Manitoba Hansard — 25 September 2007 (Sitting 9B, 39th Legislature, 1st Session)

39-1-9b

Manitoba — Debates (Hansard)

First Session - Thirty-Ninth Legislature of the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba DEBATES and PROCEEDINGS Official Report (Hansard) Published under the authority of The Honourable George Hickes Speaker Vol. LIX No. 9B – 1:30 p.m., Tuesday, September 25, 2007

MANITOBA LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY Thirty-Ninth Legislature Member Constituency Political Affiliation ALLAN, Nancy, Hon. St. Vital N.D.P. ALTEMEYER, Rob Wolseley N.D.P. ASHTON, Steve, Hon. Thompson N.D.P. BJORNSON, Peter, Hon. Gimli N.D.P. BLADY, Sharon Kirkfield Park N.D.P. BOROTSIK, Rick Brandon West P.C. BRAUN, Erna Rossmere N.D.P. BRICK, Marilyn St. Norbert N.D.P. BRIESE, Stuart Ste. Rose P.C. CALDWELL, Drew Brandon East N.D.P. CHOMIAK, Dave, Hon. Kildonan N.D.P. CULLEN, Cliff Turtle Mountain P.C. DERKACH, Leonard Russell P.C. DEWAR, Gregory Selkirk N.D.P. DOER, Gary, Hon. Concordia N.D.P.

DRIEDGER, Myrna Charleswood P.C. DYCK, Peter Pembina P.C. EICHLER, Ralph Lakeside P.C. FAURSCHOU, David Portage la Prairie P.C. GERRARD, Jon, Hon. River Heights Lib. GOERTZEN, Kelvin Steinbach P.C. GRAYDON, Cliff Emerson P.C. HAWRANIK, Gerald Lac du Bonnet P.C. HICKES, George, Hon. Point Douglas N.D.P. HOWARD, Jennifer Fort Rouge N.D.P. IRVIN-ROSS, Kerri, Hon. Fort Garry N.D.P. JENNISSEN, Gerard Flin Flon N.D.P. JHA, Bidhu Radisson N.D.P. KORZENIOWSKI, Bonnie St. James N.D.P. LAMOUREUX, Kevin Inkster Lib. LATHLIN, Oscar, Hon. The Pas N.D.P. LEMIEUX, Ron, Hon. La Verendrye N.D.P. MACKINTOSH, Gord, Hon. St.

Johns N.D.P. MAGUIRE, Larry Arthur-Virden P.C. MALOWAY, Jim Elmwood N.D.P. MARCELINO, Flor Wellington N.D.P. MARTINDALE, Doug Burrows N.D.P. McFADYEN, Hugh Fort Whyte P.C. McGIFFORD, Diane, Hon. Lord Roberts N.D.P. MELNICK, Christine, Hon. Riel N.D.P. MITCHELSON, Bonnie River East P.C. NEVAKSHONOFF, Tom Interlake N.D.P. OSWALD, Theresa, Hon. Seine River N.D.P. PEDERSEN, Blaine Carman P.C. REID, Daryl Transcona N.D.P. ROBINSON, Eric, Hon. Rupertsland N.D.P. RONDEAU, Jim, Hon. Assiniboia N.D.P. ROWAT, Leanne Minnedosa P.C. SARAN, Mohinder The Maples N.D.P. SCHULER, Ron Springfield P.C. SELBY, Erin Southdale N.D.P.

SELINGER, Greg, Hon. St. Boniface N.D.P. STEFANSON, Heather Tuxedo P.C. STRUTHERS, Stan, Hon. Dauphin-Roblin N.D.P. SWAN, Andrew Minto N.D.P. TAILLIEU, Mavis Morris P.C. WOWCHUK, Rosann, Hon. Swan River N.D.P.

253 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA Tuesday, September 25, 2007 The House met at 1:30 p.m. ROUTINE PROCEEDINGS INTRODUCTION OF BILLS Bill 16–The Statutory Holidays Act (Various Acts Amended) Hon. Nancy Allan (Min ister of Labour and Immigration): Mr. Speaker, I move, seconded by the Minister of Education, Citizenship and Youth (Mr. Bjornson), that Bill 16, The Statutory Holidays Act (Various Acts Amended);

Loi sur les jours fériés (modification de diverses dispositions législatives), be now read a first time. Motion presented. Ms. Allan: Mr. Speaker, this bill will provide hardworking Manitobans with a much needed statutory holiday between Christmas and Easter. The new holiday will be held on the third Monday in February and, based on the winning entry that was chosen by the MB4Youth from the many suggestions put forward by students across Manitoba, will be called Louis Riel Day. Mr. Speaker: Is it the pleasure of the House to adopt the motion? [Agreed] PETITIONS Provincial Trunk Highway 2 Mr.

Cliff Cullen (Turtle Mountain): Mr. Speaker, I wish to present the following petition to the Legislative Assembly. These are the reasons for this petition: As a result of high traffic volumes in the region, there have been numerous accidents and near misses along Provincial Trunk High way 2, near the village of Glenboro, leading to serious safety concerns for motorists.

The provincial government has refused to construct turning lanes off Provincial Trunk Highway 2 into the village of Glenboro and on to Golf Course Drive, despite the fact that the number of businesses along Provincial Trunk Highway 2 have increased greatly in recent years. We petition the Manitoba Legislative Assembly as follows: To urge the Minister of Infrastructure and Transportation (Mr. Lemieux) to consider imple- menting a speed zone on Provincial Trunk Highway 2 adjacent to the village of Glenboro. This petition is signed by Gerry Neale, Derek Robidoux, Jan Nelson and many, many others. Mr.

Speaker: In accordance with our rule 132(6), when petitions are read they are deemed to be received by the House. Provincial Trunk Highway 10 Mrs. Leanne Rowat (Minnedosa): I wish to present the following petition to the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba. These are the reasons for this petition: Provincial Trunk Highway 10 separates two schools and residential districts in Forrest, Manitoba, forcing students and residents to cross under very dangerous circumstances. Strategies brought forward to help minimize the danger pose either significant threats to the safety of our children or are not economically feasible.

Provincial Highway 10 se rves as a route for an ever-increasing volume of traffic, including heavy trucks, farm vehicles, working commuters, campers, and the transport of dangerous goods. Traffic levels are expected to escalate further due to projected industrial expansions. We petition the Manitoba Legislative Assembly as follows: To urge the Minister of Infrastructure and Transportation (Mr. Lemieux) to act in this situation by considering the construction of a four-lane highway that would bypass around the village of Forrest.

This petition signed by Leah Link, Gordon Link, Lillian Hamilton and many, many others. Headingley Foods Mrs. Mavis Taillieu (Morris): I wish to present the following petition to the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba.

254 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA September 25, 2007 These are the reasons for this petition: The owners of Headingley Foods, a small business based in Headingley, would like to sell alcohol at their store. The distance from their location to the nearest Li quor Mart, via the Trans- Canada Highway, is 9.3 kilometres. The distance to the same Liquor Mart via Roblin Boulevard is 10.8 kilometres. Their application has been rejected because their store needs to be 10 kilometres away from the Liquor Mart. It is 700 metres short of this requirement using one route but is the required 10.8 kilometres using the other.

The majority of Headingley's population lives off Roblin Boulevard and uses Roblin Boulevard to get to and from Winnipeg rather than the Trans- Canada Highway. Additionally, the highway route is often closed or too dangerous to travel in severe weather conditions. The ma jority of Headingley residents therefore travel to the Liquor Mart via Roblin Boulevard, a distance of 10.8 kilometres. Small businesses outside Winnipeg's perimeter are vital to the prosperity of Manitoba's communities and should be supported.

It is difficult for small businesses like Headingley Foods to compete with the larger stores in Winnipeg, and they require the added services to remain viable. Residents should be able to purchase alcohol loca lly rather than drive to the next municipality. We petition the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba as follows: To urge the Minister charged with the administration of The Liquor Control Act (Mr. Selinger) to consider allowing the owners of Headingley Foods to sell alcohol at their store, thereby supporting small business and the prosperity of rural communities in Manitoba.

This is signed by Sandra Ammeter, Debbie Wright, Steve Spicer and many, many others. COMMITTEE REPORTS Standing Committee on Public Accounts First Report Mr. Leonard Derkach (Chairperson): A rare occasion. I wish to present the First Report of the Standing Committee on Public Accounts. Madam Deputy Clerk (Bev Bosiak): Your Standing Committee on Public Accounts presents the following as its First Report. Mr. Speaker: Dispense? An Honourable Member: Dispense. Mr. Speaker: Dispense. Your Standing Committee on Public Accounts presents the following as its First Report.

Meetings Your committee met on the following occasions: September 7, 2004 September 8, 2004 November 25, 2004 November 28, 2005 December 6, 2006 December 14, 2006 February, 22, 2007 August 15, 2007 All meetings were held in Room 255 of the Legislative Building.

Matters under Considera tion at the August 15, 2007, meeting Auditor General's Report – Investigation of Hydra House Ltd. and A Review of the Related Department of Family Services and Housing Financial Accountability Framework dated June 2004 Auditor General's Report – Follow-up on Previously Issued Recommendations on Business Planning and Performance Measurement Report dated December 2003 Auditor General's Report – An Examination of RHA Governance in Manitoba dated January, 2003 Auditor General's Report – Environmental Audits – Review of the Province of Manitoba's Management of Contaminated Sites and the Protection of Well Water Quality in Manitoba dated November 2005 Committee Membership Committee Membership for the September 7, 2004, meeting: Mr.

Aglugub Hon. Mr. Gerrard Ms. Irvin-Ross Mr. Loewen Mr. Maloway (Vice-Chairperson) Mr. Martindale Mrs. Mitchelson Ms. Oswald Mr. Reimer (Chairperson) Hon. Mr. Selinger Mrs. Taillieu

September 25, 2007 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 255 Committee Membership for the September 8, 2004, meeting: Mr. Aglugub Hon. Mr. Gerrard Ms. Irvin-Ross Mr. Loewen Mr. Maloway (Vice-Chairperson) Mr. Martindale Mrs. Mitchelson Ms. Oswald Mr. Reimer (Chairperson) Hon. Mr. Selinger Mrs. Taillieu Substitutions received during committee proceedings at the September 8, 2004, meeting: Mrs. Rowat for Mrs. Mitchelson Committee Membership for the November 25, 2004, meeting: Mr. Aglugub Ms. Brick Mr. Cummings Hon. Mr. Gerrard Ms. Irvin-Ross Mr. Loewen Mr. Maloway (Vice-Chairperson) Mr. Martindale Mr.

Reimer (Chairperson) Mr. Swan Mrs. Taillieu Committee Membership for the November 28, 2005, meeting: Mr. Caldwell Mr. Cummings Mr. Hawranik Mr. Maguire Mr. Maloway (Vice-Chairperson) Mr. Martindale Mr. Nevakshonoff Mr. Reimer (Chairperson) Mr. Santos Hon. Mr. Selinger Committee Membership for the December 6, 2006, meeting: Mr. Aglugub Mr. Cummings Mr. Derkach Hon. Mr. Gerrard Mr. Hawranik Mr. Maloway (Vice-Chairperson) Mr. Martindale Mr. Santos Mr. Schuler Hon. Mr. Selinger Mr. Swan Your Committee elected Mr. Derkach as the Chairperson at the December 6, 2006, meeting.

Committee Membership for the December 14, 2006, meeting: Mr. Aglugub Mr. Cummings Mr. Derkach (Chairperson) Mr. Hawranik Mr. Lamoureux Mr. Maloway (Vice-Chairperson) Mr. Martindale Mr. Santos Mr. Schuler Hon. Mr. Selinger Mr. Swan Committee Membership for the February 22, 2007, meeting: Mr. Aglugub Mr. Derkach (Chairperson) Mr. Faurschou Mr. Hawranik Mr. Lamoureux Mr. Maguire Mr. Maloway (Vice-Chairperson) Mr. Martindale Mr. Santos Hon. Mr. Selinger Mr. Swan Committee Membership for the August 15, 2007, meeting: Mr. Derkach Mrs. Driedger Mr. Faurschou Ms. Howard Ms. Korzeniowski Mr. Lamoureux Mr. Maguire Mr.

