Manitoba Hansard — 14 October 2025 (Sitting 73B, 43rd Legislature, 2nd Session)

43-2-73b

Manitoba — Debates (Hansard)

Second Session – Forty-Third Legislature of the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba DEBATES and PROCEEDINGS Official Report (Hansard) Published under the authority of The Honourable Tom Lindsey Speaker Vol. LXXIX No. 73B - 1:30 p.m., Tuesday, October 14, 2025 ISSN 0542-5492

MANITOBA LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY Forty-Third Legislature Member Constituency Political Affiliation ASAGWARA, Uzoma, Hon. Union Station NDP BALCAEN, Wayne Brandon West PC BEREZA, Jeff Portage la Prairie PC BLASHKO, Tyler Lagimodière NDP BRAR, Diljeet Burrows NDP BUSHIE, Ian, Hon. Keewatinook NDP BYRAM, Jodie Agassiz PC CABLE, Renée, Hon. Southdale NDP CHEN, Jennifer Fort Richmond NDP COMPTON, Carla Tuxedo NDP COOK, Kathleen Roblin PC CORBETT, Shannon Transcona NDP CROSS, Billie Seine River NDP DELA CRUZ, Jelynn Radisson NDP DEVGAN, JD McPhillips NDP EWASKO, Wayne Lac du Bonnet PC FONTAINE, Nahanni, Hon. St.

Johns NDP GOERTZEN, Kelvin Steinbach PC GUENTER, Josh Borderland PC HIEBERT, Carrie Morden-Winkler PC JOHNSON, Derek Interlake-Gimli PC KENNEDY, Nellie, Hon. Assiniboia NDP KHAN, Obby Fort Whyte PC KINEW, Wab, Hon. Fort Rouge NDP KING, Trevor Lakeside PC KOSTYSHYN, Ron, Hon. Dauphin NDP LAGASSÉ, Bob Dawson Trail PC LAMOUREUX, Cindy Tyndall Park Lib. LATHLIN, Amanda The Pas-Kameesak NDP LINDSEY, Tom, Hon. Flin Flon NDP LOISELLE, Robert St. Boniface NDP MALOWAY, Jim Elmwood NDP MARCELINO, Malaya, Hon. Notre Dame NDP MOROZ, Mike, Hon. River Heights NDP MOSES, Jamie, Hon. St. Vital NDP MOYES, Mike, Hon.

Riel NDP NARTH, Konrad La Vérendrye PC NAYLOR, Lisa, Hon. Wolseley NDP NESBITT, Greg Riding Mountain PC OXENHAM, Logan Kirkfield Park NDP PANKRATZ, David Waverley NDP PERCHOTTE, Richard Selkirk PC PIWNIUK, Doyle Turtle Mountain PC REDHEAD, Eric Thompson NDP ROBBINS, Colleen Spruce Woods PC SALA, Adrien, Hon. St. James NDP SANDHU, Mintu, Hon. The Maples NDP SCHMIDT, Tracy, Hon. Rossmere NDP SCHOTT, Rachelle Kildonan-River East NDP SCHULER, Ron Springfield-Ritchot PC SIMARD, Glen, Hon. Brandon East NDP SMITH, Bernadette, Hon. Point Douglas NDP STONE, Lauren Midland PC WASYLIW, Mark Fort Garry Ind.

WHARTON, Jeff Red River North PC WIEBE, Matt, Hon. Concordia NDP WOWCHUK, Rick Swan River PC

2985 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA Tuesday, October 14, 2025 The House met at 1:30 p.m. The Speaker: Good afternoon. Please be seated. ROUTINE PROCEEDINGS House Business Hon. Nahanni Fontaine (Government House Leader): I would like to announce the Standing Com mittee on Social and Economic Dev elopment will meet on Thursday, October 16, 2025, at 6 p.m. to consider the following: Bill 48, The Protective Detention and Care of Intoxicated Persons Act.

The Speaker: It has been announced that the Standing Committee on Social and Economic Dev elopment will meet on Thursday, October 16, 2025, at 6 p.m. to consider the following: Bill 48, The Protec tive Detention and Care of Intoxicated Persons Act. Introduction of bills? COMMITTEE REPORTS Standing Committee on Social and Economic Development Sixth Report MLA Billie Cross (Chairperson): Honourable Speaker, I wish to present the sixth report of the Standing Com mittee on Social and Economic Dev - elopment. Clerk (Mr. Rick Yarish): Your Standing Committee on Social and– Some Honourable Members: Dispense.

The Speaker: Dispense. Your Standing Committee on Social and Economic Development presents the following as its Sixth Report. Meetings Your Committee met on October 9, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. in Room 255 of the Legislative Building. Matters under Consideration • Bill (No. 210) – The Indigenous Veterans Day Act (Commemoration of Days, Weeks and Months Act Amended)/Loi sur la Journée des anciens combattants autochtones (modification de la

Loi sur les journées, les semaines et les mois commémoratifs) Committee Membership • Hon. Mr. B USHIE • MLA CROSS • Hon. Min. FONTAINE • MLA LOISELLE • Mr. PERCHOTTE • Mrs. ROBBINS Your Committee elected MLA CROSS as the Chairperson. Your Committee elected MLA LOISELLE as the Vice-Chairperson. Non-Committee Members Speaking on Record • MLA PANKRATZ Public Presentations Your Committee heard the following two presentations on Bill (No. 210) – The Indigenous Veterans Day Act (Commemoration of Days, Weeks and Months Act Amended)/Loi sur la Journée des anciens combattants autochtones (modification de la

Loi sur les journées, les semaines et les mois commémoratifs): Randi Gage, Private citizen Justin Woodcock, Private citizen Bills Considered and Reported • Bill (No. 210) – The Indigenous Veterans Day Act (Commemoration of Days, Weeks and Months Act Amended)/Loi sur la Journée des anciens combattants autochtones (modification de la

Loi sur les journées, les semaines et les mois commémoratifs) Your Committee agreed to report this Bill without amendment. MLA Cross: Honourable Speaker, I move, seconded by the honourable for Waverley (MLA Pankratz), that the report of the committee be received. Motion agreed to. TABLING OF REPORTS The Speaker: And I have a report to table. I would like to draw attention to all honourable–I table the report of amounts paid and payable to members of the Assembly for the year ended March 31, 2025. No further tabling of reports?

2986 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA October 14, 2025 MINISTERIAL STATEMENTS Acknowledging Response to Neelin School Incident Hon. Tracy Schmidt (Minister of Education and Early Childhood Learning): As students and staff across Manitoba begin a new school year, I want to take a moment to recognize the strength and resilience of the students, educators and families at École Secondaire Neelin High School. On June 10, 2025, as the school year was drawing to a close, École Secondaire Neelin High School experienced

an act that no student or staff member should ever have to witness, especially in a place that should be defined by safety, learning and belonging. In the face of this tragedy, the response from the Brandon School Division was swift and compassionate. Their preparedness and commitment to safety ensured that staff acted quickly and effectively to protect students and one another. What followed was a powerful demonstration of community.

The school and the city of Brandon came together in support of Chinonso Onuke and his family, showing that Neelin high school is not only a place of learning but a place of compassion, strength and solidarity. I also want to acknowledge Principal Bas Nundu, Vice Principal Malcolm Oldcorn and their entire school team for their courage during the lockdown and for supporting their school community in the weeks and months since the tragedy.

As Manitoba Education and Early Childhood Learning–at Manitoba Edu cation and Early Child - hood Learning, pardon me, we remain deeply com - mitted to fostering environments where every student feels safe, respected and included. As part of this work, we are currently developing an anti-racism policy for Manitoba's K-to-12 education system to help ensure that every child can thrive in school, can respect one another and celebrate each other's diversity. So as the doors of École Secondaire Neelin High School have opened for a new year, on behalf of our government, on behalf of our Premier (Mr.

Kinew), on behalf of our Minister of Munici pal and Northern Relations (Mr. Simard), I want to extend a heartfe lt thanks to the students, the staff, the Brandon School Division, the first responders and the entire Brandon school community. Your unity and compassion in the face of adversity remind us that schools are not just places of learning; they 're communities where care, courage and connection can overcome even the most challenging of times. All of Manitoba stands with you and wishes you a successful, joyful and very safe learning year. Thank you.

The Speaker: Just before a response, I have to reiterate that we are currently in routine proceedings. Mr. Wayne Balcaen (Brandon West): As I had the fortune to deliver a private member's statement on the actions of the Brandon Police Service and the Brandon School Division regarding the regrettable actions that happened at École Secondaire Neelin High School in Brandon in June, it was with incred - ible pride that I recog nized the Brando n Police Service.

But not only the Brandon Police Service; the Brandon School Division, E911 and the many other first responders that attended the school to make sure that each student was kept safe. And I must say that during my time as chief of police with the Brandon Police Service, I was able to work very closely with Neelin High School, the principal, with their executive as well as the school division, Mr. Mat Gustafson and his executive.

As a matter of fact, we had an agreement to make use of the schools for such situations like this, and the incredible work of criminal property forfeiture provi- ding equipment and training dollars to the Brandon Police Service under our former PC government ensured that each student could be safe. So in the words of Mike Adamski, the late Mike Adamski who was principal at Neelin High School: Once a Spartan, always a Spartan. Thank you. The Speaker: No further ministerial statements? MEMBERS' STATEMENTS Diane Buck Ms.

Amanda Lathlin (The Pas-Kameesak): Today I rise to recog nize an extraordinary woman whose strength, skill and dedication and–made her a legend in northern Manitoba: Ms. Diane Buck of Opaskwayak Cree Nation. Diane has proudly held the title of Queen Trapper at the Northern Manitoba Trappers ' Festival for an incredible 24 years, a record endurance at excellence that reflects lifelong commitment to traditional skills and community pride.

October 14, 2025 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 2987 Over the years, Diane has competed in 12 events ranging from goose and moose calling to bannock and tea-boiling and fish- fiddling and trying to– log-sawing, log-throwing, trap-setting, nail-pounding and three -mile snow -shoe race, which she calls her favourite. In earlier years, she even partici pated in the women's flour -packing competition, once carrying 625 pounds of flour a distance of 20 feet, a true display of northern strength and spirit. Beyond competition, Diane has lived what she calls a healthy and active lifestyle.

As a runner, canoeist, a teacher of traditional crafts, a talented snowshoe-maker, she has crafted racing snowshoes for hundreds of athletes across Manitoba and shared her knowledge in communities such as Moose Lake, OCN, Sapotaweyak, Easterville, Bakers Narrows, Grand Rapids, Pukatawagan and Black Sturgeon. Diane's legacy is not only in her athletic achieve- ments, but also the gen erations she has guided and inspired. She raised three children and four grand- children, all now adults caring toward the same resilience and love for com munity that she has embodied throughout her life.

Honourable Speaker, Diane Buck represents the very best of northern Manitoba– The Speaker: Honourable member's time has expired. Is there leave for the honourable member to finish her statement? [Agreed] Ms. Lathlin: Honourable Speaker, Diane Buck represents the very best of northern Manitoba, traditional strength, perseverance and pride. Please join me on congratulating her on her in- credible accomplishments and thanking her for preserving and sharing the rich heritage of our northern communities. Sergeant Tommy Prince– Community Celebration Event Mr.

Richard Perchotte (Selkirk): Honourable Speaker, I am honoured to rise today to introduce Holly and Brad Whall, 12 years into their journey to com - memorate and memorialize the significant contribu - tions of Sergeant Tommy Prince. * (13:40) Sergeant Tommy Prince is the most decorated Indigenous war hero in Canada, born in Petersfield, Manitoba, on October 15, 1915. A special celebration is taking place on October 25 from 2 to 5 p.m. at the Petersfield community hall, and all are welcomed and encouraged to attend. The event is free and will commemorate what would have been Tommy Prince's 110th birthday.

Members of the Prince family will be coming from all across Canada. Veterans from the Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry and First Special Service Force will be in attendance as well as all levels of government. Activities will include a traditional ceremony and feast. The event is only beginning, as a 5.5-kilometre-long active transportation path is being proposed, named the Sergeant Tommy Prince memorial trail. Starting at the hero 's birthplace, it will wind through the picturesque village of Petersfield, making its way to a memorial park located at Highway 9.

