Manitoba Hansard — 28 May 2026 (Sitting 63B, 43rd Legislature, 3rd Session)

43-3-63b

Manitoba — Debates (Hansard)

Third Session – Forty-Third Legislature of the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba DEBATES and PROCEEDINGS Official Report (Hansard) Published under the authority of The Honourable Tom Lindsey Speaker Vol. LXXX No. 63B – 1:30 p.m., Thursday, May 28, 2026 ISSN 0542-5492

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

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

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

WHARTON, Jeff Red River North PC WIEBE, Matt, Hon. Concordia NDP WOWCHUK, Rick Swan River PC Vacant The Pas-Kameesak

2603 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA Thursday, May 28, 2026 The House met at 1:30 p.m. The Speaker: Good afternoon, everyone. Please be seated. And just before we begin, I want to send a huge thank-you out to all the staff of the Assembly. The day that never seemed to end required a lot of effort on their part to make sure that the wheels kept working, that democracy could carry on. So I think we should give them all a big round of applause. ROUTINE PROCEEDINGS The Speaker: And now on to routine proceedings. Introduction of bills? COMMITTEE REPORTS Standing Committee on Legislative Affairs Eighth Report Mr.

Logan Oxenham (Chairperson): Honourable Speaker, I wish to present the eighth report of the Standing Committee on Legislative Affairs. Clerk (Mr. Rick Yarish): Your Standing Committee on Legislative– Some Honourable Members: Dispense. The Speaker: Dispense. Your Standing Committee on Legislative Affairs presents the following as its Eighth Report.

Meetings Your Committee met in camera on the following occasions in the Legislative Building: • November 20, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. (3rd Session – 43rd Legislature) • May 27, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. (3 rd Session – 43rd Legislature) Matters under Consideration • The hiring process for the Chief Electoral Officer Committee Membership Committee Membership for the November 20, 2025 meeting: • Mr. B LASHKO • MLA CORBETT • Mr. GUENTER • MLA LOISELLE • Mr. OXENHAM • Mrs. ROBBINS Your Committee elected MLA LOISELLE as the Chairperson. Your Committee elected Mr. OXENHAM as the Vice-Chairperson.

Committee Membership for the May 27, 2026 meeting: • MLA BEREZA • MLA CORBETT • Mr. EWASKO • Mr. OXENHAM • Hon. Min. SCHMIDT • Hon. Mr. WIEBE Your Committee elected Mr. OXENHAM as the Chairperson. Your Committee elected MLA CORBETT as the Vice-Chairperson. Motions Your Committee agreed to the following motion at the November 20, 2025 meeting: • THAT a sub-committee of the Standing Committee on Legislative Affairs be struck to manage the process of hiring the Chief Electoral Officer, under the terms and conditions as follows: (

a) the sub-committee consist of four Government Members, two Official Opposition Members and one Independent Liberal Member; (

b) the sub -committee have the authority to call its own meetings, the ability to meet in camera, and be able to undertake duties it deems neces - sary in order to fulfil its responsibilities in the hiring process;

2604 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA May 28, 2026 (

c) the sub-committee may only report back to the Standing Committee on Legislative Affairs with a recommendation that has been agreed to by all members; and (

d) the Clerks as well as the Legislative Assembly Administration staff be authorized to attend all meetings of the sub-committee. Your Committee agreed to the following motions at the May 27, 2026, meeting: • THAT the report and recommendations of the Sub-Committee be received. • THAT the Standing Committee on Legislative Affairs recommends to the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba that Josh Watt be appointed as the Chief Electoral Officer. REPORT FROM THE SUB-COMMITTEE Your Sub- Committee presents the following as its First Report.

Meetings Your Sub-Committee met on the following occasions: • January 26, 2026, at 4:00 p.m. • May 12, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. • May 25, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. The January 26, 2026, meeting was held in camera in Room 254 of the Legislative Building. The May 12, 2026, meeting was held in camera in Room 255 of the Legislative Building. The May 25, 2026, meeting was held in camera in Room 255 of the Legislative Building. Matters under Consideration • The hiring process for the Chief Electoral Officer Sub-Committee Membership Sub-Committee Membership for the January 26, 2026 meeting: • MLA CORBETT (Chairperson) • Mr.

EWASKO • Mrs. HIEBERT • Mr. OXENHAM (Vice-Chairperson) • Hon. Min. SCHMIDT • Hon. Mr. WIEBE Your Sub- Committee elected MLA CORBETT as the Chairperson. Your Sub- Committee elected Mr. OXENHAM as the Vice-Chairperson. Sub-Committee Membership for the May 12, 2026 meeting: • MLA CORBETT (Chairperson) • Mr. EWASKO • Mr. OXENHAM (Vice-Chairperson) • Mrs. ROBBINS • Hon. Min. SCHMIDT • Hon. Mr. WIEBE Sub-Committee Membership for the May 25, 2026 meeting: • Mr. BEREZA • MLA CORBETT (Chairperson) • Mr. EWASKO • Mr. OXENHAM (Vice-Chairperson) • Hon. Min. SCHMIDT • Hon. Mr.

WIEBE Staff present for all Sub-Committee meetings • Carrie Perumal, Director of Legislative Assembly Human Resource Services • Melanie Ching, Clerk Assistant/Clerk of Committees Agreements by the Sub-Committee Your Sub- Committee reached the following agree - ments during the meeting on January 26, 2026: • Legislative Assembly Human Resource Services will draft all paperwork involved in the hiring process of a Chief Electoral Officer, including the Advertising Plan, Selection Criteria, Paper Screening Criteria, and Advertisement, for the Sub-Committee's consideration and review. • Following the closure of the advertisement, Human Resource Services will conduct the paper screening of applications received and provide the Sub-Committee a list of all qualified candidates for review in advance of its next meeting. • The Sub-Committee will then meet to review the list of qualified candidates and determine which applicant(

s) will be interviewed. • To adopt the following Terms of Reference:

May 28, 2026 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 2605 Legislative Assembly of Manitoba Terms of Reference for Hiring of Independent Officers of the Assembly January 26, 2026 Purpose: On November 20, 2025, the Standing Committee on Legislative Affairs passed a motion to strike a Sub-Committee to manage the process of hiring a new Chief Electoral Officer.

The Sub -Committee, consisting of four Government Members, two Official Opposition Members and one Independent Liberal Member, has the authority to call its own meetings, the ability to meet in camera, and be able to undertake duties it deems necessary in order to fulfil its respon- sibilities in the hiring process. The Sub- Committee must re port back to the Standing Committee on Legislative Affairs with a recommendation that has been agreed to by all Members.

The Sub- Committee will be assisted in their duties by the staff from the Committees Branch and the Legislative Assembly Human Resource Services who are authorized to attend all meetings of the Sub-Committee. Roles and Responsibilities: 1. The Sub-Committee assigns the Legislative Assembly Human Resource Services to deal with all the logistics and paperwork involved with the hiring process of the Chief Electoral Officer. 2. The Legislative Assembly Human Resource Services will: (

a) devise a hiring process which includes an advertising plan, a paper screening process, an interview process and a selection process; (

b) draft an advertisement, paper screening criteria and selection criteria; (

c) print the advertisement as set out in the advertising plan; (

d) conduct the paper screening of applications received; (

e) report to the Sub- Committee all qualified candidates for review and selection to interview; (

f) conduct interviews on candidates selected by the Sub-Committee; (

g) report to the Sub- Committee, the interview rating results on the candidates selected by the Sub-Committee; and (

h) conduct reference checks on candidate(

s) and report to the Sub- Committee any issues or concerns identified. 3. The Sub- Committee Members will individually have the ability to view the list of qualified candidates along with their background paper - work confidentially at the Legislative Assembly Human Resource Services Office prior to the Sub-Committee's review. 4. The Sub-Committee will review the list of quali- fied candidates and select which applicant(

s) will be interviewed by the Legislative Assembly Human Resource Services. 5. Each Member of the Sub- Committee shall be entitled to observe the interviews while having participation in the scoring process. 6. The Sub- Committee will review the interview rating results and, pending successful reference checks, determine the candidate to be recom - mended for the position of Chief Electoral Officer. 7. The Sub- Committee must provide a report to the Standing Committee on Legislative Affairs that includes a recommendation for the Chief Electoral Officer.

Your Sub- Committee reached the following agree - ments during the meeting on May 12, 2026: • To interview seven candidates selected for review by Legislative Assembly Human Resource Services. • To adopt the interview questions prepared by Legislative Assembly Human Resource Services.

Your Sub- Committee reached the following agree - ments during the meeting on May 25, 2026: • Pending successful reference checks, the Sub-Committee agreed to recommend to the Standing Committee on Legislative Affairs that Josh Watt be appointed as the Chief Electoral Officer. • In the event that the chosen candidate declines the offer or the reference checks are unsuccessful, the Sub-Committee agreed to meet again to discuss further options.

2606 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA May 28, 2026 Legislative Assembly Human Resource Services Activities: As agreed to by the Sub-Committee on January 26, 2026, Legislative Assembly Human Resource Services was tasked with all the logistics and paperwork involved with the hiring process of the Chief Electoral Officer. On May 12, 2026, Legislative Assembly Human Resource Services reported to the Sub-Committee a list of seven qualified candidates.

On May 19, 2026, Legislative Assembly Human Resource Services was notified that one of the candidates who met the selection criteria to a certain degree and was selected by the Sub-Committee for interview had withdrawn from the competition. On May 20, 2026, Legislative Assembly Human Resource Services advised that one of the candidates who met the selection criteria to a certain degree and was selected by the Sub -Committee for interview had not responded to the invitation for interview.

The Sub- Committee considered applications for the position of Chief Electoral Officer as follows: • 57 applications were received for the position. • Five individuals were interviewed for the position on May 19 and May 20, 2026. On May 25, 2026, Legislative Assembly Human Resource Services reported to the Sub-Committee the interview rating results of the candidate interviewed. Mr. Oxenham: Honourable Speaker, I move, seconded by the honour able member for Transcona (MLA Corbett), that the report of the committee be received. Motion agreed to. The Speaker: Tabling of reports? Ministerial statements?

Members' statements? No members' statements? MEMBERS' STATEMENTS River Park South Community Association MLA Billie Cross (Seine River): Honourable Speaker, I rise today to recognize the River Park South Community Association, a dedicated group of volun- teers who work hard to bring our community together. The association was formed in 2022 by a small group of residents who wanted to build a vibrant, inclusive and supportive neighbourhood. Since then, they have worked hard to create opportunities for residents to connect and become part of community life.

The organization is led by a volunteer board of directors who meet regularly to guide their work and make sure the association continues to grow and support residents. Their focus is on building a sense of belonging and improving the quality of life for folks in River Park South. Over the past few years, they've organized a wide range of events, from Canada Day celebrations to craft sales, giving folks a chance to come together, support local businesses and enjoy everything our community has to offer. As we head into spring and summer, there's a lot to look forward to.

On June 6, they are planning to host the River Park South community garage sale, a great chance to explore our community and connect with neighbours; and in July they will host their annual Canada Day celebrations. These events, and all the work that happens behind the scenes, would not be possible without the dedication of the board. I want to thank Saumik Gupta, Oluwatoyin George, Courtney Welch, Tara Boissoneault, Indrima Munshi and Audra Martin for everything that they do. Your work has helped make River Park South a place where residents feel supported and proud to live.