Maloway Mr. Martindale Hon. Mr. Selinger Mr. Swan

256 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA September 25, 2007 Your committee elected Mr. Derkach as the Chairperson at the August 15, 2007, meeting. Your committee elected Mr. Maloway as the Vice- Chairperson at the August 15, 2007, meeting. Motions Your committee agreed to the following motions at the November 25, 2004, meeting: THAT the Public Accounts Committee call forward Bonnie Mitchelson, Member for River East, and the Minister of Health to respond to questions on the issue of Hydra House. THAT this Committee adjourn, with the agreement that at the next meetin g of the Public Accounts Committee, Mrs.

Mitchelson continue to answer questions regarding the Au ditor General’s report on Hydra House Ltd. Your committee agreed to the following motion at the December 6, 2006, meeting: That the Public Accounts Committee deal with the Auditor General’s Report – Examination of the Crocus Investment Fund until 8:15 p.m. and at that time deal with the Environmental Audit until 9:00 p.m., and that the Committee also meet until 9:30 p.m. to consider the Crocus Report, following the review of the Province of Manitoba’s management of contaminated sites which will conclude at 9:00 p.m. at the latest.

Your committee agreed to the following motions at the February 22, 2007, meeting: That the letter tabled by the Member for Lac du Bonnet be added to the agenda and dealt with not later than 6:45 p.m. tonight. That this committee request that the Auditor General, in accordance with her discretion under

section 16(1) of the Auditor General Act, consider an examination and audit into the “Spirited Energy” campaign. Officials Speaking on Record Officials speaking on the record at the September 7, 2004, meeting: Mr. Jon Singleton, Auditor General Ms. Bonnie Lysyk, Deputy Auditor General and Chief Operating Officer Officials speaking on the record at the September 8, 2004, meeting: Mr. Jon Singleton, Auditor General Ms. Bonnie Lysyk, Deputy Auditor General and Chief Operating Officer Officials speaking on the record at the November 25, 2004, meeting: Mr. Jon Singleton, Auditor General Ms.

Bonnie Lysyk, Deputy Auditor General and Chief Operating Officer Mrs. Mitchelson Officials speaking on the record at the December 6, 2006, meeting: Carol Bellringer, Auditor General Bonnie Lysyk, Deputy Auditor General and C.O.O. Hon. Mr. Struthers Don Cook, Deputy Minister of Conservation Officials speaking on the record at the December 14, 2006, meeting: Hon. Mr. Rondeau Hon. Ms. Melnick Officials speaking on the record at the February, 22, 2007, meeting: Hon. Ms.

Melnick Carol Bellringer, Auditor General Officials speaking on the record at the August 15, 2007, meeting: Martin Billinkoff, Deputy Minister of Family Services and Housing Carol Bellringer, Auditor General Hon. Mr. Mackintosh Hon. Ms.

Oswald Heather Reichert, Acting Deputy Minister of Health Don Norquay, Acting Deputy Minister of Water Stewardship Reports Considered and Passed At the August 15, 2007, meeting your committee considered and passed the following reports as presented: Auditor General's Report – Investigation of Hydra House Ltd. and A Review of the Related Department of Family Services and Housing Financial Accountability Framework dated June 2004

September 25, 2007 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 257 Auditor General's Report – Follow-up on Previously Issued Recommendations on Business Planning and Performance Measurement Report dated December 2003 Auditor General's Report – Environmental Audits – Review of the Province of Manitoba's Management of Contaminated Sites and the Protection of Well Water Quality in Manitoba dated November 2005 Reports Considered but not Passed At the August 15, 2007, meeting your committee considered the following report but did not pass it: Auditor General's Report – An Examination of RHA Governance in Manitoba dated January 2003 Mr.

Derkach: Mr. Speaker, I move, seconded by the honourable Member for Sp ringfield (Mr. Schuler), that the report of the committee be received. Motion agreed to. TABLING OF REPORTS Hon. Rosann Wowchuk (Minis ter of Agriculture, Food and Rural Initiatives): Mr. Speaker, I'm pleased to table the following report: Manitoba Agriculture, Food and Rural Initiatives, Supple- mentary Information for Legislative Review: 2007- 2008 Departmental Expenditure Estimates. Hon.

Stan Struthers (Min ister of Conservation): I am pleased to table for all members, the Supplementary Information for Legislative Review: 2007-2008 Departmental Expenditures for the Department of Manitoba Conservation. I'd also like to table the Supplementary Information for Legislative Review for the Sustainable Development Innovations Fund, 2007- 2008, Expenditure Estimates. Thank you. * (13:40) Hon. Peter Bjornson (M inister of Education, Citizenship and Youth): Mr.

Speaker, I am pleased to table for the House the Supplementary Information for Legislative Review for the Department of Manitoba Education, Citizenship and Youth 2007- 2008 Departmental Expenditure Estimates. Hon. Dave Chomiak (Minister of Justice and Attorney General): Mr. Speaker, I'd like to table the following annual report, Manitoba Justice, Supple- mentary Information for Legislative Review: 2007- 2008 Departmental Expenditure Estimates. MINISTERIAL STATEMENTS Tribute to Soldiers Killed in Afghanistan Hon. Gary Doer (Premier): Yes, I have a statement for the House. Mr.

Speaker, I rise today to acknowledge the loss of two Canadian soldiers who served their country with honour and distinction in Afghanistan. On behalf of the House and all Manitobans I would like to pay tribute to the lives of Private Lane Watkins and Captain Jeff Fran cis for their service to our country. Private Watkins was from Clearwater, Manitoba, and was stationed with the Edmonton-based 3rd Battalion Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry. Captain Francis, originally from New Brunswick, was stationed with the 1st Royal Canadian Horse Artillery in Shilo, Manitoba.

Their armoured vehicle was hit by a roadside bomb on July 4, 2007, as they were returning to their forward base following a joint operation with the Afghan national army. It is important we remember the men and women of our armed forces who put their lives on the line every day in the service to their country. These two exemplary citizens will be remembered for the difference they made in their country and the world. For their courage we are incredibly proud of them. I would like to extend my deepest condolences to both families for their loss. All Manitobans are grateful for their effort. Mr.

Speaker, after other members have made their statements, I would like to ask this House to join with me in a moment of silence to recognize the lives lived by Private Lane Watkins and Captain Jeff Francis. Mr. Hugh McFadyen (Leader of the Official Opposition): Mr. Speaker, I thank the Premier for the statement and we certainly agree that a moment of silence is appropriate in these circumstances to acknowledge the loss of these two fine young men who served our country in Afghanistan. I know the Member for Turtle Mountain (Mr. Cullen) was present at the memorial service for Private Watkins in Clearwater.

I, certainly, through family and other connections, know many members of that community and know what a profound impact the loss of that young man had on that community and, in particular, to his family and friends.

258 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA September 25, 2007 As well, the loss of Captain Jeff Francis was a great loss to his family and friends, as we know. Both of these young men were engaged in service in Afghanistan, working toward the establishment of a framework that would provide stability and security for the people of that country. It would provide a framework within which women could get an education and have all of the rights that would be expected and hoped for in any civilized society.

They're striving for many other objectives, some of them relating to the basic establishment of things like clean water and other basic necessities for the people of that country. So they've died in a great cause, Mr. Speaker, and we certainly are proud of them and support the Premier's request that we take a moment of silence. Thank you. Hon. Jon Gerrard (River Heights): I ask leave to speak to the Premier's statement. Mr. Speaker: Does the honourable member have leave? An Honourable Member: Leave. Mr. Speaker: Leave has been granted. Mr. Gerrard: Mr.

Speaker, I rise to join the other party leaders and the other members of the Legislature here in paying a tribute to Private Lane Watkins and Captain Jeff Francis and the efforts that they have made on behalf of all of us with the Canadian Forces in Afghanistan. I would like to offer and extend condolences to members of both families. I have had the opportunity to meet with Lane Watkins's mother in Clearwater when I was there during the summer and to offer my condolences personally.

Certainly, it has not been an easy time for the family and other members of the Clearwater community, and to them I say we certainly offer our condolences and our best wishes and thank Lane and Jeff for the efforts that they have made. I would agree with the others that we should be having a moment of silence and to pay tributes to both Private Lane Watkins and Captain Jeff Francis as an important signal of our appreciation for them. Mr. Speaker: It's been agreed to that we'll have a moment of silence. So all members, please rise. A moment of silence was observed. Hon. Dave Chomiak (Government House Leader): Mr.

Speaker, I wonder if I might seek leave of the House to revert momentarily to Tabling of Reports. Mr. Speaker: Is there agreement in the House to revert to Tabling of Reports? [Agreed] TABLING OF REPORTS Hon. Dave Chomiak (Government House Leader): Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and I thank the House. I would just like to table the signed copy of the Estimates order dated September 25, 2007. Mr. Speaker: Okay, I thank the honourable minister for that. Introduction of Guests Now, prior to Oral Questions, I'd like to draw the attention of honourable members to my left and right.

We have eight students who have been selected to serve as pages at this session. They are, beginning at my extreme right: Ms. Angela Cung, Ms. Karen Power, Mr. D. J. Levy, Ms. Laura Dutfield, Ms. Stacy McPhee, Ms. Jennifer Aho, Ms. Autumn Beardy, Mr. Adb Al Mageed Salem. On behalf of all honourable members, I welcome you, and we're pretty excited that you'll be with us for the duration of our sitting. So, welcome. I'd also like to draw the attention of honourable members to the public gallery where we have with us today some parents of the 2007-2008 legislative pages.

On behalf of all honourable members, I also welcome you here today. I'd also like to draw the attention of honourable members to the Speaker's Gallery where we have with us six individuals who were appointed to the Manitoba Legislative Internship Program for 2007- 2008. In accordance with established practices, three interns were assigned to the government caucus and three to the official opposition caucus. Their term of employment is 10 months. They will be performing a variety of research and other tasks for private members.

These interns commenced their assign- ments in September and will complete them in June. They are, working with the government caucus, Ms. Andrea Dyck of the University of Manitoba, Ms. Katie Strachan of the University of Manitoba and Mr. Daniel Voth of the University of Winnipeg. Working with the caucus of the official opposition, Mr. Matthew Hamilton of the University of Winnipeg, Ms. Ash-Lei Lewandoski of the University of Brandon and Ms. Elisabeth Saftiuk of the University of Manitoba.

September 25, 2007 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 259 Copies of their biographies have been distributed to members. Professor Jean Friesen looks after the academic portion of the internship. The adminis- tration of the program is carried out by our Clerk, Patricia Chaychuk. The caucus representatives on the internship administration committee are the Member for St. James (Ms. Korzeniowski) and the Member for Portage la Prairie (Mr. Faurschou).

I would like to take this opportunity on behalf of all members to congratulate the interns on their appointment to the program and to hope that they will have a very interesti ng and successful year with the Assembly. I would also like to draw attention of honourable members to the loge to my left, where we have with us Mr. Binx Remnant, who is a former Clerk of this House. On behalf of all members I also welcome you to the Chamber. * (13:50) ORAL QUESTIONS Child Welfare System Effects of Policy Changes Mr. Hugh McFadyen (Leader of the Official Opposition): Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

While nobody in this House, including the Premier, would have wanted this outcome, we know from reports of tragedies and reports of front-line workers our child welfare system in this province is in chaos. This NDP government has failed children and families by pursuing policies that have put politics and theory ahead of the best interests of children. Since unleashing these policy changes seven years ago, the Premier has now gone through four ministers of Family Services and is now on his fourth Deputy Minister of Family Services.

This revolving door of ministers and deputy ministers is the Premier's smokescreen in an attempt to run away from accountability for the leadership and manage- ment of this system which ultimately rests with him and his office. The ever-changing leadership and conflicting guidelines within the system have confused front- line workers and created chaos. Social workers who are overworked and unsupported by government have left, and those that remain are overworked. One former social worker who was quoted this morning in the Winnipeg Free Press said, "Workers were anxious and afraid.

