Manitoba Hansard — 11 May 2026 (Sitting 53, 43rd Legislature, 3rd Session)

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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. 53 – 1:30 p.m., Monday, May 11, 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

1911 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA Monday, May 11, 2026 The House met at 1:30 p.m. The Speaker: O Eternal and Almighty God, from Whom all power and wisdom come, we are assembled here before Thee to frame such laws as may tend to the welfare and prosperity of our province. Grant, O merciful God, we pray Thee, that we may desire only that which is in accordance with Thy will, that we may seek it with wisdom, know it with certainty and accomplish it perfectly for the glory and honour of Thy name and for the welfare of all our people. Amen.

We acknowledge we are gathered on Treaty 1 territory and that Manitoba is located on the treaty territories and ancestral lands of the Anishinaabeg, Anishininewuk, Dakota Oyate, Denesuline and Nehethowuk nations. We acknowledge Manitoba is located on the Homeland of the Red River Métis. We acknowledge northern Manitoba includes lands that were and are the ancestral lands of the Inuit. We respect the spirit and intent of treaties and treaty making and remain committed to working in partner- ship with First Nations, Inuit and Métis people in the spirit of truth, reconciliation and collaboration. Please be seated.

ROUTINE PROCEEDINGS INTRODUCTION OF BILLS Bill 300–The Winnipeg Foundation Amendment Act MLA Robert Loiselle (St. Boniface): Honourable Speaker, I present Bill 300, The Winnipeg Foundation Amendment Act; Loi modifiant la

Loi sur la Fondation dénommée « The Winnipeg Foundation », be now read a first time. Take two. I move that Bill 300 –seconded by the MLA for Transcona –The Winnipeg Foundation Amendment Act; Loi modifiant la

Loi sur la Fondation dénommée « The Winnipeg Foundation », be read a first time. Motion presented. MLA Loiselle: L'Honorable Président [Hon ourable Speaker], today I'm proud to introduce Bill 300, The Winnipeg Foundation Amendment Act. For more than 100 years, The Winnipeg Foundation has helped build stronger communities by supporting families, creating partnerships and investing in organ- izations that improve the well- being of Manitobans. The foundation has always believed in creating a community for all, where every person feels they belong and can thrive.

This legislation will help ensure the foundation continues to reflect the needs of all Winnipeggers and Manitobans by supporting its modernization and accessibility efforts. By digitizing audit reporting, financial information will become more accessible and transparent for the people of Winnipeg. This bill will also remove the requirements for the mayor to sit on the board, supporting the foundation in its goal of remaining as apolitical, inclusive and diverse as possible while continuing its important com mu- nity-focused work. Thank you, miigwech, merci, Honourable Speaker.

The Speaker: Further introduction of bills? MLA Carla Compton (Tuxedo): I move, seconded by the MLA for Kirkfield Park– The Speaker: Order, please. My mistake. Is it the pleasure of the House to adopt the previous bill? [Agreed] The motion is accordingly carried. Bill 301–The Westminster United Church Foundation Incorporation Amendment Act MLA Carla Compton (Tuxedo): I move, seconded by the MLA for Kirkfield Park, that Bill 301, the Westminster act –church foundation incorporation amendment act, be read for the first time.

The Speaker: It's been moved by the honour able member for Tuxedo, seconded by the honourable member for Kirkfield Park (Mr. Oxenham), that Bill 301, The Westminster United Church Foundation Incorporation Amendment Act, be now read a first time. MLA Compton: Honourable Speaker, I am pleased to introduce Bill 301, The Westminster United Church Foundation Incorporation Amendment Act.

1912 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA May 11, 2026 For more than a century, Westminster United Church has been an important part of Winnipeg's community life, bringing people together through cultural programming, charitable work and support for families. This legislation makes practical updates to the governance structure of the Westminster United Church Foundation, ensuring continuity and strong accountability moving forward. It also ensures that should the foundation ever be dissolved, its assets will continue to serve the public good through registered charitable organizations.

This bill is about respecting the legacy of a long- standing Manitoba institution while ensuring it has the modern governance tools needed to continue serving the community for generations to come. Our govern- ment believes strong community organizations help build stronger com munities, and we are proud to support legislation that helps ensure that this impor - tant work continues. Thank you. The Speaker: Is it the pleasure of the House to adopt the motion? [Agreed] The motion is accordingly passed. COMMITTEE REPORTS Standing Committee on Legislative Affairs Sixth Report Mr.