I ask that my colleagues join me in recognizing the River Park South Community Association, who joins us today, and thank them for all that they do. Thank you, Honourable Speaker. Aayushi Sharma Mr. Rick Wowchuk (Swan River): I rise today to recognize Aayushi Sharma, a grade 12 student at Rossburn Collegiate, who has been named the 2026 Loran Scholar, one of the most prestigious undergraduate honours in Canada. The Loran Award is not simply about academic achievement; it's about character, courage, service and a deep commitment to making the world better.

A first -generation immigrant who arrived in Rossburn just four years ago, she quickly became a leader in her school and her community. As student council president, she organized events and led a food drive for the local food bank. She volunteered at the Rossburn Personal Care Home, building meaningful relationships with residents who, in many ways, became like family.

May 28, 2026 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 2607 She has been recognized with the Park West School Division Student Citizenship award and has championed student voices, ensuring young people have a seat at the table. This fall, Aayushi will attend the University of Calgary to study biological sciences with the goal of improving health care in rural and underserved communities. Her story is a reminder that leadership is not defined by where you come from, but by how you show up. Rossburn didn't just produce a Loran Scholar, it helped shape exactly the kind of person this country needs.

I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Aayushi, who is watching virtually today. Thank you, Honourable Speaker. St. James Assiniboia Student Wheel Challenge Hon. Nellie Kennedy (Minister of Sport, Culture, Heritage and Tourism): I rise today to recognize the incredible spirit of wellness and community shown by the students and families participating in the St. James-Assiniboia School Division's sixth annual Wheel Challenge.

By engaging with a creative bingo challenge card, students are invited to turn daily movement on any form of wheels into a joyful game, win a –with a chance to win a $500 shopping spree from a local retailer, White Pine Bicycle Company. For many young people, the path to building lifelong healthy habits can feel secondary to the demands of a busy school day. It's in these moments that practical opportunities to be active can make a meaningful difference in the lives of our youth.

What began in 2021 during the height of the pandemic has grown into a vital community initiative shaped by a collective desire to get moving. From May 19 to June 8, hundreds of students across Assiniboia are taking their bicycles, rollerblades, scooters a nd wheelchairs to embrace acting –active living. Honourable Speaker, the impact of this program stretches far beyond physical activity.

Engaging these outdoor activities allows children to step away from screens and connect with their surroundings, and this type of intentional focus on movement often ha s the added advantage of improving mental well -being, resilience and personal confidence in our children. Furthermore, by embracing active transportation, these young people are reducing their carbon footprint and building a sustainable culture across Assiniboia.

While our children eagerly complete their bingo cards, they do so with the understanding that the true reward is the quiet resilience, lifelong wellness and care for their environment they are building together with every single turn of their wheels. Please join me in congratulating these remark - able students and the dedicated organizers of the Wheel Challenge for their commitment to a healthier, greener future. Thank you, Honourable Speaker. Dr.

Gabriel Lemoine MLA Bob Lagassé (Dawson Trail): Chers collègues et invités, [Esteemed colleagues and guests,] esteemed colleagues and guests, it is my honour today to recognize the exceptional merits of an outstanding member of the Dawson Trail constitu - ency, Dr. Gabriel Lemoine. French spoken J'ai l'honneur et plaisir aujourd'hui de 'reconntre' les mérites exceptionnels de Dr Lemoine. Translation It is my honour and pleasure today to recog nize Dr. Lemoine's exceptional achievements. English Dr.

Gabriel Lemoine has served our community as a family physician and anesthesiologist for a remarkable 49 years, sharing his time between the Seine medical clinic and supporting surgeries at both the Ste. Anne and Steinbach hospital. In his career spanning generations, he has helped heal and comfort countless patients, both young, old, in their time of need. French spoken Le Dr Lemoine a fait preuve d'un engagement remarquable aux services de la santé de la 'rég' du Sud-Est. Translation Dr. Lemoine has demonstrated a remarkable com - mitment to health -care services in the southeast region. * (13:40)

2608 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA May 28, 2026 English He has also served as a volunteer on various boards, including the Villa Youville and Knights of Columbus. Dr. Gabriel Lemoine's dedication has earned the respect of colleagues and the admiration of the community. Indeed, his lasting contributions were recognized at a sold-out gala hosted by his peers, and a surgical suite at the Ste. Anne Hospital has been named in his honour. French spoken Passionné et dévoue, le Dr Gabriel Lemoine laisse un legs positif et durable à la communauté.

Mesdames et messieurs, je vous prie de vous – de me joindre à – de joindre à moi pour souligner l'humanité et la 'bonivance' de Dr Lemoine. Translation Passionate and dedicated, Dr. Gabriel Lemoine leaves behind a positive and lasting legacy for the community. Ladies and gentlemen, please join me in honouring Dr. Lemoine's humanity and kindness. English Please join me in recognizing Dr. Lemoine for his community–commitment and lasting contributions to our community. He joins us in the gallery today.

David Ingram MLA JD Devgan (McPhillips): Honourable Speaker, I rise to recog nize a leader in my com munity as he prepares for his well -earned retirement from the classroom. David Ingram has been an educator since 1989, spending more than 36 years shaping the lives of students across our province. Over the course of his career, he taught grades 1 through 8, including five years in French immersion, before moving into school leadership. After beginning his career in The Maples, David eventually made his way to West St. Paul School.

There he served as the vice-principal for three years before becoming principal at Forest Park School for three and a half years. He then returned to West St. Paul School where he proudly served as a principal for the last seven and a half years. And while many folks would be ready to fully step away after 36 years of service, not David. David answered the call when his school community needed him once again. After semi- retiring last June, he returned to help support staff and students and has now agreed to continue serving as principal through December.

That kind of dedi cation says a great deal about the person David is. For 35 years, West St. Paul has been David's home. He has coached baseball and hockey and has always been someone who shows up for young people and families in the com munity he cares so deeply about. Through his leadership and kindness, he has made a lasting difference in the lives of many families in McPhillips. I ask all my colleagues to join me in congratu- lating David Ingram, who is joined by his wife Sheri today, on an outstanding career and wishing him the very well–the very best in a well-deserved retirement.

Thank you, Honourable Speaker. The Speaker: Order, please. Before we move on any further, I have a couple of things to announce. Introduction of Guests The Speaker: We have joining us in the public gallery grade 4 students from Meadows West School, and they are here today as guests of the honour able First Minister, and they're located in the Tyndall Park constituency. So we welcome you here today. * * * The Speaker: And now it is the season of goodbyes. We are–three pages who are working their last shift here today. First, we have Anna Kersey. She'll be graduating from St. John's-Ravenscourt School this June.

She will be continuing her studies at the University of Ottawa in the joint honours program for political science and public administration. Following her undergraduate degree, she plans to further her educa tion in law school with the long-term goal of pursuing politics or becoming a lawyer. With deep interests and passion for politics, working as a page has helped her understanding of the legislative process, the importance of repre senting people and the impact of public service.

Anna is very grateful for getting to observe the dedi cated and passionate legis lators here today and extends her gratitude to everyone at the Legislat ure she has met and learned from.

May 28, 2026 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 2609 Anna would also like to acknowledge her mom, Linda, who helped support her in getting this role and who raised her to have skills, compassion, ambition, that have given her the confi dence to pursue oppor - tunities like this. Each shift brought some thing new and valuable. As this ex perience comes to an end, Anna feels extremely fulfilled and appreciative for this past year. Anna will cherish this experience and use it to guide her in Ottawa and throughout her future. In the gallery is Anna's mother, Linda Sander, and sister, May Kersey.

And we welcome you here. And also, Gurreet Kaur Khela is finishing grade 11 this June from the University of Winnipeg Collegiate. She will finish her grade 12 year of high school in May 2027. Following high school, Gurreet wishes to go to the Asper School of Business at the University of Manitoba in hopes of pursuing law school afterwards. As she plans her future aspirations, she will forever be grateful for the experience she obtained through paging at the Legislature that helped her become a more responsible and educated person.

She claims that she enjoyed working in this professional and diverse environment with many thoughts and views. Having learned many new things, Gurreet would like to thank everyone who helped her throughout her paging career this year. She would especially like to thank those who kindly and patiently taught her how to fulfill her duties. Gurreet hopes that she gets a chance to work in the Manitoba Legislature again so that she could expand her knowledge and experience even further. She hopes to see you all again.

In the gallery are family members, mother, Narinderjit Kaur Khela and brother Guril [phonetic] Singh Khela, and we welcome you here today. And thirdly, we have Sukhmeet Kaur Ghatrorhe. She is a grade 11 student at Grant Park High School and is set to graduate in 2027. She intends to pursue post -secondary studies in political science and economics with a strong passion for public service governance. As she reflects on her journey as page, she recalls her connection to the Manitoba Legislature began long before she became a page.

Growing up, she would attend events at the Legislative grounds, including Sikh Nagar Kirtan. She remembers taking photos as a little kid in front of the same Chamber door she now walks through with the Speaker's parade, never imagining that one day she would be stepping through them as a page herself. As a page, Sukhmeet's experience has given her a deeper understanding of what happens behind those closed doors. She's come to understand that the Legislature is not only a historic building, but a place where decisions are shaped through dialogue, respon- sibility and collaboration.

Being in this environment has strengthened her passion for public service and her belief in the importance of democracy. Outside of her legislative duties, Sukhmeet is involved with the Youth Parliament of Manitoba and the Royal Canadian Air Cadets. She is a mem - ber of the Manitoba Student Advisory Council, Winnipeg Model United Nations Assembly and the Manitoba Envirothon, where she continues to engage in leadership discussions and civic -focused work across both school and community settings. Sukhmeet would like to share an excerpt from her speech this –at this past Youth Parliament session.

Quote: It is truly an honour to stand in this Chamber, a place that represents public trust and responsibility and the power of ideas. This room carries hi story. Decisions made in spaces like this shape the lives far beyond their walls, and being entrusted to speak here is not just symbolic, it is meaningful. End quote. Furthermore, Sukhmeet has deeply valued being a part of the day-to-day work of the Assembly and to see first -hand the work that takes place in this Chamber.

It has been a substantial experience that she will always carry forward as she continues her studies and work involvement –and future involvement. She says thank you for welcoming her into this environ- ment. Although she is sad to see this year come to an end so quickly, Sukhmeet looks forward to her future and what lies ahead, and making the most of her final year of high school. She hopes to see you all again very soon. * (13:50) In the gallery today are her family members, father Baljinder Singh Ghatrorhe, mother Daljeet Kaur Ghatrorhe and sister Sukhdeep Kaur Ghatrorhe.

And we welcome you all here today as well. And we thank each and every one of you for your service to the Assembly and to the members. Thank you. The Speaker: And it is now time for oral questions.

2610 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA May 28, 2026 ORAL QUESTIONS Budget Affordability Measures Concern Regarding Extent of Impact Mr. Obby Khan (Leader of the Official Opposition): I would also like to take a second to thank the staff, the clerks, the pages and everyone for their hard work in the Manitoba Legislature. Now, this NDP government has plenty to say, attacking us and heckling us off the record. But when the cameras are on for 30 hours straight, they have nothing to say. Not a single member from this Kinew government stood up to defend their own terrible budget bill. Why?

