system–which cares for the sick, that cares for the elderly, that cares for those folks when they have accidents –has been in crisis for a number of years. That crisis was caused by the cuts and closures of emergency rooms, parti cularly like at the Grace Hospital. We know that this situation emerged before the pandemic, and it has gotten worse since. I'm going to table a document regarding the staf- fing at the Grace Hospital.

It shows that paramedics are being asked to pick up additional shifts, not just to fill in a paramedic role but to fill in for nurses as well, Madam Speaker. The situation continues to 'deerteriorate'. When is this gov ernment finally goin g to do something to help health care? Hon. Cliff Cullen (Deputy Premier): We certainly recognize the extra challenges that health care faces given the results of the pandemic over the last two years. Certainly, our government recognizes that. We're responding to requests from Manitobans to strengthen health care in Manitoba.

That's why we have committed, this year's budget, $7.2 billion to health care. That is a new record investment in health care here in the province of Manitoba. We recognize there's challenges with staffing at various levels and various capacities. Those are not unique challenges to Manitoba. Every juris diction in the country is facing those challenges. But we've com- mitted resources to make sure we strengthen health care. Madam Speaker: The honour able Leader of the Official Opposition, on a final supplementary. Mr.

Kinew: Madam Speaker, the challenge that this PC government has had with health care is that they cut resources in one area and then they try to draw down resources in another to backfill the issue that they themselves created. We saw that with the emergence of the surgical and diagnostic wait times. The fact is, people are wait- ing longer than ever for surgeries in Manitoba today because nurses had to be taken out of the operating rooms and sent to other areas with critical needs. The issue that I'm bringing forward today is re - peating the same sort of mistakes in the emergency rooms.

We have a shortage of nurses. They're now drawing on paramedics to fill in those staffing short - ages on the nursing side. But then, Madam Speaker, what will that do to the situation with ambulances? We are already seeing Manitobans wait record -long times to get an ambulance, and now paramedics are being drawn in further to the ERs. When will this government finally start to fix the staffing crisis they've created?

2424 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA May 26, 2022 Mr. Cullen: Let's set the record straight here. Record investments for resources in health care: $7.2 billion. Madam Speaker, we in Manitoba, along wit h every other juris diction in the country, just went through two years in a pandemic. Clearly, that stretched resources. We are investing in those resources. We want to put more nurses back here. We've committed 400 more places for education in terms of getting nur- ses back into hospitals to assist those patients. We recog nize the challenges the pandemic has created.

We are committed to strengthening health care, and that is–been seen by a record investment of $7.2 billion in health care, not to mention the $110 million we've committed to the diag nostic and surgery backlogs. We are responding to the requests from Manitobans. Madam Speaker: The honour able Leader of the Official Opposition, on a new question. Health-Care System Management Concerns Mr.

Wab Kinew (Leader of the Official Opposition): Again, Madam Speaker, the Deputy Premier's idea of responding to the needs of Manitobans is to take away from the needs that we have in other critical aspects of our health -care sys- tem. The dia gnostic and surgery waits grew because they took the nurses away from the operating rooms to address the staffing crisis they created in other areas of critical care.

Now, potentially, what we're seeing with the document that I tabled, is that they'r e taking para - medics–the people who staff ambulances–away from the ambulances and putting them into an emergency room to address the short staffing of nurses that they themselves created when they closed the emergency rooms around Winnipeg in 2017, '18 and '19, Madam Speaker. Again, we see a situation where the staffing crisis gets worse and worse and worse, and it's the people of Manitoba who are left to shoulder the burden.

What guarantees can the Deputy Premier provide the House today that their plan at the Grace Hospital won't increase wait times not only in the ER but– Madam Speaker: The member's time has expired. Hon. Audrey Gordon (Minister of Health): I'd like to take a moment and remind members of this House of the failed record of the former NDP government in an exchange that occurred in this Chamber on June 9th, 2015, where a question was posted to then-Health minister Sharon Blady: Mr.

Speaker, this is –there is an ER crisis and there –also regions in Manitoba – there are regions in Manitoba t hat are experiencing a critical doctor shortage. Because of that, two dozen rural ERs are closed. When asked in Estimates yesterday how she was going to address this issue, this minister of Health said that she's still waiting for a, and I quote, magic health -care wand. I would like to ask her: Since last evening, did she find that wand? That is how the former NDP government handled our health– Madam Speaker: The member's time has expired. [interjection] Order.

The honourable Leader of the Official Opposition, on a supplementary question. Mr. Kinew: Madam Speaker, I'd like to ask what the PC Party of Manitoba stands for, because they do not stand for fiscal respon sibility. Health care is getting worse, and they can't even calculate the actual valu e of their education rebate cheques. They certainly don't stand for personal responsi - bility, because every day ministers try to blame every- one else but them for the crisis that they have created in the health-care system. And they certainly do–[interjection] Madam Speaker: Order. Mr.

Kinew: –not stand for rural health care, because even as we speak, we see that this gov ernment has closed the emergency room at–[interjection] Madam Speaker: Order. Mr. Kinew: –Powerview and Pine Falls. We see also that in Ste. Anne, the emergency room there has been closed without any consultation with the community. We see that countless emergency rooms are–in the Interlake are forced to turn patients away; in many cases, it's one patient being turned away again and again and again.

So, what is it that the PC Party stands for, because certainly, they don't stand for health care in Manitoba and certainly, they do nothing– Madam Speaker: The member's time has expired. [interjection] Order. Ms. Gordon: We stand for action.

May 26, 2022 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 2425 I'm tabling a news release from November of 1999, where the NDP announced a five-point plan on how to end hallway medicine. They have no credibility, Madam Speaker. Health-system leadership has acknowl edged the challenges being ex perienced in emergency depart - ments right now. They've implemented–[interjection] Madam Speaker: Order. Ms. Gordon: –a number of initiatives in recent weeks, and those initiatives have come right from the hospital floor, Madam Speaker.

And I thank all the leaders and staff for bringing forward the initiatives such as the $1.2 million ex - pansion of the physician -in-triage model of care program, improving lab turnarounds, level loading of transports and more great ideas are coming forward. Thank you, thank you, thank you. Madam Speaker: The honourable Leader of the Official Opposition, on a final supplementary. Mr. Kinew: I want to thank the Minister of Health for tabling this document from the year in which I gradu- ated high school. The reason that I want to thank her for tabling it is that it is proof–[interjection] Madam Speaker: Order.

Mr. Kinew: –it's proof for when Gary Doer fixed hallway medicine in Manitoba, Madam Speaker. And then we had this government–[interjection] Madam Speaker: Order. Mr. Kinew: –come in. And what has this government done? Not only did they bring hallway medicine back to Manitoba, they brought highway medicine to Manitoba, where they see Manitoba patients sent to North Dakota and shipped out of province because we simply can't provide the care for them here that they need.

Rest assured, to the Minister of Health, that this team is ready–just like Gary Doer–to come in and fix the crisis they've created in health care, Madam Speaker. * (14:30) My question is si mple: In advance of that, will they commit to causing no more damage to health care– Madam Speaker: The member's time has expired. [interjection] Uh oh, is right. I did meet with the students in the hallway when I was out in the hallway, and I did in- dicate to them that there should be passion in debate. But there should be respect in the debate, and we should be demonstrating that democracy works.