Logan Oxenham (Chairperson): Honourable Speaker, I wish to present the sixth report of the Standing Committee on Legislative Affairs. Clerk (Mr. Rick Yarish): Your Standing Committee on– Some Honourable Members: Dispense. The Speaker: Dispense. Your Standing Committee on Legislative Affairs presents the following as its Sixth Report. Meetings Your Committee met on May 7, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. in Room 254 of the Legislative Building. Matters under Consideration • Bill (No. 33) – The Planning Amendment and City of Winnipeg Charter Amendment Act / Loi modifiant la

Loi sur l'aménagement du territoire et la Charte de la ville de Winnipeg • Bill (No. 41) – The Promoting Inclusion in Amateur Sport Act /

Loi sur la promotion de l'inclusion dans le sport amateur • Bill (No. 43) – The Highway Traffic Amendment and Drivers and Vehicles Amendment Act / Loi modifiant le Code de la route et la

Loi sur les conducteurs et les véhicules Committee Membership • Mr. E WASKO • Hon. Min. KENNEDY • Mr. KING • MLA MALOWAY • Mr. OXENHAM • Hon. Mr. SIMARD Your Committee elected Mr. OXENHAM as the Chairperson. Your Committee elected MLA REDHEAD as the Vice-Chairperson. Substitutions received during Committee proceedings: • MLA REDHEAD for MLA MALOWAY • Hon. Min. NAYLOR for Hon. Mr. SIMARD Public Presentations Your Committee heard the following three presentations on Bill (No. 33) – The Planning Amendment and City of Winnipeg Charter Amendment Act / Loi modifiant la

Loi sur l'aménagement du territoire et la Charte de la ville de Winnipeg: David Grant , Fort Richmond University Heights Neighbourhood Association Cory Rybuck, Manitoba Egg Farmers Tim Comack, Private Citizen Your Committee heard the following presentation on Bill (No. 41) – The Promoting Inclusion in Amateur Sport Act /

Loi sur la promotion de l'inclusion dans le sport amateur: Glen Wintrup, Private citizen Your Committee heard the following three presentations on Bill (No. 43) – The Highway Traffic Amendment and Drivers and Vehicles Amendment Act / Loi modifiant le Code de la route et la

Loi sur les conducteurs et les véhicules: David Grant, Private citizen Steven Stairs, Private citizen Dominic Lloyd, Private citizen

May 11, 2026 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 1913 Written Submissions Your Committee received the following written submission on Bill (No. 33) – The Planning Amend- ment and City of Winnipeg Charter Amendment Act / Loi modifiant la

Loi sur l'aménagement du territoire et la Charte de la ville de Winnipeg: Denys Volkov, Association of Manitoba Municipalities Your Committee received the following two written submissions on Bill (No. 43) – The Highway Traffic Amendment and Drivers and Vehicles Amendment Act / Loi modifiant le Code de la route et la

Loi sur les conducteurs et les véhicules: Denys Volkov, Association of Manitoba Municipalities Lanny McInnes, Urban Development Institute of Manitoba Bills Considered and Reported • Bill (No. 33) – The Planning Amendment and City of Winnipeg Charter Amendment Act / Loi modifiant la

Loi sur l'aménagement du territoire et la Charte de la ville de Winnipeg Your Committee agreed to report this Bill without amendment. • Bill (No. 41) – The Promoting Inclusion in Amateur Sport Act /

Loi sur la promotion de l'inclusion dans le sport amateur Your Committee agreed to report this Bill without amendment. • Bill (No. 43) – The Highway Traffic Amendment and Drivers and Vehicles Amendment Act / Loi modifiant le Code de la route et la

Loi sur les conducteurs et les véhicules Your Committee agreed to report this Bill without amendment. Mr. Oxenham: I move, seconded by the honour able member for Transcona (MLA Corbett), that the report of the committee be received. Motion agreed to. Standing Committee on Social and Economic Development Fourth Report MLA Carla Compton (Chairperson): Honourable Speaker, I wish to present the fourth report of the Standing Com mittee on Social and Economic Development. Clerk: Your Standing Committee– Some Honourable Members: Dispense. The Speaker: Dispense.

Your Standing Committee on Social and Economic Development presents the following as its Fourth Report. Meetings Your Committee met on May 7, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. in Room 255 of the Legislative Building. Matters under Consideration • Bill (No. 6) – The Sign Languages Recognition Act /

Loi sur la reconnaissance des langues des signes • Bill ( No. 36) – The Child and Family Services Amendment Act / Loi modifiant la

Loi sur les services à l'enfant et à la famille Committee Membership • Ms. B YRAM • MLA COMPTON • Hon. Min. FONTAINE • Mr. GOERTZEN • MLA LOISELLE • MLA REDHEAD Your Committee elected MLA COMPTON as the Chairperson. Your Committee elected MLA LOISELLE as the Vice-Chairperson. Substitutions received during Committee proceedings: • MLA MALOWAY for MLA REDHEAD Non-Committee Members Speaking on Record • Mr. SCHULER Public Presentations Your Committee heard the following six presentations on Bill (No. 6) – The Sign Languages Recognition Act /

Loi sur la reconnaissance des langues des signes: Fernanda Vallejo, Latinas Manitoba Inc. Andrew Stadnicki, Private Citizen Tricia Amaro, Canada Deaf Grassroots Movement Richard Zimmer, Private Citizen Doug Momotiuk, Manitoba Deaf Association Erika Duguay, Resource Centre for Manitobans who are Deaf-Blind