Holly, Brad and their group is advocating in the spirit of truth and reconciliation for the trail and park to be a sacred place for healing and to create a destination for all Canadians to come and play homage to Sergeant Tommy Prince and every Indigenous war veteran. May it become a place to show respect and honour to the sacrifice and service that all Indigenous veterans bravely gave to Canada. Please join me in thanking Holly and Brad Whall for their continued efforts on such an important matter. United Way Brandon & District Hon.

Glen Simard (Minister of Municipal and Northern Relations): Honourable Speaker, today I rise to acknowledge the vital work of our local United Way Brandon & District, whose efforts are making a profound difference in the lives of people across our rural region, and have for more than 88 years. This United Way is in the process of transition to United Way West Central Manitoba, following their commitment to embrace and support the Portage la Prairie and central Manitoba region where their local office closed.

Through their leadership, they have been at the forefront of addressing the most pressing challenges facing our communities. Their recent focus on mental health, support for our youth, food security and strengthening the social sector speaks directly to the needs of our constituents. These are not abstract

2988 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA October 14, 2025 priorities; they are concrete supports that ensure families can put food on the table, young people can have opportunities to thrive, and those struggling with mental health challenges are not left behind. This month, United Way launched its Be The One 2025 fall campaign, co-chaired by Q Country morning hosts Shelly Thompson and Tim Black. Together, they bring great community spirit and experience to the effort, setting an ambitious goal of $800,000.

Their Be The One 2025 campaign encourages residents to give back through donations, volunteering and local events like the Holiday Tree Auction and Brandon's Largest Garage Sale, all supporting programs that strengthen families and communities across Westman. Equally important, United Way is supporting the workers and organizations who care for our most vulnerable and at -risk neighbours. With a strong commitment to inclusion and accessibility, they are ensuring that every person in our region has a chance to participate fully in community life.

Colleagues, join me in applauding our essential partner in building stronger communities and brighter futures: United Way Brandon & District, now United Way West Central Manitoba, with Cynamon Mychasiw and Jennifer McMillan in the gallery– The Speaker: Honourable member's time is expired. Interlake-Gimli's Fall Suppers Mr. Derek Johnson (Interlake-Gimli): As the leaves turn and harvest season is coming to an end, com - munities across Interlake -Gimli, from Ashern to Arborg or St. Laurent to Steep Rock, are once again gathering for one of Manitoba 's most cherished traditions: the fall supper.

These suppers have been a staple of rural life for generations, bringing neighbours, families and friends together to share a meal, swap stories and celebrate the bounty of the season. Whether it's turkey with all the trimmings, farm-fresh vegetables or trays of homemade pies, every dish represents hours of volunteer effort and community pride. They're more than just fundraisers, they 're of–a reflection of who we are as Manitobans: generous, welcoming and deeply concerned for one another.

In communities like Fraserwood, for example, where it's estimated that Fraserwood Hall has served tens of millions of perogies over its more than 100 years, fall suppers keep community halls open, support local projects and remind us of the importance of coming together to share food and friendship. These events also connect gen erations; grand - parents passing down recipes, parents volunteering alongside their children and visitors experiencing small-town hospitality at its best. Fall suppers remind us that community isn 't something that just happens, it 's some thing that we build, one plate at a time.

To every volunteer peeling potatoes, slicing pies and pouring coffee this season: Thank you. Your efforts keep our small towns strong, our traditions alive and our communities connected. I ask that my colleagues rise with me today and recognize all the volunteers who are joining us virtually here today. Kirkfield Park Outdoor Play Spaces Mr. Logan Oxenham (Kirkfield Park): Honourable Speaker, today I recognize the people of Kirkfield Park and I want to acknowledge the recent improvements to our park spaces over the past few months.

Kirkfield Park is lucky to have an abundance of green space, but this is only possible thanks to the efforts of the people and organizations in our constituency who do the hard work on the ground of advocating, fundraising and planning for constant improvement and upkeep of these facilities. For a long time, the Sansome School Parent Council has been tirelessly raising funds for the construction of a new play structure and outdoor play area. Earlier this year, our government was able to secure funding to make this project possible.

The new play area will provide a safe, accessible and exciting outdoor space for the students of Sansome School, nearby daycares and the wider Westwood community. This would never have happened if not for the engaged and motivated residents like the Sansome School Parent Council. Recently, I joined city councillor Evan Duncan in cutting the ribbon at the newly renovated John Steel Park. With the co -operation of municipal, provincial and federal governments, the people of Westwood now have a brand new, fully accessible play space. Ribbons in Kirkfield Park, watch out.

Just a few weeks ago, I was fortunate enough to attend the grand opening of another play space. The daycare at

October 14, 2025 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 2989 the YMCA-YWCA of Winnipeg, West Portage branch, inaugurated their new, thoughtfully designed outdoor play area. This space has been made possible with the joint provincial and federal invest ments, so just as outdoor play spaces are a benefit for all in the com - munity, they are made possible through the col - laboration of all stakeholders in the community. Please join me in congratulating the good people of Kirkfield Park on their new and upcoming outdoor spaces.

Introduction of Guests The Speaker: Prior to oral questions, there are some guests in the gallery in addition to the Whalls who were intro duced earlier. They are joined by Linda Jonasson and Randi Gage, and they're all guests of the honourable member for Selkirk (Mr. Perchotte), and we welcome you all here today. ORAL QUESTIONS Justice Department FOI Requests Mr. Obby Khan (Leader of the Official Opposition): Honourable Speaker, the five-year average of violent crime in Winnipeg shows a 20.6 per cent increase. Sexual assaults with weapons increased by 75 per cent in 2023.

Police have reported a 27.3 per cent uptick in extortion and police investigated a 41 per cent increase in shoplifting. Crime is a major problem in Manitoba under this NDP government. When the media tried looking into the mismanaged justice system by the NDP, they were denied access to critical files. Why is the Premier blocking the media and the public from really knowing what 's going on with his failed Minister of Justice (Mr. Wiebe)? * (13:50) Hon. Wab Kinew (Premier): Honourable Speaker, our Justice Minister is doing a great job, the best in the country.

The member opposite knows, when he talks about a five-year average, it was three years of crime going up under them and two years of crime getting better under us. Now, there's still a lot more work to do and that's why we're working with you and working with law enforcement. Today, however, I do feel compelled to comment on perhaps a new day in the Middle East. Peace in the Middle East.

Since our gov ernment took office, we have been working hard to try and balance the con- cerns of people who wanted the hostages released with those who wanted an imme diate ceasefire with those who protested being victims of anti-Semitism or Islamophobia. It is my hope that a peace will endure in the Middle East and we can focus on bringing people together here at home. We have been there to support the Jewish com - munity through challenging moments these past two years. We've brought children from Gaza to get life-saving medical attention– The Speaker: Member's time has expired.

The honourable Leader of the Official Opposition, on a supplementary question. Mr. Khan: The Premier thinks his Minister of Justice is doing a great job when violent crimes have in- creased by 20.6 per cent, when assault with weapons have gone up 75 per cent since 2023 when this NDP took government. It isn't just the media this Premier's blocking. The Premier's also blocked my office. We have put in dozens of requests for Freedom of Infor mation. The deadline is 45 days, which is legislative. They've now over 100 days and we still don't have replies from this Minister of Justice.

The Premier 's not only blocking media, he 's blocking us from doing our job on this side of the House. I'm holding him to account to Manitobans. So, the question is simple: Why is the Premier – or, what is the Premier hiding from Manitobans? Mr. Kinew: Well, I've blocked the member's job from being a Cabinet minister. That's what happened in the last election. And since then, we 've been working with you; we've been working with law enforce ment; we 've been working with com munity. We've been working on prevention, universal school food program in every school in Manitoba.

But we 've also been working on enforcement–55 new police officers in the city of Winnipeg alone. What have the PCs been up to over that period of time? Well, I'd like to share with the members of the PC caucus that their leader came to us and asked for new furniture for his office, and you see that he raises the office point here in question period again. So, perhaps when they have their next caucus meeting, they can all turn to him and ask: How long are you planning to stay in opposition anyways?

2990 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA October 14, 2025 The Speaker: The honourable Leader of the Official Opposition, on a final supplementary question. Mr. Khan: The Premier once again resorts to jokes when we're asking serious questions on this side of the House. Sexual assaults and extortion have gone up 27.3 per cent in Manitoba, and what does this Premier want to do? Make jokes in the Chamber. Manitobans, that is disgusting and we will hold him to account. So will the Premier simply answer the question: Why is his failing Minister of Justice (Mr.

Wiebe) blocking media from Freedom of Information requests, and why is he blocking us, on this side of the House, from doing our job on getting information on why this Minister of Justice is failing? Mr. Kinew: You know, those are very strong words from somebody who had to apologize the very last time we were in this very esteemed Chamber for something that he thought was a joke and his seat - mates apparently also thought was a joke, but every mature person in Manitoba would recognize as deeply inappropriate.

Now, what 's deeply inappropriate coming from the PC Party, is the fact that they have the temerity to insult not just us as a government, but you, the people of Manitoba, who asked for a mature, adult plan to combat lawlessness and crime in Manitoba. They tried to put it on a bumper sticker; Manitobans showed them the door. We said, let's focus on a five- point plan on bail; let 's work with the other levels of government; let's get in the schools and prevent crime before it happens; and let 's continue this effort over many years to come. You watch us here today, nothing has changed.

We're the team with the plan; they 're the team still fighting amongst themselves. The Speaker: The honourable Leader of the Official Opposition, on a new question. Provincial Jobs and the Economy Union and Non-Unionized Workforce Mr. Obby Khan (Leader of the Official Opposition): Honourable Speaker, unlike this Premier, I have no problem recognizing when I made a mistake, and I did make a mistake last week. I apologized twice last week, and I stand here today and apologize to all members in this Chamber and all Manitobans for my mistake.

That's more than I can say for this Premier and his failed ministers on that side of the House. Honourable Speaker, I 've asked some –question about why this Premier thinks that he can divide Manitobans. He falsely says one Manitoba, but what he really means is Manitobans that donate to the NDP party and Manitobans that don't. He has two sets of rules when it comes to jobs in this province: (1) his union buddies will get first dibs, and then non- union workers will get scraps from the table. So the question to the Premier is simple: Why is the Premier trying to punish Manitobans for being non-unionized? Hon.

Wab Kinew (Premier): You know, Hon our- able Speaker, the PCs were shown the door in the last election because they tried to divide Manitobans. Of all the issues to try and pick to run an attack ad on, they chose to run an attack ad on the landfill search. Targeting the victims of a serial murderer? Why would any political party do that? Again, what was the other big choice? Going after the LGBTQ com munity? What sort of leadership is that? I think Manitobans, wherever you thought about the issue, wherever you stood, they recognized that that was mean -spirited.

And that 's one of the many reasons that the PCs were shown the door. For us, on the other hand, well, like I said on the one of the most divisive issues in the Middle East, we've been working hard to bring Manitobans together–Jewish, Muslim, people protesting the war, people protesting for peace here at home. There's one Manitoba. We share a common future together. Let's get on with building it. The Speaker: The honourable Leader of the Official Opposition, on a supplementary question. Mr.

Khan: The question was about jobs and our economy, and the Premier didn' t mention anything remotely close to that in his answer. Under this NDP govern ment, Manitoba's econ - omy is ranked worse in Canada at 1.1 per cent. Manitoba lost –1,300 net jobs last month was lost under this NDP government. But the Premier doesn 't want to talk about that. He wants to talk about dividing Manitobans into unions and non-unions. Why is the Premier forcing unionization onto 80 per cent of local businesses that support non-unionized workforce? Does the Premier actually think that 'non-uzionized' workplaces are less safe?

They pay less? They treat their employees less? Or is this really about funneling money to his NDP union-boss supporters?