And I told them that they, hopefully, will see that in this Chamber today. So, let's try this out and see if we can actually show them that these things do work. Ms. Gordon: What we are committing to is not searching under our pillows at night for magic wands. We're not going to rely on pixie dust, we are going to rely on interventions that are coming forward from the hospital floor. Listening to nurses–[interjection] Madam Speaker: Order. Ms. Gordon: –listening to clinicians, doctors, health- system leadership; that's where the early interventions are being found.

Making changes to ambulance transport proto- cols; a pilot to test for COVID -19 within the emer - gency department for new patient arrivals; and we're refining our virtual COVID outpatient program that has helped thousands of Manitobans to stay at home and receive the care virtually. Madam Speaker, that is what– Madam Speaker: The member's time has expired. [interjection] Order. Research Manitoba Funding Concerns Mr. Jamie Moses (St. Vital): Madam Speaker, Research Manitoba does important work. It supports local research and helps drive talented people in Manitoba in research and innovation.

Unfortunately, Public Accounts shows funding to Research Manitoba has declined over the last few years, from $17 million, down to $15 million, down to $12 million. When we asked about this in Estimates, the minister seemed unaware of the cuts this government has made to Research Manitoba. So why doesn't the PC government value research and innovation, and will they reverse their cuts to Research Manitoba?

2426 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA May 26, 2022 Hon. Cliff Cullen (Minister of Eco nomic Development, Investment and Trade): I do ap pre- ciate the question and the line of questioning the other day from the member opposite. Certainly, we value the work at Research Manitoba. We're committing over $12 million this year to Research Manitoba for the good work they do. They do leverage other work and resources as well. So, we're certainly committed to Research Manitoba. We're also committed to health care. That's why we have a record invest ment in health care this year of $7.2 billion.

That's Manitoba's priority, and we're responding to Manitobans' priorities. Madam Speaker: The honour able member for St. Vital, on a supplementary question. Mr. Moses: Madam Speaker, I'll table a letter from the–U of M president, President Benarroch, to the minister of Advanced Education. He says: This reduction in Research Manitoba funding have meant our province is missing out on op- portunities for economic growth. With addi tional funding, we can invest in high- quality research in impact areas for Manitobans and leverage federal funding to stay competitive in both Canada and inter- nationally. End quote.

This government's cuts are making Manitoba less competitive and we are losing talented researchers to other jurisdictions. When will the minister reverse course, reverse his cuts to Research Manitoba? Mr. Cullen: Again, I ap preciate the good work that the people at Research Manitoba are doing. I actually just had a con versation last night with Dr. Benarroch from the Uni versity of Manitoba, and he was talking about all the money that the university was able to leverage for research. So I know he's been quite happy with the attraction of that investment.

Certainly, we are supporting the Uni versity of Manitoba with ad ditional funding this year, and I know he's very supportive of that funding as well. Madam Speaker: The honour able member for St. Vital, on a final supplementary. Mr. Moses: Madam Speaker, it's sadly clear that, under this gov ernment, Manitoba is losing t alented researchers to other jurisdictions. Research Manitoba helps to build local talent and helps to fuel economic dev elopment. Brian Pallister cut funding to Research Manitoba, and this Premier (Mrs. Stefanson) has kept cutting, and it's down from 17 down to 12 million dollars.

President Benarroch says that Manitoba is missing out on economic oppor- tunities. Why is this gov ernment carrying out Brian Pallister's failed, regressive approach and when will they restore funding to Research Manitoba? Mr. Cullen: I know the members use the term cuts very loosely, and I think if the member would go back over the last five years, the funding has been pretty constant there and–notwithstanding the increases that the Uni versity of Manitoba have had and notwith - standing the extra invest ments we've made in health care.

And I will say the member probably doesn't realize this, but when it comes to the bioscience in- dustry in Manitoba, we are the second largest exporter of product in Canada –a tre mendous e conomic dev- elopment oppor tunity that exists here in Manitoba. And we're going to try to expand that processing here in Manitoba. Support for Children with Epilepsy Inquiry into Purchase of ROSA Machine Ms.

Lisa Naylor (Wolseley): Yesterday, when I asked why this government hasn't purchased a ROSA machine to help children living with epilepsy, the Minister of Health touted ad ditional beds in an adult epilepsy monitoring unit. I will give the minister another chance today to answer why her government has failed to purchase a ROSA machine to help children. It can't be lack of money, because CEO Michael Schlater donated $2 million to purchase a ROSA machine. So, why has this government failed to purchase a ROSA machine? Hon. Audrey Gordon (Minister of Health): I will reiterate my comments from yesterday's question.

Our government remains committed to improving health care for Manitobans, and that includes strengthening neurology services and care for patients with multiple sclerosis, epilepsy, as well as improving our stroke services. We're recruiting and retaining neurologists, and six new neurologists have been re - cruited: one MS neurologist, two epilepsy, two stroke and one cognitive neurologist. We continue to support staff in t erms of coming into the program, as well as equipment.

May 26, 2022 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 2427 Madam Speaker, the members opposite may have missed the last two years of the unprecedented pan- demic; supply chains have been interrupted and we are going to continue our– Madam Speaker: The membe r's time has expired. [interjection] Order. The honourable member for Wolseley, on a supplementary question. Ms. Naylor: We did hear that the Province said they had plans to purchase a ROSA machine back in December, but no timeline has been provided.

But considering the Province claimed they would pur - chase one five years ago –well before the pandemic – it's difficult to believe them. Neurology services in Manitoba are lacking, and you need to recruit because neurologists left. And one of them at least left the province because you didn't hire–purchase a ROSA machine. There's a high vacancy rate in the adult and pediatric neurology, and the U of M's MS clinic is on the verge of collapse. Purchasing a ROSA machine would help support children living with epilepsy, so why has this govern- ment failed to do so for five years? Ms.

Gordon: Madam Speaker, again, our government remains committed to the neurology program, the epilepsy program, to children, to adults needing care. I was so pleased yesterday to join Premier –the honourable First Minister at the Children's Hospital, where we were announcing the opening of the heart health centre and the in credible donation and contri- bution from the Price family and several other donors. [interjection] Madam Speaker: Order. Ms.

Gordon: We are going to continue to come alongside families of –that have young children and adults who need care throughout our entire health sys- tem, Madam Speaker, contrary to what the member opposite is stating today. Madam S peaker: The honourable member for Wolseley, on a final supplementary. Ms. Naylor: Manitobans have figured out that many of these health announcements are just photo ops that are meaningless, because five years ago the minister of Health stood at HSC and received a $2 million cheque for a ROSA machine and a unit that has not been purchased.

It's meaningless. * (14:40) So, will the Province stop misleading Manitoba children and their families and commit to purchasing the ROSA machine? Will the minister commit to purchasing it this year and will she commit to telling Manitobans when she has done so? Ms. Gordon: What a shameful comment to make, that the an nouncement we were part of yesterday at the Children's Hospital with the Price family, with hundreds of donors that were watching virtually and were there on unit 4 to see the opening of a new heart health centre that is going to help 6,000 children.