1914 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA May 11, 2026 Your Committee heard the following presentation on Bill (No. 36) – The Child and Family Services Amendment Act / Loi modifiant la

Loi sur les services à l'enfant et à la famille: Bert Crocker, Private Citizen Written Submissions Your Committee received the following written submission on Bill (No. 6) – The Sign Languages Recognition Act /

Loi sur la reconnaissance des langues des signes: Cheryl Smukowich, Manitoba School Boards Association Your Committee received the following written submission on on Bill (No. 36) – The Child and Family Services Amendment Act / Loi modifiant la

Loi sur les services à l'enfant et à la famille: Colin Kinsella, Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak Inc. Bills Considered and Reported • Bill (No. 6) – The Sign Languages Recognition Act /

Loi sur la reconnaissance des langues des signes Your Committee agreed to report this Bill without amendment. • Bill ( No. 36) – The Child and Family Services Amendment Act / Loi modifiant la

Loi sur les services à l'enfant et à la famille Your Committee agreed to report this Bill without amendment. MLA Compton: Honourable Speaker, I move, seconded by the honourable member for Waverley (MLA Pankratz), that the report of the committee be received. * (13:40) Motion agreed to. The Speaker: Tabling of reports? MINISTERIAL STATEMENTS Supporting Indigenous Girls in Sports Hon. Nahanni Fontaine (Minister responsible for Women and Gender Equity): Honourable Speaker, sport has the power to build confidence, strengthen identity and create a deep sense of belonging for girls.

Our government knows the impact of sport on healthy outcomes for children and youth. In fact, increasing access to sport, particularly for low income and marginalized groups, is one of the priority outcomes for our re -established Healthy Child Com- mittee of Cabinet. And a recent report by the Women's Sports Foundation found girls who participate in sports are more likely to take on leadership roles as adults, and the longer girls stay in sport, the more likely they are to lead.

Yet Indigenous girls continue to face systemic barriers to participation, including racism, discrimina- tion, poverty, lack of safe facilities and limited access to programs reflecting Indigenous cultures, teachings and ways of knowing. And our government is com - mitted to changing that. One of the pillars of our Mino'Ayaawag Ikwewag strategy is building healthy communities.

Supporting Indigenous girls in sport is more –far more than just participation; it's about dignity, empowerment, con- fidence and giving young girls the opportunity to dream bigger, thrive fully and build the futures that they deserve and want. I'm proud to share, through Mino'Ayaawag Ikwewag, we have recently invested two incredible initiatives that are uplifting young athletes and empowering the next generation of Matriarchs. We are providing funding to Blue Thunderbird Family Care for their building the love of the game, ourselves and each other basketball program.

This investment supports gym time, transportation, equip- ment, games, tournaments and the resources needed for these young girls to succeed. Blue Thunderbird is not just developing athletes; they are nurturing confi- dence in young leaders who will strengthen families, uplift communities and carry culture, tradi tions and responsibility for generations. We are also proud to support Sagkeeng's girls U-15 volleyball team as they prepare to compete at a national volleyball tournament later this month in Calgary.

Made up of 11 dedicated student -athletes from Sagkeeng junior high school and Sagkeeng Anicinabe High School, these young girls are excelling not only in sport but in their schools and communities as well. They are already role models for the next generation of athletes that will be coming behind them. I also want to acknowledge the Winnipeg Falcons football team, over 80 per cent of whom are young girls from Sagkeeng Anicinabe High School. These athletes travel three to four hours, three times a week,

May 11, 2026 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 1915 to pursue the sport that they love while continuing to succeed academically. Their dedication was recently recognized with a $25,000 grant from the National Football League to help upgrade equipment and support their program. Their resilience, discipline and determination are inspiring girls across Manitoba and showing what is possible when we believe in young girls. When girls find belonging in sport, they also find mentors, friendships, confidence and leadership.

They learn resilience, teamwork and self -belief, skills that stay with them for the rest of their lives. To their parents and the coaches and principals, I say miigwech for all of your commitment to sport for girls in sports. And to all of these incredible girls: We are so proud of you. Congratulations, and keep shining. And because, Honour able Speaker, I have more than 50 guests, I ask for leave to have the names of my guests included in Hansard, and I ask my colleagues to help me in recognizing our guests today.

Sagkeeng 15U Girls Volleyball Team: Romi Berthelette, Shaneen Bird, Elena Bruyere, Stevie Bruyere, Kenadee Canard, Athena Courchene, Ariana Fontaine, Hailey Henderson, Mackenzie Hildebrand, Adrianne Laforte, Deston Swampy. Winnipeg Falcons Football Team: Layla Bruyere; Rori Bruyere; Kathy Calancia, coach; Hayden Courchene; Sharrah Courchene; Surayah Courchene; Tandra Courchene; Ziigwan Courchene; Bella Coutu; Rilee Durand; Ezra Hasting; Miley Montour; Destiny Moose; Louise Moose; Raeleen Scott; Rhilynn Smith; Saphira Twoheart; Shaylynn Twoheart; Hailey Whitesell.