This unsettling period, coupled with the daily stressors of the job, made for terrible working conditions." The children, Mr. Speaker, are ultimately the ones who pay the price of the chaos and instability stemming from these failures. Decisions are made that can have tragic and sometimes fatal consequences. Will the Premier, in light of what has taken place under his watch, now take personal responsibility for his failure to deal with chaos created by his decisions, decisions today that are having tragic consequences? Hon. Gary Doer (Premier): Mr.

Speaker, first of all, all of us in this Ho use, whenever there is a tragedy of children in care or children out of care, whenever a child dies or is injured or is hurt or is put in a vulnerable situation, everyone in this Chamber I'm sure their heart aches and the pain of that tragedy is felt by all Manitobans. It has been ever thus because I think it's safe to say that the best child welfare system is actually no child welfare system.

A safe environment at home with loving parent or parents, strong support with families, is still the best alternative for any child and that's something I believed long before politics when I was a volunteer with kids, and I believe today. A family and a safe environment is still the goal of all of us for all our children and all children indeed in the country.

I also would want to point out that the paramountcy of care, the paramountcy of children and their safety remains the ultimate goal of the child welfare act, and it is still the goal of any worker, any agency, any court and any government in the law to ensure the children are given as safe an environment as possible and that remains today, as it did before and it remains today even with changes that were made in the law in 1997 by adding culture as part of the care, and it's something that was carried on and passed by all parties in this Legislature.

In terms of the individual tragedies, there are investigations and accountability that people and Manitobans require and are going to get. In the case of Phoenix Sinclair, the young child, we have already promised, and we are committed, to having an independent judicial inquiry after the very serious charges of murder, alleged murder rather, have been adjudicated in the courts. And we remain committed to that accountability in the case of another tragedy this summer. There is an ongoing investigation under

section 4 of the child welfare act, and anything that is produced to us will be implemented as recom- mendations.

260 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA September 25, 2007 We could look at some of the statements made by the Leader of the Opposition, but I would say that the decisions that we made were recommended by a number of different independent bodies. I want to assure Manitobans that those of us who have worked with kids in the past remain committed to their best interest into the future. Mr. McFadyen: Mr. Speaker, there is no debate in this House in terms of the intent and the wishes of any member of the House, including the Premier and his minister.

The issue is the fact that, and it's well documented and established, subsequent to a series of policy directions and decisions that were made by the Premier and his Cabinet around 2000 and 2001, a series of changes were undertaken very, very quickly that resulted in a rapid transfer of many case files that resulted in significant responsibilities being handed to staff who were then overwhelmed by the workload and left with unclear guidelines and directions as to what should guide them when they have to make the very difficult, in some cases life- and-death decisions, that they are put in charge of making.

When you consider the responsibility that any given worker has within the system it is an awesome responsibility, and they need the support, and they need clarity from those who are at the top of government, and they need to know that there is accountability at the end of the day for decisions. The number of tragedies, as we know, has gone up significantly in the last couple of years. The evidence of decision taking that came about as a result of blurry accountability and unclear criteria for making decisions has come forward not from us, Mr.

Speaker, but from front-line social workers who are dealing with these cases day in and day out. These are the direct result. One decision, the decision of the Premier and his Cabinet to pursue a set of policies in a rushed and hurried way without adequate follow-up and oversight, led to a series of situations, some of which cost children their lives.

So I want to ask the Premier: Given the conflicting and unclear policies guiding workers, given the blurring of the lines of accountability that have taken place under his watch, will the Premier commit today to taking action to replace the current policy of confusion and conflict with a policy that is crystal clear, and that is, that workers are to be guided by one criteria which overrides everything else. And that criteria is what is in the best interest of this child in the reality of these circumstances. Mr. Doer: Mr.

Speaker, it's certainly not appropriate to get into an issue of statistics today because any tragedy in any year at any time and under any Premier is a tragic situation. Any loss of life that could have been prevented is a serious matter for anyone in this Legislature. * (14:00) I would point out that there are clear and have always been clear legislative instructions to all of us on children, and those have not been changed by us. The paramountcy of child protection is under the child welfare act.

The paramount law: children must be cared for in the best inte rest of the child, shall be the paramount consideration, children must be safe and protected, is clearly within the law, Mr. Speaker, and it's clearly within the guidelines for all agencies. I would also point out that there were recommendations to this Legislature by an inde- pendent judicial inquiry. They were also given to the Legislature with caution, dealing with any stumbling that would take place and the kind of accountability that would go on with that situation. We do promise accountability.

We are willing to and able to be subjected to cross-examination in an independent judicial inquiry with the Phoenix Sinclair case. We believe that some of the allegations and statements and comments that have been made can or cannot be substantiated in cross-examination after the criminal charges of alleged murder have been dealt with in a court of law as they appropriately should be dealt with. I also would point out, Mr. Speaker, that there are life-and-death decisions that are made by social workers under any system.

The issue of the safety of a child and the issue of the emotional care of a child is always of paramount consideration to individuals who are dealing with the 7,000 kids in care today in Manitoba. Every day, child welfare workers make life-and-death decisions, and most of the time, if not all of the time, they make the right decisions. They make decisions on the basis of safety of a child, which is paramount under the law.

The emotion that one can get, and the emotional care that a child will get as close as they can be with a parent that is, hopefully, loving, with a family that, hopefully, cares and every day with different, not different but with guidelines that are very st raightforward, there are judgments that are made by good people that are working in very difficult circumstances with very vulnerable children by definition. The 7,000 children in care are vulnerable children, and people are

September 25, 2007 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 261 making good decisions every day and making the right decisions every day. So I just want to say on behalf of this Legislature that we recognize that it is not a simple matter to look at the safety of a ch ild in terms of physical care and the emotional best interest of a child, and I want to say that I think the 7,000 kids in care are–I just want to applaud the people on the front lines every day that are doing what they can for those children. Mr. McFadyen: Mr.

Speaker, we certainly applaud those people who work within the system on the front lines every day, and we think it's regrettable when their representatives, the union that represents them, and Mr. Olfert, who I know is close to the Premier, were raising concerns back some time ago, that those concerns were not properly taken into account in terms of the way the transition was taking place. The Premier talks about, ideally, let's keep kids with their family, and in most circumstances, that is what we should be doing, Mr. Speaker. Nobody can disagree with that objective.

The fact is that families who come into contact with the child welfare system are there by virtue of the fact that there is some issue or problem within that family that prevents them, for whatever reason, from providing the sort of care, support, sustenance and safety that's required for their children. So, to blindly attempt to put children back with a family when the reason they're in the system in the first place is because of problems with that family is to put incoherent and sentimental considerations ahead of the reality of what's happening with these kids in these circumstances.

So the incoherence of the Premier's answer to this question and the attempt to respond with platitudes instead of reflecting the reality of what's going on within the system is, in effect, putting his head in the sand and ignoring not what we are saying in this House, Mr. Speaker, but what his front-line workers are telling him. He said last year in Estimates, Mr. Speaker, that transition is difficult, but we feel, over the longer haul, this is going to be safer to get kids close to their own families. It's going to be safer.

Well, the fact is that, in some circumstances, that defies logic when the family setting can't provide the degree of safety that's required. So I want to ask the Premier to get beyond the platitudes, to move beyond recommendations that were made a decade ago which, in practice today, are not serving Manitoba's children very well, and to admit that conflicting standards and blurry accountability are failing Manitoba children.

We acknowledge that in ideal circumstances family reunification and preservation of culture are objectives that could be pursued, but in the reality of where we are today, those must take a back seat to what is in the best interests of the children. So, will the Premier today issue a clear directive that the best interests of children trumps any and all considerations, including cultural considerations? Mr. Doer: Mr. Speaker, again, I have worked with social workers. I used to represent them. I was a volunteer at a drop-in centre that became the Boys and Girls Clubs, working with social workers on the front line.

I care about what they say, but I also consider the reports that we have been given as a society, and reports that have been confirmed over and over and over again. I would point out, just so you know, and I am surprised you are not aware of this, that the word "culture" was added by the former government in 1997 to the criteria, and appropriately so. But the weakening of the guidelines– paramountcy of the child is the No. 1 criteria under the law for all directors, all social workers, all courts, the Child Advocate, Mr. Speaker.

And I have sat down with social workers that have been involved in life-and-death decisions in the past, long before I was involved in politics. There are 7,000 children in care now. That is not a guideline that says do not protect children. There are 7,000 kids in care. And, yes, because of the advice of social workers and the stress that they are under, we have increased the number, and we increased the number again last year. We didn't do a good enough job on foster parents. The rate s – w h e n w e r e v e r s e d s o m e o f t h e cutbacks on foster parents, and I acknowledge that we didn't go far enough.

We have increased it by a number of amounts last year and have over 500 foster parent placements since a year ago, but I acknowledge that the system has to be accountable. We are prepared to look at all issues of accountability. I am confident that the inquiry that is going to be held will completely disclose the fact that all the advice on transition– Some Honourable Members: Oh, oh. Mr. Doer: All the advice dealt with the issue of paramountcy of the benefit, the child welfare benefit,

262 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA September 25, 2007 to the child. Always. And appropriately, by all the agencies. The status quo, Mr. Speaker, has been identified in a 400-page report last year conducted by the Ombudsman, the Child Advocate, the chief child psychologist at the Manitoba Adolescent Treatment Centre and other first-line Aboriginal people. It has been stated that the system was broken before the changes were made, but having said that, I don't take any comfort and no one in this Chamber should take any comfort when a child is in the child welfare system and perishes in a situation.

And there are criminal charges, to be sure, that have been laid in those situations. But yes, acco untability should be at all parts of the system, including every minister and the Premier, in government. West Nile Virus Government's Response Mr. Kelvin Goertzen (Steinbach): Mr. Speaker, this year alone there have been 542 Manitobans that have been diagnosed with the West Nile virus, and the clock is still running.

Experts in the field saw the early warning signs that this would be a particularly dangerous and deadly year for West Nile virus, and yet the Minister of Health failed to give adequate warnings and failed to take strong action to combat the virus. Mr. Speaker, why did the Minister of Health fail to act on those early warnings and instead put the risk of many, many thousands of Manitobans' health at risk? * (14:10) Hon. Theresa Oswald (Minister of Health): Before answering, I do want to take an opportunity to welcome the member opposite to his new portfolio.

In all seriousness, it's a very important job, and I do wish him well in his pursuit of that. I would say, Mr. Speaker, however, that the member opposite is not correct in his facts on his first question. We have, on the advice of the Chief Medical Officer of Health, ensured that a public communication strategy was in place. Indeed, we extended that public communication strategy. We extended our larviciding program this year on the advice of experts, and we extended the spraying program across Manitoba. Mr. Speaker: Order. The honourable minister's time's up. Mr.

Goertzen: Earlier this month, in California, a place that this government likes to take lots of advice from, California declared a state of emergency as a result of West Nile virus. California, with 30 million people, declared that state of emergency with only 56 cases of West Nile virus. Here in Manitoba, with a million people and nearly 600 cases of West Nile virus, this government sends out brochures that tell people to wear light clothing and to stay at home at suppertime.

Why did the NDP Minister of Health have such a pathetic response to such a pressing problem when other jurisdictions have taken this issue much more seriously, Mr. Speaker? Ms. Oswald: I'm not certain if I heard correctly, but I do think I heard the new critic for Health belittle the importance of personal protection, the single most important thing that an individual can do to protect against West Nile virus, and certainly the No. 1 recommendation of the Chief Medical Officer of Health. I would note that the number of cases to date recorded in Manitoba is 504.

We know that in regions surrounding us like Saskatchewan, the total number to date is 1,054, Mr. Speaker. We know that we are working on programs different in different provinces. Certainly, we can suggest from those numbers that some of our interventions are working. The member opposite is incorrect in his statements. Mr. Goertzen: Let's be clear. I was belittling this minister's poor response to what is a very serious, serious issue in the province. Mr.

Speaker, despite all the early warnings and despite the experts saying that this was going to be a significant issue this year, the minister sent out brochures throughout the year, already when she knew it was going to be a significant issue that says, and I quote, and they had it in bold, "The risk of developing illness from West Nile virus is generally low." She was telling people that the risk was low at a time when she knew, in fact, that the risk was high. California has a state of emergency for 56 cases. Manitoba tells people that the risk is low when we have almost 600 cases.