Because they're hearing the same things that we are hearing from Manitobans, and that is that this NDP budget does not go far enough: $50 on –for renters is not affordability when this NDP government increases your rent by hundreds of dollars; $100 a year for homeowners tax credit is not enough when they've raised it by hundreds, if not thousands of dollars. A couple cents off a Slurpee is just a joke by this Premier. Why is the Premier ignoring Manitobans who are telling him they need more help to make life more affordable and his junk food tax isn't cutting it? Hon.

Wab Kinew (Premier): Honourable Speaker, I want to take this opportunity to congratulate Anna, Gurreet and Sukhmeet for the amazing job that they've all done here in the Manitoba Legislature. I think we all know that the future is very bright in this province and, hopefully, they only take the posi tive things out of their time here and none of the negative. I also wanted to take this opportunity to thank all of the clerks and sergeant of arms and their staff as well as yourself and the deputy S peakers for the extended effort you've put forward this week.

Not always easy, but certainly you carried yourself with grace and aplomb. Now, when it comes to the member's question, actions speak louder than words, and so we're taking the action of taking all tax off of food and drinks at the grocery stores, of making transit free for young people in Manitoba, investing in health care and investing in education. They've got words. We've got actions. We know– The Speaker: Member's time has expired. The honourable Leader of the Official Opposition, on a supplementary question. PST Exemption on Prepared Foods Restaurants Canada Consultation Mr.

Obby Khan (Leader of the Official Opposition): The Premier just isn't listening to Manitobans when they tell him that pennies off of Twinkies and Slurpees isn't going to make their life more affordable. The Premier promised he would keep income tax exemp- tions indexed to inflation. The Premier gave his word, and now Manitobans can see the Premier's word means absolutely nothing. He broke that promise. The Kinew government claims to support fam - ilies while raising their income property taxes by hundreds and thousands of dollars.

The Premier talks about a one Manitoba, but yet divides them with unions and non- unions and against local restaurants, Honourable Speaker. The Premier cares so little about you, he refuses to listen to you and now he refuses to listen to Restaurants Canada, an association made up of more than 40,000 Manitobans, $4 billion into Manitoba's economy; the Premier refuses to listen to them. Why is the Premier refusing to listen to Manitobans, Restaurants Canada, who only grow our economy? Hon. Wab Kinew (Premier): Honourable Speaker, I believe this is one Manitoba, that we are united as a province.

And that's why when the members opposite tried to divide Manitobans in the last election, we chose to say, let's focus on the big things together, like fixing health care and strengthening our economy. Now, of course, that's the very same message I took to Kananaskis, Alberta this week. I said that we are one Canada, that we should focus on the big things that unite us, like strengthening health care and making a stronger economy. The members opposite want to stay in the past and want to dig themselves deeper and deeper into the depths of negativity.

We prefer to watch Manitoba's youth soar above and rise up to a bright future as part of one united Canada. The Speaker: The honourable Leader of the Official Opposition, on a final supplementary question. Mr. Khan: A united Premier only if you get in line with him, only if you support everything that he says. No one believes a word this Premier is saying. He's following his mentor, former premier Greg Selinger's failed playbook. And here's the playbook:

(1) Make a big flashy announcement with no actual plans or details;

May 28, 2026 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 2611

(2) Raise your taxes;

(3) Spend more of your hard-earned money;

(4) Continue to raise taxes yet again, and repeat. That is the NDP way. The Premier has made one thing very clear: unless you get in line with him, he will cut you out of every single conversation. And that is what he's done with Restaurants Canada, who represent over 40,000 Manitobans, $4 billion and hundreds of local restaurants, local restaurants that this Premier has picked to be losers because they won't get in line with this Premier. So how can the Premier justify not meeting with Restaurants Canada when all they want to do is support Manitobans? The Speaker: Member's time has expired. Mr.

Kinew: Honourable Speaker, I'm a humble ser - vant, serving the people who elected our government– you and your family. And, of course, we've been listening carefully. Over the past few years, what is one of those concerns when it comes to the cost of living that just continues to rise up and up higher and higher on the public policy agenda? Well, of course, it is grocery prices. And so this term, this Legislature, this sitting, what have we focused on? We focused on making groceries more affordable. We started by freezing the price of milk.

We continued by breaking up real estate covenants that were anti-competitive. Why wouldn't the Conservatives support more competition in the grocery sector? And now, with the budget bill, in addition to bringing in rent relief and help with your mortgage costs, we are taking all the tax off at the grocery store. I encourage you to buy a rotisserie chicken. I encourage you to buy a salad. I encourage you to buy a no name case of– The Speaker: Member's time has expired. The honourable Leader of the Official Opposition, on a new question. Procurement Contracts US-Based Companies Mr.

Obby Khan (Leader of the Official Opposition): A real patriot stands up for Canada all the time, not part-time like this Premier. A patriot stands up for all– [interjection] The Speaker: Order. Mr. Khan: –of the workers and Canadian businesses all the time. This Premier likes to play part- time patriot on television, but his actions –his actions –that he talks about tell a very different story. [interjection] The Speaker: Order. Mr. Khan: In 2025, Elon Musk publicly marked – mocked Canada and questioned our sovereignty. So what did this part- time patriot Premier do?

He travelled to Washington, DC, posed for pictures and publicly bragged about meeting Elon Musk. [interjection] The Speaker: Order. Mr. Khan: And now, this very part -time patriot Premier has awarded Elon Musk's company a con- tract worth five times what it was. Why is the Premier's response to attacks on Canadian sovereignty to support Elon Musk by sending more of Manitoba's hard- earned money to the United States of America? Hon. Wab Kinew (Premier): Honourable Speaker, somebody has to stack up –stick up for Canada. And I was happy to do it this week in Canada with Alberta.

Now, of course, I will work with Premier Danielle Smith when it benefits the country. But where she tries to break up Canada, I will speak up for the true North, strong and free that all Canadians, including young kids in Alberta, will continue to be part of the greatest country on earth. The only part-time patriots are on the Progressive Conservative Party. It was just yesterday morning when the member for Lac du Bonnet (Mr. Ewasko) criticized me for saying that Alberta should be part of Canada.

It's bad enough when you've got separatist elements as part of other provinces, but what are separatist sympathizers doing right here in Manitoba? Will the member opposite address the treachery in his ranks? The Speaker: The honourable Leader of the Official Opposition, on a supplementary question. * (14:00) Mr. Khan: It is a sad, sad day in Manitoba when their Premier stands up and thinks that protecting and standing up for Manitoba means sending millions of dollars to the United States of America. Because that is exactly what this NDP government and part -time patriot Premier has done, Honourable Speaker.

This Kinew government is sending millions of your dollars–[interjection]

2612 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA May 28, 2026 The Speaker: Order. Mr. Khan: –to the United States of America while local companies are struggling, local Manitobans are struggling. They create jobs here in Manitoba, and this Premier chooses to send millions of dollars to the United States. We know this Premier cares more about his federal spotlight than he does about Manitobans, and more about the United States than he does about supporting local Manitoba businesses.

So can the Premier tell Manitobans why –why– if he's pretending to stand up for Canada, he sent $36 million to an American -owned company and increased Elon Musk contract by five– The Speaker: The member's time has expired. Mr. Kinew: I'll stand up for Canada any day, any time or place. I love this country. This country took a little kid from the reserve and gave me the beautiful family, wonderful career and amazing life that I have today. And for that, I will forever be grateful, as should all young people in this country.

We should all be patriots and we should all find ways to give back to the communities that have provided for us. The members opposite –since he was sitting at the Cabinet table, this government has reduced US procurement by 31 per cent. So perhaps in the final question, he'll explain why there was so much more money heading to the United States of America. We know that he said about Donald Trump on YouTube: Thank you; I would say thank you. He was talking about the tariffs that have taken money off of your family's dinner table. We will never thank Donald Trump. We will never bow down to America.

We will always be the true North– The Speaker: Member's time has expired. The honourable Leader of the Official Opposition, on a final supplementary question. Mr. Khan: Once again, this part-time Premier–patriot Premier, thinks that sending money to the United States of America, $36 million to Aramark, five times the contract to Elon Musk and now awarding an online company that does a survey to an American company. Honourable Speaker, Manitobans can see through this Premier. They know he's all talk. They know he cares more about the national spotlight than he does about helping Manitobans.

If he did, he would listen to Manitobans and say that their junk food tax is not good enough, that he'd increase their basic personal exemption to put money back into the pockets of Manitobans. But he's not. He's sending money to the United States of America that should stay here in Manitoba. If the Premier is so determined to take money out of Manitoba's families' pockets, destroy jobs and destroy local businesses and send that to the United States, when will the Premier officially announce his weak and short run for Prime Minister? Get out of the way of the– The Speaker: Member's time has expired. Mr.

Kinew: I hate to break it, but their worst night - mare is true: I'm not going anywhere. I'm staying right here to keep winning election after election, saving you money, fixing your health care, opening new emergency rooms. Now, the members opposite have stumbled onto a piece of news. Here's the thing: when it comes to Elon Musk and his affinity for supporting Donald Trump's attacks on Canada, we cut him off. We ended the subsidies for Tesla vehicles in this country. And news afoot, when we're talking about modes of conveyance, would show you that Tesla Canada has recently put the Manitoba government on notice.

Tesla Canada intends to file legal action against us for cutting off Elon. And we have a simple message to them: Elon, get Donald Trump to stop the tariffs, and then we can talk about the EV rebates. Basic Personal Income Tax–Exemption Increase Government Vote on Resolution Mrs. Lauren Stone (Midland): Manitobans are struggling under this NDP. Manitoba has the highest inflation in Canada, the highest food inflation in Canada, the highest property taxes in Canada and the highest education property taxes in Canada.

Our PC team has proposed to bring in real affordability relief for Manitobans by increasing the basic personal exemption by letting Manitobans keep $3,000 of their own money every single year. Instead, this NDP stood up by –one by one this morning and voted against an affordability proposal. So will the MLAs for Waverley, Lagimodière, Kildonan-River East and McPhillips stand up and defend why they are denying their– The Speaker: Member's time has expired.

May 28, 2026 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 2613 Hon. Adrien Sala (Minister of Finance): Honour- able Speaker, on the one hand, you've got a group offering something that will create huge dis propor- tionate benefits to the wealthiest in Manitoba, create a huge fiscal hole, result in another $2- billion deficit. That's their offer. What's our offer? Targeted relief that Manitobans need now, like taking the PST off of all groceries across this entire province. We know that Manitobans need that relief, and we've been doing that important work to bring forward targeted solutions to lower their costs.

The PCs have been fighting against this for weeks. Again, we need to bring these savings for July 1. This team's doing the work. We're going to keep doing the work to reduce costs for Manitobans. The Speaker: The honourable member for Midland, on a supplementary question. Mrs. Stone: Manitoba is the only province in Canada that has cancelled indexation at a time when infla- tionary pressures are hurting Manitobans the most. Manitoba has the highest inflation in the country and yet, this NDP cancelled indexation, pushing more Manitobans into higher tax brackets.

How can this NDP justify to Manitobans who are within $200 of insolvency that they refuse to give those families back $3,000 a year? How do they justify that? MLA Sala: What we say to Manitobans is, you finally have a government that actually cares about you and the challenges you're facing. And we've shown that over and over and over when it comes to their costs. For example, gas tax, what did we do? Right out of the gate, we cut the gas tax for an entire year. And then we brought in a permanent 10 per cent cut. And then we brought in a hydro rate freeze.