Blue Thunderbird and Dynasty Basketball Club: Houston Arabe, Myla Arabe, Mia Cabungal, Emily Cadieux, Jordyn Castres, Kaley Castres, Laila Castres, Maria Clou, Ophelie Cyr, Summer Gatpayat, Stella Gutierrez, Freya Koschik, Jonna Kysiliuk, Soha Marr, Emily Mckay, Nina Pfaff, Hailey Pinkerton, Lexie Polvorosa, Christa Rajot, Kaelyn Smith, Cassidy Wood. The Speaker: Order, please. Is there leave for their names to be recognized in Hansard as requested? [Agreed] Their names will therefore be attached at the end of the ministerial statement.

Introduction of Guests The Speaker: And before we move on, there's some guests in the gallery that–they're rotating through the gallery because we have limited number of seats today. So I want to take a moment to intro duce: in the public gallery from South Pointe School we have 70 grade 6 students under the direction of Jock MacGillivray. And this group is located in the constit- uency of the honour able member for Waverley (MLA Pankratz). One group has already gone through, and unfor - tunately, we didn't get to recognize them while they were here. But we welcome you here today. * * * Mr.

Wayne Ewasko (Lac du Bonnet): Today I rise to recognize the importance of supporting Indigenous girls in sport and to celebrate the young leaders, athletes and role models who are helping strengthen communities all across this great province of ours. Sport has the power to change lives. It teaches discipline, confidence, teamwork and resilience. It creates opportunities for young people to develop leadership skills, build lifelong friendships and pursue their goals both on and off the field for court.

For Indigenous girls, participation in sport can also be a powerful source of connection to culture, to community and to personal identity. Programs that encourage participation in athletics help build con- fidence, improve physical and mental well-being and create positive pathways for future success. Every young person deserves the opportunity to reach their full potential. That means ensuring girls and young women across Manitoba have access to safe, inclusive and supportive spaces to participate in sport and recreation. To the Sagkeeng volleyball team: Good luck in Calgary.

We used to spend a whole lot of time competing and– with the various different high schools in the area, and Sagkeeng was always gracious and great hosts and visitors to the various different schools within the Sunrise School Division. Also to the Winnipeg Falcons: Good luck to you and to your upcoming football season. And, of course, that's just to name a couple in this great province of ours.

1916 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA May 11, 2026 We also recognize the importance of representa- tion. Indigenous athletes and leaders continue to inspire the next generation through their dedication, perseverance and achievements. Their success demon- strates what is possible when young people are given encouragement and opportunity. Sport is about more than competition. When young people succeed, Manitoba succeeds. To all the coaches, parents, guardians mentors and volunteers who dedicate their time to supporting Indigenous girls in sport: Thank you.

Your commit - ment is helping shape a stronger and healthier future to the next–for the next generation. And to the Indigenous girls and young women participating in sports across Manitoba: Your deter - mination, leadership and achievements inspire us all. We are proud of what you contribute to your com - munities and to our province. Thank you, merci and miigwech. Jewish Heritage Month Hon. Mike Moroz (Minister of Innovation and New Technology): Honourable Speaker, I rise today to recognize and celebrate May as Jewish Heritage Month here in Manitoba.

Jewish heritage in our province is a story of strength, of perseverance and of community. Jewish families who came here seeking refuge and oppor - tunity helped build Manitoba's social, cultural and economic life, strengthening our schools and uni - versities, our arts and culture, our businesses and professions and our public institutions.

Manitoba's vibrant Jewish community, whose on- going leadership and volunteerism helped make our neighbourhoods more welcoming, more inclusive and more connected, also helped make our province a better place for all. * (13:50) Honourable Speaker, Jewish Heritage Month is a tapestry of celebration, but it is also a testament to resilience in the face of terrible loss. And we must speak plainly about a hard truth: as much as we wish it to be, anti-Semitism is not confined to the past. We still see it today in stereotypes, in online hate, in vandalism, in threats and in violence.

It changes its language, and it sometimes hides in plain sight. That is why awareness matters. That is why education matters, and that is why celebrations like this matter. When a community is targeted because of who they are, it is an affront to the values Manitobans hold dear: respect, equality, diversity and dignity. Here in Manitoba, we share a responsibility to confront hate and discrimination in all its forms. Awareness is more than just knowing; it's listening, learning and acting. It means challenging misinforma- tion.

It means speaking up when we hear harmful language, no matter where we are, and it means standing with our neighbours when they feel –when they are made to feel unsafe in our com munities because silence allows prejudice to grow. So Jewish Heritage Month, then, is an invitation to learn, to reflect and to celebrate. It's a chance to recognize the traditions, stories and values that have enriched Manitoba for generations and to renew our commitment to the kind of province we want to build together: one that is strong because of its inclusivity. It captures the spirit of tikkun olam: repairing the world.