Why should we believe that she could take care of a virus, a significant pandemic virus with no warning, when she had all the warning, she still couldn't get it done?

September 25, 2007 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 263 Ms. Oswald: We know that we take advice, and very good advice, from the Chief Medical Officer of Health who has indeed agreed that we have taken the most aggressive action on West Nile virus that we have in any other year. Our action started in 2002 when we made amendments to The Environment Act and, indeed, in comprehensive terms, the information that we gave to the public, the larviciding that was done and the issuing of health orders to 19 communities. That is more than all of the other years combined.

In order to do mosquito mitigation, we worked together with the Chief Medical Officer of Health on medical advice. We don't take advice from the member opposite making cheap political points. Stubble Burning Results of Ban Mr. Ralph Eichler (Lakeside): Mr. Speaker, on August 29, without warning, the Doer government enacted a province-wide stubble burning ban. Days later, the government flip-flopped and lifted the ban. Producers burned to make up for lost time. Heavy smoke blanketed most of southern Manitoba, including the city of Winnipeg. Mr.

Speaker, can the Minister of Agriculture explain why this government rushed to enact a ban without fully examining the serious consequences that could arise when it was lifted? Hon. Rosann Wowchuk (Minis ter of Agriculture, Food and Rural Initiatives): Mr. Speaker, it doesn't speak well for the opposition when their next question after a question on health, now a question of agriculture, they don't have their facts right. The member opposite should know that there is a ban on burning from August 1 to the end of November, Mr. Speaker. There's a ban on every day.

It only happens on those days when the burning conditions are right that people are allowed to burn. In the situation that we were facing, there were people who were burning when it was not a burning day. There were accidents that occurred, and the people who advised us said that we should step back and review this matter. Mr. Eichler: Mr. Speaker, Manitobans are listening, are very angry and frustrated the way this government mismanaged stubble burning. There seems to be both an educational and enforcement issue here.

In recent weeks we've seen this government spend a lot of money educating people on other threatening issues. Mr. Speaker, can the Minister of Agriculture explain if, in the weeks leading up to the ban, her staff worked with producers to educate them about alternatives to stubble burning? Ms. Wowchuk: Absolutely, Mr. Speaker. My department works on an ongoing basis with people in the agriculture industry looking at alternates to burning straw, looking for better methods to incorporate straw back into the soil.

But we do have a smoking ban that is in place, that was put in place under the previous administration, that set times out when burning would not be allowed and a process whereby burning of stubble would be approved. We continue to work on new technology and live within the regulation that the previous government put in place. Mr. Eichler: Mr. Speaker, prod ucers will tell you that stubble burning is not the preferred way to manage crop residue, but at times it is needed.

Producers want alternatives to uses for straw that will add value to it, and Manitobans want assurances that what happened a few weeks ago will not be repeated. Mr. Speaker, can the Minister of Agriculture assure Manitobans that its panic-driven mismanage- ment, knee-jerk reaction response with respect to stubble burning won't be repeated? Ms. Wowchuk: I can assure the member opposite that we will continue to work with the agriculture community as they get through this fall's harvest and in harvests in the future, Mr. Speaker.

We will continue to work to look at new opportunities and new technologies where straw can be incorporated into the soil. We all know that that's the best way to use straw. Unfortunately, it can't always work that way, and when there is a need to burn, it's important that the farmers who are burning follow the law and look to the Web site and to the call line to find out whether or not they can burn on a particular day. I would encourage the member opposite to encourage farmers as well to call into the stubble burning line to see whether it is legal to burn or not, rather than trying to create pandemonium.

Lake Winnipeg Water Quality Mrs. Heather Stefanson (Tuxedo): Mr. Speaker, it is no secret to children, to Manitobans and to tourists to our province who like to frequent our beaches, that there is a serious water quality issue with Lake Winnipeg. One need look no further than the

264 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA September 25, 2007 warning signs that were po sted on our beaches some 25 times this summer on Lake Winnipeg alone. Mr. Speaker, after eight years in power, why has this government failed to yield real results to the water quality issue so that our children may safely enjoy playing on our beaches? Hon. Christine Melnic k (Minister of Water Stewardship): Mr. Speaker, I think it's important to put on the record that our beaches are monitored through the Clean Beaches Program, a program that was set up by this government in 2003.

We regularly monitor about 60 beaches on a daily basis during the time that Manitobans are us ing the beaches. It's very important that we are letting Manitobans know if there is a concern, what type of concern that is. We will continue to work with that program to inform Manitobans, to provide employment for the youth in Manitoba and to make sure that we are in fact watching what is happening on Lake Winnipeg. * (14:20) Mrs. Stefanson: But what Manitobans are looking for from this government is real results, Mr. Speaker.

Lake Winnipeg is the 10th largest freshwater lake in the world and this government has a responsibility to protect it. There have been a number of announcements, round table discussions and open houses with no results. It has already been eight years. When can Manitobans expect to see results or is it the strategy of this government to make the warning signs on our beaches permanent fixtures? Ms. Melnick: Well, it is in fact the intention of this government to work to clean up Lake Winnipeg, Mr. Speaker. That's why the Premier (Mr. Doer) created the first Department of Water Stewardship in the history of Canada.

That is why we passed The Water Protection Act, the first of its kind in Canada. That's why we passed The Drinking Water Safety Act, the first of its kind in Canada. That's why we started the Office of Drinking Water. During the 1990s there were two drinking water officers in Manitoba. Now there are 14, Mr. Speaker. That's why– Some Honourable Members: Oh, oh. Mr. Speaker: Order. Ms. Melnick: That is why we put a pause on the expansion and development of hog barns which members opposite opposed, Mr. Speaker.

That is why we have brought in some of the strictest regulations in Manitoba which the Leader of the Opposition opposed when he was running for his leadership. That is why we have brought in nutrient limits so that the nutrient levels will eventually go down in Lake Winnipeg, all opposed by members opposite. Tax Regime Reform Mr. Rick Borotsik (Brandon West): Mr. Speaker, even the Finance Minister must know by now that the Canadian dollar has reached par with the American dollar. He should also know that Manitoba exports 76 percent of its goods and services to the U.S. market.

In order to be competitive in an ever-increasing competitive market, Manitoba must establish a level playing field when it comes to taxation. Is the minister going to continue to keep his head firmly buried in the sand, or is he finally going to become proactive and reform our punitive tax regime? Hon. Greg Selinger (Minister of Finance): First of all, Mr. Speaker, I'd like to welcome the Member for Brandon West to the House. While he was on vacation, he would have noted that Manitobans' manufacturing shipments are 14.2 percent up this year. He would note also that the Canadian average is 0.6 of 1 percent.

In other words, Manitoba is performing 25 times greater than the Canadian average in the country. He would have also noted in his summer reading, which I'm sure he was doing diligently, that in five of the last six years we've been above the Canadian average. With respect to measures that we've taken, he would have noted in the spring budget, which we will have ample opportunity to discuss in Estimates, that we've made many measures. Manitoba Economy Effects of Exchange Rate Mr. Rick Borotsik (Brandon West): Mr.

Speaker, the Finance Minister should also realize that he's dealing with a six-to-eight-month lag time. That's not the case it is today in the window today. The minister has failed miserably and he should know that the economy is in peril. The Manitoba GDP will be affected. Cattle producers are selling below cost. Manufacturing is losing jobs. Manitoba payrolls as of today, Mr. Speaker, are less than they were yesterday.

September 25, 2007 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 265 From all I've ever heard from the minister, he's prepared to do nothing. The last time the economy failed in 2001, by the way, the minister raided Manitoba Hydro for $203 million to pay off his fiscal financial folly. Is he going to be proactive now or will he continue to go down with his fiscally inept ship? Hon. Greg Selinger (Minister of Finance): I'm very sorry the members notes slipped off the table and he lost his place in the script, Mr.

Speaker, because if he would have actually done his homework instead of follow the script, he would have noted that we have 4,400 additional jobs in Manitoba since the start of January 2007. Yes there has been a decline in manufacturing jobs across the country but Manitoba has gone against the trend. We have more manufacturing jobs in this province now than we did last year by 4,400. Spirited Energy Campaign Expense Claims for Alcohol Mrs. Leanne Rowat (Minnedosa): Mr. Speaker, we all know and remember– Some Honourable Members: Oh, oh. Mr. Speaker: Order.

I need to be able to hear the questions and the answers in case there's a breach of a rule. I ask the co-operation of all honourable members. The honourable Member for Minnedosa has the floor. Mrs. Rowat: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. We all know and remember it was an expense claim for a $1.29 pack of gum that brought down David Dingwall. Imagine if Mr. Dingwall had made his expense claim for beer and wine. Well, imagine no more, Mr. Speaker, for indeed beer and wine have been billed to the Manitoba taxpayer for the development of the Spirited Energy campaign. I ask the Minister of Competitiveness (Mr.

Rondeau) how many bottles of beer does it take for the NDP to develop a slogan as bad as Spirited Energy. Hon. Greg Selinger (Acting Minister of Competitiveness, Training and Trade): Mr. Speaker, the members will know that at Standing Committee of the Public Accounts that we all agreed to do an audit of the Spirited Energy campaign.

We know that the government spending was about $2.9 million, far less than many other jurisdictions, some of which we're very aware of, but because the Office of the Auditor General is an independent office and have now received a mandate from the committee, a unanimous mandate from the committee to review these matters, we will wait for their analysis and their report and then we will have ample time to debate that. Mrs. Rowat: Mr. Speaker, I'd like to table a receipt made out to the Premier's Economic Advisory Council from the Sheraton Hotel.

This bill is for a total of $2,219.83 for room rentals, wine and beer and something called a Mediterranean buffet. The bill indicates that a good deal of money was spent on beer and wine, but the number of bottles have been blacked out. I ask the Minister of Co mpetitiveness to clarify how many bottles of wine and beer were consumed, or was the total so high that no one remembers? Mr. Selinger: Mr. Speaker, all of those receipts were released for the review of the Auditor General. They will make appropriate comment on those expenses to decide whether they were reasonable or unreasonable.

The important thing is is that all the information has been made available to the public and the Auditor General, and they will be reviewed accordingly. Mrs. Rowat: I guess it's connect the dots, Mr. Speaker, on this. There's a lot of black dots on this invoice. To have Manitoba taxpayers foot the bill for beer and wine billed und er the Spirited Energy campaign is both absurd and an insult to Manitobans. We knew all along that the nearly $3-million Spirited Energy campaign was a faile d expense of taxpayer funding. Mr.

Speaker, I am asking the Minister of Competitiveness why did the government see the need to black out or censor the number of bottled spirits consumed for the Spirited Energy campaign. Mr. Selinger: Mr. Speaker, I thank the member for the copy of the bill.

I can tell the member that I'm informed that most of the people in attendance at this event were volunteers, people contributing their time, business people from the community, all of whom have made contributions of their talents, their time and resources in some cases to support this campaign, Spirited Energy, all across the province, to rebrand the province as a place where there is a dynamic economy which is growing faster than the Canadian average, where there are exciting

266 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA September 25, 2007 developments in many sectors of the economy. As I said earlier, this document, any documents that the Auditor General will review and comment on in due course. Thank you. Child Welfare System Connection to Increased Crime Hon. Jon Gerrard (River Heights): Mr. Speaker, the Child and Family Service system in Manitoba is designed to identify children at risk, to provide these children with opportunities to grow and develop as good citizens and have the opportunities in Manitoba that they should have.

But, here in our province, tragic failures of the Child and Family Service system under this government appear to be one of the significant reasons for increased crime in our province. Studies have shown that about one-half of the children who get involved with the criminal justice system are children who've been involved with child welfare services. I ask the Premier (Mr. Doer): Why has today's NDP so tragically managed the Child and Family Service system with the result that we have such major problems with increased crime in Manitoba? Hon. Gord Mackintosh (Minister of Family Services and Housing): Mr.