We're bringing in a –benefits credit increases are going to help homeowners to keep their costs low; we're bringing in credits increases that are going to help renters to keep their costs low. And now, of course, when it comes to food costs, we're doing the work to make sure that our gov- ernment reduces the cost of food for Manitobans. With this PST elimination, we know that's another step we're taking in addition to the freezing of a one-litre jug of–price of milk, as well as the important work we're doing to create more competition– The Speaker: Member's time has expired.

The honourable member for Midland, on a final supplementary question. Mrs. Stone: This NDP's budget has failed to provide any meaning, real 'affordabilability' for Manitobans. Manitobans are speaking up. They're sending emails. They're signing petitions. They're posting on the NDP's social media that they agree with our proposal to increase the basic personal exemption to $30,000, saving families $3,000 a year. But this NDP isn't listening. They're not listening to those Manitobans because they don't care that Manitobans are deeply struggling right now.

So how can they deny those struggling low-income families $3,000 a year? Why are they denying that much-needed relief? MLA Sala: We're bringing relief to Manitobans, Honourable Speaker, unlike what the members oppos- ite are proposing, which, again, is going to result in a $2-billion deficit, credit rating downgrades –who knows? It's a billion -dollar proposal. They just have not done the work and it's not serious. On this side of the House, what are we doing? We're bringing forward relief for Manitobans. Real relief. We brought it forward in this BITSA bill, which they've been fighting for weeks.

They seem to not want to help Manitobans get the relief they need. On this side of the House, each and every day, Manitobans know they can count on us to get the job done. Let's bring PST savings to Manitobans for July 1 today. Property Taxes Brandon, Manitoba Mr. Wayne Balcaen (Brandon West): Property tax bills have hit Brandon's mailboxes, and Brandonites are outraged. This government jacked up the tax bills by 6.7 per cent at a time when many families can't afford to even buy basic needs.

Why is this government forcing my constituents and all Brandonites to pay more just to support this minister's failures? * (14:10) Hon. Adrien Sala (Minister of Finance): Honour- able Speaker, when it comes to education and property taxes, this team is doing the work to lower them for Manitobans. With our first budget, we brought in a $1,500 credit. Last budget, that was raised to $1,600. And now, of course, our last budget proposed to raise

2614 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA May 28, 2026 that to $1,700, bringing huge savings to Manitobans to lower their cost of operating a home. But we're not just helping homeowners; we're helping renters too. The members opposite raised taxes on renters by $175, and we're doing the work of restoring that renters' tax credit and we're bringing it up to $675. Again, that's in this BITSA bill that the members opposite –it's a big mystery why they're fighting against tax cuts for Manitobans, but that's what they're fighting against.

We're doing the work of reducing costs, including the cost of owning and operating a home with our education– The Speaker: Member's time has expired. The honourable member for Brandon West, on a supplementary question. Basic Personal Income Tax–Exemption Increase Government Vote on Resolution Mr. Wayne Balcaen (Brandon West): A $100 savings in 2027 while they're expecting thousands of dollars from Manitobans now. This is another clear example of being Brandon-blind and Westman-weak. This morning, they showed that again by voting against Manitobans and against affordability.

Fam - ilies in my riding are crying out for tax relief, and so are local businesses. Brandon families are tired of just surviving under this government. How could this government vote against leaving more money in the pockets of Brandonites and all Manitobans? Hon. Adrien Sala (Minister of Finance): Honour- able Speaker, this member and all members opposite seem to forget what we're doing here. We're proposing to cut taxes from Manitobans. Get on board. You want to help your constituents? Support the BITSA bill. We're going to take the PST off groceries. We're going to increase the tax credits for renters.

We're going to increase tax credits for homeowners. If he wants to help individuals living in his con- stituency, he should stand up today and support the BITSA bill. The Speaker: The honourable member for Brandon West, on a final supplementary question. Mr. Balcaen: Half of Manitobans, including my con- stituents, are $200 a month or less from being able to pay their bills and service their debt. Families can't afford groceries and, for many, a car repair makes a difference between solvency and insolvency. This government's only solution is their PST PR gimmick.

Why did this govern ment vote against our common sense plan to raise the personal exemption so Brandon families can keep more of their pocket –of their money in their pockets? MLA Sala: Honourable Speaker, if the member opposite cares about affordability challenges, he should support this BITSA bill and he should sup- port our budget. We've done incredibly important work in helping to bring savings to Manitobans and, of course, we're proposing here free transit for youth in Manitoba. No cost for child care for the lowest income families in this province. Let's take the PST off all groceries.

These are real targeted measures that are going to help Manitobans where they need it. Years of inaction by the members opposite left Manitobans in a tough position. They left govern - ment–they left Manitobans with the highest inflation we've seen in recent memory: 8 per cent. What did we do when we got in? We quashed that immediately with a gas tax cut. Only one team in this province that wants to make life more affordable; they're sitting on this side of the House, Honourable Speaker. PST Exemption on Prepared Foods Convenience Stores and Restaurants Mr.

Konrad Narth (La Vérendrye): Honourable Speaker, this NDP government has created confusion and division between grocery stores, convenience stores and local restaurants over who qualifies for their misleading PST exemption scheme. That's what happens when this NDP govern ment co nstantly picks winners and losers instead of supporting all Manitobans equally. Can the Finance Minister confirm whether res - taurants and all prepared foods will be included in this PST policy? Simply yes or no. Hon.

Adrien Sala (Minister of Finance): Honour- able Speaker, by taking the PST off all groceries, we are helping all Manitobans. It's that simple. And, again, the member opposite stands here; he fights against BITSA. That's a bill that has a proposal for a $1,700 education property tax rebat e. It proposes to take edu cation property taxes off of almost every single home in the member's riding. We're doing the work to lower costs for Manitobans. Again, for years, Manitobans had a gov- ernment that didn't care, that jacked up hydro rates,

May 28, 2026 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 2615 that raised taxes on renters, made life more expensive for producers. This team is doing the work to make life more affordable. We're going to keep doing that, and we ask the members opposite: stand up today, do something with your time in this House, sup port the BITSA bill now. The Speaker: Member's time has expired. The honourable member for La Vérendrye, on a supplementary question. Restaurants Canada Consultation Mr. Narth: Honourable Speaker, I asked about res - taurants specifically.

Restaurants Canada, a national organization representing 42,000 Manitobans working in their sector say repeatedly that they have tried meeting with this Premier but were told he's too busy. Meanwhile, the Finance Minister claims they regularly consulted with Restaurants Canada. But Kelly Higginson, president of Restaurants Canada, told the Free Press they were never consulted on the PST ploy and couldn't even secure a meeting to discuss PST exemption on prepared takeout foods.

Why could this Premier not be bothered to meet with them and why did the Finance Minister lie about his consultation with– An Honourable Member: Lie? The Speaker: Order, please. The Speaker is standing. The Speaker is standing and will be heard in silence whether members like it or not. And the honourable member for La Vérendrye has used unparliamentary language. He will withdraw it and apologize. Mr. Narth: Honourable Speaker, I withdraw and apologize. French spoken Hon. Wab Kinew (Premier): Monsieur le Président, à cause du question du membre de La Vérendrye (M.

Narth) qui était en train d'attaquer le meilleur ministre de la finance (DAL Sala) dans tout le pays du Canada, moi, je veux répondre pour dire simplement que nous avons toujours des rencontres, des réunions avec des Manitobains et Manitobaines, incluant ceux qui travaillent dans le restaurant, ceux qui sont les employeurs dans les restaurants. Mais, c'est la réalité que les défis qui étaient décrits par les Manitobains et Manitobaines pour plusieurs années, c'est au magasin quand il fait leur 'baganisage.' Et puis là, ça c'est où nous vont leur aider.

Les Conservateurs devraient nous appuyer pour appuyer vous, les Manitobains – les résidents de la meilleure province dans toute la confédération. Translation Mr. Speaker, in response to the question from the member for La Vérendrye, who was attacking the best Finance Minister in all of Canada, I simply want to say that we are always meeting with Manitobans, including those who work in restaurants and those who are restaurant owners. But the reality is that the challenges Manitobans have been describing for years are the ones they face at the store when they're doing their grocery shopping.

And that's where we're going to help them. The Conservatives should support us so we can support you, the Manitobans–the residents of the best province in the entire Confederation. The Speaker: The honourable member for La Vérendrye, on a final supplementary question. Basic Personal Tax Exemption Increase Request Mr. Konrad Narth (La Vérendrye): Well, Honour- able Speaker, I table the

article from yesterday when Kelly Higginson, president of Restaurants Canada, states this Premier refused repeated meeting requests while the Finance Minister claimed they regularly consulted with Restaurants Canada. Once again, Manitobans are seeing a government that failed to consult before rushing ahead with another political gimmick. Instead of creating this division, why won't this government provide real affordability relief by raising the basic income exemption so Manitobans can decide for themselves what they spend their hard- earned money on? French spoken Hon.

Wab Kinew (Premier): Si le membre continue à attaquer un de mes collègues, je vais continuer de le répondre dans deux langues officielles. Quand c'est – quand on parle de la question que le membre a avancée, toute sa question est basée que le fait que notre budget va appuyer les Manitobains et vos familles. Il est en train de reconnaître que couper les impôts au magasin va aider votre famille, et son seule question – sa seule question est de demander : pourquoi pas le faire plus ?

2616 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA May 28, 2026 La réponse est : ça, c'est un budget avec beaucoup d'appui pour la famille, avec beaucoup d'appui pour le logement abordable, et puis avec le budget déficit le plus petit dans tout le pays. Translation If the member continues to attack one of my colleagues, I will continue to respond to him in both official languages. When it comes to–when we're talking about the issue the member raised, his entire argument is based on the fact that our budget will support Manitobans and their families.

He is acknowledging that cutting taxes at the store will help your family, and his only question–his only question is: why not do more? The answer is: this is a budget with strong support for families, with strong support for affordable housing and with the smallest budget deficit in the entire country. English So, for translation for the members opposite, if you keep attacking my colleagues, I'll keep dunking on you in both official languages. And your whole premise of your question is that cutting the PST is good. So support BITSA. Some Honourable Members: Oh, oh. The Speaker: Order, please. Order, please.

Order, please. Order. * (14:20) Stop the clock. Introduction of Guests The Speaker: I would like to intro duce some guests that I believe are still in the gallery–I hope they're still here–and draw–[interjection] Order, please. Order. I would like to draw the attention of all honour - able members to the public gallery where we have with us today Patrick Simard, uncle; and Joel Simard, cousin, who are guests of the honour able Minister of Municipal and Northern Relations (Mr. Simard). And we welcome you here today. Basic Personal Income Tax–Exemption Increase Government Vote on Resolution Mr.

Trevor King (Lakeside): Honourable Speaker, Manitoba families are struggling to keep up with the cost of groceries, rent, mortgage payments, gas and utilities. The PC plan to double the basic personal amount to $30,000 would leave Manitoba families with up to $3,000 more in their pockets every year. Why did this government vote against our afford- ability reso lution this morning, giving Manitoba families $3,000 more per year, instead–[interjection] The Speaker: Order. Mr. King: –of forcing them to send their –more of their paycheques back to this government? French spoken Hon.