I met Jaxon, who received a new heart five years ago, and this member stands in the House and says that that is a photo op. The member needs to stand today and apologize to the Price family and to all the donors that contributed to that centre, Madam Speaker. That is the right thing for the member to do. Judicial Selection Process Legislation Request to Support Amendments to Bill 8 Ms. Nahanni Fontaine (St. Johns): Last week, Bill 8 was called to committee and presenters raised serious concerns. The bill includes provisions that puts more power into the minister's hands to select judges, Madam Speaker.

This is the politicization of selecting judges to sit in our courts. Manitoba has a strong judge selection process that's worked for the last 30 years, which includes quality input from sitting judges. Bill 8 waters down that process. Will the minister withdraw these provisions and support our amendments to Bill 8? Hon. Kelvin Goertzen (Minister of Justice and Attorney General): It's the same provision that is used in Ottawa to select judges. Jagmeet Singh has joined a coalition with the Libe ral government who apparently supports the same process in Ottawa, Madam Speaker.

Madam Speaker: The honourable member for St. Johns, on a supplementary question. Ms. Fontaine: We heard from the Prov incial Judges Association of Manitoba, the Manitoba B ar Association and the criminal defense lawyers. They all expressed concern with Bill 8. Bill 8 dilutes the presence of judges on the judi - cial appointment committee with the minister's own hand-picked appointments. It removes the chief judge as th e chair of the com mittee and it changes what

2428 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA May 26, 2022 information is provided to the minister for judicial selection. Far more power is handed to the minister to turn the court into the direction that he chooses, Madam Speaker. Will he undo this and support our amendments that withdraw these provisions? Mr. Goertzen: Madam Speaker, it's the same pro - vision that's used in Ottawa. It's been there for many years. It's supported by the Trudeau government, sup- ported now by Jagmeet Singh and his coalition with the Trudeau government. I will certainly let Mr.

Singh in Ottawa know that he has lost the confidence of the member of St. Johns. Madam Speaker: The honourable member for St. Johns, on a final supplementary. Ms. Fontaine: Presenters told us Bill 8 was i ntro- duced without the prior consul tation of the judicial selection committee, nor was there consultation done with the Law Reform Commission or the Law Society or the Provincial Court. No one, Madam Speaker. Not one single person asked for t hese changes that the minister is bringing forward in Bill 8.

It weak- ens the com mittee's independence from gov ernment and risks undermining public confi dence in the ap - pointment of judges. This is a naked attempt by the minister to get the judge s that he wants appointed in our courts. You know who else did that? Trump, Madam Speaker. Will he commit to withdrawing these provisions and will he support our amendments– Madam Speaker: The member's time has expired. [interjection] Order. I think members may want to hear what their minister has to say. Mr. Goertzen: Madam Speaker, I am shocked and very disappointed that the member for St.

Johns com- pared Donald Trump to Jagmeet Singh. It is absolutely disgraceful. I, for one, will stand with Jagmeet Singh on this particular issue. They're doing it the right way in Ottawa and we'll do it here as well, Madam Speaker. Madam Speaker: The honour able member – [interjection] Order. Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women Implementation of Inquiry Recommendations Mrs. Bernadette Smith (Point Douglas): Doris Trout. Rebecca Contois. The last two weeks have seen–we have seen mur- ders of both of these young Indigenous women.

Community members are distraught at the loss of these women, including Doris 's three children. It's clear that the PC gov ernment is not doing enough to address the ever-growing violence against Indigenous women and children in Manitoba. What will it take for the Premier (Mrs. Stefanson) to take action on the critical issue of missing and murdered Indigenous women and two- spirit in this province? Hon.

Kelvin Goertzen (Minister of Justice and Attorney General): Madam Speaker, these are very serious issues, and we know that the issue of murdered and missing Indigenous women has been something that Canada has been grappling with, that this pro- vince has been grappling with for many years. There's been significant work that has been done when it comes to bringing light to these issues, but there's no question that the loss of any individual and one Indigenous woman, one Indigenous two- spirited individual, another Indigenous person that's been lost–anybody that's been lost, Madam Speaker, it's a tragedy.

It's a tragedy to the families; it's a tragedy to all Manitobans. And we commit ourselves, as I'm sure all mem - bers of this House commit themselves, to continue to ensure that more light is brought to these tragedies. Madam Speaker: The honour able member for Point Douglas, on a supplementary question. Mrs. Smith: Far too many Indigenous women and girls have been murdered or gone missing in this province, including my sister, Claudette Osborne-Tyo. We see that this violence has continued even after the Province signed on to the MMIWG2S national inquiry calls to justice.

Community and advocates are saying that this PC government is not doing enough to address this issue and actually doing the bare 'miminum'. It's clear from the recent murders of Doris Trout and Rebecca Contois that this is true. What specific actions is the government taking to implement the calls to justice from the MMIWG2S national inquiry that will keep Indigenous women safe here in our province? Mr. Goertzen: Madam Speaker, the member oppo- site brings a very personal and important voice to this critical issue, and I've ap preciated when she's ex - pressed that here in the House. And she's done it with

May 26, 2022 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 2429 compassion, she's done it with vigour and she's done it in a way that I think all of us have learned from. I do know that when it comes to Justice, officials are working hard to ensure that, where there are in- dividuals who continue to be missing, that infor ma- tion is brought to the families. They're working with the grand chiefs and others within the Indigenous community, Madam Speaker, and I think all of us are dedicating to do as much as we can to ensure that this situation not only improves in Manitoba but across Canada and more light is brought to it.

Madam Speaker: The honour able member for Point Douglas, on a final supplementary. Mrs. Smith: The National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls outlined 231 calls to justice. The Province signed on to these calls and has responsibility to follow through on them. The recent murders of Indigenous women in Winnipeg have shown that taking action on these calls is critical. Commu nity members want to know what the gov ernment is doing to prevent these murders from happening to Indigenous women and girls in our province.

What specific actions is this government doing to keep women and girls safe in our com munity and preventing these deaths from happening? Hon. Alan Lagimodiere (Minister of Indigenous Reconciliation and Northern Relations): Well, Madam Speaker, on behalf of the gov ernment of Manitoba, I express our sincere condol ences to Rebecca Contois and Doris Trout's families, friends and loved ones and communities, the Crane River and Gods Lake. We care and are with you. You're not alone in this grief. * (14:50) But women in Indigenous cult ure are sacred.

They need to be treated with respect and dignity, and as a gov ernment we will continue to support 2SLGBTQQIA+ individuals. We will continue to speak out and take action against gender -based vio- lence in our province, and we all have a role to play in taking action to end gender-based violence. And we encourage anyone with infor mation or concerns that may help to bring those responsible for these horrific deeds to justice to reach out to Crime Stoppers at 204-786-8477. Bell-MTS Merger Service Quality and Layoffs Mr. Dougald Lamont (St. Boniface): There's a sad history in Manitoba of broken promises around MTS.

In the 1995 election, the then- PC premier pro - mised the publicly owned phone system would not be sold off, but it was. Pr ices went up, service declined and Manitoba workers were laid off. Six years ago this month, in 2016, MTS was bought by Bell, which promised to make Winnipeg its western headquarters and made a lot of noise about new invest ments. At the time, Brian Pallister sup - ported the merger even though people warned it would mean less competition, layoffs, higher prices and worse service. Those warnings have come true and the promises have not been kept.