Speaker, the short- comings in the delivery of child welfare services, not just here but across this continent, have gone on too long. Indeed, as the Premier mentioned, with over 7,000 children in care, even the death of one child in care is nothing less than sickening. That is why, last October, when this government received the recommendations from the Children's Advocate and the Ombudsman, and others, after listening to over 700 front-line workers and other experts giving us 289 recommendations for change, this government accepted it.

That's why this government has put in place the Changes for Children initiative for a major overhaul in the child welfare system. Children deserve no less. That's what we're doing. * (14:30) Mr. Gerrard: Mr. Speaker, as the members of the government well know, there has been a huge increase in the number of children in care under their watch, showing a failure of the way they have supported children in this province. The Premier well knows that the Youth Criminal Justice Act specifically says provinces should not be offloading their child and family service system problems onto the criminal justice system.

It is time for the government to recognize the tragic consequences of the horrible failures in Child and Family Services under their watch. It is well known that the government has a specific duty toward children in care and that th ese children are at higher risk, both to themselves and, if not helped, to others. When will the Premier realize that his tragic failure to deal with the child and family service system and caring for children has had such terrible consequences for crime in Manitoba? Mr. Mackintosh: Mr.

Speaker, as significant parts of the Changes for Children initiative, that we are not quite through the first year of, the Province has, in this budget year alone, increased its investments in child welfare by 25 percent; I think one of the biggest increases that can be found anywhere in the Estimates book. But it's not just a matter of more investments, it's a matter of more foster parents. This is where Manitobans have come forward, as we always know they are prepared to do, to open their hearts and their homes to be foster parents.

Four hundred and ninety-three new foster beds have been created, and we know we're not finished yet. We've increased the rates for foster parents. We're increasing it by another 10 percent on January 1. We're enhancing the training all across this province to deal with the challenges of not only the foster parents having to deal with multiple needs of the children, but for the child welfare workers. We're dealing with the challenge of workload relief, Mr. Speaker. That is just one piece of what has to be a multifaceted approach. Justice Committees Continuations Mr. Kevin Lamoureux (Inkster): Mr.

Speaker, when it comes to fighting crime, no government in Canada has been as worse or as bad as this current regime. Whether you talk about automobile theft or you talk about gang activities, whether you talk about grow-ops, whatever it might be, there is no government that has performed as poorly– Some Honourable Members: Oh, oh. Mr. Speaker: Order. The honourable Member for Inkster has the floor. Mr. Lamoureux: Mr. Speaker, my question to the Minister of Justice–his ac tion speaks louder than words, and we know he went to Ottawa, and they love to blame Ottawa.

Can the Minister of Justice tell us why the justice committees over the last number of years have virtually collapsed? I understand even

September 25, 2007 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 267 the joint chairs committee is folding. This is what I am being told. I ask the Minister of Justice: Why has this government given up on justice committees in the province of Manitoba? Hon. Dave Chomiak (Minister of Justice and Attorney General): Mr. Speaker, I agree with the Member for Inkster that actions speak a lot louder than words. I was very pleased to go with an all- party committee and hear the member's leader say he supports Manitoba's initiatives to change the Youth Criminal Justice Act.

But what actions speak louder words, I ask the Member for Inkster. Will he show that actions speak louder than words and demonstrate his own leadership, Mr. Speaker, and living up to his words in this Chamber that he would resign if the investigation came back and vindicated the government? He can set an example to all those Manitobans there and let his actions speak louder than his rather stray words. Mr. Speaker: Time for Oral Questions has expired. MEMBERS' STATEMENTS September 11, 2001 Anniversary Mr.

Hugh McFadyen (Leader of the Official Opposition): September 11, 2007, marked the sixth anniversary of the terrorist s attacks that took over 3,000 lives in 2001. As time passes, we all know how important it is that under no circumstances we forget the tragic events of September 11, 2001. Countless people lost family members, loved ones and friends. Heroes made the ultimate sacrifice to save the lives of others. This unspeakable tragedy touched close to home when we lost Dr. Christine Egan, a Manitoba woman, who died that terrible day. Let us always remember and honour each victim.

In memory of this disaster, a service was held at the International Peace Garden on September 11 of this year, located on the Canada-United States border between the state of North Dakota and the province of Manitoba. I had the pleasure of attending that service along with my colleague the Member for Arthur-Virden (Mr. Maguire ). As well, we were pleased to partake in a ceremony that was led by American Consul General, Mary Speer, and where we heard remarks from the Premier (Mr. Doer), the governor of North Dakota and others. The City of Winnipeg Police Pipe Band opened the event with a moving musical tribute.

We also heard from the firefighter who penned the moving song at the memorial to those firefighters from the Winnipeg fire department who lost their lives in that tragic fire earlier this year. Approximately 400 people gathered at the 9/11 memorial site in the Peace Garden. This permanent memorial has been constructed from 10 twisted pieces of steel which once stood as girders at the World Trade Center. Mr.

Speaker, at this time, I'd like to recognize the 45 firefighters from the Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service who were in attendance at the ceremony and also those firefighters who travelled from Brandon, Portage la Prairie and parts of the United States to be present at the event along with those involved in emergency medical services in a variety of capacities. The attacks of September 11, 2001, have left a permanent scar for both the United States, Canada and the world. In the midst of such tragedy, it's hoped that greater peace can be achieved between all nations.

I ask the members here today to show appreciation to the International Peace Garden for holding this event and also to thank those who made the service possible. Thank you. Historical Museum of St. James-Assiniboia Ms. Sharon Blady (Kirkfield Park): Museums are treasuries of our past and the guardians of our memories. On August 17, I was fortunate enough to present a grant to Bonita Hunter-Eastwood of the Historical Museum of St. James-Assiniboia in my riding of Kirkfield Park.

The funding was presented as part of the museum's annual Pioneer Days where the museum welcomes the community with various cultural activities reflecting the rich history and numerous cultures associated with early St. James. These activities included tours of the William Brown house by interpreters in the roles of Brown's Métis grandchildren and performances by hoop dancers. My children and I enjoyed these activities and the passion which the board and volunteers bring to preserving such a vital part of our historical legacy. The museum is a cornerstone of the neighbour- hood.

The Brown house is a two-storey Red River frame house built in 1856 and furnished with period pieces dating from 1860 to 1890. It is the oldest wooden home in the St. James area and is a vital connection to our fur trade and colonial history. The Historical Museum of St. James-Assiniboia also houses one-of-a-kind exhibits from the

268 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA September 25, 2007 immediate community as well as from neighbouring parishes. The collections serve a vital role in telling the stories of the Manitobans who came before us. For example, the exhibits on blacksmithing, farming and transportation in the 1911 Municipal Hall building remind us of our roots and the hard work that was needed to build our province. The tools that were used, to construct shelters, feed families, epitomize the many Manitobans' struggles to build lives for themselves with only meagre means. The museum has an integral role within the community.

During the summer months, community members put on environmental theatre that makes history come alive through performance art. The many outreach programs and interesting exhibits excite visitors about the history of the neighbourhood. I call on all honourable members to join me in congratulating the Historical Museum of St. James- Assiniboia for preserving a valuable part of community history for the enjoyment of generations to come. Their work truly is an asset to the community and the province as a whole. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. * (14:40) West Nile Virus Mr.

Rick Borotsik (Brandon West): The number of confirmed West Nile cases has reached record highs in Manitoba. Mr. Speaker, over 500 people are suffering from this outbreak. I was alarmed to learn about this NDP government's mishandling of the West Nile crisis. As a Manitoban and representative for Brandon, I want to know why more was not done when evidence indicated this would be a record year. I want to know why this dithering NDP government endangered the citizens of Brandon, my friends, my family, my neighbours.

The elderly, young children and those with weakened immune systems are more susceptible to developing the more serious form of this virus. This NDP government, Mr. Speaker, should have taken greater steps to protect th ose vulnerable groups and all Manitobans. They should have listened to the experts, seen the red flags and acted accordingly. Instead, we saw a continued negligence and gross incompetence. To perpetuate an NDP smokescreen they ignored the problem and put Manitobans at risk. The best prevention is a proactive approach and knowledge. There was a blatant failure to communicate, Mr.

Speaker, the genuine risk posed to the general public. The further spread of this virus could have been prevented. More aggressive action should have been taken. There has been no fogging in Brandon for several years. Regardless of arguments for or against the spraying of malathion, to be effective it has to be consistent, aggressive and earlier in the season. This ineffective government did not utilize the full advantage of a fogging strategy. Their delays are a disgrace. I call on the members opposite to learn from their blatant mistakes in handling the West Nile crisis in 2007.

If they repeat the same blunders and indecisive dithering in 2008, they will further endanger the lives of Manitobans and especially southwestern Manitobans. Not only am I embarrassed for them, I am appalled at their dereliction of duty. Stop playing politics with Manitobans' health. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Folklorama Volunteers Ms. Marilyn Brick (St. Norbert): Mr. Speaker, I would like to draw the attention of the House to students from Fort Richmond Collegiate who played an important role in the Caribbean pavilion during this summer's Folklorama festival.

Keshan Sankar and Chantel Paul, both grade 12 students originally from Trinidad and Tobago, worked together to choreograph a dance show at the Caribbean pavilion. Drawing on the Caribbean folklore of the island ghosts called the jumbi, the pair created an upbeat, fast-paced dance routine that also incorporated the depth of the pavilion's calypso theme. Chantel worked on the dance rou tine with 10 volunteers between the ages of 10 a nd 17 that she recruited while Keshan worked on remixing a popular song from Trinidad to fit specifically with the dance's choreography.

Begun in 1970 as a one-time event to celebrate Manitoba's Centennial, Folklorama just concluded a hugely successful 38th ye ar and has become the largest and longest running multicultural event of its kind in the world. The festival has grown from a one- week celebration with 21 pavilions in 1970 to a two- week pavilion with 45 diverse and well-loved pavilions that we know today. While the festival has grown substantially over the years, its mandate to showcase the cultural diversity of this city through traditional music, folk-dance and other cultural demonstrations has remained unchanged. Mr.

Speaker, I had the pleasure of visiting a number of pavilions this summer and ran into many of my constituents from St. Norbert volunteering

September 25, 2007 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 269 their time at the festival. All of Folklorama's pavilions are run by volunteers like Keshan Sankar and Chantel Paul. I am pleased to recognize these two students from Fort Richmond Collegiate, and I ask all members of the House to join me in thanking the approximately 20,000 other volunteers, some who have not missed a single Folklorama in 38 years. We want to thank them for the countless hours they put into ensuring the success of this festival. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Folklorama Mrs. Leanne Ro wat (Minnedosa): Mr.

Speaker, this year marked Folklora ma's 38th anniversary. It was, yet again, a very successful and truly memorable experience. There was a total of 45 pavilions at locations across Winnipeg to welcome visitors. The Leader of the Official Opposition (Mr. McFadyen), fellow Progressive Conservative colleagues and myself were privileged to experience over 100 pavilions. Folklorama gives all of us an opportunity to learn more about diverse cultures, to taste a multitude of food selections and to enjoy a variety of cultural entertainment, thus enabling us to experience Manitoba's multicultural citizenship.

I enjoyed the proud ethnicity demonstrated at each of the 23 pavilions I visited. The Filipino pavilion had a lively party and I was pleased to meet Philippine Consul Edda Pangilinan. The African pavilion was one of the most diverse pavilions in Folklorama representing over 50 countries. As the official opposition critic for Aboriginal and Northern Affairs, it was especially exciting to visit the Métis pavilion, and I was thrilled with the enthusiastic step-dancing of the young performers.

The quality of entertainment provided by the talented singers and dancers is outstanding, and I must applaud the young people who participated in this event, the visible pride in their heritage, and their active involvement in prom oting cultural awareness. There are far too many people to name individually, but I was impressed by the passion and knowledge of the youth ambassadors. Mr. Speaker, I ask the members here today to join me in celebrating the success of this year's festival.

I would also like to recognize and thank the more than 20,000 workers, volunteers, sponsors, performers and ambassadors for their dedication and hard work. Thank you to the great citizens of this province and for those from afar for their continued support of this unique multicultural celebration. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. House Business Mr. Speaker: The honourable Government House Leader, on House business? Hon. Dave Chomiak (Government House Leader): Yes, Mr. Speaker, on House business. Mr. Speaker, I understand the Member for River Heights (Mr.