Wab Kinew (Premier): Monsieur le Président, je suis un peu déçu de – d'avoir la responsabilité de décrire ce que le membre de La Vérendrye (M. Narth) juste venait de dire à notre collègue de Saint-Boniface après que le député de Saint-Boniface (DAL Loiselle) a dit : Mais, le Premier ministre parle français, tu pourrais écouter sur votre écouteur. Le membre de La Vérendrye a dit : I asked the question in English. Puis, après ça, le député de moi, le Premier ministre de Manitoba, a dit quelque chose à lui, et puis il a répondu : I didn't ask the question in French.

Je voudrais juste dire que cette Chambre est une institution bilingue. C'est-à-dire que ça ne dépend pas si la personne a demandé la question en anglais ou français, nous avons le droit, la responsabilité de répondre dans le français ou dans l'anglais. Ça, c'est ce qu'on dit quand on dit une province véritablement bilingue. Je voudrais demander au membre de dire – Translation Mr. Speaker, I am a little disappointed to–to have to describe what the member for La Vérendrye (Mr. Narth) just said to our colleague from St. Boniface after the member for St.

Boniface (MLA Loiselle) said: But the Prime Minister speaks French; you could listen through your earpiece. The member for La Vérendrye said: I asked the question in English. Then, after that, the member for my riding, the Premier of Manitoba, said something to him, and he replied: I didn't ask the question in French. I would just like to say that this House is a bilingual institution. That is to say, it does not matter whether the person asked the question in English or French; we have the right and the responsibility to answer in French or in English. That is what we mean when we say a truly bilingual province.

I would like to ask the member to say– The Speaker: Member's time is expired.

May 28, 2026 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 2617 The honourable member for–[interjection] Order. The honour able member for Lakeside, on a supplementary question. Mr. King: Honourable Speaker, for a family trying to pay bills, keep their children fed and make ends meet, $3,000 a year is not a small amount. It's real afford- ability relief that would make a substantial difference at the kitchen table. Does this Minister of Finance (MLA Sala) not agree with giving families $3,000 more each year to help feed their children is a good idea? French spoken Mr.

Kinew: Alors, je m'excuse d'avoir pris trop long dans la dernière réponse. Alors, je demande à le membre de La Vérendrye (M. Narth) de s'excuser à la Francophonie manitobaine pour ses commentaires aujourd'hui. Y a beaucoup de Francophones dans son circonscription. Y a beaucoup – même le nom de son – le nom de sa circonscription est dans la langue française : La Vérendrye. Et ça décrit une histoire de l'affaire francophone dans notre province.

Alors, la manière où il a lancé ce commentaire à le député de Saint -Boniface (DAL Loiselle), ça nous montre qu'il y a beaucoup de travail à faire pour respecter les droits de les Francophones, qui ont dou – qui ont dû lutter pour leur droit de langue minoritaire ici dans notre province. Nous, comme les néos, nous les appuient. Les Conservateurs sont toujours en train de leur nuire. Translation I apologize for taking too long with my last response. I'm asking the member for La Vérendrye (Mr. Narth) to apologize to Manitoba's francophone com mu- nity for his comments today.

There are a lot of francophones in his riding. There are a lot –even the name of his –the name of his riding is in French: La Vérendrye. And that reflects the history of the francophone community in our province. The way he made that comment to the member for St. Boniface (MLA Loiselle) shows us that there is a lot of work to be done to respect the rights of francophones, who have had to fight for their minority language rights here in our province. We, as NDPs, support them. The Conservatives are always working against them. The Speaker: The honourable member for Lakeside, on a final supplementary question. Mr.

King: Honourable Speaker, Manitobans do not need–[interjection] The Speaker: Order. Mr. King: –token measures that barely touch the cost of living. They need broad, meaningful tax relief that leaves more money in their pockets every paycheque. Doubling the basic personal amount to $30,000 would help working families, seniors and low-income Manitobans keep more of what they earn. Why won't this government support this PC plan to give Manitobans real affordability relief? French spoken Mr. Kinew: Les Conservateurs ne sont pas sérieux.

Nous avons avancé un budget sérieux avec des appuis pour vous et votre famille, et puis avec un plan pour réduire le déficit ici dans notre province. Mais en partageant cet message dans la langue française, est-ce qu'on a des réponses sérieuses ? Dans – même dans anglais ? Non. On a un commentaire d'un député avec une circonscription qui a un nom français qui en train de dire à un député qui est fièrement francophone : I asked a question in English; I didn't ask it in French. Ça, c'est un exemple pour les jeunes dans le Manitoba de comment pas respecter la Francophonie manitobaine.

Ici, dans notre gouvernement, nous avons la responsabilité pour tous les Manitobains et Manitobaines, n'importe langue que vous parlez chez vous. Et nous serons toujours là pour appuyer vous et votre famille, pour un système de santé augmenté, et puis plusieurs appuis pour une vie plus abordable. Translation The Conservatives are not serious. We put forward a serious budget with support for you and your family, and a plan to reduce the deficit here in our province. But when we share this message in French, do we get serious responses? In –even in English? No.

We have a comment from a member of the Legislature representing a riding with a French name, who is telling a member who is proudly francophone: I asked a question in English; I didn't ask it in French. For young people in Manitoba, this is an example of how not to respect Manitoba's francophone com - munity. Here, in our government, we are responsible for all Manitobans, no matter what language you speak at home. And we will always be there to support you and your family, to strengthen the health-care system and to provide various forms of support for a more affordable life.

The Speaker: Member's time has expired.

2618 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA May 28, 2026 Number of Practising Physicians Recruitment Announcement Mr. Diljeet Brar (Burrows): Honourable Speaker, from day one, our government has been focused on recruiting and retaining the doctors Manitobans need. Thanks to the hard work of health- care workers and strong partnership across the system, Manitoba is making real progress rebuilding front-line care. And today our government and Doctors Manitoba are celebrating a major milestone. Can the Minister of Health, Seniors and Long-Term Care please tell Manitobans a bit more about this exciting announcement? Hon.

Uzoma Asagwara (Minister of Health, Seniors and Long-Term Care): I thank my friend, the MLA from the Burrows, for that wonderful, wonderful – apologies, Honourable Speaker–I thank my friend and colleague for that wonderful question. After years of cuts under the PC government, we are rebuilding Manitoba's health- care system, and we're seeing the results. Not only does Manitoba lead all of Canada in access to a family doctor, but today, Doctors Manitoba confirmed that there are now a record over 3,700 doctors working here in Manitoba. That is a record for our great province.

And we're working hard to grow that number every single day. We're expanding training seats, we're improving recruitment, and we're working every day to ensure retention. So– The Speaker: Member's time has expired. Basic Personal Tax Exemption Increase Request MLA Jeff Bereza (Portage la Prairie): My col - league from Brandon West asked about families losing everything, and I watched the Premier sit in his chair laughing at those constituents that are starving out there. Manitobans are being crushed by grocery prices, rent, mortgages and payroll taxes.

Yet this NDP government refuses to support raising the basic personal exemption to $30,000, a plan that would let hard- working Manitobas keep more of their paycheque. Why is this NDP government choosing to push low- and middle -income Manitobans with higher taxes? Why now? Hon. Wab Kinew (Premier): Three quick facts for the record. Page 144 of this budget lays out the net impacts of all tax measures. Taxes are going down $50 million because of the budget that they are trying to delay.

Second fact is that Harvest Manitoba, who works on the front lines with Manitobas who are struggling, asked us to cut the sales tax on all food and drinks at the grocery store. They asked; we are delivering. The third fact I would put on the record is that as these Conservatives criticize, divide and delay, we are missing out on needed investments in health care, needed investments in school, needed investments in transit–[interjection] The Speaker: Order. Mr.

Kinew: –for youth, needed investments in a new menopause clinic for women, needed invest - ments in repairing highways and roads across the province, needed invest ments in growing the econ- omy, including– * (14:30) The Speaker: Member's time is expired. The honourable member for Portage la Prairie, on a supplementary question. MLA Bereza: Well, if we're going to talk about checking things out, maybe the Premier can check on page 7 of his budget, where it calls for a $1.1- billion education–that is ridiculous –property tax increase.

A PC government will raise the basic personal exemp- tion to $30,000 so Manitobans can stop paying taxes on the first $30,000. Can the minister explain why this NDP government believes a single parent, a tradesperson or on fixed income should be paying higher taxes, or why the education property taxes are being raised by 1.1– The Speaker: Member's time is expired. Mr. Kinew: Honourable Speaker, the basic personal exemption is higher under us than it ever was under them. So if it was such a good idea, why didn't they do it when they were at Cabinet? Why did they focus on dividing Manitobans?

But there is news afoot on another front as well, and that is that, from what I understand, tomorrow is the end of an era in Manitoba journalism. The Canadian Press's Steve Lambert is set to retire. The fifth estate is a very, very important institution in our democracy, and while we may not like the headlines and the quotes that get used in each of the stories,

May 28, 2026 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 2619 we all respect the importance of journalism. And so I want to thank Mr. Lambert. French spoken Je voudrais remercier le Monsieur Lambert pour sa carrière exceptionnelle. Translation I would like to thank Mr. Lambert for his outstanding career. English I thank him for his service. The Speaker: The time for oral questions has expired. PETITIONS Programs for Adolescents with Disabilities Mr. Obby Khan (Leader of the Official Opposition): I wish to present the following petition to the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba. The background to this petition is as follows:

(1) Children with dis abilities often require child care beyond the age of 12. Children with dis abilities aged 12 to 17 face a gap in publicly available care programs.

(2) The current adolescent -care service model creates undue hardship on caregivers.

(3) While developing children may be entering into extracurricular activities, school clubs or spending time with friends in dependently, children with disabilities have reduced oppor tunities for such social and recreational opportunities due to the lack of spaces. The current self-managed adolescent-care model places additional workloads onto already stressed families, requiring parents to seek all alter native options and prove their need for care.

(5) The current adolescent-care system, as part of overall respite and support available to families, is failing families of children with dis abilities, as identified in the Manitoba Advocate for Children and Youth's Bridging the Gaps report.

(6) To date, none of the nine recom mendations have been completed beyond 50 per cent.

(7) The recommendations in this report touch on many of the issues facing families, with adolescent care being but a small component of their overall needs. We petition the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba as follows:

(1) To urge the provincial gov ernment to fully implement recommendations in the Bridging the Gaps report.

(2) To urge the provincial gov ernment to imme- diately implement official policies and procedures that are more respectful and collaborative, which also minimize harm faced by families seeking help from Children's disABILITY Services.

(3) To urge the Minister of Families to arrange for a full review of em ployment supports provided by Children with disABILITY Services for children with disabilities aged 12 to 17, including direct consul ta- tion with impacted families and to explor e a full spectrum of options to support families, em powering them to choose solutions that best fit their needs. Mr. Tyler Blashko, Deputy Speaker, in the Chair This petition was signed by Rachel Goy, Diane Branen–Bruen [phonetic] and Ramasani Asrayah and many, many other Manitobans. Manitoba Jobs Agreement Mrs.

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

(1) The Manitoba jobs agreement imposes additional requirements, fees and red tape that increase the cost of public infrastructure projects. Higher construction costs ultimately mean taxpayers pay more, reducing the number of projects that the government can afford to complete, exacerbating the rising cost of living.

(2) Manitoba is already suffering from a shortage of schools, hospitals and other public infrastructure projects in rapidly growing areas of the province, along with the construction workers to build them.