October 14, 2025 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 2991 Mr. Kinew: Oh, the member opposite wants to talk about the economy. Well, guess what? We added 5,300 jobs in Manitoba last month, and it 's important to keep that within a national context. Some of our neighbouring provinces are going through some really tough times. That is a shame. We want team Canada to succeed from coast to coast to coast. But here in Manitoba, you've been working hard. You've been putting your neighbours to work.

You've been making smart investments in the future and you have a govern ment on your side that 's friends with business, but also friends with the rank and file union member. You just saw there the PCs don' t ever want to change. They've got their same old targets they want to go after. This time it 's somebody with a hard hat and steel-toe boots. Well, for the members opposite, who never learned how to swing a hammer growing up, guess what? Leave it alone. We're in charge. The economy 's growing. You can sit on your hands. [interjection] The Speaker: Order.

The honour able Leader of the Official Op posi- tion, on a final supplementary question. Mr. Khan: It's very convenient that the number the Premier quotes isn't painting the full picture. So let me do that for you here today. Unemployment is up 6.2 per cent under this NDP government: 4,300 jobs were lost in August in manufacturing alone; 7,200 part-time jobs were lost in September. Over 5,200 jobs were lost in August; 3,900 were only added back. That 's a net loss of 1,300 jobs, not an increase.

Maybe the Premier needs to go back and learn how to do math, or maybe it's just his NDP math that sees a $4 -billion deficit as a good thing for this province. The simple–the question is simple: 80 per cent of Manitobans work for non-unionized workforce. Why is the Premier picking winners and losers when it comes to unions and non-union workers? Mr. Kinew: Well, I love talking about the economy because it's about talking about putting food on the table for you and your family.

It's about being able to pay your hydro bills with our hydro rate freeze. * (14:00) It's about being able to gas up and have the gas prices be as low as they are today, thanks in part due to our cutting of the gas tax. And these numbers–it's great news that we added 5,300 jobs in Manitoba last month, because we were one of only three provinces in all of Canada to actually add jobs. Because of Donald Trump, things are tough in many provinces around the country. It's good news when Manitoba can keep our head above water. Let's contrast that with the member opposite 's opinion about Donald Trump.

What did he say to Donald Trump again? Oh, he said thank you. Direct quote: I would say thank you, end quote, when talking about the tariffs. More good news instead of the party of doom and gloom: women led the gains in employment last night, and we know youth unem ployment is a challenge. We're talking about our kids, the future. Well, we 're starting to see improving numbers there as well. The Speaker: Member's time has expired. Early Learning and Child-Care Spaces Update on 2023 Announcement Mr.

Wayne Ewasko (Lac du Bonnet): Honourable Speaker, in 2023, our PC government laid the ground- work for 42 projects all across Manitoba in early child- hood spaces–school-based, school division programs. When–can I ask this Minister of Education–when is she going to be opening those over 3,200 spaces, Honourable Speaker? Hon. Tracy Schmidt (Minister of Education and Early Childhood Learning): Thank you to the mem- ber opposite for the oppor tunity to talk about child care here in Manitoba. You know, our Premier (Mr.

Kinew) just spoke about gains that we 've made in em ployment here in Manitoba when it comes to employing women, and I would like to talk about the wage grid en hancements that our government made that is seeing women–new- comer women, BIPOC women–seeing their wages lifted. Finally, after ye ars of being ignored by the PC government, we are seeing women in this province finally being paid fairly for their impor tant work in delivering an early childhood education. That's only one of the things that we 're doing to improve the access to child care here in Manitoba.

I can't wait to update the House further in my next answer.

2992 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA October 14, 2025 The Speaker: The honourable member for Lac du Bonnet, on a supplementary question. Mr. Ewasko: Honourable Speaker, I tabled that news release about the 42 projects, and still no answer coming from this Education Minister. Matter of fact, she stands up and just touts the good work that this PC government did on child care, not only wages, but spaces–[interjection] The Speaker: Order. Mr. Ewasko: And we 're just waiting, Hon ourable Speaker.

So I'll ask her again: How many of the 2,662 infant and preschool spaces, plus 555 school-age spaces, has the minister, the MLA for Rossmere, opened? MLA Schmidt: The truth of the matter is, Honourable Speaker, that our govern ment has opened thousands of spaces across this province, and as is the case, the members opposite like to stand up in this House day after day and say, NDP gov ernment, what about the great work you are doing and how come you' re not doing it faster?

So, like we are doing in Justice and like we are doing on the economy and like we are doing in health care, we are going to continue to deliver results for Manitobans. If Manitobans could trust the member opposite on child care he would still be on this side of the House. He was a failed minister of Education and Early Childhood Learning. Thank goodness the members–I'm sorry, the good people of Manitoba have voted in a new government, a government that values early childhood education, a government that values the role that early child hood educators play in our economy.

And again, I can't wait to talk more about– The Speaker: Member's time has expired. The honourable member for Lac du Bonnet, on a final supplementary question. Mr. Ewasko: So once again, Honourable Speaker, we see personal attacks coming from this Minister of Education and Early Child hood Learning. It 's unfor- tunate, but this minister, instead of standing up and actually saying some thing that she 's actually doing, which she has not moved anything forward in the last six months to a year and a half– Some Honourable Members: Oh, oh. The Speaker: Order. Mr.

Ewasko: What I can tell you, Honourable Speaker, is that she has cut over 3,200 child-care spaces. So we're asking, from this side of the House, on behalf of Manitobans: When are you going to move forward on the 3,200- plus child -care spaces of the 42 projects? The Speaker: And once again–order, please. I would remind members to direct their questions through the Chair, not directly at members opposite.

MLA Schmidt: The truth of the matter is, is that the NDP government is not just building the bricks and mortar that it takes to open child -care spaces here in Manitoba, we are also building up people and we are building our economy, unlike the members opposite. Let's talk about their record, Honourable Speaker. They froze operational funding seven years in a row. They refused to work collaboratively with the federal government. The member opposite talks about cuts; I'd like to know about the cheques that he was cutting to his friends, and I table for the House an

article written by the CBC about Marni Larkin. The manager for the Manitoba PC Party 2023 election campaign took

part in a meeting about a daycare project that resulted in a $2.8-million payday for a company she– The Speaker: Member's time has expired. Inwood Manor Seniors Lodge Closure of Washrooms Mr. Derek Johnson (Interlake-Gimli): Honourable Speaker, residents at Inwood Seniors Lodge have had to deal with an unacceptable situation. The common washrooms in their building are being locked. At times, all washrooms have been closed at the same time, leaving seniors without access to basic facilities in their own home. Honourable Speaker, is that any way to treat Manitoban seniors?

Can the Minister of Housing, Addictions and Homelessness explain why Manitoba Housing thinks it's acceptable to deny seniors access to washrooms in a building designed for their care and comfort? Hon. Bernadette Smith (Minister of Housing, Addictions and Homelessness): I want to thank that member for that question and I know that our depart- ment has reached out to that member and our staff are working closely with those members and safety and security is our No. 1 priority.

October 14, 2025 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 2993 And that member can come across the way and we can have a discussion. And we certainly want to make sure that members in that building feel safe and secure in their building. That 's why our staff is working directly with them. The Speaker: The honourable member for Interlake- Gimli, on a supplementary question. Mr. Johnson: Honourable Speaker, the residents of Inwood Lodge deserve to be treated with dignity and respect. Instead, they 've been told that if the bath- rooms aren't kept clean enough, they' ll be locked out again.

I table a photo of a sign on the washroom door in Housing, Addictions and Homelessness 's letterhead. These are seniors who built our communities and our province. These deserve–they deserve to live with dignity, not under threats or restrictions. Can the minister tell this House when she will take responsibility, ensure the bathrooms at Inwood Lodge remain open and accessible to residents at all times? Ms. Smith: Again, I would be happy to sit down with that member. Safety and security is our No. 1 priority. We are working directly with those residents.

And under that member 's watch, when he was at that Cabinet table, they were cutting Manitoba Housing staff, they were cutting security, they were selling off housing, they weren't worried about tenants at all. On this side of the House, we are ensuring that tenants are taken care of, that there are supports in place and that we are taking off the–the boards off of housing and we are making investments, unlike mem- bers opposite who turned a blind eye and didn't care. The Speaker: The honourable member for Interlake- Gimli, on a final supplementary question. Mr.

Johnson: Honourable Speaker, Inwood Lodge was taken over in 2023 by that government. This issue goes beyond cleanliness: it 's about compassion, accountability and proper management of Manitoba's housing facilities. Locking washrooms in a seniors ' residence is abusive. Manitoba Housing has a duty to provide safe and sanitary living conditions for every residence. Will the minister commit today to imme diately direct Manitoba Housing to keep the bathrooms at Inwood Lodge open, maintained and accessible at all times? Ms.

Smith: And again, our staff is working directly with residents and I 'd be happy to meet with that member. That member wants to talk about com- passion; those members across the way had no compassion when they were dealing with Lions Place, when those seniors were begging those members to help them. * (14:10) When they sold off that Lions Place to Mainstreet Equity, when they sold off 185 Smith–[interjection] The Speaker: Order. Ms. Smith: –they had no care or compassion. They put people in encampments. They had no care or compassion.

So they want to talk about care and compassion now while they sit there on their seats, while they make six figures and have no care or compassion for any member, while they block Bill 12 that would protect– The Speaker: Member's time has expired. Government's Path to Net Zero Plan Impact on Jobs and the Economy Mr. Konrad Narth (La Vérendrye): Last week, the government announced their new so- called net - zero plan for Manitoba. Now, the federal government unveiled their new plan in the spring. The Conference Board of Canada found the new federal net -zero plan will kill over 700,000 Canadian jobs.

My question, Honour able Speaker: How many jobs will this NDP plan kill? Hon. Mike Moyes (Minister of Environment and Climate Change): It's nice to finally get an environmental question from members opposite after their, I guess, three weeks of napping. So that's something. I'd like to talk about what we're doing. And I'll get to the net-zero plan, because it is the most ambitious plan that we've ever had in Manitoba.

But let's start with what we 've done over the last number of years: we 've protected more of nature, including the Seal River Watershed; we saved the Lemay Forest; we are generating wind power for the first time since 2007; we are standing up and having geothermal for the first time ever, with a great pro - gram; we started an EV rebate program; we have EV infrastructure going in. The list goes on and on and on. Members opposite, they got no record at all.

2994 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA October 14, 2025 The Speaker: The honourable member for La Vérendrye, on a supplementary question. Mr. Narth: Honourable Speaker, that was no answer. But the same study found the largest economic impact of the so-called net zero would be the result of redirecting capital from productive capacity to invest- ments that reduce emissions.

Let me put that in English: They want to take money from those sectors in our economy that pro- duce critical resources, jobs and wealth for Manitobans so they–the govern ment–can invest that money in ideas that kill resource production, jobs and wealth, and also don't actually help the environment. Now, I recog nize there' s not a lot of common sense over there, but surely, even to them, doesn't this seem backwards? Why do they want to kill– The Speaker: Member's time has expired. MLA Moyes: I'd just like to remind the House, Honourable Speaker, that we just created 5,300 new jobs this past month.

You know, it's the same old thing. The Tories love to constantly divide Manitobans. They constantly want to divide sectors against other sectors. That's not the case. The environment can go hand in hand with the environment. That's exactly what we' re doing; that 's what the Chamber has been calling for; that's what all Manitobans have been calling for; and that's what our Path to Net Zero is going to do. The Speaker: The honourable member for La Vérendrye, on a final supplementary question. Mr. Narth: Honourable Speaker, the minister fails to mention that that' s a net loss of 1,300 jobs here in Manitoba.

But let's talk about net zero, Honourable Speaker. Net zero is the number of new markets they've opened up for our farmers. Net zero is how many new jobs they plan to create. Net zero is the sum of total common sense over there, because their plan is going to not create jobs, but it's going to kill jobs. Why is this Premier (Mr. Kinew) wasting his time on pie-in-the-sky policies that only benefit billionaires rather than –[interjection]–supporting hard- working Manitobans? The Speaker: Order. MLA Moyes: I really don't know why the members opposite hate the environment so much. They hate nature.