Instead of invest ments, some workers at MTS have seen nine rounds of layoffs while service is worse and costs are going up. Is this government going to do anything to chal - lenge MTS to keep its promises, or are Bell's share - holders more important than Manitobans? Hon. Cliff Cullen (Deputy Premier): I ap preciate the question being raised by the NDP –or, sorry, the Liberal leader. Certainly, I think over the last few days we've seen some issues raised by the public in terms of service being provided by Bell MTS. It certainly appears that the federal regul ator has an eye on that particular situation.

Certainly, there's some oversight there in terms of making sure that Bell MTS do pro- vide adequate and proper service to their customers. I'm sure the regulator will make sure that that happens. Madam Speaker: The honourable member for St. Boniface, on a supplementary question. Mr. Lamont: We all know Manitoba's telephone service is abysmal, especially in rural and northern Manitoba, and MTS reduced its invest ments by $500 million. They've been cutting back, and workers and customers have both been feeling the pinch.

TEAM I -F-T-P-E, Local 161, which represents Bell-MTS workers, says there have been nine rounds of downsizing from their bargaining unit alone since the Bell-MTS merger. The most recent one was j ust announced May 9th, targeting 31 positions. Since 2015, more than half of their jobs have been lost: 300 good Manitoba jobs lost in the last five years.

2430 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA May 26, 2022 Will the Premier (Mrs. Stefanson) join us and say, Bell, let's talk about why they're laying off hundreds of workers and breaking their promise to invest in Manitoba? Mr. Cullen: Certainly, from our perspective as a gov- ernment, any loss of jobs is very unfor tunate. Certainly, there is competition in this field, and we certainly think that there are op portunities for com- petition as well.

Clearly, Madam Speaker, I think I know, from a job perspective and a labour perspective, there cer - tainly is opportunity for Manitobans to get to work, all kinds of labour challenges across pretty well eve ry sector and, quite frankly, across every portion of Manitoba. So there will be tremendous opportunities for any layoffs that may have occurred with this parti cular company, and we certainly, from our perspective as government as well, we've comm itted to over $100 million to make sure that Manitobans have the skills and talent that's required in the workforce.

Addiction Treatment at RAAM Clinics Medication Coverage for Patients Hon. Jon Gerrard (River Heights): Madam Speaker, as I wrote to th e minister, there's a need for an adjustment in the treatment for opioid 'addrictions' as now provided at RAAM clinics. In brief, addiction physicians are unable to start people on treatment with Suboxone or similar medi - cations immediately, when a pers on needs it, if the person doesn't have money and doesn't have the medi- cation coverage through EIA and IHB or private insurance.

Since addiction treatment needs to be started as soon as a person is ready and can then imme diately reduce the risk of overdose, the impact of the therapy would be much better if the government would cover six months of opioid agonist therapy for such individuals. Will the gov ernment consider this life -saving measure? Hon. Sarah Guillemard (Minister of Mental Health and Community Wellness): Our government has made major invest ments into mental health and addictions over the last few years, and a number of those initiatives have saved lives.

We will continue to invest in the data-driven treatment to help Manitobans address their addictions issues. I'd be happy to sit down with the member oppo- site and further discuss some of our harm reductions and our treatment options that we are offering to Manitobans. Thank you. Madam Speaker: The honour able member for Midland? No? The honourable member for Midland. Reducing Red Tape for Small Businesses CFIB's Manitoba Ranking Mr.

Blaine Pedersen (Midland): As small busi - nesses look to economic recovery, it is more important than ever that governments commit to reducing costly red tape to make it easier to do business in Manitoba. Can the Minister of Justice expand on how Manitoba ranks compared to other provinces when it comes to making life more affordable for small busi - nesses and their workers? Hon. Kelvin Goertzen (Minister of Justice and Attorney General): Well, I'd like to thank the member for Midland for the question. I know he's a strong advocate for small business, Madam Speaker.

And the Canadian Federation of Inde pendent Business recently released a report on how provinces were doing in helping small busi nesses by reducing red tape, and they said that Manitoba got an A on their report card –the best score in all of the country, Madam Speaker, parti cularly im portant coming out of the pandemic, when small busi nesses were so impacted. I know why the NDP are upset, Madam Speaker.

They're upset because if they look back at their track record on the same report card, in 2011, they got an F; in 2012, they got another F; in 2013, they got to work and they got a D; in 2014, they got another D; and then they really got to work in 2015, and they got another D. Manitobans can't afford to go back to the NDP, Madam Speaker, because what comes with the NDP is a tsunami of red tape. Interlake-Eastern Health Region Physician Staffing Concerns at ERs MLA Tom Lindsey (Flin Flon): Madam Speaker– [interjection] Madam Speaker: Order. MLA Lindsey: I'm going to–[interjection]

May 26, 2022 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 2431 Madam Speaker: Order. Order. I have recog nized the hon ourable member for Flin Flon. MLA Lindsey: Thank you, Madam Speaker. I'm going to table next week's

schedule for the emergency depart ments in the Interlake, and more often than not, there's no doctor available; Pine Falls' ER's suspended. Madam Speaker, Diane Malcolm is a resi dent of Lundar, and earlier this month she feared she was having a heart attack. She called Eriksdale: no ER doctor. She phoned Ashern: over whelmed, couldn't come. Phoned Stonewall: told to go to Eriksdale. So she went there, only to be put in an ambulanc e that had to park on the side of the road to try and figure out where to take a potential heart-attack victim. Madam Speaker, this is not acceptable. So, for people like Ms.

Malcolm: What is the minister doing with the mess of the Interlake health region, so that people can actually get a doctor at an ER– Madam Speaker: The member's time has expired. Hon. Audrey Gordon (Minister of Health): I thank the member for Flin Flon for the question. And it's unfor tunate that the member did not join us fo r the northern health sus tainability discussion that was held last week in Thompson. Many, many individuals, service delivery organi - zations–[interjection] Madam Speaker: Order. Ms.

Gordon: –EMS, physicians –came together around the table of solutions t o talk about how we address the needs of rural and northern Manitoba, Madam Speaker. [interjection] Madam Speaker: Order. Ms. Gordon: Our gov ernment has already taken proactive steps by investing $812 million to create 38 projects and initiatives that will form a northern hub and allow for individuals living in the North to receive care closer to home, Madam Speaker. We will continue to sit at the table of solutions– Madam Speaker: The member's time has expired.

The time for oral questions has expired. * (15:00) PETITIONS Drug Overdose Reporting Mrs. Bernadette Smith (Point Douglas): I wish to present the following petition to the Legis lative Assembly. The background to the petition is as follows:

(1) Across the province, many Manitobans continue to struggle with addictions, and the pan- demic has led to even more death and worsened the ongoing public health crisis of opioid overdoses.

(2) Three hundred and seventy -two Manitobans died from an overdose in 2020; that's over one a day, and 87 per cent higher than in 2019.

(3) Manitoba is expected to exceed over 400 overdose deaths in 2021, but the data is not publicly available since the last public reporting of opioid deaths was published in 2019.

(4) The data from drug overdose deaths from 2020 and 2021 was compiled through media inquiries, and this needs to change.

(5) Access to timely data on the harms of drugs helps to inform both government and stakeholders on where to take action and target resources needed in various communities.