Gerrard) ha s provided notice of bringing forward a matter of urgent public importance, and to that end I had discussions with the House leaders from both the Liberal Party and with the opposition.

I believe there's an agreement that two members from the Liberal Party, two members from the opposition, and two members from the Government House will speak for approximately an hour with respect to that matter of urgent public importance and, to that end, and it could be commenced with the Leader of the Liberal Party insofar as he brought the motion, and that we will ask that the House sit in Committee of Supply for an hour longer in order to deal with the time that is being utilized to deal with the matter of urgent public importance. I think I have unanimous consent of the House in that regard. Mr.

Speaker: Is there unanimous consent of the House to debate the MUPI that's been brought forward by the honourable Member for River Heights for approximately one hour and consisting of two speakers from the parties and the two independent members, and th at the hour used for the debate will be added on in the Committee of Supply? Is there agreement to that? [Agreed] I'll call on the honourable Member for River Heights to move his motion. MATTER OF URGENT PUBLIC IMPORTANCE Hon. Jon Gerrard (River Heights): Mr. Speaker, I move, seconded by the Member for Inkster (Mr.

Lamoureux), that under rule 36.1 the ordinary business of the House be set aside to discuss a matter of urgent public importance, namely the continued escalation in Manitoba of violent crimes against women and, in particular, the unsolved homicides of at least 19 sex trade workers in the past 25 years.

270 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA September 25, 2007 * (14:50) Mr. Speaker: By leave, it has been moved by the honourable Member for River Heights, seconded by the honourable Member for Inkster (Mr. Lamoureux), that under rule 36(1), the ordinary business of the House be set aside to discuss a matter of urgent public importance, namely the continued escalation in Manitoba of violent crimes against women and in particular the unsolved homicides of at least 19 sex trade workers in the past 25 years. Mr. Gerrard: Mr.

Speaker, I bring this forward at the earliest possible opportunity given the fact that there has been increasing attention and concern with the women in Manitoba who have been the basis for a series of unsolved murders. The latest, of course, of these is Fonessa Bruyere, who was murdered this last summer. The heightened awareness of this problem clearly is not just from what's happening in Manitoba but clearly results from events in Edmonton and in British Columbia which also are contributing to highlighting this particular issue.

In Manitoba in the last 25 years, there have been at least 19 female sex trade workers who've been killed and the crimes are still unsolved. It is time, Mr. Speaker, that we as elected officials in Manitoba recognize that there is a major and very serious problem in regard to violence against women in our province. It's time that we as provincial lawmakers start taking some responsibility to bring this issue forward and to look at actions that should be taken on an urgent basis. The fact that these women are sex trade workers does not diminish their humanity.

They are Manitobans and, as such, they need to be treated with the same respect and dignity as other Manitobans. Today, women are being murdered and their dead bodies dumped into fields, three dead women in the past six months. The issue of violence against women can no longer be downplayed as just another crime. How many more women will have to die before all of us as MLAs do something about it? I know many people in this room may not agree with the chosen professions of these women, but that is not the issue. It is not the issue at all. The issue here is the broad one of violence against women, pure and simple.

We have indeed had ceremonies, paid attention in one way or another to this, but it has risen to the point where mu ch more effective action is clearly needed. This violence appears to be on the increase in Manitoba, and more and more of our citizens are becoming afraid to walk down our streets at night, sometimes even in daylight. We have to address this urgent matter, and it's time that we make changes because one more dead or injured woman or frightened woman is one too many. Over the time that I've been in this Legislature, I have had many people come forward with issues related to violence against women.

It is a much broader issue in our province when we are talking about the spectrum of violence against women. One person with whom I have talked fairly frequently and who's been a very strong advocate in this area is my sister-in-law, Nikki Gerrard, who has co-edited a book entitled Intimate Partner Violence. I've highlighted this issue on quite a number of occasions on my blog, and it is important, given what has happened recently, that we are taking forward in this Chamber the issue and bringing to bear the views, the opinions, of members of the Legislature from all parties. It is sad, Mr.

Speaker, when we have a situation, as I did recently, when a young woman came to me and said she was more afraid to be walking at night in Winnipeg than to be walking at night in New York. When somebody, a woman, feels safer walking at night in New York City than in Winnipeg, we have a problem. We have a problem that we'd better deal with and much more is needed at the provincial level.

Now, I'm aware that there is a task force of, I think it's deputy ministers working across the country who are going to bring forward some recommendations sometime next year, but I don't believe that we want to wait until sometime next year for recommendations and for who knows when for their implementation. We need to take action now and we need to take this from the realm of bureaucrats to the realm of politicians and public discussion and public input. Ms. Marilyn Brick, Acting Speaker, in the Chair Politicians need to get involved, in the wide variety of ways that we can.

I'm pleased that members of other parties ha ve seen fit to sanction and to agree with this debate and discussion today and I believe that it is timely and it is important that we move forward with some real meaning initiatives here in Manitoba to make a difference. Thank you. Hon. Dave Chomiak (Minister of Justice and Attorney General): Madam Acting Speaker, I'm

September 25, 2007 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 271 very pleased to have the opportunity that we have to deal with this tragic matter. I'm glad we can deal with it in an all-party function. I want to deal with this specific issue. The member strayed into some different issues.

The one thing that I think is really significant is that we have all-party support both on what we did in Ottawa and the fact that the member–the opportunity to discuss these things works both ways and it means that not only is it an opportunity for the public to find out but for the member to find out that there is a task force working nationally on this issue. First and foremost, as the Minister of Justice, in this matter one has to be very careful in terms of comments that I make with respect to this specific issue.

I do want to outlin e for the member and for members of this House that a number of actions have taken place independent of the Chamber, and the members, I think, will be very interested in being alerted to. First off, that there is now a Web site maintained by the police services of Manitoba with respect to missing persons. It is updated daily and is provided. Just in terms of statistics the RCMP have identified 123 missing people: 103 males, 20 females; Brandon Police Services, two: one male, one female; Winnipeg Police Service: 38.

That's over the last 50 years, Madam Acting Speaker, with respect to an updated Web site. The second very important aspect of this debate, Madam Acting Speaker, is the fact that we have a national problem and we have a local problem and we have to resolve the issue on both fronts.

We have a significant issue with respect to individuals who are involved in high-risk activities who are more exposed to difficulty and it is our job to try to get these individuals and to tr y to provide assistance to them to move them from a high-risk category to a lesser risk category and therefore deal, not put them in harms way. * (15:00) We have, Madam Acting Speaker, a series of programs that have been put in place by the government in a variety of fashions that deal with individuals in high-risk activities and, in fact, we have provided to the police and investigative authorities additional resources to deal with high-risk individuals as a result of some of the matters that have come to our attention.

I can indicate that there has been constant discussion between the investigative services and various aspects of the justice system dealing with these issues. I can indicate that there are ongoing investigations, and I can indicate that one of the recent cases that occurred in Winnipeg, there has been a suspect charged with respect to a particular aspect. The fundamental issue, Madam Acting Speaker, is the fact that there are a lot of individuals in our society who are marginalized, who are vulnerable, and who are utilized in a variety of fashions and abused in a variety of fashions.

It is tantamount and it is paramount for all of us to reach out and bring and provide whatever res ources are necessary in order to bring these people back into our community in order to allow them the opportunity to lead a lifestyle that is much more appropriate. Madam Acting Speaker, there is no doubt, as I indicated when we went to Ottawa on the mission, that organized crime is at the root of our addictions and drug trade, prostitution trade, human trafficking and the vast majority of offences that go on on the street.

It is incumbent upon all of us to break down to whatever extent possible those links where a vulnerable person on the street is taken by organized crime and used up and thrown away literally in addiction, in prostitution, in a variety of fashions, both male and female, but clearly predominantly female. Madam Acting Speaker, this issue goes beyond all political boundaries, as we discovered when we went to Ottawa.

It's an issue that requires ongoing work and vigilance, and it's an issue that has been recognized in the Alberta task force report, in the Saskatchewan review, in th e Nova Scotia review, in the work that's done in British Columbia, in the work that's done here in Manitoba.

I am very pleased that we have in place the number of programs: the Cybertip outreach, Honouring the Spirit of our Little Sisters, residential child care, the Meth Strategy, training for front-line workers, human trafficking program, student research project, the TERF program, shelters program, Sex Trade Reality Check , Neighbourhood Solutions, child sexual exploi tation awareness resources, school learning resources, the amendments to The Highway Traffic Act–the first of its kind to deal with the impoundment of vehicles, et cetera, and with an educa tion capacity for johns–and in particular, our TERF program that is focussed on

272 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA September 25, 2007 targeting individuals, our work with First Nations communities, our work with the communities and the variety of agencies that provide programming, shelters and supports to individuals that are involved. Bottom line, Madam Acting Speaker, is that we have to be vigilant; we have to allow the investigations to take place.

But more important, and most important of all, we have to allow people to be back into the community, to be part of the community and not be marginalized and not be in a situation where they can be at increased risk, because they're all our parents, brothers, sisters, mothers, fathers; we're all related in this fashion. I close by saying that part of my route on my bicycle, riding on a daily basis, is down my home street in the North End where the south end has become a focus of this kind of activity. It is something that we all have to work at diligently.

It is something that we should not take lightly and is indeed something that I agree the risk is increasing according to intelligence information that we have in terms of working on the street. Anything that members might suggest, we are prepared to look at and to work co-operatively with them on, in order to lessen the harmful effects that it may have on women and, hopefully, prevent any further deaths or any further tragedies occurring in the community. Thank you. Mrs.

Mavis Taillieu (Morris): Madam Acting Speaker, I am pleased to stand and speak on the matter of urgent public importance put forward by the Member for River Height s (Mr. Gerrard). It is indeed a tragedy when we hear of the escalation in the number of violent crimes against women, particularly the number of unsolved cases of homicides within the sex trade and peripheral to that. So far this year, we've had three deaths, young, young girls, one of them not even 18 years old, still in fact a child. It's terribly alarming and we note that the Minister of Justice (Mr.

Chomiak) has spoken and focussed on himself and his government and the things that they are trying to do, but I would like to– for the record, Madam Acting Speaker, out of respect for the women that have died over the last 20 years, I'd like to read their names into the record. We know that there have been at least 26 trade workers who suffered a violent death in or around Winnipeg since 1983, and we know that charges have only been laid in two of those cases. Two of them may have been accidental, but 16 of these cases remain unsolved.

August 30, 2007, Fonessa Lynn Bruyere; July 15, 2007, Aynsley Aurora Kinch; April 19, 2007; Crystal Shannon Saunders; May 9, 2005, Tatia Ulm; November 3, 2004, David Joseph Boulanger, also known as Divas B.; October 2, 2003, Nicolle Hands; December 15, 2002, Therena Silva; August 15, 2001, Noreen Taylor; September 29, 1998, Tania Marsden; March 20, 1998, Evelyn Stewart; March 17, 1994, Jamie McGuire; April 13, 1989, Susan Holens; May 23, 1988, Charlene Orsulak; December 5, 1987, Cheryl Duck; August 6, 1984, Constance Cameron; August 15, 1983, Marie Edith Banks.

As I read through these names and I look at the circumstances of which they were found in death and where they were found in death, Madam Acting Speaker, it alarms me. It alarms me that this is all over our province, and it alarms me when I look at and I see three of these deaths closely in chronological time occurred near where I live. I wasn't aware of that until reading this right now. Tania Marsden was found at the Perimeter Highway and the Assiniboine River. I remember that day. Jamie McGuire was found in a ditch near St. François Xavier, very close to where I live.

A few years before that, Susan Holens was found in a ditch near Headingley. This is tragic, and the number of people that have disappeared and we are not able to solve these crimes. It's alarming that this has escalated. We've had these three deaths in the last year. * (15:10) We know those that may work in the sex trade are more vulnerable.