They don't want to do anything but sit on their dole and collect a paycheque. They don 't want to do the work that it takes to get to net zero. We're going to do that work. Let's go through the record of the Conservatives from the last administration. They cut $360,000 to local environmental groups including the Green Action Centre, Manitoba Eco-Network and the Climate Change Connection. They downsized monitoring in- vestigations and environmental testing from 1,300 in 2016 to 331 when we got elected, and created a 20 per cent vacancy rate. They slashed the department funding by 25 per cent. It is shameful.

Their environmental– The Speaker: Member's time has expired. Resources for Foster Parents Reduction Concerns Ms. Jodie Byram (Agassiz): There is long-term con- sequences for children and families when resources for specialized care are significantly reduced. We are hearing from First Nation communities like Peguis the system is failing, and we're hearing from MACY that there needs to be independent investigation. If Families can no longer look after these kids due to the govern ment cuts, what is the minister 's plan when these children have nowhere to turn? Hon.

Nahanni Fontaine (Minister of Families): Again, we can see that members opposite really don't have a clue about how juris diction and asserting jurisdiction works here in Manitoba. I know that the system is complicated, but let me just state this: Peguis, who's got jurisdiction, has all of the tools at their disposal to –if they want to have an additional layer of scrutiny on their services, they have the law to be able to do so. That is the whole purpose of jurisdiction.

When First Nations assert juris diction, they can amend their laws; they can change their laws; they can put in measures to make sure that there are safeguards to respond to community concerns. Peguis has– The Speaker: Member's time has expired. The honourable member for Agassiz, on a supple- mentary question. Ms. Byram: Many foster parents and kinship care - givers are facing challenges every single day. And I've

October 14, 2025 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 2995 learned that just last week foster parents in Thompson received phone calls that their resources are being cut in just a few short months. Come January of 2026, foster parents who care for some of the most vul nerable children will be left paying out of pocket. What is the Minister of Families doing now–doing now–to better support the concerns that are coming from families, the homes and the communities?

MLA Fontaine: The member opposite knows that actually one of the first things that we've done recently have–we–we've increased by 10 per cent the amounts to basic maintenance, something that hasn't been done in 12 years and certainly not seven and a half under their watch. The other piece that I want to–excuse me, pardon me–that I want to remind folks is that a sig nificant amount of resources and supports have been provided by Jordan's Principle. And we know that for the last while, Canada has stepped away from those dollars and have put more criteria in being able to access those Jordan Principle's dollars.

We are encouraging Canada to get back to the table to pay folks and to live up to the– The Speaker: Member's time has expired. The honourable member for Agassiz, on a final supplementary question. Ms. Byram: Funding cuts are coming to these families in a few short months. In January, they are going to be cut of these resources. When foster parents asked for supports, what did this minister do? She slashed the pro gramming with- out notice.

But no surprise; we all remember when the minister of addictions took time at a community event to attack one of her own constituents for daring to speak positively about the impact that foster parents have on children's lives and development. What does this failed Minister of Families and her government continue to impose roadblocks –why do they continue to do that on those that are trying to help vulnerable children? MLA Fontaine: The members opposite get in the Chamber day in and day out and put erroneous facts on the record. It's simply not true what the member is talking about.

We put forward a 10 per cent increase to basic 'maintenant' rates across the board, the first time that it's ever been done in 12 years. It was never done under their watch. Again, Canada has to get back to the table to en- sure that they 're providing those necessary supports and resources to families across Manitoba. It is the spirit and intent of Jordan' s Principle to ensure that families have the resources. That 's why we 've encouraged Canada to continue to fund and get back to the table and pay the folks that they owe money to. * (14:20) Miigwech.

The Speaker: I'd just like to point out that the member, in her response, suggested that what the other member was talking about is simply not true. That would be very akin to saying that someone is lying, so I would ask the member to withdraw that, please. I'd ask the honour able Minister of Families to withdraw that, please. MLA Fontaine: Withdrawn. The Speaker: Thank you.

Family and Intimate Parter Violence Lack of Shelter Space MLA Cindy Lamoureux (Tyndall Park): In 2023, there were 2,988 reported cases of intimate partner violence in northern Manitoba and 3,212 reported cases in urban centres of our province. Family violence rates are even higher in some areas of Manitoba. Many individuals and families must use a shelter as a safe place to stay; however, more people are being turned away due to lack of space. Where does this gov ernment advise that these individuals go for shelter? Hon.

Nahanni Fontaine (Minister of Families): I say miigwech to the member for Tyndall Park for an important question asked in this Chamber. I–you know, for years under the failed PCs, they had no attention or care for women and children that were fleeing gender-based violence or IPV. We have an infrastructure here in Manitoba that–folks that are on the front lines day in and day out, doing the best that they can with the resources that they have, and – including a vast network of supports that all work together.

So when there is a woman that reaches out to one of our shelters, that shelter often does work with that woman or the family as a–

2996 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA October 14, 2025 The Speaker: Member's time has expired. The honourable member for Tyndall Park, on a supplementary question. Funding for Shelter Organizations MLA Lamoureux: It has been shared with this gov- ernment that the high demand for shelters and transi - tional housing here in Manitoba remains insufficient for survivors' needs. We have some incredible organi- zations and individuals working hard for families who have ex perienced family violence or some form of intimate partner violence. However, women's shelters continue to be severely underfunded.

How is this gov ernment working with these organizations to improve the availability of shelters and safe spaces? MLA Fontaine: Again–once again, miigwech to the member opposite. As the member opposite knows, our govern ment has invested $20 million into the Mino 'Ayaawag Ikwewag provincial strategy. That strategy is about the em powerment and liberation but –of Indigenous women and women across the province. But it's also about supporting those organizations, including transitional housing, to ensure that we have the infrastructure that shelters need and that folks on the front lines need.

We know that women will often stay longer than anticipated in shelters because there's not that transitional housing. We're working with Fisher River Cree Nation; we've supported some of their dollars. We just invested $2.2 million into Genesis House to ensure that their transitional housing– The Speaker: Member's time has expired. The honourable member for Tyndall Park, on a final supplementary question.

Canada Housing Benefit–Provincial Investments MLA Lamoureux: In March 2024, the federal and provincial gov ernments announced the joint invest - ment to the Canada Housing Benefit to provide housing supports for survivors of gender -based violence. I 'm grateful the Province matched what the federal gov - ernment agreed to invest over five years. Since forming government, can the minister out- line where these funds have spe cifically gone and how–exactly and tangibly, how have they improved outcomes for survivors here in Manitoba?

MLA Fontaine: I also want to put on the record here, in respect of Mino 'Ayaawag Ikwewag: we just announced, just about a week and a half ago, two weeks ago, the establishment of the Mino'Ayaawag Ikwewag Lodge. That 's some thing that 's been the vision and advocacy of com munity, including MMIWG2S family members, for 'almore' 22 years. And we were able to announce that. That Mino'Ayaawag Ikwewag Lodge will be able to work with all of our front -line shelters and transitional housing that, if there is a woman that's in crisis and in immediate need, there will be eight beds that are available at the lodge.

Those are short -term, 24- to 48-hour beds that will be available. It's our gov- ernment's commitment to building– The Speaker: Member's time has expired. Unemployment Rate and Job Creation Stats Canada Numbers for Manitoba Mrs. Rachelle Schott (Kildonan-River East): Hon- ourable Speaker, under our government, our economy is strong and our small busi nesses are thriving. We just announced our new economic develop ment plan to become a have province, and the business world is taking notice and taking Manitoba seriously. But the proof is in the pudding.

According to Stats Canada, the most recent numbers show that our unemployment rate is low, our busi nesses are hiring and we are experiencing job growth like never before. Could the Minister of Busi ness, Mining, Trade and Job Creation please tell the House a bit more about the good news from Stats Canada? Hon. Jamie Moses (Minister of Business, Mining, Trade and Job Creation): I thank my colleague for that great question. Over the last two years, we 've stopped the PCs' runaway train of inflation.

And I 'm proud to announce to the House that the data shows that we've created here in Manitoba the highest rate of job growth in the country. That's right. Between August and September, at a time when Stats Canada says more provinces are losing jobs, we created 5,300 jobs. That's 5,300 more Manitobans who can put food on their table and provide for their families every day. Honourable Speaker, job growth was stagnant and inflation was rampant under the failed PC govern- ment. PCs thank Trump. We are Trump-proofing our economy. We support small businesses and now– The Speaker: Member's time has expired.

October 14, 2025 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 2997 Buffer Zone for Game-Hunting Areas Public Consultation Concerns Mr. Rick Wowchuk (Swan River): This Minister of Natural Resources seems to be making it up as he goes along. When he rushed through new regula tions, he did it without consulting anyone. Why is this minister picking and choosing losers while skipping every step of public consultation? Hon. Ian Bushie (Minister of Natural Resources and Indigenous Futures): Honourable Speaker, the only losers are sitting on that side of the Chamber, let's be clear on that point.

I do want to address something before I get into a conflict of the member's question. A couple weeks ago, he stood up on a grievance and stood in this Chamber and criticized conservation officers for the great work that they do. They are at the border. They' re doing great work there, and that member did nothing but criticize the great work that they do. When they stood up, when our sovereignty was being challenged, when our integrity was being challenged, they were the–one of the first people at the table saying, we want to–what can we do? We want to do our part.

And that member did nothing but criticize an organization that's done nothing but stand up for Manitobans each and every day. The Speaker: The honourable member for Swan River, on a supplementary question. Mr. Wowchuk: It's obvious the minister has to make excuses for a forgetful moment. He did it so fast and so sloppy, he had to go back because he brought in hunting regulations in the wrong area, and he did it without consulting.

To quote David Chartrand, president of the Red River Métis: Today Manitoba has not consulted with the MMF regarding the buffer zones being imple - mented or the conflicts arising from these new blockades and public statement by First Nations. How can this minister adjust not–refusing to consult? Mr. Bushie: Honourable Speaker, I'll take no lessons from the member opposite on consultation, no lessons on collaboration because they did nothing but not col- laborate: no consultation whatsoever across any aspect of hunting in–here in Manitoba.

In fact, the member stood here just the other day and he talked about surveying 400 people; 400 Manitobans. It's clear they had nobody to talk to, nobody was willing to listen to them. Honour able Speaker, we surveyed more moose than they 've surveyed Manitobans. The Speaker: The honourable member for Swan River, on a final supplementary question. Mr. Wowchuk: Unfortunately, we 're seeing a dwindling population on the west side of the province as a result of this gov ernment's inaction. He won' t consult with the MMF, he won' t consult with non-Indigenous stake holders, he won' t listen to Manitoba hunters.

So much for one Manitoba. Hon- ourable Speaker, I guess the only way to get this minister's attention is to block a highway or erect a sign. Will the minister confirm today for all Manitobans that these community-imposed hunting bans have no legal effect–or, legal force or effect? Mr.

Bushie: Honourable Speaker, that member stumbled through that question because he knows he does not have a leg to stand on when it comes time to consultation. * (14:30) So as we go out and we talk to stake holders– Indigenous rights holders, non- Indigenous stake - holders, MMF, MWF, First Nations com munities– that's some thing that member opposite never did.

I know he could look around to his Cabinet col - leagues, maybe tap them on their shoulders and ask them why they never did anything on this file, because we know very well that he wasn't at that Cabinet table because they know he was–not the place for him to be. The Speaker: The time for question period has expired. Speaker's Ruling The Speaker: And I have a ruling for the House. Order, please. Following the land acknowledgement on October 2, 2025, the honourable Leader of the Official Opposi - tion (Mr.

Khan) rose on a matter of privilege alleging that comments made by the honourable First Minister during oral questions on October 1, 2025 were defamatory and impeded his ability to ask questions . The member concluded his remarks by moving: THAT the member for Fort Rouge (Mr. Kinew) be compelled to retract his remarks, apologize and the matter be referred to a Standing Committee of the Legislative Affairs for further consideration. The honourable Minister of Justice (Mr. Wiebe) spoke to the matter before I took it under advisement.