(6) Manitoba is the only province not provi ding regular, timely data to the federal gov ernment opioid information portal.

(7) Manitobans deserve a gov ernment that takes the growing drug crisis seriously and will report the data publicly in a timely manner to target actions and allow for accountability. We petition the Legis lative Assembly of Manitoba as follows–[interjection] Madam Speaker: Encourage the member to continue. Mrs. Smith: To urge the prov incial government to enact Bill 217, The Fatality Inquiries Amendment Act (Overdose Death Reporting), to require the Province to publish the number of drug overdose deaths, as well as the type of drug on a gov ernment website in a timely fashion.

And this has been signed by many Manitobans. Madam Speaker: In accordance with our rule 132(6), when petitions are read they are deemed to be received by the House.

2432 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA May 26, 2022 Catalytic Converter Engraving Credit Mr. Jim Maloway (Elmwood): I wish to present the following petition to the Legislative Assembly. The background to this petition is as follows:

(1) The spike in catalytic converter thefts occurring across North America has hit Winnipeg. The price of precious metals in catalytic converters like rhodium, palladium and platinum are worth thousands of dollars an ounce. Scrap metal recyclers have catalytic converters priced to the vehicle, with some catalytic converters worth $800.

(2) Organized groups of criminals are climbing under vehicles and cutting catalytic converters, selling them to scra p metal recyclers for cash without any record of these transactions.

(3) Catalytic converter thefts cost consumers about $2,000 for each replacement. Manitoba Public Insurance charges a betterment fee for new replace- ments, so insurance doesn't cover the full cost.

(4) Catalytic converters do not have any part number or vehicle identification number, VIN, and the inability to tie catalytic converter to a specific vehicle is a major enforcement issue.

(5) Engraving of a vehicle's VIN on its catalyti c converter would be a major deterrent to theft by tying the vehicle to the part and making enforcement possible. We petition the Legis lative Assembly of Manitoba as follows: To urge the prov incial gov ernment to bring in consumer protec tion legis lation directing Manitoba Public Insurance to initiate credits to Manitobans for engraving vehicle identification numbers on their catalytic converters. And this petition is signed by many, many Manitobans. Hearing Aids Hon.

Jon Gerrard (River Heights): I wish to present the following petition to the Legislative Assembly. The background to this petition is as follows: A hearing aid is a battery -powered electronic device designed to improve an individual's ability to perceive sound. Worn in or behind a person's ear, they make some sounds louder, helping people hear better when it's quiet and when it's noisy.

People who suffer hearing loss, whether due to aging, illness, employment or accident, not only lose the ability to communicate effectively w ith friends, family or colleagues, they also can experience un - employment, social isolation and struggles with mental health. Hearing loss can impact the safety of an in - dividual with hearing loss, as it affects the ability to hear cars coming, safety alarms, call 911, et cetera.

A global commission on the state of the research for dementia care and prevention released an updated consensus report in July 2020, identifying 12 key risk factors for dementia and cognitive decline. The strongest risk fac tor that was indicated was hearing loss. It's calculated that up to 80 per–8 per cent of the total number of dementia cases could potentially be avoided with management of hearing loss.

Hearing aids are therefore essential to the mental health and wellbe ing of Manitobans, especially to those at sig nificant risk of dementia, Alzheimer's, a disorder of the brain affecting cognition in the ever - growing senior population. Audiologists are health -care pro fessionals who help patients decide which kind of hearing aid will work best for them based on the type of hearing loss, patient's age and ability to manage small devices, lifestyle and ability to afford. The cost of hearing aids can be prohibitive to many Manitobans, depending on their income and circumstances.

Hearing aids cost on average $995 to $4,000 per ear. And many professionals say the hear- ing aids only work at their best for five years. Manitoba residents under the age of 18 who require a hearing aid, as prescribed by an otolaryn - gologist or audiologist, will receive either an 80 per cent reimbursement from Manitoba Health or a fixed amount for an analog device up to a maximum of $500 per ear, or 80 per cent of a fixed amount for a digital or analog programmable device up to a max - imum of $1,800.

However, this reimbursement is not available to Manitobans who need the device who are over the age of 18, which will result in financial hardship for many young people entering the work- force, students and for families. In addition, seniors representing 14.3 per cent of Manitoba's popula tion are not eligible for reimbursement despite being the group most likely in need of a hearing aid. Most insurance companies only provide a min - imal partial cost of a hearing aid and many Manitobans, especially retired persons, old- age pen- sioners and other low -income earners do not have access to health-insurance plans.

May 26, 2022 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 2433 The Province of Quebec's hearing devices pro- gram covers all costs related to hearing aids and assistive listening devices, including the purchase, repair and replacement. Alberta offers subsidies to all seniors 65 and over and low-income adults once every five years. New Brunswick provides coverage for the pur - chase and maintenance not covered by other agencies or private health insurance plans as well as assistance for those for whom the purchase would cause finan- cial hardship.

Manitobans over age 18 are only eligible for sup- port for hearing aids if they're receiving Employment and Income Assist ance and the reimbursement only provides a maximum of $500 per ear. We petition the Legis lative Assembly of Manitoba as follows: To urge the prov incial gov ernment to consider hearing loss as a medical treatment under Manitoba Health. To urge the prov incial gov ernment to provide income-based coverage for hearing aids to all who need them, as hearing has been proven to be essential to Manitobans' cognitive, mental and social health and well-being.

Signed by Gladys Neilsen, Skiler Polkowski, Josiah Polkowski and many, many others. Thank you. Madam Speaker: Grievances? ORDERS OF THE DAY (Continued) GOVERNMENT BUSINESS House Business Mr. Andrew Micklefield (Rossmere): On May 17th, 2022, the House unanimously passed private member's resolution No. 15, Calling on the Federal Government to Extend the Time Frame for Indian Day School Survivors. Could you please canvass the House for leave to request that the Speaker of the House send copies of this PMR No. 15 to the Prime Minister of Canada and the federal Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations?

Madam Speaker: Is there leave to request that the Speaker of the House send copies of the private member's resolution No. 15 to the Prime Minister of Canada and federal Minister of Crown -Indigenous Relations? Is there leave? [Agreed] * * * Hon. Kelvin Goertzen (Government House Leader): Could you please resolve the House into Committee of Supply. * (15:10) Madam Speaker: So, under orders of the day, gov - ernment business, we have been told that it has been announced that the House will consider Estimates this afternoon. The House will now resolve into Com mittee of Supply. Mr.

Deputy Speaker, please take the Chair. COMMITTEE OF SUPPLY (Concurrent Sections) ROOM 254 HEALTH * (15:10) Mr. Chairperson (Dennis Smook): Will the Com- mittee of Supply please come to order. Before we begin, we have a leave request for this

section of the Committee of Supply. Is there leave for the opposition to sit on this side since the minister is doing virtually– An Honourable Member: Leave. Mr. Chairperson: Leave? [Agreed] The floor is now–sorry–this

section of Committee of Supply will now resume consid eration of the Estimates for the Department of Health. Questioning for this department will proceed in a global manner. The floor is now open for questions. MLA Uzoma Asagwara (Union Station): I'd like to ask the minister some questions in regards to northern and rural health. My colleagues, while in question period the last couple of days, have had the oppor tunity to raise concerns arou nd Powerview pine –fine–Pine Falls, rather–and concerns in the Interlake. And we haven't gotten any clarity from the minister in any of those regards.