It reminds us that improving society is not someone else's job; it's work we all share through kindness, through justice and through service to others. It is a simple yet powerful call to action. Its message resonates far beyond the Jewish community because it is, at its heart, Manitoba's message: one Manitoba. So, as we mark Jewish Heritage Month, let us commit to more than commemoration. Let us commit to action. As a teacher, I know the fight against hate in all its forms begins with what we choose to teach and what we choose to learn. By understanding the experiences of others, we move forward as a community.

Let us choose words that unite, not divide. Let our actions strengthen, not weaken, our com munities, and let's ensure this is a burden we shoulder not for one day or for one month, but is our responsibility to carry it forward each and every day. Honourable Speaker, I ask all Manitobans to join me in recognizing and celebrating Jewish Heritage Month. To our Jewish friends and neighbours: Thank you for what you contribute to our province and for the ways you strengthen our communities, generation after generation. Thank you and shalom. Mrs.

Kathleen Cook (Roblin): I'd like to just take a moment and welcome our guests to the gallery. I recognize folks here today from the Jewish Federa- tion of Winnipeg, the Jewish Heritage Centre of Western Canada.

May 11, 2026 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 1917 Welcome to the Manitoba Legislature. Thanks for being here. I rise today to celebrate Jewish Heritage Month and to honour the rich history and invaluable con- tributions of Jewish Manitobans to our province. This month, Jewish Manitobans are recognized and celebrated, and it is an opportunity for all Manitobans to learn more about Jewish heritage and everything that the Jewish community has done for our province.

And I'd also like to take a moment and commend my colleague, the MLA for Springfield- Ritchot, for championing the legis lation that esta blished Jewish Heritage Month in Manitoba back in 2022. For over two centuries, Jewish people have made Manitoba their home. The 1881 census indicated Manitoba's Jewish population was approximately 100 people. It was the Russian pogroms of 1881 and 1882 that brought some 350 Jewish immigrants to Manitoba.

And then, through various waves of settlement and immigration, a strong and vibrant Jewish commu- nity has emerged across Canada which, as of 2021, is nearly 400,000 people strong, the fourth largest Jewish community in the world. Manitoba is currently home to nearly 3 per cent of Canada's total Jewish population and the Manitoba Jewish com munity is a vital contributor to the cultural landscape of Manitoba. However, I would be remiss if I did not acknowl- edge that Manitobans are deeply concerned with the increasing rise in anti- Semitism within our commu - nities and across the country.

While we recognize Jewish communities for their resilience, we must do more than expect people to be resilient in the face of hate. We must combat hate itself. In 2022, our PC team was proud to join hundreds of members of the Jewish community to officially adopt the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance's working definition of anti -Semitism in Manitoba. The rise of anti-Semitism in Manitoba and across the country is very troubling, and it must be universally condemned. We stand with the Jewish community against hate, discrimination and extremism in all its forms.

I also wanted to mention one of the many impor- tant Jewish cultural institutions in Manitoba, and that's the Jewish Heritage Centre of Western Canada, a cornerstone of the Asper Jewish Community Campus, located right here in Winnipeg. The purpose of this vibrant centre is to interpret and disseminate informa- tion on the history and culture of Jewish people in western Canada and to develop awareness of the history and the moral and ethical implications of the Holocaust and other human rights violations.

The engagement of Jewish Manitobans in the arts, sports, busi ness, medicine, education, the trades, politics, public service, volunteerism and so much more makes our province a better place to live. Jewish Manitobans comprise a vital, varied and diverse com munity, who have and will continue to make a stronger, more diverse and welcoming Manitoba for all. Thank you, Honourable Speaker. MEMBERS' STATEMENTS Stephen Hua Hon.

Bernadette Smith (Minister of Housing, Addictions and Homelessness ): I rise today to recognize a man, a legend, whose lifelong passion has been to bring our community together through the power of music and celebration. Stephen Hua is a proud Winnipegger and a versatile entrepreneur who has spent over 25 years creating vibrant, world- class experiences where our city comes together.

Many know Stephen through the diverse culture he has cultivated here, from the culinary excellence of Point Douglas favorites like Deer + Almond, Commonwealth, to the electrifying energy of his block parties and massive music festivals like Summer of Sound. Throughout his career, he has also brought world- renowned icons like Drake and Lady Gaga to our city, while his Together Again concert series has grown into a cornerstone of Manitoba's event calendar, even bringing artists like Steven Aoki and Deadmau5 to help us celebrate our shared love of music.

But, Honourable Speaker, Stephen's work goes far beyond just entertainment. Inspired by a family legacy of entrepreneurship and a deep love for people, his true mission is to remove the barriers and awkwardness that other–that often keep us isolated in a digital age. With the new social connection app, Hostly, he is utilizing technology to help folks push past their comfort zone by finding common- ground interests that make building new friendships easier from the start.

1918 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA May 11, 2026 What is even more touching is that Stephen's journey has not been driven by profit, but by relent - less, heart -led belief in our city's potential. Even though difficult financial moments, he has–he was–he has remained committed to making Winnipeg a place where everyone feels seen, valued and at home here in Winnipeg.