(3) According to Statistics Canada, 88 per cent of the 60,000 Manitobans who work in the construction sector are not unionized and will therefore be discriminated against from working on public con- struction sites.

(4) The Winnipeg Construction Association, the Manitoba Heavy Construction Association and the Construction Association of Rural Manitoba have joined together to formally request the Auditor General

2620 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA May 28, 2026 investigate the accountability failures of the Manitoba jobs agreement under the NDP government.

(5) When government restricts competition, tax - payers always pay more and get less. The Manitoba jobs agreement means less competition, higher costs and fewer schools, hospitals, bridges for the same amount of public money.

(6) The Manitoba jobs agreement funnels money to the NDP's government's political allies, rather than prioritizing the completion of public infrastructure projects, such as schools and hospitals from Winnipeg to Brandon to Neepawa.

(7) Public projects funded by public dollars should be open to every qualified company and every qualified worker. The government should restore open, fair and competitive tendering process to ensure that all construction firms have equal opportunity to participate in public infrastructure projects such as the North End waste water treatment plant. We petition the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba as follows:

(1) To immediately repeal the job -killing Manitoba jobs agreement and restore open, fair and competitive bidding on all publicly funded infra - structure projects such as schools, hospitals and water and waste water projects. * (14:40)

(2) To ensure all qualified Manitoba workers and businesses have equal opportunity to participate in public projects.

(3) To prioritize policies that lower construction costs and therefore the cost of living and to maximize the number of infrastructure projects delivered for taxpayers.

(4) To provide a full and transparent breakdown of the costs of the Manitoba jobs agreement that will be passed on to Manitobans and a clear breakdown of the projects that will have to be postponed or cancelled due to the agreement. This is signed by Jacob Mulvin [phonetic] , Ken Dueck, David Ping [phonetic] and many, many, many more Manitobans. The Deputy Speaker: I'll remember all members that–I'll remind all members that you can read up to three names at the end of your petition, and you can say the word many twice at the end of your petition. Placement Vetting for Elderly Persons Housing Mr.

Rick Wowchuk (Swan River): I wish to present the following petition to the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba. The background to this petition is as follows:

(1) Manitoba Housing will be placing homeless people and people with multi-layered mental illnesses and addictions into what has always been known as seniors housing.

(2) Manitoba Housing is placing people in elderly persons housing, EPH, buildings without vetting them.

(3) There is no minimum age limit stated on the Manitoba Housing information page for elderly per - sons housing buildings.

(4) The tenant service co -ordinator and/or the building manager of EPH buildings should be given the right to deny applicants based on their first -hand knowledge of the applicant being homeless, having multi-layered mental illnesses and/or addictions, or any other reason that they are aware of that could cause potential harm to residents.

(5) Proper vetting should include a criminal record check, a vulnerable persons record check and the consent of the tenant service co -ordinator and/or the building manager of elderly persons housing building. We petition the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba as follows:

(1) To urge the Minister of Housing, Addictions and Homelessness to use seniors housing for what it was intended: the seniors.

(2) To urge the Minister of Housing, Addictions and Homelessness to require a minimum age of 55 years for residence in all elderly persons housing, EPH, buildings.

(3) To urge the Minister of Housing, Addictions and Homelessness to engage in proper vetting of all applications of people desiring to live in EPH, elderly persons housing, buildings. This petition has been signed by John Pasternak, Wendyl Kooistra, Derek Chez and many, many other Manitobans.

May 28, 2026 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 2621 Intersection of PTH 75 and PR 305 Mr. Ron Schuler (Springfield-Ritchot): I wish to pres- ent the following petition to the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba. The background to this petition is as follows:

(1) The intersection of Provincial Trunk Highway 75, PTH 75, and Provincial Road 305, PR 305, at Ste. Agathe, has become increasingly dangerous for motorists and pedestrians.

(2) Over the past seven years there have been at least 20 accidents at this location resulting in injuries and fatalities.

(3) This intersection is heavily used by community members, commuters, and commercial traffic, making safety improvements critical.

(4) Immediate action is needed to mitigate accidents and prevent further loss of life.

(5) An in -service road safety review was completed in 2022, which included recommended improvements but no action plan.

(6) Immediate action and implementation on the maintenance issues and short -term strategies identi - fied in the 2022 study are needed. (7)– The Deputy Speaker: Order. I'd invite the member to speak up a little bit so that our Hansard and ASL interpreters could perform their roles. Mr. Schuler:

(6) Imme diate action and imple men- tation on the maintenance issues and short -term strategies identified in the 2022 study are needed.

(7) Development of an action plan with timelines for the media -term strategies identified in the 2022 study is required.

(8) Installation of traffic lights or a controlled signal system will make the intersection safer.

(9) Additional strategies, such as reduced speed limits approaching the intersection and the addition of rumble strips to alert drivers of the upcoming intersection, will save lives.

(10) Construction of dedicated turning lanes to reduce collision risk and other traffic calming designs will help reduce collisions, injuries and fatalities at the intersection. We petition the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba as follows:

(1) To urge the Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure to undertake safety improvements at the intersection of PTH 75 and PR 305 at Ste. Agathe.

(2) To urge the Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure to prioritize measures that will reduce accidents and fatalities, including but not limited to those outlined in the 2022 in- service road safety review. This is signed by Theresa Tinsley, Okasawa Storli [phonetic], Edward Storli [phonetic] and many other Manitobans. MRI Machine for Portage Regional Health Facility Mr. Jeff Wharton (Red River North): I wish to pres- ent the following petition to the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba. The background to this petition is as follows:

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

(2) An MRI machine is a non -invasive medical imaging technique that uses a magnetic field and a computer-generated radio wave to create detailed images of organs and tissues in the human body. It is used for disease detection, diagnosis and treatment monitoring. * (14:50)

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

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

(5) Around Portage la Prairie are the Dakota Tipi, Dakota Plains, Sandy Bay and Long Plain First Nations reserves. Indigenous peoples in Canada dispro- portionately face barriers in access to services and

2622 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA May 28, 2026 medical care. An MRI machine located in the Portage regional health facility will bring care closer to their home communities and provide greater access to diagnostic testing.

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

(7) The average wait times for Manitobans to receive an MRI scan is currently six to eight months. Having an MRI machine in the Portage regional health facility will help reduce wait times for patients and provide better care sooner. Honourable Deputy Speaker, we petition the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba as follows: To urge the provincial government to support the investment and the placement of an MRI machine in the Portage regional health facility in Portage la Prairie, Manitoba. This petition is signed by Kim Menard [phonetic], Sandra Lambert and Sandra Kambert [phonetic] and many, many Manitobans.

Thank you, honourable Deputy Speaker. Intersection of PTH 75 and PR 305 Mr. Kelvin Goertzen (Steinbach): I wish to present the following petition to the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba. And the background to this petition is as follows:

(1) The intersection of Provincial Trunk Highway 75, PTH 75, and Provincial Road 305, PR 305, at Ste. Agathe, has become increasingly dangerous for motorists and pedestrians.

(2) Over the past seven years there have been at least 20 accidents at this location resulting in injuries and fatalities.

(3) This intersection is heavily used by community members, commuters and commercial traffic, making safety improvements critical.

(4) Immediate action is needed to mitigate accidents and prevent further loss of life.

(5) An in -service road safety review was completed in 2022, which included recommended improvements but no action plan.

(6) Immediate action and implementation on the maintenance issues and short -term strategies identi - fied in the 2022 study are needed.

(7) Development of an action plan with timelines for the medium-term strategies identified in the 2022 study is required.

(8) Installation of traffic lights or a controlled signal system will make the intersection safer.

(9) Additional strategies, such as reduced speed limits approaching the intersection and the addition of rumble strips to alert drivers of the upcoming intersection, will save lives.

(10) Construction of dedicated turning lanes to reduce collision risk and other traffic calming designs will help reduce collisions, injuries and fatalities at the intersection. We petition the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba as follows:

(1) To urge the Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure to undertake safety improvements at the intersection of PTH 75 and PR 305 at Ste. Agathe; and

(2) To urge the Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure to prioritize measures that will reduce accidents and fatalities, including but not limited to those outlined in the 2022 in- service road safety review. And, honourable Deputy Speaker, this petition is signed by Julie Allen, Jason Allen, Darlene Lecuyer and many, many other fine Manitobans. The Deputy Speaker: No more petitions? Grievances? Programs for Adolescents with Disabilities Ms. Jodie Byram (Agassiz): I wish to present the following petition to the Legis lative Assembly of Manitoba. The background to this petition is as follows:

(1) Children with dis abilities often require child care beyond the age of 12. Children with dis abilities aged 12 to 17 face a gap in publicly available care programs.

(2) The current adolescent -care service model creates undue hardship on caregivers.

(3) While developing children may be entering into extracurricular activities, school clubs or spending time with friends in dependently, children with disabilities have reduced oppor tunities for such

May 28, 2026 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 2623 social and recreational opportunities due to the lack of spaces.

(4) The current self -managed adolescent -care models place additional workloads onto already stressed families, requiring parents to seek all alterna- tive options and prove their need for care.

(5) The current adolescent-care system, as part of overall respite and support available to families, is failing families of children with dis abilities, as identified in the Manitoba Advocate for Children and Youth's Bridging the Gaps report.

(6) To date, none of the nine recommendations it contains have been completed beyond 50 per cent.

(7) The recommendations in this report touch on many of the issues facing families, with adolescent care being but a small component of their overall needs. We petition the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba as follows:

(1) To urge the provincial gov ernment to fully implement recommendations in the Bridging the Gaps report.

(2) To urge the provincial gov ernment to imme- diately implement official policies and procedures that are more respectful and collaborative, which also minimize harm faced by families seeking help from Children's disABILITY Services.

(3) To urge the Minister of Families to arrange for a full review of em ployment supports provided by Children's dis ABILITY Services for children with disabilities aged 12 to 17, including direct consul ta- tion with impacted families and to explore a full spectrum of options to support families, em powering them to choose solutions that best fit their needs. This petition has been signed by Martina McLaughlan, Kailey Armstrong, Tosha Korman and many, many, many more Manitobans. Mr. Greg Nesbitt (Riding Mountain): I wish to pres- ent the following petition to the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba. The background to this petition is as follows:

(1) Children with dis abilities often require child care beyond the age of 12. Children with dis abilities aged 12 to 17 face a gap in publicly available care programs.

(2) The current adolescent -care service model creates undue hardship on caregivers.

(3) While developing children may be entering into extracurricular activities, school clubs or spending time with friends in dependently, children with disabilities have reduced oppor tunities for such social and recreational opportunities due to the lack of spaces. * (15:00)

(4) The current self -managed adolescent -care models place additional workloads onto already stressed families, requiring parents to seek all alterna- tive options and prove their need for care.

(5) The current adolescent-care system, as part of the overall respite and support available to families, is failing families of children with dis abilities, as identified in the Manitoba Advocate for Children and Youth's Bridging the Gaps report.

(6) To date, none of the nine recommendations it contains have been completed beyond 50 per cent.

(7) The recommendations in this report touch on many of the issues facing families, with adolescent care being but a small component of their overall needs. We petition the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba as follows:

(1) To urge the provincial gov ernment to fully implement recommendations in the Bridging the Gaps report.

(2) To urge the provincial gov ernment to imme- diately implement official policies and procedures that are more respectful and collaborative, which also minimize harm faced by families seeking help from Children's disABILITY Services.