They may be addicted to drugs, but we also know that those types of crimes, although I believe that our law enforcement agencies are doing what they can to solve these crimes, I do believe it's harder in certain circumstances because the community doesn't talk about these things. However, having said that, there are a number of people that have spoken up because they fear for the safety of their own daughters, as anybody who would have a daughter would because, as I say, it's not just women in the sex trade but women in general who are more vulnerable to violent crime.

Parents from the Brokenhead First Nation have talked and alerted the RCMP to what they term and what they believe to be a sexual predator or a pedophile luring their teenage girls into situations where they could possibly take advantage of them. At least that's what these mothers fear. They reported

September 25, 2007 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 273 this and, in fact, a number of mothers have come forward. Mothers of at leas t five other girls say that their daughters have reported this luring that's been going on. In fact, it is so fearsome within the community that a number of the men in the community have taken it upon themselves to go out and look for this predator. But the RCMP say it's unlikely charges will be laid. They just have not enough evidence, I guess.

I know that the minister has indicated that he's provided the Winnipeg police with additional resources, and we hear this from time to time from this government: We'll put more money in. We'll put more resources in. What we want, what we all want is to see results. We want to see the level of violent crime go down. We want to see it eliminated. We want women in this city and this province to be able to walk on the street and not fear that they're in jeopardy or that they are not safe. We need to work towards that. It's very, very important.

Women's groups have organized an event called Take Back the Night in which they fear being out on the streets. Why should we fear that? Why can't we take back the night? Why can't we take back our safety in our own communities? But Manitoba, as I had said, does have a very high rate of violent crime and the second highest rate of sexual assault. We need to do better. We need to provide those resources in a meaningful way that translates into safety, that translates into not only just a lessened number but no deaths of women or anybody in the province of Manitoba.

I'd just like to again say that it's very moving when you look at all these people, all these women, that have died and knowing that their families and their friends have not got closure because these cases have not been solved. No one knows what's happened. No one knows what's happened to these women. We care about what's happened to these women. We care. We'd like to have these cases solved and we'd like to make sure with all the resources possible that this type of violent action against women is eliminated in this province. With those few words, thank you, Madam Acting Speaker. Hon.

Nancy Allan (Minister responsible for the Status of Women): The issue of missing women is a concern not only for Manitoba but I think for our country as a whole, and I think that it is important that governments are doing all they can to address this very, very serious problem of missing women. It is a national problem, and the Native Women's Association of Canada has estimated that more than 500 Aboriginal women may have gone missing in the last 30 years.

We also had an opportunity yesterday as a caucus and as a government to meet with the Provincial Council of Women, and they raised the very important issue of violence against women in their brief with us; and we heard passionate words from Rita Emerson who is with the Mother of Red Nations and her words were profound. She is a woman who works in our community on the front lines with Aboriginal women, and she encouraged us to take this issue very seriously and to continue the work that we have started here in Manitoba.

Our government supports the development of a strong, well-networked continuum of community-based agencies that can interven e and prevent the cycle of domestic violence that affects so many women, so many children and so many families here in Manitoba.

Manitoba Family Services and Housing, through the Family Violence Prevention Program, provides almost $11 million in funding to 33 agencies throughout the province to deliver family violence prevention and intervention services including women's resource centres, residential second-stage housing, a range of counselling and support services, and ten emergency women's crisis shelters. As the Minister responsible for the Status of Women, I think it's important that we acknowledge the very important work that has been done at the Federal/Provincial/Territorial Ministers Responsible for the Status of Women table.

The recent report from 2006, Statistics Canada's Measuring Violence Against Women report–it was an initiative that Manitoba was part of through the Status of Women FPT table–notes that one in four Canadian women has experienced or will experience domestic violence in their lifetime. Sadly, Aboriginal women are three times more likely to experience domestic violence and eight times more likely to be killed at the hands of an intimate partner. Those are very, very sobering statistics. Mr.

Rob Altemeyer, Acting Speaker, in the Chair The Family Violence Prevention Program funds three programs which are specifically focussed on the provision of culturally sensitive programs to Aboriginal clients, and we heard very clearly when we were working with the Aboriginal stakeholders

274 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA September 25, 2007 and our women's group that the kinds of programs that were culturally sensitive were critically important in stopping the violence. These programs include the Ikwe-Widdjiitiwin Inc., a women's crisis shelter; the family violence counselling program at Ma Mawi Wi Chi Itata; and Wabanong Abinoonjiiag Inc., services to children exposed to violence. All of these agencies are require d to consider culturally sensitive programming and delivery, as many of the clients who access these services are of Aboriginal background.

Agencies are also expected to make efforts to reflect community cultural diversity in both their staff and their board complements. * (15:20) The Family Violence Prevention Program is working with the federal government on a number of issues affecting Aboriginal women and children. It is providing consultation and support to Indian and Northern Affairs Canada as the federal government works toward developing consistent standards and funding arrangements for all federally funded shelters.

The Family Violence Prevention Program works closely with the federal go vernment to lobby for a consistent level of service for Aboriginal women who are impacted by violence and has supported the national Aboriginal circle of violence with many of the issues that this organization addresses. We are part of a federal-provincial consultative group on matrimonial real proper ty including a specific response to Aboriginal women living on reserve and impacted by domestic violence.

I'd like to mention a report that was done recently, the work that wa s done by the Sisters in Spirit campaign, the Native Women's Association of Canada, and all the levels of government that have a responsibility and a role in resolving the many issues that we are facing around violence and women. The Amnesty International report made recommendations as to how authorities could better protect the safety of Aboriginal women. The issues that the Stolen Sisters report addressed are both long- standing and real.

There is considerable evidence to suggest that Aboriginal women and girls are more likely to experience violence and abuse than any other members of their population. This violence is linked to cultural dislocation, discrimination, poverty, homelessness, geographic and social isolation, and racism. This is a very serious issue for us, and I want to take this opportunity to thank our Minister of Justice (Mr.

Chomiak) who has met with the RCMP and the Winnipeg Police Service on this issue and has offered resources and has communicated to the police that we want to be a part of the solution in regard to resolving this very important issue. In light of the concerns over missing Aboriginal women, Manitoba asked Ottawa to join the province in acting quickly when recommendations are released by senior federa l-provincial-territorial justice officials who are currently examining these issues at their FPT table. The Premier (Mr.

Doer) recently raised–our Premie r–with Prime Minister Harper, at their meeting on September 20, the very important issue of violence against women. I believe that we have many programs here in Manitoba that we have worked diligently on to resolve some of the issues in our communities and in our neighbourhoods that have affected women and children and families. There is, I believe, much more work to be done because I believe all of us in this House take this issue very seriously, and we would, I think, all like to say, someday, that we have completely and totally resolved this issue. The MLA for Morris (Mrs .

Taillieu) mentioned the Take Back the Night event that just occurred last week here in Winnipeg, and there was a walk from the Legislature to Wolseley. I want to thank the Advisory Council on the Status of Women who worked with these young students at the University of Winnipeg who got the event going because there was some concern that that event was not going to occur.

One of the most important things that we can do as a society and as a community is we can continue to work with our community partners and our community stakeholders in raising awareness about this issue because that is one of the most important things that we can do, is continue to raise awareness. That was one of the issues that Rita Emerson, the Mother of Red Nations, when we met with her yesterday in the provincial Council of Women, asked us to do was not quit talking about this issue and continue to raise the issue.

So I'm thankful for this opportunity today that all members from all sides of the House can continue to raise this issue and talk about it. I'd also like to thank the new MLA for Kirkfield Park (Ms. Blady) who spoke at that walk last week. I think it was very important for us to have one of our colleagues there who partic ipated in the walk and who was there walking side by side with women who

September 25, 2007 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 275 care deeply about this issu e, Mr.–It's not Deputy Speaker; I'm not sure what it is–but I really, you know, want to thank my colleagues in the House for this opportunity to say a few words about this very important issue, and we will continue to work diligently on this file. Mr. Kevin Lamoureux (Inkster): Mr. Acting Speaker, I have been very fortunate to have, whether it's my current leader or Senator Sharon Carstairs, as leaders that have been very strong advocates for a higher sense of awareness in fighting violence against women. Mr.

Acting Speaker, I'd like to very briefly make comment on what we are talking about is real people. It wasn't that long ago, within two weeks, that I met with John and Diana Kinch, who are the parents of Aynsley. Aynsley was one of the victims. I think that we really need to look on these murders and treat them in the same fashion as we see other individuals that are murdered in society. Ainsley was a wonderful young lady who had her life terminated prematurely and unfairly. The family wants to see justice and who can blame them for that.

It's encouraging to see the support from all of my colleagues inside this Legislature for allowing the debate to occur this afternoon. The only point that I really want to make is that these people, these victims need to have justice given to them, and our hearts and prayers go out to the family and friends of the victims. Thank you, Mr. Acting Speaker. Mrs. Leanne Rowat (Minnedosa): Mr. Acting Speaker, I, too, would like to speak to the matter of urgent public importance.

As a woman, as a mother, as a legislator, as a proud Manitoban, I am truly disturbed to see the number of young women who have faced atrocities such as this, through death, through painful infliction and to the families who have had to work with their children, the young women and their families to get past the pain that obviously has been inflicted upon them. To see the number of young women who have lost their lives in Manitoba over the last several months, it takes you aback. It makes you realize that not enough is being done in this province to address these issues.

Violence against women is not something that is new, but it has been escalating over the last several years, and we need to see some leadership on providing supports to the different organizations that are out there that are trying to make a difference, organizations that are community- based where they are working first-hand with the young women who need the supports.

I had the opportunity of participating in a Hard Night Out a few years back and what I learnt from that experience and what I gained from the experience was an understanding that there are resources available but they're not necessarily meeting the needs of the individuals who need the help. There are different types of support mechanisms out there but often they clos e at 10 or 11 at night. Women at risk don't run by that clock. They run by the clock of 24 hours. They often are out on the streets at 2 or 3 in the mo rning where there are very few resources in place for them.

I guess what we need to be doing is looking at what these women face as challenges and provide supports that fit their needs and ways that we can keep them safe. * (15:30) Take Back the Night, I think, is an excellent event that brings awarene ss to the issues facing women who are victims of crime. I had the privilege of attending the one at Brandon that was put on by Brandon University women's group as well as the one in The Pas which was put on by different services or community-based organizations in that community.

What I found in parallel and in those presentations presented by the many organizations and women who have been victims or have family members who have been victims, is that they need to have a voice and they need to be believed and they need to be heard. I believe that when women become victims of violence it's important that we, as society, embrace their need to be heard and to act on the recommendations that are being provided, not only by themselves but organizations that are in the community that are working on their behalf. The Minister for the Status of Women (Ms.

Allan) spoke about the Mother of Red Nations. I also met with that group. They spoke of young women leaving First Nations communities or communities in the north, and leaving those communities because of situations that had brought violence in their lives. They ran from those communities. They often ran with their children. But they had nowhere to go. These women live in their vehicles or they live wherever they can find what they consider a safe spot in the city, and that could be in a cardboard enclosure or someplace that they feel that they can find refuge. They could not find supports within the

276 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA September 25, 2007 system to provide a roof over their head. So, in a sense they're leaving a violent situation and coming to a community where they are looking for support, looking for somebody to provide a level of care, and find nothing. So, often, these women have to resort to other means to provide supports for themselves and often their children or their families. I do believe that a number of the women that are listed, and that were shared by the Member for Morris (Mrs. Taillieu), were doing what they felt they had to do to survive.

I believe that we, as a society, should be ashamed that we have not been able to provide the supports that these women needed and that they had to find their life ending rather prematurely without the supports from our society. I believe that the Stolen Sisters report does provide very strong recommendations on how we, as society, and we, as a province, can be doing better. I believe that there are still a number of those recommendations outstanding.

So I encourage the government to move on those recommendations, to continue to work with the Provincial Council of Women and the Mother of Red Nations and to implement not only those recommendations but others that have come forward. Statistics indicating that Aboriginal women are eight times more likely to be involved in a violent domestic situation, and that three times the women are likely to face death or injury from their partner. These are statistics not to be proud of. When we were visiting Island Lake, I spoke to a young woman who said our future is being lost.