I ask that the House join me in saying thank you to Stephen Hua for his leadership, his vision–he's joined us in the gallery –and his unwavering love for our community and province, and that his work reminds us that real change starts with human connection. Thank you, Stephen, for your work. Graduating Class of 2026 Mr. Josh Guenter (Borderland): Congratulations to the graduating class of 2026.

This special time in your lives is an op portunity to celebrate with a sense of pride and accomplishment that belongs to you on reaching this important milestone. * (14:00) You've put in the hours and navigated your way through 13 years of friendships, extracurricular activities, classes, assignments and tests. And, as you look forward, many of you are likely feeling a mix of emotions, ranging from excitement to apprehension , as you think about what to do next.

Thirteen years of school has equipped you with some of the basics of life and perhaps provided a springboard for further education or training in an interest you wish to pursue. The critical thing is to make good decisions, and you'll find yourself making some big ones in just the next few years. It seems the world isn't short on people trying to change it, and in my humble opinion, I wouldn't worry too much about that.

Better to focus on what you see around you, on building up and supporting those around you and developing good personal character , and you'll find that's a project far more difficult and much more important. As you look forward to the next phase of life, maybe wondering what to do or where to go next, I'm reminded of the words of Booker T. Washington, who said: Cast down your bucket where you are.

While not perfect, we do live in a great area, in a great province; and your staying and building a life here, raising a family, pursuing opportunities and, in turn, making opportunities available to others strengthens all of us and represents the hope of our future. And, finally, I want to thank all the parents and teachers who've invested in the lives of this year's graduating class. Thank you for the sacrifices you've made and for everything you do. Thank you and congratulations. Winnipeg Pet Rescue Shelter Mr.

Logan Oxenham (Kirkfield Park): Honourable Speaker, I am so very proud to recognize an organ- ization in my constituency that reflects the absolute best of Manitoba, the Winnipeg Pet Rescue Shelter. Founded in 1999, this organization became Manitoba's first registered charity no -kill animal shelter. For more than two decades, they have helped thousands of animals, offering not just care but safety, dignity and a second chance to those who need it most. What makes their work even more remarkable is that they receive no government funding.

They rely entirely on donations and the dedication of staff and volunteers who show up every single day with compassion and commit ment, doing the quiet, often unseen work that changes lives. Their reach extends far beyond Winnipeg. Over 80 per cent of the animals they care for come from northern Manitoba, and the shelter regularly supports remote communities by delivering food, supplies and vital services like spaying and neutering to help prevent overpopulation.

And what strikes me the most, Honourable Speaker, is that their work is rooted in something powerful: the belief that those too often overlooked still matter; that with care, patience and community, even the most vulnerable can find stability, belonging and a place to call home. This work, it changes lives, both for the animals who are rescued and for the families who welcome them in.

I ask that my guests' names please be entered into Hansard, and I invite all members in the Chamber to join me in thanking the Winnipeg Pet Rescue Shelter, their staff, volunteers and the supporters for the incredible difference that they continue to make across Manitoba. Thank you. Marcus Hoch, Rob Irvine, Carla Martinelli -Irvine, Paula Painchaud, Christa Richard.

May 11, 2026 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 1919 Spring Seeding Mrs. Colleen Robbins (Spruce Woods): Well, every spring, Manitobans undertake one of its largest and most 'consequentual' national projects –megaproject– and almost nobody notices. There is no ribbon cutting, no news conference, no prime ministral announcement. Yet, in a matter of weeks, thousands of Manitoba farmers and ranchers deploy billions of dollars, put enormous personal and financial capital at risk and set in motion the production of food that Canadians and much of the world depend on.

This annual event is so familiar that we rarely stop to think about it. But spring in Manitoba agriculture is a national -scale renewable megaproject, repeated every year, with no second chances. Spring seeding is often described as a high- stake investment of billions spent. It captures what flows through agriculture retailers each spring: seed, fertilizer, crop protection products and fuel. And in most industries, investment unfolds gradually. Projects are phased. Costs are –can be adjusted. Mistakes can sometimes be corrected. Agriculture doesn't work that way. Manitoba has one primary growing season.

Nearly all critical decisions and much financial risk are concentrated in the spring. Seed goes in the ground. Calves and lambs are born. Operating loans are drawn, and equipments run day and night. The weather turns, markets shift or disease strikes, there's no pause button, no redo. Farmers live with the outcome for a full year. From a risk perspective, this is 'extranordinary.' Every spring, family farms across the country make the largest co-ordinated, high-risk private investment in the Canadian economy, and they do so independ- ently, quietly and remarkable competence.

Spring is not just the season, it's when Manitobans quietly goes to the work, feeding itself and the world. So today I'd like to thank all the farmers for their hard work and risk and for feeding Manitobans, Canadians and the world. And on behalf of Spruce Woods and fellow PC team, we wish you a safe and profitable season. Stephen Andrushko MLA Shannon Corbett (Transcona): I rise today to recognize a remarkable member of my community, Stephen Andrushko, a true Transconian. Stephen was born on July 11, 1925, in his family home on Pandora Avenue, and has called Transcona home for nearly his entire life.