(3) To urge the Minister of Families to arrange for a full review of em ployment supports provided by Children's dis ABILITY Services for children with disabilities aged 12 to 17, including direct consul ta- tion with impacted families and to explore a full spectrum of options to support families, em powering them to choose solutions that best fit their needs. Honourable Deputy Speaker, this petition has been signed by Carla Robinson, Genadri Myhre, Courtney Kovachik and many, many other fine Manitobans. Thank you.

2624 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA May 28, 2026 Green Valley School Expansion Mr. Konrad Narth (La Vérendrye): I wish to pres- ent the following petition to the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba. The background to this petition is as follows:

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

(2) In 2021, the PC provincial gov ernment committed funding to expand Green Valley School for a new gymnasium and classrooms.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

(2) To urge the provincial government to reinstate the expansion project for Green Valley School. This petition has been signed by Candice Bakx-Friesen, Martha Petruwich [phonetic] and Nathan Petrowich [phonetic] and many, many other Manitobans. Opposition to Releasing Repeat Offenders Mr. Trevor King (Lakeside): I wish to present the following petition to the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba. The background to this petition is as follows:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

(2) To urge provincial government to lobby the federal government to immediately repeal provisions of the Criminal Code that allow for the continued

May 28, 2026 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 2625 victimization of law -abiding Manitobans while granting repeat offenders additional rights. Now, this petition has been signed by Krista Hodgkin [phonetic]–Hodgins, Zoe Murray- Mulvey and Judith Olson and many, many fine Manitobans. Thank you, Honourable Speaker. Programs for Adolescents with Disabilities Mr. Derek Johnson (Interlake-Gimli): I wish to pres- ent the following petition to the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba. * (15:10) To the Legis lative Assembly of Manitoba, the background to this petition is as follows:

(1) Children with dis abilities often require child care beyond the age of 12. Children with dis abilities aged 12 to 17 face a gap in publicly available care programs.

(2) The current adolescent -care service model creates undue hardship on caregivers.

(3) While developing children may be entering into extracurricular activities, school clubs or spending time with friends in dependently, children with disabilities have reduced oppor tunities for such social and recreational opportunities due to the lack of spaces.

(4) The current self -managed adolescent -care models place additional workloads on already stressed families, requiring parents to seek alternative options and prove their need for care.

(5) The current adolescent-care system, as part of overall respite and support available to families, is failing families of children with disabilities, as identi- fied in the Manitoba Advocate for Children and Youth's Bridging the Gaps report.

(6) To date, none of the nine recommendations it contains have been completed beyond 50 per cent.

(7) The recommendations in this report touch on many of the issues facing families, with adolescent care being but a small component of their overall needs. We petition the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba as follows:

(1) To urge the provincial gov ernment to fully implement recommendations in the Bridging the Gaps report.

(2) To urge the provincial gov ernment to imme- diately implement official policies and procedures that are more respectful and fully collaborative, which also minimize harm faced by families seeking help from Children's disABILITY Services.

(3) To urge the Minister of Families to arrange for a full review of em ployment supports provided by Children's dis ABILITY Services for children with disabilities aged 12 to 17, including direct consul ta- tion with impacted families and to explore a full spectrum of options to support families, em powering them to choose solutions that best fit their needs. This petition was signed by Norma Jean McKay, Sheila McKay and Jalyn Morrisseau and many, many other fine Manitobans. Thank you, Honourable Speaker. Sustaining Cash as Payment Option in Manitoba Mr.

Josh Guenter (Borderland): Honourable Speaker, I wish to present the following petition. To the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba, the background to this petition is as follows:

(1) Cash remains the only form of legal tender that protects personal privacy, ensures financial inclusion for those without access to digital payment systems and provides a reliable method of payment during service disruptions.

(2) The Bank of Canada recognizes cash as legal tender, yet current provincial law allows private businesses to refuse cash.

(3) The increasing refusal of the acceptance of cash for purchases by businesses in Winnipeg and across Manitoba undermines consumer choice, dis - criminates against vulnerable populations and erodes the role of cash in the economy. We petition the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba as follows:

(1) To urge the provincial government to enact legislation that requires all businesses operating in the province to accept cash as a method of payment for goods and services, including vending machines; and

(2) To urge the provincial government to enact legislation that requires so-called cashless businesses to offer alternatives for customers who use cash, such as an exact-change policy or a reverse ATM. This petition has been signed by many Manitobans.

2626 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA May 28, 2026 Programs for Adolescents with Disabilities Mr. Wayne Ewasko (Lac du Bonnet): I wish to pres- ent the following petition to the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba. The background to this petition is as follows:

(1) Children with dis abilities often require child care beyond the age of 12. Children with dis abilities aged 12 to 17 face a gap in publicly available care programs.

(2) The current adolescent -care service model creates undue hardship on caregivers.

(3) While developing children may be entering into extracurricular activities, school clubs or spending time with friends in dependently, children with disabilities often reduced opportunities for such social and recreational opportunities due to the lack of spaces.

(4) The current self -managed adolescent -care models place additional workloads onto already stressed families, requiring parents to seek all alterna- tive options and prove their need for care.

(5) The current adolescent-care system, as part of overall respite and support available to families, is failing families of children with dis abilities, as identified in the Manitoba Advocate for Children and Youth's Bridging the Gaps report.

(6) To date, none of the nine recommendations it contains have been completed beyond 50 per cent.

(7) The recommendations in this report touch on many of the issues facing families, with adolescent care being but a small component of their overall needs. We petition the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba as follows:

(1) To urge the provincial gov ernment to fully implement recommendations in the Bridging the Gaps report.

(2) To urge the provincial gov ernment to imme- diately implement official policies and procedures that are more respectful and collaborative, which also minimize harm faced by families seeking help from Children's disABILITY Services.

(3) To urge the Minister of Families to arrange for a full review of em ployment supports provided by Children's dis ABILITY Services for children with disabilities aged 12 to 17, including direct consul ta- tion with impacted families and to explore a full spectrum of options to support families, em powering them to choose solutions that best fit their needs. This petition is signed by Tiffany Murray, Agenor Chaput, Aline Chaput and many, many more fine Manitobans. Phoenix School Mrs. Kathleen Cook (Roblin): I wish to present the following petition to the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba.

The background to this petition is as follows: Phoenix School, kindergarten to grade 5 school located in Headingley, has experienced consistent enrolment growth over the last several years. Enrolment is expected to reach 275 students in the next two years. * (15:20) Because the school is now over capacity, the school division has had to install portable classrooms on site as of fall 2024. For several consecutive years, the top capital pri- ority of the St. James-Assiniboia School Division has been the renovation and expansion of Phoenix School.

In 2022, the Phoenix School expansion and renovation project was approved to proceed to the design phase. The project included, among other amenities, a new gymnasium, two new classrooms, a multi-purpose room and room for 74 child -care spaces. In June 2024, the school division received notice from the provincial government that the project has been deferred. There is no guarantee if, or when, the project will move forward. There are currently hundreds of children on a wait-list for child care in Headingley.

The daycare operator in Phoenix School has been told that they will continue to have space within the school for the 2024-2025 school year only, that further expansion of child-care space within the school is not possible and that space may be reduced moving forward due to the shortage of classrooms. If new space is not constructed as planned, many families may be left without child care. It is critical that the expansion and renovation of Phoenix School proceed as planned in order to support the needs of students, teachers and families in the growing community of Headingley.

May 28, 2026 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 2627 We petition the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba as follows: To urge the provincial government to proceed with the planned renovation and expansion of Phoenix School without further delay. And this petition is signed by many, many Manitobans. Opposition to Releasing Repeat Offenders MLA Jeff Bereza (Portage la Prairie): I wish to – thank you, Honourable Speaker. I wish to present the following petition.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

(2) To urge the provincial government to lobby the federal government to immediately repeal provisions of the Criminal Code that allow for continued victimization of law -abiding Manitobans while granting repeat offenders additional rights. This is signed by Judy Verwey, Arnold Verwey, Sarah Verwey and many, many more friendly Manitobans. School-Supported Lunch Programs in Brandon Mr. Wayne Balcaen (Brandon West): I wish to pres- ent the following petition to the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba, and the background to this petition is as follows:

(1) Parent councils across the Brandon School Division have united as the Brandon Parent Council Collaborative to collectively advocate for safer, more sustainable lunch programming and to change the legislation to be equitable and inclusive for all students.

(2) Parent -led lunch programs have historically operated under a model that is no longer reflective of current societal and family realities, with 'moust' – most households having all adults working outside the home.

(3) The geographic expansion of school catchment areas, combined with school-of-choice enrolment, has increased the need for accessible, school -supported lunch programs for all students, not just those clas - sified as bus students.

(4) Students are increasingly dependent on schools for midday nutrition, supervision and emotional stability, making the lunch period a vital part of the school day that impacts safety, readiness to learn and overall well-being.

(5) There is widespread willingness among educational assistants to support lunch programs if formalized through the Brandon School Division. We petition the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba as follows:

(1) To urge the provincial government to acknowledge lunch programming as a core compon- ent of the school day, deserving of proper planning, staffing and oversight by the school divisions, not volunteer, parent-led councils.

(2) To urge the provincial government to change school policies so they are equitable for all students, not just those classified as bus students; and

2628 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA May 28, 2026

(3) To urge the provincial government to change school policies to designate 60 minutes in the middle of each day as a period of education, not child care. And, Honour able Speaker, this petition was signed by Humansu [phonetic] Shah, Nikitu Shah, Ian Healey and many, many other fine Manitobans. The Speaker: No further petitions? Grievances? ORDERS OF THE DAY (Continued) GOVERNMENT BUSINESS Hon.

Nahanni Fontaine (Government House Leader): Honourable Speaker, can you please call all stages of Bill 53, followed by third reading and concurrence of Bill 5, Bill 6, Bill 36, Bill 35, Bill 29 and Bill 45. * (15:30) The Speaker: So it's been announced that we will now proceed to all stages of Bill 53, followed by concurrence and third reading of bills 53, 5, 6, 36, 35, 29 and 45. The honourable member for Agassiz, on House business? Ms. Jodie Byram (Agassiz): On House business. The Speaker: The honourable member for Agassiz , on House Business. Ms.

Byram: Honourable Speaker, could you please canvass the House for leave, (1) to not see the clock until all questions have been put at Committee of the Whole and at concurrence and third reading of Bill 53, The Budget Implementation and Tax Statutes Amendment Act, 2026; and (2) to allow a one -hour recess from 6 to 7 with a five-minute bell at the end of that hour. The Speaker: Is there leave to allow the two requests made by the honourable member for Agassiz? Is there leave? An Honourable Member: Agreed. An Honourable Member: No. The Speaker: No. I hear no. Leave has been denied.

So then, we will now proceed to Committee of the Whole for Bill 53. Deputy Speaker, please take the chair. COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE Bill 53–The Budget Implementation and Tax Statutes Amendment Act, 2026 The Chairperson (Tyler Blashko): Will the Committee of the Whole please come to order. As announced, this committee will now consider the following: Bill 53, The Budget Imple mentation and Tax Statutes Amendment Act, 2026. Does the minister responsible for Bill 53 have an opening statement? Hon.