It was actually very con cerning a couple of days ago when the minister referred to First Nations nursing stations and talked about federal juris diction

2434 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA May 26, 2022 when our colleague, the MLA for St. Johns, I believe, asked a question about the emergency room being closed at Powerview-Pine Falls hospital. And so first I'd like to ask the minister, kind of broadly, as the northern–we know that the northern re- gional health author ity is referring to situations at several northern sites at facilities as very fragile. And this is something of concern. It's been of concern for quite some time. Our colleague, my collea gue, the MLA for Flin Flon, has raised this in the House as well.

And so I'm wondering, with all of these concerns having been raised–and the minister is well aware of the concerns at several northern sites, and I'm sure she would agree that, you know, what's going on at these sites is not okay, that the situation is indeed very fragile. What is the minister doing to shore up these sites and improve the circumstances? * (15:20) Mr. Chairperson: Before I recognize the minister, I– just wondering if the minister's staff was able to check whether or not she was –would be able to use head- phones on her–headset? Just for the– The honourable Minister of Health. Hon.

Audrey Gordon (Minister of Health): I thank the honour able member for Union Station for t he question. I would like to seek clarification before I re- spond to the member's question. Can the member clarify the infor mation they are needing on northern health care, because the question was packaged in –there are a number of minor ques - tions that were part of the larger question. So, northern health care, what is the infor mation the member is seeking? Thank you, Mr. Chair.

MLA Asagwara: There are several northern sites that are struggling and the facilities have been described as being very fragile as a result of lack of staffing capacity. And so my question is: what is the minister doing to shore up these northern sites that are in a precarious state due to issues like staffing shortage crisis, as just one example? What steps is the m inister taking to shore up these facilities so that they are no longer in a very fragile state and people are able to access health care in these northern facilities in a timely way, in an accessible way, close to home? Ms.

Gordon: I'm pleased to respo nd to the hon our- able member for Union Station's question. Our government has given $4.3 million for 37 ad- ditional nurse training seats at the University College of the North. This is part of our larger plan to add close to 400 new nursing education seats. In Budget 2022, our gov ernment has committed $812 million, the largest single health -care commit- ment in Manitoba's history, to improve rural and northern health care.

A sig nificant portion of the $812 million will be used in the creatio n of a new intermediate health -care hub in northern Manitoba, and currently teams are engaged with Indigenous leadership and stakeholders to help lead the co-plan of these projects. And we are excited, as a gov ernment, to be working with our northern partners to reduce the need to travel to Winnipeg and allow for better care closer to home. Mr. Chairperson, I was so pleased to be in Thompson on May 19th, meeting with several stake - holders from the North and Thompson and surround- ing communities.

EMS was represented; a number of program areas were represented, emergency and others. And we were at the table of solutions, looking for ways to address the staffing challenges and some of the temporary closures that are occurring. One of the things we talked a great deal about were initiatives under the clinical and pre ventative services plan, and this plan sets a great foundation for moving our system ahead, especially in northern areas as the member has queried about.

So, this will allow for a –building and expanding 38 health- care facilities across rural and northern Manitoba, which will improve access, quality and reliability of care; reduce our wait times; increase our nursing staff; improve diagnostics, emergency medi - cal services and patient transport; create new hospital beds and personal -care homes. We're using an Indigenous partnership strategy that will be collabor- ated and co-designed with Indigenous leadership. And it's certainly to reduce the need for Manitobans to travel long distances for care by providing more care closer to home, Mr. Chairperson.

And with all of this, our gov ernment has over doubled the NDP's funding of the northern patient transport program, as well, from $7.9 million to $18.1 million. So we continue, while the se projects

May 26, 2022 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 2435 are under construction and have not fully been imple- mented yet, to assist nearly 20,000 patients a year, in terms of northern patient transport, to receive the care that they need.

I also want to talk about some of the projects that have already been completed: in 2016, Grand Rapids and Moose Lake, new nursing stations and residences for a total of $18.4 million; in 2016, Thompson, the northern crisis centre for youth, $7.8 million; in 2019, Flin Flon, new and expanded emergency de part- ment, $27.1 million; in 2019, slow –Snow Lake and Lynn Lake, new ambulance stations in each com mu- nity, $1.5 million; and in 2021, Thompson, new and expanded medical device reprocessing department.

So I am pleased to place that infor mation on the record to inform the honour able member for Union Station (MLA Asagwara) about some of the in- credible invest ments our gov ernment is making in rural and northern Manitoba. And more good news to come. I see a long list of planned projects that will be announced shortly that will continue to expand on the northern intermediate hub, provide more treatment spaces, more staffing in those communities, such as Pine Falls, that the mem- ber has referenced.

And we will continue to work with the leadership of the Interlake -Eastern Regional Health Author ity in terms of the intermediate medium-term plans to address the increased nursing staff and challenges that they have seen since November of 2021. So we are in talks with them and look forward to sharing some of the their plans. Mr. Chairperson: The minister's time has expired. MLA Asagwara: I'd like to–I'm going to keep asking questions about health care in the North and in rural communities.

This is a really important area that, you know, under this gov ernment, unfor tunately, hasn't seen the investment necessary. And the minister references the clinical services prevention plan, which, you know, in conver sations I've had with many folks in rural communities, they're incredibly concerned about the rolling out of that plan and the moving forward with that plan given how they've seen the government's decision making around the health-care transformation impact health care in Winnipeg.

It's been devastating, and so, under stand- ably, people are very concerned about what that means for rural and northern communities. And we're seeing the impacts, actually, already, with these in credibly long wait times for things like paramedicine services in rural com munities, folks trying to access emergency rooms and being forced to access multiple emergency rooms in order to access care in those important moments. So, specifically now what I'd like to touch on here is the issue around obstetrics.

Now, this is an area that I want to highlight and th ank community organizers and advocates on this parti cular issue, and there's one group spe cifically called the We Want Birth Committee. These folks are amazing, and they have been advocating on the issue of obstetrics being in their commu nities, sp ecifically I'm talking about Thompson, The Pas, as just a couple of examples. And, you know, those folks highlighting that people should be able to give birth in their own communities and access care in that manner in their own com mu- nities, and not have to be flown or drive out south for that care.

And they fought really hard for this govern- ment to take their concerns and their lived experiences seriously. I'd also like to acknowl edge our colleague, the MLA for Notre Dame, for her work with this commit- tee and her advocacy on this particular issue and draw- ing attention to this matter. It's really important. So, both Thompson and The Pas were exper - iencing very sig nificant staffing challenges. I know the minister is well aware of that. Can the minister provide an update to us on the current staffing situation for obstetrics at Thompson and The Pas? * (15:30) Ms.

Gordon: I would like to go back to the hon our- able member for Union Station's (MLA Asagwara) earlier question specifically about Pine Falls and what is being done. I do want to share that we have been in conversation with the leadership as well as the site, and they have provided plans in terms of imme diate and medium-term plans for that hospital.