Our future is the children that are growing up in these communities. She begged that there be supports in place to help young people, young women, deal with losses. Suicide is something that is a major concern within the Aboriginal community. I believe that suicide comes from feeling lost, that there is nothing to live for, that they believe that there is nothing to look forward to in their fu t u r e . S o w e n e e d t o b e looking at ways to reverse that.

We need to be looking and partnering with the Aboriginal community to look at ways to move away from a feeling of helplessness and moving towards ways of inclusion and empowerment. I've visited with Victim Services office in Brandon. Karen Lewthwaite is the contact that I've had in the Westman community. Karen is an excellent resource for people who have been victims of violence. I think that we need to see more people like that who have a passion for providing supports for victims and providing resources so that people know where to go when they do find themselves in a very bad situation in their lives.

Incidences of violence are continuing to grow in Manitoba and Winnipeg, but also in northern Manitoba. In speaking to the mayor of Thompson, the disparity of people that are living with the economic disparity–I guess the economic disparity within the community of Thompson is causing more alarming numbers of violence, assaults, shootings and stabbings, and we need to be looking at ways that we can work with the individuals within those communities to reduce that. Mr. Speaker in the Chair The Justice Minister has indicated publicly that he'll offer Winnipeg police additional resources.

I encourage him to be looking at additional resources across the board. I believe that the women that were listed earlier by my colleague, the Member for Morris (Mrs. Taillieu), thes e women deserve better. Their families deserve better, and I think this government has to be held accountable to providing supports for these families. I will stand in support of this being a matter of urgent public importance and look forward to holding the government accountable to these recommendations and the need for better care of our women within Manitoba. Mr. Speaker: As previously agreed, that will conclude the MUPI.

We have heard from two from each of the parties and the independent members, so now we will move on to Grievances. GRIEVANCES Mr. Speaker: The honourable Member for Inkster, on a Grievance? Mr. Kevin Lamoureux (Inkster): Yes, Mr. Speaker. Questionable behaviour back in the 1990s led to a public inquiry, even though a couple of years earlier Elections Manitoba had decided not to prosecute the individuals in question. The then- leader of the opposition in the New Democratic Party pushed for the inquiry back then and, as a result, people were found to be guilty of inappropriate behaviour.

The commissioner at the time came up with some recommendations, one of which was the

September 25, 2007 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 277 importance of having a code of ethics for political parties to adhere to. I'd like to read that particular recommendation from the Monnin commission report. It's on page 65, No. 3, where it states: "That all registered political parties follow the recommendations of the federal Royal Commission on Electoral Reform and Party Financing published in November 1991 (often referred to as "the Lortie Report"), and prepare a Code of Ethics as outlined therein as well as a mechanism whereby such Co de or the provisions thereof be strictly adhered to.

Someone must have power to oversee the activities of others. If the political parties fail to implement a Code of Ethics by December 31, 2001, that a standard Code be made compulsory by legislation." Mr. Speaker, the commissioner at the time came up with these recommendations, one of which was the importance of having this code of ethics for political parties to adhere to. From the Monnin report came a Manitoba Shared Code of Ethical Conduct for political participants.

The code of conduct states: "All political participants accept the responsibility to act in such a manner as to maintain and enhance public confidence in the integrity of the political process." Mr. Speaker, the Premier has a moral obligation to comment on the content of Mr. Kaur Singh Sidhu's letter dated September 12, 2006, that was sent to him, and whether or not he believes the person in question violated Manitoba's Shared Code of Ethical Conduct for political parties. Mr.

Speaker, The Elections Act very clearly states in 178(1): "A person who, directly or indirectly, offers a bribe to induce or influence another person to do any of the following is guilty of an offence." If you go to, in particular (

c) and (d), "to nominate or refrain from nominating a person as a candidate;" or (d) "to run or refrain from running as a candidate or to withdraw as a candidate." * (15:40) Mr. Speaker, I've tabled the letter and I've read the code of conduct. I've talked to witnesses. Members, if they like, can get a copy of the letter that I've tabled.

In terms of witnesses, I would turn to a CBC report, back on December 13, 2006, in which a 25–and I quote from the report: A 25-year member and former member of the provincial party's executive said Tuesday that the Premier, his chief of staff, offered NDP member Kaur Sidhu, a Winnipeg pharmacist, a high-profile position with the Winnipeg Regional Health Authority in exchange for staying out of a nomination race in The Maples constituency. That is a witness to a meeting. I would ask–I have not been provided any information that has contradicted Mr.

Sidhu's letter to date, and until I have been provided proof, I will continue to push for a public inquiry. Further, I would ask that if any one has any information whatsoever that would clear the person in question of any wrongdoing, I would be more than happy to halt any further actions and publicly apologize to those that I have offended. Mr. Speaker, I would emphasize how important the Shared Code of Ethical Conduct is and cite a couple of citations from it, and these would be specific quotes. Members can download this off the Internet or they can request a copy from myself or their own respective parties.

Under Purpose, it states: "All political participants accept the respons ibility to act in such a manner as to maintain and enhance public confidence in the integrity of the political process." In regards to Application, it states: "Party leaders and candidates undertake to actively promote compliance with this Code." Under Guiding Principles, Knowledge and Adherence, we read: "Members shall respect and adhere to the principles and rules of conduct set out in this Code and actively promote adherence to the Code on the part of other Members." With respect to Respect for the Law: "Members shall maintain and promote respect for Manitoba's election laws.

This involves complying with both the letter and spirit of the provisions of all elections laws and regulations." Under Integrity, Mr. Speaker, it states: "Members shall conduct themselves in a way that upholds the integrity of, and the public's respect for, the electoral system." Mr. Speaker, for clarification on my comments in terms of resignation: A number of reasons, including the Premier's refusal to comment on the issue and my desire to uncover the truth, caused me to state that I would resign my seat if I was proven to be wrong.

Even though I still have reason to believe that there was inappropriate behaviour, I should not have said I would resign my seat, and I am sorry for doing so.

278 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA September 25, 2007 Mr. Speaker, I will not resign my seat. I am still going to be diligent in trying to get clear indication as to what has happened. To the very best of my knowledge, there has not been any contradiction of the letter or the witness saying that neither one, either one, was not true. There is an obligation on the House to adhere and respect and enforce the Shared Code of Conduct. I believe my approach is in keeping with what I campaigned on in the last provincial election where I stated two points.

The first point was the Premier told Manitoba that he knew nothing about the Crocus Investment Fund fiasco. A leaked government document that was mailed to my office a few weeks ago proved that the Premier and his government tried to mislead us. The cost of this dishonesty could exceed $150 million tax dollars. Point 2: On another issue, faced with allegations about inappropriate behaviour by a staff member in the office of the Premier, did nothing. Elections Manitoba is currently investigating but the election will be over before we find out the truth.

I would like to challenge the Premier or any one of his MLAs to debate both of the above issues in a public meeting. If I am unable to prove my case to the people in attendance, I will publicly apologize to Mr. Doer. So I believe, Mr. Speaker, I am in sync with what it is that I campaigned on in the last provincial election. Mr. Speaker, I do believe it's important that we recognize the need for getting clarity on this issue. We know what happened in the '90's. Let's not see a repeat of it. We do need the Premier (Mr. Doer) to comment on Mr. Sidhu's letter. Thank you very much. Mr. Speaker: No more Grievances.

Before we continue I would just like to remind members that when referring to other members in the House it's by their constituency or the portfolio they hold. Just a reminder. No more Grievances. We are moving on to Orders of the Day. ORDERS OF THE DAY GOVERNMENT BUSINESS Hon. Dave Chomiak (Government House Leader): Mr. Speaker, I wonder if you might resolve the House into Committee of Supply. A lot of feedback now. Or I thought it was just me hearing extra voices. Ex tra three or four than normal. Mr. Speaker: Your mike's on. Mr.

Chomiak: I was just commenting about the technological innovations in the House with respect to feedback on the microphones and making a reference to my own thinking processes. Mr. Speaker: The House will now resolve into Committee of Supply. Madam Deputy Speaker and the other Chairs, please report to your respective rooms to chair your sessions. COMMITTEE OF SUPPLY (Concurrent Sections) INFRASTRUCTURE AND TRANSPORTATION *(15:50) Madam Chairperson (Marilyn Brick): Will the Committee of Supply please come to order. This

section of the Committee of Supply will now consider the Estimates of the Department of Infrastructure and Transportation. Does the honourable minister have an opening statement? Hon. Ron Lemieux (Minister of Infrastructure and Transportation): With such good news I certainly do. But I just want to mention that, first of all, I won't belabour the points or I won't drag my comments on. I'll try to be very to the point. I know that I want to give the opposition an opportunity to ask questions.

I think that's important as opposed to laying out all the good projects that we've done in each one of the MLA's areas, because they're familiar with them more than most people would be. Having said that, I have to tell you that a lot's been accomplished, but there's more to do as usual. We'll never solve all the problems, quite frankly, in transportation, and I don't believe any government will. But, at least if you have a plan and you have some money to go towards that plan, I think a lot can be accomplished.

Just let me, first of all, just say that it's my pleasure to present for your consideration and approval the Estimates of Expenditure for Manitoba Infrastructure and Transportation, MIT as it's referred to, for the year '07-08.

September 25, 2007 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 279 There's been some departmental restructuring, as most people know. Infrastructure and Transportation was at one time a department called Transportation and Government Services. There has been a lot added to the department, including a Water Services Board, the floodway, and there are a number of other areas that we now cover. The departmental restructuring took place a while back now. Most people are quite familiar with it. Some people are still asking many questions related to who covers what and those kinds of things.

But I think most MLAs are certainly aware of the different areas that now have come over to Infrastructure and Transportation. Very similar, actually, other provinces have similarly named departments. I know Alberta, for example; I k now the federal government has Transport, Infrastructure and Communities, I believe it's called. So that seems to be the movement certainly across the country where infrastructure is put in with transportation. Some people are looking at trade and other areas to add. But right now Manitoba has Infrastructure and Transportation and that's the name of the current department.

We've been very fortunat e to add some staffing to the department. One could argue that it's never enough. But we are heading in the right direction and a lot of this was because of the 2020 Vision consultation process that took place in Manitoba a number of years ago. The MLAs for Transcona, Flin Flon and Selkirk, those thr ee MLAs participated in this consultation group, and they were able to get a lot of feedback from Manitobans as to what did they want to see with regard to their transportation system, being roads, bridges and everything related. A lot of the feedback we received was you need more money.

I believe the outcome was you need $3 million more. We've added $4 million. I'm sorry, billion, billion. They said you need $3 billion, we have added $4 billion. * (16:00) The consultation process and people having input into that process said you needed to have advanced tendering and you need to be able to let the construction industry know ahead of time what kinds of projects are happening, and we do that in the fall.

Madam Chair, we also are continuing to meet with rural municipalities and many other stakeholders on a regular basis to get input on the kind of projects they want to see and the kind of needs that they feel their communities need to have addressed. Highway infrastructure. The Government of Manitoba, as I mentioned, made an unprecedented commitment to building a provincial highway network to foster economic and social prosperity in the province. There are many, many different projects under way in the province.

We've said that it's going to be $2 billion over the first five years, and over the next five would be at least $2 billion. Now I say "at least." As a minister, I am certainly working towards and would like, of course, to be able to tackle all the challenges that we have in our network. At least we have that $4-billion capital plan, investment plan that we have put forward to Manitobans, and they have accepted that. Highway 75, Highway 16, Highway 59, PTH 2, PTH 68, bridges, for example, in Portage la Prairie, and there are a number of others throughout the province of Manitoba that we've tackled.

The investment that I'm talking about represents, I would say, at least probably 85 percent more than the '06-07 capital budget, but a lot of what we've heard from people is that it's just not building new roads and new bridges that is the be-all and end-all. The maintenance and preservation are also really important for our province; and, with having goods and services going

Document details

Collection	Manitoba — Debates (Hansard)
Citation	39-1-9b
Type	hansard
Volume / chapter	39th 1st hansardpdf 9b.pdf
Language	en
Format	pdf
Source	PROVINCIAL
Identifier	551959fc09038409346b921862f124752452e527

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