2998 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA October 14, 2025 As the House leader –as the House knows, for a matter of privilege to be ruled a prima facie case, the member must demonstrate that the issue has been raised at the earliest opportunity, while also providing sufficient evidence that the privileges of the H ouse have been breached. On the condition of timeliness, the member raised the matter at the beginning of the sitting day following the incident in question, so I would rule that he has met the test of timeliness with his submission.

Regarding the second condition of whether a prima facie case was demonstrated, the honourable Leader of the Official Op position (Mr. Khan) argued that, in his comments, the Premier (Mr. Kinew) undermined standards of decorum in this House. Specifically, the member suggested that the Premier defamed him and undermined his character through the comments made in question period on October 1, 2025, inferring that the First Minister 's comments impeded his ability to fulfill his duties as a member of this Assembly.

In raising this matter, the honourable Leader of the Official Opposition noted that members are entitled to the privilege of freedom of speech in this space. The importance of that fact cannot be under stated in the context of this ruling. I will expand on that point by referencing a passage from page 92 of the third edition of House of Commons Procedure and Practice: Freedom of speech ' permitch'–permits members to speak freely in the Chamber during a sitting or in a committee meeting during meetings, while enjoying complete immunity from prosecution or civil liability for any comment they might make.

This freedom is essential for the effective working of the House. In ruling on a question of privilege in 1984, House of Commons Speaker Bosley confirmed that: "The privilege of a Member of Parliament when speaking in the House or in a committee is absolute, and that it would be very difficult to find that any statement made under the cloak of parliamentary privilege constituted a violation of that privilege." I will also note that when moving his motion at the end of his submission, the Leader of the Official Opposition failed to name a seconder.

A seconder is required for most motions moved in this House and I would remind all members to bear this in mind in the future. Given the underlying principle of freedom of speech granted by our rights as elected members under parliamentary privilege, I do not believe the Premier's comments form the basis of a breach of privilege, and I would therefore rule that the prima facie case of privilege was not established in this case. Having said that, I will again remind members that, as a group, we should be doing better in gov- erning our behaviour in this place.

Echoing those sentiments, in a quote from 1987 referenced on pages 97 and 98 of the third edition of House of Commons Procedure and Practice, Speaker Parent emphasized the need for members to use great care in exercising their right to speak freely in the House when he said: " . . . paramount to our political and parliamentary systems is the principle of freedom of speech, a member's right to stand in this House unhindered to speak [their] mind.

However when debate in the House centres on sensitive issues, as it often does, I would expect that members would always bear in mind the possible effects of their statements and hence be prudent in their tone and choice of words." I urge all members to remember these sentiments when speaking in this place, and I thank you all for your attention to this ruling. PETITIONS MRI Machine for Portage Regional Health Facility Mr. Obby Khan (Leader of the Official Opposition): I wish to present the following petition. To the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba, the background to this petition is as follows:

(1) Thanks to the investment made under the previous PC provincial government as part of the clinical and preventative services plan, construction for the new Portage regional health facility is well under way. The facility and surrounding community would greatly benefit from added diagnostic machinery and equipment, but specifically the addition of an MRI machine.

(2) An MRI machine is a non -invasive medical imaging technique that uses a magnetic field and a computer-generated 'wario' waves to create digital images of organs and tissues in the human body. It is used for disease detection, diagnosis and treatment monitoring.

October 14, 2025 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 2999

(3) Portage la Prairie is centrally located in Manitoba and is on the No. 1 Highway in the Southern Health/Santé Sud Health Authority. Currently there is only one MRI machine in the RHA.

(4) An MRI machine located in the Portage regional health facility will reduce transportation costs for patients as well as reduce the burden on stretcher service and ambulance use. It will bring care closer to home and reduce wait times for MRI scans across the province.

(5) Located around Portage la Prairie are the Dakota Tipi, Dakota Plains, Sandy Bay and Long Plain First Nations reserves. Indigenous people in Canada disproportionately face barriers in access to services and medical care. An MRI machine located in the Portage regional health facility will bring care closer to their home communities and provide greater access to diagnostic testing.

(6) Located in close proximity to the new Portage regional health facility in the Southport airport, this aerodrome has a runway length that is more than adequate to support medical air ambulance services. This would provide the opportunity to transport patients by air for–from more remote communities to access MRI imaging services.

(7) The average wait times for Manitobans to receive an MRI scan is currently six to eight months. Having an MRI machine in the Portage regional health facility will help reduce these wait times for patients and provide better care sooner. We petition the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba as follows: To urge the provincial government to support the investment and placement of an MRI machine in the Portage regional health facility in Portage la Prairie, Manitoba.

Honourable Speaker, this petition was signed by Tara Roberts, Nicole Spence and Lisa Sedowski [phonetic] and many, many other Manitobans. * (14:40) The Speaker: No further petitions. Grievances–oh. New Neepawa Health Centre MLA Jeff Bereza (Portage la Prairie): I wish to present the following petition. The background of this petition is as follows:

(1) Thanks to the investment made under the previous PC government as part of the clinical and preventative services plan, construction for the new Neepawa Health Centre is well under way. The facility and surrounding community would greatly benefit from added diagnostic machinery and equipment, but specifically the addition of a CT scanner.

(2) The new hospital is being built east of Neepawa, on the north side of yellow quill –or Yellowhead Highway, PTH 16. It will be nearly double the size of the existing hospital and will better serve patients from this broader, western Manitoba geographical area.

(3) CT scanners are standard equipment that combine X-ray images from several angles to create detailed, three-dimensional models of structures inside the body. They perform critical diagnosis procedures that support the diagnosis and treatment of a wide range of injuries and diseases, and the new equipment will be able to complete these important scans faster and with a sharper and clearer images.

(4) The average wait time for Manitobans to receive a CT scan is currently seven weeks, and there are over 14,000 patients on the wait list to receive the diagnostic imaging procedure.

(5) The new CT scanner will reduce these wait times as it would decrease the need for patients to travel long distances, sometimes involving overnight stays, to access the care they need.

(6) The new scanner will reduce pressure on emergency response services, who would no longer have to transport these patients, opening up appoint - ments in other communities and allowing more people to get the care they need sooner.

(7) A CT scanner in Neepawa Health Centre will enable further treatment and diagnosis to take place in community, reducing wait times for patients in sur - rounding areas and reducing the burden of travel to other facilities. We petition the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba as follows: To urge the provincial government to support the investment and placement of a CT scanner machine in the Neepawa Health Centre in Neepawa, Manitoba. This is signed by Kellie Popier, Patti Woodcock, Cecils [phonetic] Hohm and many, many more Manitobans. Thank you, Honourable Speaker.

3000 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA October 14, 2025 MRI Machine for Portage Regional Health Facility Mr. Derek Johnson (Interlake-Gimli): I wish to present the following petition to the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba. Background to this petition is as follows:

(1) Thanks to the investment made under the previous PC provincial government as part of the clinical and preventative services plan, construction for the new Portage regional health -care facility is well under way. The facility and surrounding community w ould greatly benefit from the added diagnostic machinery and equipment, but specifically the addition of an MRI machine.

(2) An MRI machine is a non -invasive medical imaging technique that is used–that uses a magnetic field and computer -generated radio waves to create detailed images of organs and tissues in the human body. It is used for disease detection, diagnosis and treatment monitoring.

(3) Portage la Prairie is centrally located in Manitoba and is on the No. 1 Highway in the Southern Health/Santé Sud Health Authority. Currently there is one MRI machine in the regional health authority.

(4) An MRI machine located in the Portage regional health facility will reduce transportation costs for patients as well as reduce the burden on stretcher service and ambulance use. It will bring care closer to home and reduce wait times for MRI scans across the province.

(5) Located around Portage la Prairie are the Dakota Tipi, Dakota Plains, Sandy Bay and Long Plain First Nation reserves. Indigenous peoples in Canada disproportionately face barriers in access to services and medical care. An MRI machine located in the Portage regional health facility will bring care closer to their home communities and provide greater access to diagnostic testing.

(6) Located in close proximity to the new Portage regional health facility is the Southport airport. This aerodrome has a runway length that is more than adequate to support medical air ambulance services. This would provide the opportunity to transport patients by air from more remote communities to access MRI imaging services.

(7) The average wait times for Manitobans to receive an MRI scan is currently six to eight months. Having an MRI machine in the Portage regional health facility will help reduce these wait times for patients and provide better care sooner. We petition the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba as follows: To urge the provincial government to support the investment and placement of an MRI machine in the Portage regional health facility in Portage la Prairie, Manitoba. This petition is signed by Tonya Smith, Heather Stenley, Norma Marshall and many, many other fine Manitobans. Mr.

Ron Schuler (Springfield-Ritchot): I wish to present the following petition to the Manitoba Legislature. The background to this petition is as follows: Thanks to the investment made under the pre - vious PC provincial government as part of the clinical and preventative services plan, construction for the new Portage regional health facility is under way. The facility and surrounding community would greatly benefit from added diagnostic machinery and equipment, but specifically the addition of an MRI machine.

(2) An MRI machine is a non -invasive medical imaging technique that uses a magnetic field and computer-generated radio waves to create detailed images of organs and tissues in the human body. It is used for disease detection, diagnosis and treatment monitoring.

(3) Portage la Prairie is centrally located in Manitoba and is on the No. 1 Highway in the Southern Health/Santé Sud Health Authority. Currently there is only one MRI machine in the RHA. * (14:50)

(4) An MRI machine located in the Portage regional health facility will reduce transportation costs for patients as well as reduce the burden on stretcher service and ambulance use. It will bring care closer to home and reduce wait times for MRI scans across the province.

(5) Located around Portage la Prairie are the Dakota Tipi, Dakota Plains, Sandy Bay and Long Plain First Nations reserves. Indigenous peoples in Canada disproportionately face barriers in access to services and medical care. An MRI machine located in the Portage regional health facility will bring care closer to their home communities and provide greater access to diagnostic testing.

(6) Located in close proximity to the new Portage regional health facility is the Southport airport. This aerodrome has a runway length that is more than

October 14, 2025 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 3001 adequate to support medical air ambulance services. This would provide the opportunity to transport patients by air from more remote communities to access MRI imaging services.

(7) The average wait times for Manitobans to receive an MRI scan is currently six to eight months. Having an MRI machine in the Portage regional health facility will help reduce these wait times for patients and provide better care sooner. We petition the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba as follows: To urge the provincial government to support the investment and placement of an MRI machine in the Portage regional health facility in Portage la Prairie, Manitoba. This is signed by Kelly Starr, Garry Hewiws [phonetic], Peter Munch [phonetic] and many, many other Manitobans. Elm Creek School Gymnasium Mrs.

Lauren Stone (Midland): Honourable Speaker, I wish to present the following petition. The background to this petition is as follows:

(1) All Manitoba students deserve access to appropriate physical education facilities, not only as parts of their education, but as part of living an active and healthy life.

(2) The current gymnasium at the Elm Creek School is insufficient for the needs of the student population. Physical education classes are over - crowded, and there is insufficient space for whole school assemblies and events.

(3) The current gym structure is aging and show- ing the impact of years of usage. Parents have significant safety concerns of the physical space and the aging electrical systems. Mr. Tyler Blashko, Deputy Speaker, in the Chair

(4) Uneven and heaving floors pose a safety risk for students participating in physical education classes or sports.

(5) The existing ventilation system was designed to meet old standards for a smaller student population and poses serious risks for students.

(6) The current facility is the only option available to students and, should it become inoperable, students at Elm Creek School would be deprived of physical education spaces.

(7) The government has a responsibility to make funds available to replace this aging infrastructure and provide appropriate activity and recreation activities to students in Elm Creek. We urge the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba as follows: To urge the government of Manitoba to immediately work with the Prairie Rose School Division to begin the process of placing the gymnasium facilities – replacing the gymnasium facilities at the Elm Creek school, in consultation with parents and the community. This is signed by Audrey Klassen, Brittney Boeme, Natalie Borst and many, many more Manitobans.

Provincial Trunk Highway 45 Mr. Rick Wowchuk (Swan River): I wish to present the following petition. To the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba, these are the reasons for the–or, for the petition:

(1) Upgrading Provincial Trunk Highway 45 will accelerate economic development as well as it will enhance connectivity, facilitate efficient transporta - tion and promote economic growth in the region.