So, in terms of the im mediate-term plan, they have listed: to build up emergency department access and services to next or nearest ED at Pinawa Hospital; IERHA's putting in place a medical trans portation plan with Shared Health, ERS, that supports patient movement in this operating environment. IERHA's building more robust access to primary care services seven days a week, including evenings, in Pine Falls. Leadership is pursuing filling both the posted vacant positions and every shift that is currently not filled.

2436 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA May 26, 2022 IERHA has developed and is implementing a robust communication plan for staff, communities and local partners. And, Mr. Chairperson, again, that were the– those were the immediate-term plans. The medium-term plan is to build a site nursing education plan that helps support increased ED capa- city; build a Pine Falls site recruitment plan with human resources and other partners.

This recruitment plan will also include a longer term training and edu- cation plan for local schools and com munities, and they are saying that they will engage with local com- munities for sustained com munity-driven workforce development options.

So, this is some thing the Interlake -Eastern Regional Health Authority and our government takes very seriously and is a priority for us, which is why we asked the Interlake- Eastern Regional Health Authority to work with the hospital staff–again, ideas coming from the hospital floor –to look at ways that we can support keeping that emergency room or emer- gency department open. I also want to share with the member –because they had asked about our invest ments in rural and northern Manitoba–$2.3 billion in our targeted health- care capital plan is for projects: $141 million for St.

Boniface Hospital emergency room redevelop- ment, tripling the size of its ER; $8 million for the new acute stroke unit at Health Sciences Centre; again, the $812 million for the clinical and preventative services plan; $283 million for a 90 -bed new hospital in Portage la Prairie; $127 million for a 60 -bed new hospital in Neepawa; $70 million to enhance and add 30 addi tional beds at the Brandon Regional Health Centre; $32 million to enhance and add 23 additional beds at Steinbach's Bethesda hospital; $64.4 million to enhance and add 24 beds at Boundary Trails; $31.6 million to enhance and add 30 addi tional beds at the Selkirk Regional Health Centre, and that is in the Interlake -Eastern Regional Health Author ity; $5 million for a new emergency de partment in Dauphin; and $10.8 million to enhance and add 12 ad- ditional beds at the Lakeshore general hospital in Ashern.

So, Mr. Chairperson, some very signi ficant in - vestments are going into these areas, and we have asked the Interlake -Eastern Regional Health Authority to let our gov ernment know how we can support those immediate-term plans and the medium- term plans to ensure Manitobans in that region and in the surrounding area can access Pine Falls hospital for the care that they need. It is not the intent of the IERHA to frivolously or– close hospitals and emergency departments. They do so with a plan.

That plan is in place and we are here, as a gov ernment, to come alongside the IERHA and Pine Falls hospital to support them. Whether that is financial investments, whether that is with a recr uit- ment plan, our goal, as a government, is to support the IERHA and the Pine Falls hospital. Mr. Chairperson: The honour able minister's time has expired. MLA Asagwara: Certainly, I think the vast– I think everyone, quite frankly, commends the Interla ke- Eastern Regional Health Author ity for their efforts around this particular issue.

They sent out a notifica - tion that did include steps that they were taking to make sure that folks could access care when the emergency room was closed ahead of the long weekend. You know, it's an incred ibly im portant facility and, of course, I commend the regional health author- ity and health -care providers on trying to find solu - tions to address a really concerning situation. And I've heard all of the steps that the Interlake regional – Interlake-Eastern Regional Health Authority is taking and the steps that these professionals are taking.

I didn't hear the minister make any mention of steps that she is taking in order to ensure that the emer- gency room is accessible. She has, you know, repeated old announce ments around educating nurses. We know the minister is well aware that it takes years to educate those nurses in post-secondary education and get them ready for the workplace. And I've had some reall y interesting conver sa- tions with new grads, who are excited to be in the workforce and are having an incred ibly challenging time in the workforce because there has been a loss of expertise in our health- care system.

Nurses are still leaving the health -care system, so there's a lack of mentorship due to the lack of retention because the government hasn't made meaningful efforts to retain nurses. And, you know, there's a risk there that we're going to have new grads entering the health- care system without the supports that they need to want to stay in it. I've also talked to new grads who have left Manitoba because they have plainly seen this govern- ment fail to make any meaningful effort to recruit them into the health-care system here in Manitoba.

So I hope that the minister hears what I'm saying and just is able to actually utilize what I'm saying,

May 26, 2022 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 2437 based on my conver sations with new grads and with nurses. We want to retain our health-care system and, you know, put that feedback to good use in terms of a strategy to recruit and retain these nurses. Now, spe cifically, the minister talked about Powerview-Pine Falls and the challenges there and what the regional health authority is doing to address it, but she neglected to talk at all about my qu estion regards–in regards to obstetrics. You know, the folks who are part of the We Want Birth Committee, they're in Flin Flon.

I know that they would love to hear an update from the minister on this particular issue–the folks in Thompson, in The Pas, who are significantly impacted by the fact that there are staffing challenges in obstetrics and are being forced to leave their com munities to have their kids. This is an important issue. The minister should, at the ready, have the infor mation available to her to let us know currently what the staffing situation is for ob - stetrics in Thompson and The Pas. So I pose that question to the minister again: What is the current staffing situation for obstetrics at Thompson and The Pas? Ms.

Gordon: I would like to add to my comments earlier about–in terms of what is our government spe- cifically doing to support these facilities and emer - gency departments. And I just want to cite one example of a solution that came from the hospital floor, the emergenc y de- partment of HSC, where the idea for the physician in triage came forward, right from the hospital emer - gency department, and required a $1.2-million invest- ment. And our gov ernment came alongside that sug - gestion, and–to ensure the funding was available.

Also, I want to just go a little further back in time to last year, when I joined the honourable member for Beausejour and–to announce nine family physicians had started practicing in com munities across the Interlake-Eastern Regional Health Authority.

So, four of the new physicians were graduates of the one-year Medical Licensure Program For International Medical Graduates offered through the Uni versity of Manitoba, a program that's designed to integrate physicians who have practised internationally into the Canadian medical system by allowing them to gain a better understanding of the Canadian local health-care system. The program has allowed physicians who have practised internationally to better understand the needs of rural patients and the variety of health -care services people require.

Those graduates would be working in rural and underserviced areas of the pro - vince, and they've actually made a four-year commit- ment to the region. So, our government is supporting these programs to ensure that we get health practitioners and family physicians trained and working in rural communities.

I also want to reference our undergraduate nurse educator–education program, where we're trying to ensure that new graduates or individuals t hat are still in their program develop roots right here in our pro- vince, by allowing third - and fourth-year students to come into our health system to begin working while they're still in their academic training. And I'm told that over 60 individuals are participating in this program. So, our gov ernment is taking steps to help in - dividuals to develop deep roots and to not go to another province.

And then, I'm –I will be so pleased next month when we welcome a number of graduates from the University College of the North nursing program. I understand that several will be accepting their gradu- ation certificate right in Thompson, where they are going to continue to practise. And we –so, we are en- couraging individuals to be trained in the Uni versity College of the North, and to continue to serve in that area.

With regard to obstetrics, our clinical pre ven- tative services plan knows the need to engage on women's health, and spe cifically, obstetrics and women's gynecology, and all the spectrum of services that women need. They want to ensure that services are provided close to home and in safe circumstances. Those discussions are under way.