He attended school in Transcona, and at the age of 18, made the decision to enlist in the army. During the Second World War, Stephen served overseas in England, the Netherlands and Germany as a wireless operator in the cipher section. Following the war, he continued supporting others by working in communications with soldiers who were returning home, helping them reconnect as they transitioned back to civilian life. Following his service, Stephen returned home to Transcona and began his work with the Canadian National Railway, where he spent 14 years.

At the same time, he committed himself to further his education by attending Red River College in the evenings, earni ng his certification as a building construction technician. He later went on to work for Air Canada, where he built his 25- year career before retiring. After returning to Transcona after the war, Stephen's dedication to service continued at home. He's been a member of the Transcona Legion for 79 years and is its longest serving member. He is also the last living Second World War veteran in Transcona.

This July, Stephen celebrates his 101st birthday, surrounded by the community he has always called home. It's not every day that we get the opportunity to recognize someone reaching such an incredible milestone. Stephen is listening from home today with friends, and I ask my colleagues to please join me in recognizing him for his extraordinary life and service. Thank you, Stephen, and thank you, Honourable Speaker. Introduction of Guests The Speaker: Prior to moving on, there are several guests in the gallery I'd like to introduce.

In the public gallery we have Tim Schindel from Leading Influence; Renée Bordclay [phonetic] from Bardal Funeral Home; Ronald Klassen from Bardal Funeral Home; James Paulson, Jose Noriega, Vernadette Viray, Joina [phonetic] Corrales, Jimmy Bourlliette [phonetic], Evelyn Nakamura and Andres Smith from Salvation Army. And they're guests of the honourable member for Fort Richmond (MLA Chen). We welcome you here today.

1920 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA May 11, 2026 Further, we have in the public gallery Carla Martinelli-Irvine, Rob Irvine, Christa Richard, Marcus Hoch, Marie France Reid, Bob Ricard [phonetic], who are guests of the honour able member for Kirkfield Park (Mr. Oxenham). And we welcome them here today. And we also had in the public gallery from the association of regulated nurses Joyce Kisjansson [phonetic], Kahla Shea, Justin Woodcock, Naomi Armah, Amy "AC" McLocklin, Tracey McCullough, Shirley Forsyth, who are guests of the honour able Minister of Health, Seniors and Long- Term Care (MLA Asagwara).

And we welcome them all here today as well. * (14:10) ORAL QUESTIONS Manitoba Jobs Agreement Unionized Worker Preference Concerns Mr. Obby Khan (Leader of the Official Opposition): Last week, the Construction Association of Rural Manitoba raised the alarm once again about this NDP's job-killing agreement. Experts in the 'industy' identified specifically how this NDP government policies are making it harder for Manitobans to do their jobs and jeopardizing projects.

Shawn Woods [phonetic], the association's executive director, put it bluntly: This policy is going to increase the cost of building the Brandon school by 20 per cent. This government is more concerned with lining the pockets of their NDP union supporters than they are sticking up for all Manitobans. To quote from the Premier's NDP job-killing agreement, quote: Residents that are members of a union will be given preference over Manitoba residents that are not members of a union. End quote. Why is the Premier picking union members over 88 per cent of Manitobans who choose to be non- unionized? Hon.

Wab Kinew (Premier): How are you doing? Honourable Speaker, Pum -pum-pum, pa -rum- pum-pum-pa-rum. And another one bites, and another one bites, and another one bites the dust. I want to take this moment to acknowledge the member–[interjection] The Speaker: Order, please. Order, please. I'd just remind the honourable First Minister that singing in the Chamber is against the rules. Mr. Kinew: I just want to acknowledge the member for Red River North (Mr. Wharton) who's growing a list that we can no longer count on one hand of PC MLAs who are heading for the exit –heading for the exit.

This one, of course –even though I'm acknowl - edging him–we also need to acknowledge the fact that he broke the law after the last election and made history by being the first MLA alongside Heather Stefanson and Cliff Cullen, being fined for breaking the conflict of interest law. What were they doing? That's what they were doing last election. What did we do? We promised the Manitoba jobs agreement to put more Manitobans to work. The Speaker: The honourable Leader of the Official Opposition, on a secondary–supplementary question. Mr.

Khan: More jokes and terrible singing by the Premier when I'm standing up and asking about 88 per cent of Manitobans that are negatively affected by this NDP's job-killing agreement. Local Brandon companies told media that they did not even bid on the schools because of this NDP's job-killing agreement. The increase in red tape, bureaucracy and increased costs were all factors while–why local Manitoba companies did not bid on projects in their own backyard.