(2) Economic development will be further enhanced as improved road infrastructure attracts business, encourages investment and creates job opportunities.

(3) Roads meeting the Roads and Transportation Association of Canada, RTAC, standards improve both safety and efficiency, as they can handle heavier loads, reducing the number of trips required for goods transportation.

(4) Safer roads further benefit both commuters and commercial vehicles, minimizing accidents and damage.

(5) Upgrading to RTAC standards ensures resilience to challenges caused by climate change, such as thawing and flooding, which negatively impact road conditions.

(6) Efficient transportation networks contribute to Manitoba's economic competitiveness, as upgraded roads support interprovincial and international goods movement, benefiting both trade and commerce. We petition the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba as follows: To urge the Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure to take the necessary steps to upgrade

3002 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA October 14, 2025 Provincial Trunk Highway 45 from Russell to Provincial Trunk Highway 10 to meet RTAC standards. This petition is signed by Wade Osudar, Mary Ann Chuchmuch and E. Chuchmuch, and many, many other Manitobans. Provincial Road 210 Mr. Richard Perchotte (Selkirk): I wish to present the following petition to the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba. The background to this petition is as follows:

(1) Provincial Road 210, PR 210, is a 117.3-kilometre– which is 72.8-mile–highway, in the Eastman region of Manitoba that connects the towns and communities of Woodridge, Marchand, La Broquerie, Ste. Anne, Landmark, Linden, Ile des Chênes and St. Adolphe.

(2) A significant portion of Provincial Road 210 also runs through the constituency of La Vérendrye.

(3) Prov incial Road 210 is a significant com - muting route for Eastman families and is also notably used by those in agriculture, tourism, trade and commerce industries.

(4) The condition of Provincial Road 210 from Woodridge to Highway 12 is in an unacceptable state of disrepair. * (15:00)

(5) The planned pavement upgrade was promised more than 20 years ago when it was constructed with a flat surface suitable for pavement but yet to be completed.

(6) The condition of Provincial Road 210 from Woodridge to Highway 12 is in such bad shape that firefighters, police and paramedic services are severely delayed when responding to emergencies.

(7) The Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure as well as the Premier have a duty to respond to infrastructure needs identified by rural communities. We petition the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba as follows:

(1) To urge the Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure to prioritize the reconstruction of Provincial Road 210.

(2) To urge the provincial government to include the stretch of Provincial Road 210 from Woodridge to Highway 12 in its reconstruction plans. This petition has been signed by Reed Sutherland, Bill Rivers, Marcel Lemire and many, many more Manitobans. Thank you. MRI Machine for Portage Regional Health Facility Mr. Jeff Wharton (Red River North): I wish to present the following petition to the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba. The background to this petition is as follows:

(1) Thanks to the investment made under the previous PC provincial government as part of the clinical and preventative services plan, construction for the new Portage regional health facility is well under way. The facility and surrounding community would greatly benefit from added diagnostic machinery and equipment, but specifically the addition of an MRI machine.

(2) An MRI machine is a non -invasive medical imaging technique that uses a magnetic field and a computer-generated radio waves to create detailed images of some organs and tissues in the human body. It is used for disease detection, diagnosis and treat - ment monitoring. Portage la Prairie is centrally located in Manitoba and is on Highway No. 1 in the Southern Health/Santé Sud Health Authority. Currently, there is only one MRI machine in the RHA.

(4) An MRI machine located in Portage la Prairie regional health facility will reduce transportation costs for patients as well as reduce the burden on stretcher services and ambulance use. It will bring care closer to home and reduce wait times for MRI scans across the province.

(5) Located around Portage la Prairie are Dakota Tipi, Dakota Plains, Sandy Bay and Long Plain First Nation reserves. Indigenous peoples in Canada disproportionately face barriers in access to services and medical care. An MRI machine located in Portage la Prairie regional health facility will bring care closer to home communities and provide greater access to diagnostic testing.

(6) Located in close proximity to the new Portage regional health facility is the Southport airport. This aerodrome has a runway length that is more than adequate to support medical air ambulance services. This would provide the opportunity to transport patients by air from more remote communities to access MRI imaging services.

October 14, 2025 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 3003

(7) The average wait times for Manitobans to receive an MRI scan is currently six to eight months. Having an MRI machine in the Portage regional health facility will help reduce these wait times for patients and provide better care sooner. We petition the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba as follows: To urge the provincial government to support the investment and placement of an MRI machine in the Portage regional health facility in Portage la Prairie, Manitoba. This petition is signed by Joan Hewson, David A. Moran, Patricia Karlson and many, many, many more Manitobans. Thank you.

Opposition to Releasing Repeat Offenders Mr. Greg Nesbitt (Riding Mountain): Honourable Deputy Speaker, I wish to present the following petition to the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba. The background to this petition is as follows:

(1) Kellie Verwey, a beloved young woman from Portage la Prairie, Manitoba, was tragically killed in a car crash caused by a repeat violent offender with a long criminal history.

(2) Despite repeated violations of his bail conditions, the offender was free to roam the streets and to ultimately claim Kellie's life. This tragedy was entirely preventable.

(3) While the Criminal Code falls under federal jurisdiction, provinces have been given the respon- sibility for the administration of justice, allowing for meaningful provincial action on bail reform to ensure public safety.

(4) Other provinces have taken proactive steps to strengthen bail enforcement, but Manitoba has not used all the available tools to address this issue effectively.

(5) The provincial government has the ability and the responsibility to advocate for and implement measures that protect its citizens by ensuring that repeat violent offenders are not released into our communities without proper safeguards.

(6) Immediate action is required to close gaps in the justice system that allow dangerous criminals to remain free, which puts innocent Manitobans at risk. We petition the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba as follows:

(1) To urge the provincial government to take immediate and decisive action on bail reform to address serious deficits in enforcement by utilizing all available provincial mechanisms to strengthen warrant enforcement, increasing bail supervision and opposing release of offenders, thus ensuring that repeat violent offenders are held accountable and that public safety is prioritized over leniency; and

(2) To urge the provincial government to lobby the federal government to immediately repeal pro - visions of the Criminal Code that allow for the continued victimization of law -abiding Manitobans while granting repeat offenders additional rights. This petition has been signed by Spencer Watson, Jacob Pelletier, Rory Pink and many, many other Manitobans. Thank you, honourable Deputy Speaker. MRI Machine for Portage Regional Health Facility Mrs. Colleen Robbins (Spruce Woods): I wish to present this following petition to the legislature assembly of Manitoba. The background to this petition is as follows:

(1) Thanks to the investment made under the previous PC provincial government as part of the clinical and preventative services plan, construction for the new Portage regional health facility is well under way. The facility and surrounding community would greatly benefit from an added diagnostic machinery and equipment, but specifically the addition of an MRI machine.

(2) An MRI machine is a non -invasive medical imaging technique that uses a magnetic field and a computer-generated radio waves to create detailed images of organs and tissues in the human body. It is used for disease detection, diagnosis and treatment monitoring. * (15:10)

(3) Portage la Prairie is centrally located in Manitoba and is on No. 1 Highway in the Southern Health region–health authority. Currently there is only one MRI machine in the RHA.

(4) An MRI machine located in the Portage regional health facility will reduce transportation costs for patients as well as reduce the burden on stretcher service and ambulance use. It will bring care

3004 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA October 14, 2025 closer to home and reduce wait times for MRI scans across the province.

(5) Located around Portage la Prairie are the Dakota Tipi, Dakota Plains, Sandy Bay and Long Plain First Nations reserves. Indigenous peoples in Canada disproportionately face barriers in access to services and medical care. An MRI machine located in Port age regional health facility will bring care closer to their home. No. 6–oh, to their home commu- nities and provide greater access to diagnostic testing.

(6) Located in close proximity to the new Portage regional health facility is the Southport airport. This aerodrome has a runway length that is more than adequate to support medical air ambulance services. This would provide the opportunity to transport patients by air from more remote communities to access MRI imaging services.

(7) The average wait times for Manitobans to receive an MRI scan is currently six to eight months. Having an MRI machine in Portage regional health facility will help reduce these wait times for patients and provide better care sooner. We petition the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba as follows: To urge the provincial government to support the investment and placement of an MRI machine in the Portage regional health facility in Portage la Prairie, Manitoba. They have signed –Les Ferris, Murray Van Den Bussche, Barb Drummond and many, many more Manitobans. Medical Assistance in Dying Mr.

Josh Guenter (Borderland): Honourable Speaker, I wish to present the following petition to the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba. These are the reasons for this petition:

(1) Persons struggling with mental health as their sole condition may access medical assistance in dying unless Parliament intervenes.

(2) Suicidality is often a symptom of mental illness, and suicide is the second leading cause of death for Canadians between the age of 10 and 19.

(3) There have been reports of the unsolicited introduction of medical assistance in dying to non-seeking persons, including Canadian veterans, as a solution for their medical and mental health issues.

(4) Legal and medical experts are deeply concerned that permitting Canadians suffering from depression and other mental illnesses to access euthanasia would undermine suicide pre vention efforts and risk normalizing suicide as a solution for those suffering from mental illness.

(5) The federal gov ernment is bound by the Charter of Rights and Freedoms to advance and protect the life, liberty and security of its citizens.

(6) Manitobans consider it a priority to ensure that adequate supports are in place for the mental health of all Canadians.

(7) Vulnerable Manitobans must be given suicide prevention counselling instead of suicide assist ance, and;

(8) The federal gov ernment should focus on increasing mental health supports to provinces and improve access to these supports, instead of offering medical assistance in dying for those with mental illness. We petition the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba as follows:

(1) To urge the provincial gov ernment to lobby the federal gov ernment to stop the expansion of medical assistance in dying to those for whom mental illness is the sole condition.

(2) To urge the provincial gov ernment to lobby the federal government to protect Canadians struggling with mental illness by facilitating treatment, recovery and medical assistance in living, not death. This petition has been signed by many, many Manitobans. Phoenix School Mrs. Kathleen Cook (Roblin): I wish to present the following petition. The background to this petition is as follows: Phoenix School, a kindergarten to grade 5 school located in Headingley, has experienced consistent enrolment growth over the last several years. Enrol - ment is expected to reach 275 students in the next two years.

Because the school is now over capacity, the school division has had to install portable classrooms on site as of fall 2024. For several consecutive years, the top capital priority of the St. James -Assiniboia School Division

October 14, 2025 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 3005 has been the renovation and expansion of Phoenix School. In 2022, the Phoenix School expansion and renovation project was approved to proceed to the design phase. The project included, among other amenities, a new gymnasium, two new classrooms, a multi-purpose room and room for 74 child-care spaces. In June 2024, the school division received notice from the provincial government that the project has been deferred. There is no guarantee if, or when, the project will move forward.

There are currently hundreds of children on a wait-list for child care in Headingley. The daycare operator in Phoenix School has been told that they will continue to have space within the school for the 2024-2025 school year only, that further expansion of child-care space within the school is not possible and that space may be reduced moving forward due to the shortage of classrooms. If new space is not constructed as planned, many families may be left without child care.

It is critical that the expansion and renovation of Phoenix School proceed as planned in order to support the needs of students, teachers and families in the growing community of Headingley. We petition the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba as follows: To urge the provincial government to proceed with the planned renovation and expansion of Phoenix School without further delay. And this petition is signed by Kenna McMeekin, Jasmin Spence, Jessica Siwicki and many, many other Manitobans. MRI Machine for Portage Regional Health Facility Mr.

Doyle Piwniuk (Turtle Mountain): I wish to present the following petition to the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba. The background of this petition is follows:

(1) Thanks to the investment made under the PC provincial government as part of the clinical and prov- incial service plan, construction of a new Portage regional health facility is well under way. The facility is surrounded–communities that would greatly benefit an added diagnostic machinery and equipment, but specifically additional to an MRI machine.

(2) The MRI machine is a non- invasive medical imaging technique that is used to–magnetic fields and computer-generated radio waves to create detailed images of organs and tissues in the human body. It is used for disease detection, diagnosis and 'treaing' monitoring–treatment monitoring.