Adrien Sala (Minister of Finance): I'm very pleased to speak to Bill 53, our budget bill that brings savings to homeowners and renters and removes the PST from all groceries starting July 1. For weeks now , members opposite have been filibustering this bill and delaying relief for Manitobans. While families are feeling pressure every time they go to the grocery store the opposi tion has chosen to delay. On this side of the House, we're focused on delivering relief, not delaying it. Let's pass this bill and make sure Manitobans can start saving on July 1. Thank you so much. The Chairperson: We thank the minister.

Does the critic from the official op position have an opening statement? * (15:40) Mrs. Lauren Stone (Midland): I want to start first by saying that the budget bill that the NDP gov ernment has put forward misses the moment for Manitobans. It's been very clear, over the past number of weeks, that this NDP does not even believe in their own budget bill. They refused to sit late earlier this week to pass through second reading of the bill. They've then again said that they don't want to stay late tonight to pass third reading, despite the fact that their boss, the Premier (Mr.

Kinew), indicated that he wanted this done by May 28, which is today. So, time and time again, this NDP government has shown that they don't believe in their bill. And the reason they don't believe in their budget bill is because they know it does not do enough for Manitobans. Manitobans are living in an affordability and a cost -of-living crisis. Manitoba has the highest inflation in the country at 4.3 per cent. Manitoba has the highest food inflation in the country at 4.9 per cent. And over 50 per cent of Manitobans are

May 28, 2026 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 2629 within–reporting that they are within $200 of insol - vency. More Manitobans, compared to other prov- inces, are relying more and more on credit card debt. And what this shows is that Manitobans need more. Manitobans need more than the pennies that this NDP government is offering them. Manitobans need real affordability relief because Manitobans are struggling and they are struggling deeply. This is why, over the past number of months, we have been calling on the NDP to raise the basic personal exemption to $30,000.

What this would do is it would ensure Manitobans would pay zero provincial income tax on their first $30,000 of income. That would return $3,000 a year back to Manitoba families. It would return over $1,500 back to a single person, perhaps that low-income mom who's trying to pay for her family, to pay for food on the table, pay for gas to get to work, pay for fuel to get h er kids to sports, perhaps pay for child care and daycare throughout the summer months. Or that $3,000 could be for that family that needs additional money to pay for whatever their household budget challenges are.

Because we on our side of the House, we know that every family has a different household budget and that their households have very different challenges. That could be affording to pay for healthy food, which we know with Manitoba's food inflation being the highest in the country at 4.9 per cent, those dollars could go a long way. But we also know some Manitobans are strug- gling to pay for fuel. We have significantly high fuel costs at the moment. Those Manitobans need extra dollars to get to work, to get their kids to school, to sports practices.

But we also know some Manitobans need that extra money to pay for camp and daycare. Or Manitobans might want that extra money to just have a nice family night out, whether that's a pizza night out, bowling. Manitobans know best how to spend their hard-earned dollars. And that's why returning $3,000 back to Manitoba families, they're the ones that can determine where they need that money the most. And Manitobans have spoken up. Manitobans have written emails and letters. They've signed petitions.

They're reaching out to this NDP government to let them know that what this NDP has brought forward in their budget bill is simply not enough during a cost-of-living crisis. Manitobans want to see the basic personal exemption increase to $30,000 dollars. Manitobans want that $3,000 back in their pockets at the end of the day. Manitobans are speaking up loud and clear. The problem is this NDP is not listening. They haven't listened over the past number of months.

They didn't listen after over 50 hours of debate and discussion on this topic, and they're not listening to Manitobans who are calling for them to do more. Because this budget bill that we're discussing today, and have been dis - cussing, does not do enough for Manitoba families, and that's clear. And what's clear is this NDP is embarrassed by their budget bill. They are so embarrassed that they don't even want to talk about it. They haven't put up a single speaker to discuss their own budget. If they believed in their budget so much as they say they do, their members would speak to it, but they haven't.

If they believed in their budget so much, they would have been willing to stay late to discuss it and to pass second reading earlier this week, but they did not. If they believed in their budget so much, they'd be willing to stay tonight to discuss it and pass it, but they do not believe it. Manitobans need more and our PC team are supporting Manitobans. Thank you. The Chairperson: We thank the member. During the consideration of a bill, the enacting clause and the title are postponed until all other clauses have been considered in their proper order.

Also, if there is agreement from the com mittee, the Chair will call clauses in blocks that conform to pages, with the understanding that we will stop at any particular clause or clauses where members have–or may have comments , questions or amendments to propose. Is that agreed? An Honourable Member: No. The Chairperson: I hear a no. Shall clause 1 pass? An Honourable Member: No. The Chairperson: I hear a no. Mrs. Stone: So, as I mentioned in my opening remarks, this budget clearly misses the mark for Manitoba and Manitoba families. This NDP government does not believe in their own budget.

They have shown that time and time again, that they're not willing to do the work, they're not willing to stand up for Manitoba families and the affordability relief they needed.

2630 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA May 28, 2026 They haven't even been willing up a single speaker outside the minister's required time in these Chambers to speak about their budget bill. So what that shows is this NDP government is embarrassed with their own budget bill. They're so embarrassed that they don't even want to pass it today. They don't want to pass it earlier this week. They simply don't want to pass that. They do not want to pass this budget bill.

And they don't want to pass it because they know it's not enough, and they know that Manitobans are wanting to see an increase to the basic personal exemption. This minister is the only minister in Canada that has cancelled indexation of income taxes. Every other province in Canada indexes according to income taxes. Because what that does is it ensures that infla - tion does not push more Manitobans into a higher tax bracket. Manitoba has the highest inflation in the country at 4.3 per cent; the highest food inflation in the country at 4.9 per cent.

And every other province, every other finance minister, every other premier across the country has recognized that th eir citizens need to be protected from inflationary pressures. That is exactly what indexation does. So while other provinces have increased– have included indexation in their plans or have increased their basic personal exemption, Manitoba is the only province in Canada to do the opposite. And that is very, very telling. This shows that this is an NDP government that does not care about the inflationary pressures and the cost -of-living crisis that is facing Manitobans.

If they cared, they would at the very least do the standard to have indexation in the province, like every other province across the country is doing right now. Because every other province, every other finance minister, every other premier understands that their citizens, that their taxpayers, that families within their provinces are facing high inflationary pressures. The only ones who don't are here in Manitoba, and that is very unfortunate for Manitoba families. Manitoba families are directly losing out as a result of the decisions that this Finance Minister and this Premier (Mr.

Kinew) and this Kinew government have made to push more Manitobans into higher tax brackets. They have brought back bracket creep. They are collecting more income tax from Manitobans despite the fact that Manitoba has the highest prov- incial income taxes west of the Maritimes; despite the fact that Manitoba has the highest inflation in Canada; despite the fact that Manitoba has the highest food inflation in Canada, where 55 per cent of Manitobans are within $200 of insolvency. This NDP does not care. This NDP does not care that Manitobans are struggling.

Because if they truly cared, then they would put more affordability measures in their budget. They would be increasing the basic personal exemption. They would be including indexation to protect Manitobans from high inflationary pressures. But they're doing the opposite. They are not listening to you as Manitobans because they don't care and that is very clear here today. So we do not support this BITSA bill because we know Manitobans need more. Manitobans need more affordability relief during times of crisis and cost of living, and that is right now.

This NDP government is living under a delusion that Manitobans are okay, that everything is sunny, but it's not. And we're hearing from their constituents, we're hearing from Manitoba families across this entire province that they're deeply, deeply struggling. And that's why Manitobans are calling for an increase to the basic personal exemption. That's why Manitobans are calling for more affordability relief right now, because they need it. * (15:50) And we know Manitobans' struggles are real. We know Manitobans know best how to utilize their own household budgets.

And we know every house - hold budget is different. Every family has different challenges. It's not up to us to decide what those challenges are. Manitobans know that best. It could be paying for food at the grocery store, fuel to get to and from work or sports or daycare. It could be to put kids into summer camps, put kids into sports or perhaps a extra little amount that Manitobans are not taking their kids or families on a pizza night out or bowling or the movies because they simply can't afford it. Manitobans know best.

That's why we want to put more money into Manitobans' pockets, because Manitobans know best how to spend that money. Chairperson, it's very disappointing that this NDP government refuses not to listen to Manitobans and the reason is they don't believe in their own budget, they're embarrassed and they simply don't care. Thank you. The Chairperson: Okay, shall clause 1 pass? An Honourable Member: No.

May 28, 2026 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 2631 Recorded Vote Mrs. Stone: Recorded vote, please. The Chairperson: Recorded vote has been requested. Call in the members. * (16:50) Order. Order. Order. The hour provided for the ringing of the division bells has expired. I am directing that the bells be turned off and the committee proceed to the vote. The question before the committee is clause 1, Bill 53, The Budget Implementation and Tax Statutes Amendment Act, 2026. A COUNT-OUT VOTE was taken, the result being as follows: Ayes 29, Nays 17. The Chairperson: Clause 1 is accordingly passed. * * * Hon.

Nahanni Fontaine (Government House Leader): Could you please canvass the committee to see if there is leave to recess and reconvene the House? The Chairperson: Is there leave to recess and reconvene the House? An Honourable Member: Agreed. An Honourable Member: No. The Chairperson: I hear a no. Leave is denied. Shall clause 2 pass? An Honourable Member: No. The Chairperson: I hear a no. Mrs. Stone: Yes, thank you, Chairperson. So what we've seen over the past couple and a half years since the NDP came into power is they have changed the property tax structure and homeowners are now, as a result, paying the price.

And what we've seen is it was a sloppy rollout a year ago. And so, you know, fine; they didn't want to include the Progressive Conservative education prop- erty tax rebate, replace it with their own flat tax credit. But what that really did is it forced more Manitobans and more Manitoba homeowners to pay significantly higher property taxes. And so after a year, you'd think that the NDP would have learned their lesson, and they haven't. They've had a year to fix the mistakes that they've made, and they've failed to do so. And so what we've seen is Manitoba has the highest property taxes in the entire country.

Property taxes have increased by 20 per cent since just last year. According to the latest CPI inflation numbers, property taxes are a big part of the reason why Manitoba does have the highest infla- tion in the country, at 4.3 per cent. A nd we can go through every single school division that has jacked up property taxes and mill rates as a result of the decisions that this NDP government has made. So what we've seen is, in Louis Riel School Divi- sion, education property taxes have increased by 43 per cent just since this NDP government came into power.

In Seven Oaks School Division, education property taxes have increased by 39 per cent, just since this NDP government came into power. Pembina Trails School Division, property taxes have increased by 38 per cent, just since this NDP came into power. And so why is that, Chairperson? The reason that Manitoba homeowners are significantly paying higher education property taxes is because decisions that the Minister of Education made. And I know she's heckling me here in committee because she doesn't want Manitobans to know the truth. And that's –they removed all the guardrails protecting homeowners.

They removed the 50 per cent education property tax rebate that took into– The Chairperson: Order. Order. Comments have to be directed to clause 2, and there's nothing about property taxes in clause 2. Mrs. Stone: This goes to the point that this NDP gov- ernment continues to raise taxes on Manitoba through The

Document details

Collection	Manitoba — Debates (Hansard)
Citation	43-3-63b
Type	hansard
Volume / chapter	43rd 3rd hansardpdf 63b.pdf
Language	en
Format	pdf
Source	PROVINCIAL
Identifier	8f1ba62676d0a87f53f17a73faa4585cfd7f8c97

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