I had shared before that we had asked Deloitte to do a review on our women's health program that in- cluded in the northern and remote and rural com mu- nities, and we look forward to using that infor mation to inform the work that is being done, but through the clinical preventative services plan to ensure, just like the member for Union Station (MLA Asagwara) has stated, that obstetrics and a range of services for health services for women are available close to home and that they receive those services under safe circum - stances.

And I look forward to hearing more about the We Want Birth Com mittee and the wo rk that they're doing. I'm always willing to see recommendations and suggestions that come forward. There's no monopoly

2438 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA May 26, 2022 on good ideas, Mr. Chairperson, and so if there are ideas coming forth, please send them to my office. Mr. Chairperson: The honour able member's – minister's time has expired. MLA Asagwara: Can the minister tell us how many day surgeries were conducted in the northern region last year? * (15:50) Ms. Gordon: I thank the honour able member for Union Station for the question. The goal –and I've heard this from many in- dividuals who've undergone surgeries–that they want the most minimally invasive procedure to be done.

Generally, most people want to recover at home, so looking for outpatient options. I'm–I can report that 90 per cent of surgeries are same-day cases in the region, that would include Thompson, The Pas and Flin Flon. And that is the number that I can provide, Mr. Chairperson. Thank you. MLA Asagwara: Can the minister take as an under - taking to provide us the number here on how many day surgeries have been conducted in the northern region as of last –or were conducted, rather, in the northern region last year? Ms. Gordon: Thank the member for the question.

We will endeavour to try to get it during–get that information during this Com mittee of Supply today, and if not, we will–I will take it under advisement. Thank you, Mr. Chairperson. MLA Asagwara: Thank the minister for agreeing to either provide that information today or taking it as an undertaking. I appreciate that. The minister has no doubt seen the recent concern in the media about access to health care in the Interlake. I've already raised that; I've given a couple of examples, and the minister has provided some information by way of response. This has been a problem for some time.

This is something that folks in the Interlake have raised issues and concerns about. And, certainly, we're seeing some pretty concerning challenges arise. And, you know, it's incredibly important that steps are take n now to mitigate some negative outcomes in the short term but certainly long term as well. More often than not, we know that a doctor is not available, specifically in Eriksdale or in Arborg. What is the minister doing to address this parti- cular issue? Ms. Gordon: I would like to go back to the hon our- able member for Union Station's question about ob- stetrics and access to birthing in the North.

I'm advised by the northern regional health authority, specific to the Thompson General Hospital, that no transfers to Winnipeg for birthing has occurred unless it was due to clinical assessment that the in - dividual needed to be transferred to Winnipeg as a result of their specific birthing situation. Of course, if it was high risk and the person needed additional care, possibly maybe even the baby, upon being born, perhaps would need, as an example, to be in the NICU.

But I am told that, from the Thompson General Hospital, no transfers to Winnipeg for birthing has occurred, and if they have, they're due to clinical assessment that a transfer is required. I also want to reference the member's comments again about Eriksdale and Arborg and the–specifically the Interlake -Eastern Regional Health Author ity or the Interlake region. Like most rural regions in Canada, attracting and retaining family physicians has been a challenge for the Interlake and North Eastman com munities.

And that is why we're training family physicians in rural communities, to expose them to both the benefits and specific challenges of providing health care to smaller communities while also ensuring quality care for rural communities. So this part nership with the Uni versity of Manitoba is so critical to our ability to train and recruit right into our com munities.

And s o, recruitment ef - forts by the region and private clinics are seeing new physicians begin practice in Beausejour, Eriksdale, Lac du Bonnet, Teulon and Selkirk, among others, with internationally ex perienced medical graduates working in Ashern and Pine Fa lls. And this was last year, and Pine Falls is identified here as well as Eriksdale and surrounding communities. And those family medicine physicians work as part of the team to provide access to primary health care and robust emergency depart ment co verage in rural communities.

And I just want to recog nize the hard work of our region's physician recruitment and retention team, and our local physicians who develop–

May 26, 2022 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 2439 the local physicians there who are developing re - lationships with physicians in train ing, and they're creating a welcoming environment and showcase var- ious practice opportunities in the area. And this really speaks, Mr. Chairperson, to the success of a rural -based training in recruiting new practitioners. And I also want to thank the regional residents for their warm welcome to new practitioners, making sure they feel comfortable in their new home.

I think it's a combined effort to align–that aligns well with our mutually agreed upon strategic goal in that region of developing health human resources within the region. And, again, residency, as we all know, is the last stage in training for doctors following their graduation from medical school, and the family medicine resi - dency program at the Uni versity of Manitoba's Max Rady College of Medicine includes training in a number of practice areas, including primary care, psychiatry, obstetrics, general surgery, internal medi- cine, emergency depart ment care, pediatrics and seniors care.

And I just want to thank all the local doctors and staff for their support of these new students and for their support of the region where they work. And we are going to continue, as a government, to support this initiative through the Uni versity of Manitoba's Max Rady College and the phys ician recruitment and retention team led by local physicians in the Interlake- Eastern Regional Health Author ity, by working together that –we will address these issues that are occurring on the ground.

But our government remains committed to ensuring not just Interlake -Eastern Regional Health Authority but all regions receive the support that they need. * (16:00) Mr. Chairperson: The honour able minister's time has expired. MLA Asagwara: I thank the minister for that response. I can hear my northern colleagues in my ear right now demanding that I ask for clarification and telling me that Thompson is not the only place in the North. And so: the minister referenced Thompson in her response, in terms of people not being transferred from Thompson to give birth.

Can the minister also provide clarity as to whether or not people have been transferred from The Pas, from Flin Flon, from other northern communities and–to give birth because they could not access that care in their own communities? Ms. Gordon: For the individuals that are sitting within earshot of the honour able member for Union Station (MLA Asagwara), I want to be clear that I recognize that Thompson is not the only com munity in the North. The member had asked about two specific co mmunities: one was Thompson and the other was The Pas.

The information was transferred to me while we were in this Com mittee of Supply day with regard to Thompson, and so I felt I would bring forward the infor mation spe cifically for Thompson while we continue to request the information the hon- ourable member for Union Station had asked for for The Pas. If the member is now asking for us to expand that list, we will take that under advisement and come back with a response with regard to the additional commu- nities they have added to the list.

But certainly, my attempt was to provide, in an efficient and timely manner, infor mation about Thompson that had be - come available during this session. It is in no way meant to disrespect the North b y focusing just on Thompson or leading anyone to believe that I in any way feel that that is the only community. I've travelled the North extensively in my time working for the Winnipeg Regional Health Authority over 12 years, and I'm very familiar wit h the North.

I've gone as far as Wasagamack, Garden Hill, Red Sucker Lake–many, many different com mu- nities–and spent time in Thompson, Pine Falls –that we've talked about today –Snow Lake, all over the North. And I'm very familiar with the various commu- nities. So, again, it was my attempt–no disrespect to any members that represent the northern communities–my attempt to answer a question that

Document details

Collection	Manitoba — Debates (Hansard)
Citation	42-4-57b
Type	hansard
Volume / chapter	42nd 4th hansardpdf 57b.pdf
Language	en
Format	pdf
Source	PROVINCIAL
Identifier	21f636eb9adb8e11ce6d0f7126d42799e3c9d355

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