(3) The Portage la Prairie is centrally located in Manitoba and is on No. 1 Highway in Southern Health authority. Currently, there is only one MRI machine in that RHA.

(4) An MRI machine located in the Portage la Prairie health facility will reduce transportation costs for patients as well as reduction the burden of stretcher services and ambulance use. It will bring care closer to home and reduce wait times for MRI scans across this province.

(5) Located around Portage la Prairie are the Dakota Tipi, Dakota Plains, Sandy Bay and the Long Plain First Nations reserves. Indigenous peoples in Canada 'dispoportly' face barriers in access to services and medical care. An MRI machine located in the Portage la Prairie regional health facility will bring care closer to home–to their home communities and provide greater access to diagnostic testing. * (15:20)

(6) Located in close proximity of the Portage regional health facility is the Southport airport. This aerodrome has a runway length that is more than adequate to support medical air ambulance services. This would provide the opportunity to transport patients by air from their remote communities to access the MRI imaging services.

(7) The average wait times for Manitobans to receive MRI scans is currently six to eight months. Having the MRI machine in the Portage regional health facility will help reduce the wait times for patients and provide better care sooner and closer to home. We petition the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba as follows: To urge the provincial government to support the investment and replace of MRI machines in the Portage regional health facility in Portage la Prairie, Manitoba. This has been signed by Scott Sambrook, Garry Serruys, Darryll Breemersch and many other Manitobans. Green Valley School Expansion Mr.

Konrad Narth (La Vérendrye): Honourable Deputy Speaker, I wish to present the following petition.

3006 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA October 14, 2025 To the Legis lative Assembly of Manitoba, the background to this petition is as follows:

(1) The residents of La Vérendrye and other areas around Manitoba are extremely frustrated and concerned by the provincial government's decision to cancel the school expansion project for Green Valley School in Grunthal.

(2) In 2021, the PC provincial government com- mitted funding to expand Green Valley School for a new gymnasium and classrooms.

(3) The school is so crowded that three mobile classrooms were added to alleviate overcrowding in classrooms.

(4) In order for construction to begin, the school removed all three portable classrooms, leaving Green Valley in a further critical state of overcrowding.

(5) As a result of overcrowding, parents are choosing to home-school their children due to safety concerns and the challenges associated with overcrowding.

(6) The current Premier of Manitoba and the Minister of Education and Early Childhood Learning have said they are committed to investing in education.

(7) The concerns of residents of La Vérendrye and the surrounding area are being ignored by the prov- incial government.

(8) The lack of space in the school is affecting the quality of education and extracurricular activities for students.

(9) The minister and Premier have a duty to respond to the educational needs of children and youth identified by rural communities. We petition the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba as follows:

(1) To urge the Minister of Edu cation and Early Childhood Learning to imme diately bring back the three portable classrooms to help alleviate stress and overcrowding classrooms.

(2) To urge the provincial government to reinstate the expansion project for Green Valley School. This petition has been signed by Lena Falk, Dean Belair, Vanesa Klassen and many, many other Manitobans. Provincial Trunk Highways 12 and 210 MLA Bob Lagassé (Dawson Trail): I wish to present the following petition. To the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba, the background to this petition is as follows: The intersection of Provincial Trunk Highways 12 and 210 is known as a dangerous intersection, result - ing in a safety review published in the fall of 2023.

In the summer of 2024, the Province presented four options for public consultation, and area residents were promised a presentation of a final option by the fall of 2024. Delays in the renovation of this intersection have put Manitobans at risk, as the safety review identified that changes are needed. The provincial government failed to meet its own timeline of fall of 2024, and, as such, area residents are concerned that the project has not been designated as a priority.

We petition the Legislative Assembly as follows: To urge the provincial government to imme - diately implement work on the renovation of the intersection of Provincial Trunk Highways 12 and 210, to keep area residents and travellers safe. This petition has been signed by many, many Manitobans. New Neepawa Health Centre Ms. Jodie Byram (Agassiz): I wish to present the following petition. To the Legis lative Assembly of Manitoba, the background to this petition is as follows:

(1) Thanks to the investment made under the previous PC provincial government as part of the clinical and preventative services plan, construction for the new Neepawa Health Centre is well under way. The facility and surrounding community would greatly benefit from added diagnostic machinery and equip- ment, but specifically the addition of a CT scanner.

(2) The new hospital is being built east of Neepawa, on the north side of Yellowhead Highway, PTH 16. It will nearly –it will be nearly double the size of the existing hospital and will better serve patients from this broader, western Manitoba geographic area.

(3) CT scanners are standard equipment that combine X-ray images from several angles to create detailed, three-dimensional models of structures inside the body. They perform critical diagnostic procedures that support the diagnosis and treatment of a wide range of injuries and diseases, and the new equipment

October 14, 2025 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 3007 will be able to complete these important scans faster and with sharper and clearer images.

(4) The average wait-time for Manitobans to receive a CT scan is currently seven weeks, and there are over 14,000 patients on the wait- list to receive the diagnostic imaging procedure.

(5) The new CT scanner will reduce these wait-times as it would decrease the need for patients to travel long distances, sometimes involving over - night stays, to access the care they need.

(6) The new scanner will reduce pressure on emergency response services, who would no longer have to transport these patients, opening up appoint - ments in other communities and allowing more people to get the care they need sooner.

(7) A CT scanner in the Neepawa Health Centre will enable further treatment and diagnosis to take place in community, reducing wait times for patients in surrounding areas and reducing the burden of travel to other facilities. * (15:30) We petition the Legislative Assembly as follows: To urge the provincial government to support the investment and placement of a CT scanner machine in the Neepawa Health Centre in Neepawa, Manitoba. This petition has been signed by Jill Bannerman, Rick Kozak, Alicia Toniak and many, many more Manitobans. Opposition to Releasing Repeat Offenders Mr.

Trevor King (Lakeside): I wish to present the following petition to the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba, and the background to this petition is as follows:

(1) Kellie Verwey, a beloved young woman from Portage la Prairie, Manitoba, was tragically killed in a car crash caused by a repeat violent offender with a long criminal history.

(2) Despite repeated violations of his bail con- ditions, the offender was free to roam the streets and to ultimately claim Kellie's life. This tragedy was entirely preventable.

(3) While the Criminal Code falls under federal jurisdiction, provinces have been given the respon- sibility for the administration of justice, allowing for meaningful provincial action on bail reform to ensure public safety.

(4) Other provinces have taken proactive steps to strengthen bail enforcement, but Manitoba has not used all the available tools to address this issue effectively.

(5) The provincial government has the ability and the responsibility to advocate for and implement measures that protects its citizens by ensuring that repeat violent offenders are not released into our communities without proper safeguards.

(6) Immediate action is required to close gaps in the justice system that allow dangerous criminals to remain free, which puts innocent Manitobans at risk. We petition the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba as follows:

(1) To urge the provincial government to take immediate and decisive action on bail reform to address serious deficits in enforcement by utilizing all available provincial mechanisms to strengthen warrant enforcement, increase bail supervision and opposing release of offenders, thus ensuring the repeat violent offenders are held accountable and that public safety is prioritized over leniency; and

(2) To urge the provincial government to lobby the federal government to immediately repeal provisions of the Criminal Code that allow for the continued victimization of law -abiding Manitobans while granting repeat offenders additional rights. This has been signed by Candace Chicouene, Judy Hogg, Terrence Hogg and many, many Manitobans. Thank you, honourable Speaker. Mr. Wayne Ewasko (Lac du Bonnet): I present the following petition to the Legislative Assembly, and the background to this petition is as follows:

(1) Kellie Verwey, a beloved young woman from Portage la Prairie, Manitoba, was tragically killed in a car crash caused by a repeat violent offender with a long criminal history.

(2) Despite repeated violations of his bail con- ditions, the offender was free to roam the streets and to ultimately claim Kellie's life. This tragedy was entirely preventable.

(3) While the Criminal Code falls under federal jurisdiction, provinces have been given the respon- sibility for the administration of justice, allowing for meaningful provincial action on bail reform to ensure public safety.

3008 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA October 14, 2025

(4) Other provinces have taken proactive steps to strengthen bail enforcement, but Manitoba has not used all of the available tools to address this issue effectively.

(5) The provincial government has the ability and the responsibility to advocate for and implement measures that protect its citizens by ensuring that repeat violent offenders are not released into our communities without proper safeguards.

(6) Immediate action is required to close gaps in the justice system that allows dangerous criminals to remain free, which puts innocent Manitobans at risk. We petition the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba as follows:

(1) To urge the provincial government to take immediate and decisive action on bail reform to address serious deficits in enforcement by utilizing all available provincial mechanisms to strengthen warrant enforcement, increasing bail supervision and op- posing release of offenders, thus ensuring that repeat violent offenders are held accountable and that public safety is prioritized over leniency; and

(2) To urge the provincial government to lobby the federal government to immediately repeal pro - visions of the Criminal Code that allow for the continued victimization of law -abiding Manitobans while granting repeat offenders additional rights. This petition is signed by Teri [phonetic] Nabess, Adele McMurray, Alana Miller and many, many more fine Manitobans. Thank you, honourable Deputy Speaker. Mr. Wayne Balcaen (Brandon West): I wish to present the following petition to the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba. The background to this petition is as follows:

(1) Kellie Verwey, a beloved young woman from Portage la Prairie, Manitoba, was tragically killed in a car crash caused by a repeat violent offender with a long criminal history.

(2) Despite repeated violations of his bail con- ditions, the offender was free to roam the streets and to ultimately claim Kellie's life. This tragedy was entirely preventable.

(3) While the Criminal Code falls under federal jurisdiction, provinces have been given the respon- sibility for the administration of justice, allowing for meaningful provincial action on bail reform to ensure public safety.

(4) Other provinces have taken proactive steps to strengthen bail enforcement, but Manitoba has not used all of the available tools to address this issue effectively.

(5) The provincial government has the ability and the responsibility to advocate for and implement measures that protect its citizens by ensuring that repeat violent offenders are not released into our communities without proper safeguards. * (15:40)

(6) Immediate action is required to close gaps in the justice system that allow dangerous criminals to remain free, which puts innocent Manitobans at risk. We petition the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba as follows:

(1) To urge the provincial government to take immediate and decisive action on bail reform to address serious deficits in enforcement by utilizing all available provincial mechanisms to strengthen warrant enforcement, increasing bail supervision and op- posing release of offenders, thus ensuring that repeat violent offenders are held accountable and that public safety is prioritized over leniency; and

(2) To urge the provincial government to lobby the federal government to immediately repeal pro - visions of the Criminal Code that allow for the continued victimization of law -abiding Manitobans while granting repeat offenders additional rights. Honourable Speaker, this petition was signed by Duane Seens, Pat Dunn, Karen Crozier and many, many other fine Manitobans. Location of Safe Injection Sites Mrs. Carrie Hiebert (Morden-Winkler): I wish to present the following petition to the Legis lative Assembly of Manitoba. The background of this petition is as follows:

(1) The Province of Manitoba has filed paperwork with the federal government proposing the establishment of a drug injection site for illegal drugs at 200 Disraeli Fwy. without sufficient public consultation.

(2) The decision to locate the facility at 200 Disraeli was made despite that the site is located in the immediate vicinity of a daycare centre, high school and multiple community gathering sites, including churches and cultural institutions.

October 14, 2025 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 3009

(3) Residents, business owners and community organizations have raised concerns that the location is incompatible with nearby institutions serving thousands of youth and the families, and believe it will erode public safety and confidence in the area.

(4) Existing community consultations specifically ignored concerns about public safety and were criticized by community members for being artificial and scripted.

(5) The provincial government has failed to introduce legislation and regulations to control where drug injection sites can be located.

(6) Other provinces are closing injection–drug injection sites and adopting a recovery model, following the expertise of groups such as the Canadian Centre of Recovery Excellence.

(7) This decision ignore the experts–ignoring the experts will leave people suspended in addiction and will not give Manitobans their lives back or their loved ones back.

(8) The provincial government has failed to fund and operate any treatment or additional rapid access to addictions medication clinics to break this cycle. We petition the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba as follows:

(1) To urge the provincial government to cancel all injection sites in the Point Douglas community, including the proposed location at 200 Disraeli Fwy.

(2) To urge the provincial government to legislate that no further sites will be proposed without community support. This petition has been signed by Izzy Elgin [phonetic], Dennis Esroy, Karen Fores and many, many other Manitobans. Thank you. The Deputy Speaker: Seeing no further petitions. Grievances? ORDERS OF THE DAY (Continued) GOVERNMENT BUSINESS Hon. Nahanni Fontaine (Government House Leader): Can you please call second reading debate of Bill 49, The Manitoba Public Insurance Corporation Amend- ment Act (2).

The Deputy Speaker: It has been called that we will be doing second reading of Bill 49, the Manitoba Public Insurance cor porations act –amended–amend- ment (2). SECOND READINGS Bill 49–The Manitoba Public Insurance Corporation Amendment Act

(2) Hon. Matt Wiebe (Minister responsible for the Manitoba Public Insurance Corporation): I move, seconded by the Minister responsi ble for Busi ness, Mining, Trade and Job Creation, that Bill 49, The Manitoba Public Insurance Cor poration Amendment Act (2), be now read a second time and referred to a committee of this House. Motion presented. Mr. Wiebe: Thank you to my colleagues for the warm welcome this afternoon. The Speaker in the Chair Honourable Speaker, I am pleased to rise in the House today to introduce for second reading Bill 49, The Manitoba Public Insurance Corporation Amend- ment Act (2).

Manitobans enjoy some of the lowest auto insurance rates in Canada through our public insurance system. I am pleased to be here today to present a bill for your consideration which further protects Manitoba's cur - rent registered owner insurance model and ensures affordable and stable auto insurance rates while retaining independent oversight by the Public Utilities Board. Any person who holds a driver's licence in Manitoba is placed on the driver safety rating scale. The scale, as you know, Honourable Speaker, runs from negative 20 to positive 19, with a positive 20 that will be now added in the upcoming year.

Every newly licenced Manitoban starts out at the –at level zero unless they have driving experience from a reciprocal jurisdiction, in which they may start as high as plus 10. For every year of safe driving, a driver moves one level up the scale. At fault claims or convictions will see them move down, between two and 15 levels, depending on the severity of that incident. A person who has a positive driver safety rating receives a discount on their licence renewal, and a person whose rating is in the negative will pay an additional surcharge.

MPI also uses the driver safety rating to deter - mine the price a person must pay to insure most types of vehicles. A person with a positive DSR rating will be given a discount on the insurance for any vehicle which is registered to them, and the discount increases

3010 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA October 14, 2025 the higher up on the scale they go. A person in the negative gets no discount. Because the discounts are based on driving record of the registered owner of the vehicle, we call this the registered owner model. If an individual's lost their licence due to medical condition, they might rely on a friend or family member to drive them to ap point- ments, to run errands and so on, using their own vehicle. Normally, if the policy were based on the owner's DSR, they'd lose any discount they've previously had.

So to account for those rare circum - stances, MPI now allows the owner to assign a driver to their policy. This means the discount is calculated based on the DSR of the person who's driving. The registered owner model has worked well in Manitoba, and we're now working to improve it further. MPI has added a new level on the scale every year since 2022 and has provided increasingly larger discounts for the people at the top of the scale, who now receive discounts at 48 per cent of the highest level.

MPI's most recent rating application calls for a new plus -20 level, as I mentioned earlier, with a 53 per cent vehicle premium discount to take effect next April, saving Manitobans money. Honourable Speaker, the registered owner model is a key part of our public insurance system, and we're now committed to making our public insurance model even stronger. MPI concluded public consul tations around these driver models on how people's dri ving records should impact the cost of insurance in 2019 and also again in 2024.

And both times, though, they indicated that nearly twice as many Manitobans favoured the registered owner model compared to alternative models that were considered. * (15:50) Alternative models may include a primary driver model, where a person's vehicle premium discounts are deter mined based on the driver's record of the person who's declared to be that primary driver, rather than the registered owner. Applying for insurance would require making a declaration, nominating the person who typically drives the vehicle.

Insurance companies will then enforce that declaration as part of their process for handling claims, which could result in a denial of coverage if your friend, for instance, has had an accident while you–driving your car. Even if they're properly licenced, they have permission from you to be able to drive the vehicle and they're doing nothing illegal, they still may not have the coverage that they would expect.

Requiring these people to be listed in a policy would result in a sig nificant increase to premiums in households that include younger people or new Canadians who have not yet esta blished that driving record of good, solid driving. The existing public model is the best for maintaining that accessibility, affordability and simplicity in our public insurance system, particular for families who are struggling with affordability these days. However, the MPI seem –act currently says that discounts or additional amounts payable as part of a vehicle insurance are based on the driver safety rating system.

That is it, Honourable Speaker. The act today is silent on who's driver safety rating should be considered when calculating the amount. So the bill that we're bringing here forward today will specifically require that any discount from a plan premium must be based on the driver safety rating of a vehicle registered owner, rather than–sorry–preserving the minor exception, which I mentioned earlier, about assigning that driver to a policy. And then, of course, the PUB would retain sole jurisdiction over the rates them selves and the discounts that are associated with each level of the DSR scale.

This change will protect MPI's insurance model and will allow MPI to continue meeting customer expectations of affordability and value, while upholding its core mission and values, ensuring that it continues to be robust, inde pendent oversight by the MPI –by PUB–sorry–of the MPI's rates that are set each year. Since coming into office, Hon ourable Speaker, you know that our govern ment has been focused on getting MPI back on track after years of mis manage- ment by the previous gov ernment. We ended the strike; we placed a new leadership and a new board and we closed the book on Project Nova.

Bill 49 is now just the next step in this process. By enshrining the registered owner model in legis - lation we're protecting affordability for families now and for years to come. Thank you, Honourable Speaker. Questions The Speaker: A question period of up to 15 minutes will be held. Questions may be addressed to the minister by any opposition or independent member in

October 14, 2025 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 3011 the following sequence: first question by the official opposition critic or designate, subsequent questions asked by critics or designates from other recognized opposition parties, subsequent questions asked by each in dependent member, remaining questions be asked by any opposition member, and no question or answer shall exceed 45 seconds. The floor is now open for questions. Mr. Trevor King (Lakeside): Thank you for the opportunity to put some questions to the minister on this Bill 49.

My first question to the minister, Hon ourable Speaker, is why is the government legislating around a PUB order and a Court of Appeal ruling that's upholding it? Hon. Matt Wiebe (Minister responsible for the Manitoba Public Insurance Corporation): Well, again, as the member opposite knows well, the PUB ordered the –ordered MPI to begin the process of looking at changing from the registered owner model to the primary driver model. However, as part of that process, they asked for MPI to go to the publ ic, and they did so in 2019 and 2024.

Overwhelmingly, Manitobans said that afford- ability was their most impor tant factor when consid - ering which model to choose. MPI has shared those results with us, and we're bringing this legis lation forward, respecting the will of Manitobans. Mr. Wayne Balcaen (Brandon West): Honourable Speaker, my question on this bill to the minister is, how does undermining the PUB's independence serve the public interest? Mr. Wiebe: Well, Honourable Speaker, the member opposite will know that we are respecting the will of the PUB.

And, in fact, MPI, I know, is busy getting ready to present at the PUB, working with them to resolve a number of issues identified by the PUB of the mismanagement of the previous government. We're working with PUB to make sure that we're respecting their work with us while also prioritizing the affordability that Manitobans say is most impor - tant these days. Mr. Konrad Narth (La Vérendrye): Thank you, Honourable Speaker, for the op portunity to ask the minister some questions on Bill 49. My question was: Has the minister consulted any consumer groups or intervenors before reversing the PUB's direction? Mr.

Wiebe: Well, of course, we do this work in bring- ing legis lation forward in conjunction with and consultation with MPI. And we know that MPI works very well with the intervenors every year at the PUB and, of course, we work with those groups as well. We listen to the concerns that they have. Our focus remains on affordability. And members opposite, when they had the reins of power, when they were in control of MPI, they lost complete sight of that. We saw that in the massive boondoggle that was Project Nova. We're getting it back on track. We're working with MPI and PUB to make sure that that happens. Ms.

Jodie Byram (Agassiz): I'm happy to stand here today and have the opportunity to ask the Minister of Justice questions in relation to Bill 49. What protections remain to ensure MPI's rates are fair if the PUB's authority is constrained by statute? Mr. Wiebe: Well, again, Hon ourable Speaker, we work very closely with the PUB to ensure that Manitobans are getting a fair deal. We know that PUB was very critical of the previous govern ment, of members opposite, for not focusing on affordability.

What we're doing here today is bringing forward legislation that, in fact, protects Manitobans from future governments that might want to push us toward that privatized model which members opposite seem to want to consider. We know that the registered owner model, which is consistent with a public insurance model, is the way to get the most affordability for Manitobans, and that's what we're focused on. Mr.

King : Honourable Speaker, we know that the Public Utilities Board was put there to protect the consumer, so my question to the minister is: Does this move set a precedent for govern ment interference in future PUB decisions? Mr. Wiebe: Well, again, Honourable Speaker, mem- bers opposite maybe aren't listening or don't under - stand how this works. Of course the PUB has made recommendations to MPI. They've taken the steps required to ensure that they're under standing what consumers in Manitoba are asking for.

In this case, overwhelmingly, Manitobans have said they want affordable insurance rates and they want that through the registered owner model. This is what MPI was founded on. This has now been in place since the founding, since day one of

3012 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA October 14, 2025 MPI. Manitobans are just asking for some clarity, and that's what this government is providing. Mr. Balcaen: First, the Premier (Mr. Kinew) took a run at defence lawyers and had to apologize to them here in this Chamber. Then, two weeks ago, making disparaging remarks in questioning judges within our judicial system. And the Minister of Justice (Mr. Wiebe) stood by his every word. Now the NDP are doing an end run around the words of the Court of Appeal.

So my question is: How can Manitobans have any trust in this government and particularly the Attorney General of Manitoba? Mr. Wiebe: Can't believe how off-track this member is with that question. But I guess it just does betray the real concerns that they have, and that is not on affordability, not on saving Manitobans money, but potentially on privatizing MPI. That was their goal. That's what they were trying to do is priva tize our Crowns. And we know that by moving to this privatized insurance model for MPI, this would be just another step for them to take.

Now, by enshrining this in legislation, we're going to stop them from doing that ever in the future if they were ever to get government again, which I know Manitobans are hoping that they don't. Mr. Narth: We keep hearing from this minister, affordability for Manitobans, but which Manitobans? * (16:00) So my question, Honour able Speaker, is: Will Manitobans continue to see good drivers subsidizing bad drivers under their system? Mr. Wiebe: Well, of course, Honour able Speaker, that's not what's happening here.

We do have a driver safety rating, and we know that each Manitoban, each driver, is assigned a –on points, a position on that scale. And based on that, at the registration of their – or, at the renewal of their licence, they're going to pay either a penalty or be rewarded with a discount. That's how our system works. We're not changing the DSR; it still remains. Good drivers are rewarded, bad drivers have a financial incentive to get better and all Manitobans save money through the affordability offered by public insurance at MPI. Ms.

Byram: My question now is: Is the govern ment prioritizing cor porate convenience over fairness to ratepayers? Mr. Wiebe: Well, it's a good reminder to talk about the simplicity offered by this particular model, the lack of red tape. Of course, members opposite, they want more red tape, they want more bureaucracy for drivers to have to go through if they want to insure their vehicle. So I appreciate that the member opposite has reminded us of that. What she misses, though, is that

Document details

Collection	Manitoba — Debates (Hansard)
Citation	43-2-73b
Type	hansard
Volume / chapter	43rd 2nd hansardpdf 73b.pdf
Language	en
Format	pdf
Source	PROVINCIAL
Identifier	4f9ad5b6f9b0f86d75cd7b161b3ab91c0e005b66

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