This Premier once again is choosing winners and losers, and he has decided that 88 per cent of Manitobans who decide to be open- shop, non- unionized, are losers. That's what the Premier is saying to you. I'll ask the Premier once again if he can answer without making a joke: Why is he choosing to support his union buddies and line their paycheques; over 88 per cent of Manitobans that need the jobs– The Speaker: The member's time is expired. Mr. Kinew: Honourable Speaker, I love unions. They're the best. I love hard-working Manitobans, and I want them to make more money. Not them; they like the rich people.

They want to pay people less money; that's the PC plan. Not us: more money, cheaper groceries, cheaper gas. Let's go to the polls. The Speaker: The honourable Leader of the Official Opposition, on a final supplementary question. Mr. Khan: This NDP government and Premier are choosing once again to negotiate behind closed doors and only with their friends. Shawn Woods [phonetic],

May 11, 2026 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 1921 the executive director of the construction association of Manitoba, once again puts it best, and I quote when he says: I think the most important part of this is the current Manitoba government didn't consult with the industry before they applied this. End quote. The NDP went to a select group of unions –of union bosses to line their pockets and denied, dismissed and removed 88 per cent of Manitobans from having a say in this NDP job-killing agreement.

The Premier is choosing to attack you, the 88 per cent of Manitobans that have chosen to work in a non-union shop. When will the Premier do the right thing and support all Manitobans, not just his union buddies? The Speaker: The hon ourable First Minister – [interjection] Order. Mr. Kinew: Honourable Speaker, do you know who we consulted about the Manitoba jobs agreement? You. Everyone in Manitoba. This is the first press conference that we held in the last election come-in– the first one, No. 1.

We went out and we said we're going to do Manitoba jobs agreement to put more Manitobans to work to end the years of cuts under the PCs. And you know what they were doing? They were on vacation in August 2023, except for the member for Red River North (Mr. Wharton), who was out there breaking the law for a big business. That's what they do; they stand up for the rich. We stand up for everybody else. Let's go to the polls. The Speaker: The honourable Leader of the Official Opposition, on a new question. Basic Personal Tax Rate–Exemption Increase Request for Government to Support Resolution Mr.

Obby Khan (Leader of the Official Opposition): Not one serious answer by this Premier. To the Premier, a union card matters more than years of experience–[interjection] The Speaker: Order. Mr. Khan: –and how this ridiculous idea is going to make projects more expensive. Honour able Speaker, 20 per cent more of your taxpayer dollars are going to be spent on building a school because this Premier wants to line the pockets of unions. Under this govern ment, everything is getting more expensive.

Under this government, they're offering you pennies when, on this side of the House, we're offering you hundreds and thousands of dollars. The Premier stands in this place and pretends he needs to pass BITSA, but in reality he can do it today if he wants to. Where is the will for this Premier to do it? He doesn't want to do it. He wants to stand up, make jokes, divide Manitobans and line his union buddies' pockets. So I'll ask the Premier: Why is the Premier play - ing political games instead of doing the right things and putting– The Speaker: Member's time has expired. Hon.

Wab Kinew (Premier): Oh, Honourable Speaker, we'll be very chastened because the member opposite doesn't know to– how to have a good time while his caucus flees and runs for the hills. That's what you have on offer in the PCs. They were so completely divided in the last election that they decided to continue for three more years and come back into the Chamber. And even Red River North is sick of it. He's leaving. How bad of a leader do you have to be for Red River North to say that he's had enough? He's the guy that broke the law and ignored the Constitution.

On this side of the House, what do we want you to have? Cheaper groceries. That's why our budget bill must pass today. They have the opportunity to debate, put their little words on the record, and then let's get to the grocery stores and save you money. The Speaker: The honourable Leader of the Official Opposition, on a supplementary question. Mr. Khan: The Premier is so dis ingenuous when it comes to the problems facing families in Manitoba. The Premier can pass his PST junk food tax if he wants to. The Premier can remove the provincial tax on gas if he wants to. He's choosing not to.

He's choosing to play political games with your life. The Premier's offering you pennies. On this side of the House, we are –[interjection] You can hear the Premier heckling me right now and laughing at you. He's offering you pennies; we're offering you hundreds of dollars a month and thou- sands of dollars a year in savings. Will the Premier do the right thing today and stop playing political games and support our call to make life more affordable for Manitobans by giving them back $3,000 a year, yes or no? [interjection] The Speaker: Order, please. Order, please.

1922 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA May 11, 2026 I would just caution members that sometimes the language is getting borderline. Disingenuous describes behaviour or speech that is insincere, and while it's not suggesting that someone is lying, it's getting dangerously close. So I'd caution members. * (14:20) Mr. Kinew: You've got to take a look at the overall budget we're bringing forward. Of course, not only is there a tax cut on groceries, there's a lower gas tax, there's more help with your property taxes, and, of course, when it comes to renters, cheques.

We also know that there's investments in adult literacy, and in schools, free transit for youth. We've got the lowest deficit in all of the country. So when you look at the overall budget, it's pretty good. And I wouldn't mind going to the people of Manitoba with that document. The Speaker: The honourable Leader of the Official Opposition, on a final supplementary question. Mr. Khan: Only the NDP would applaud a $500-million deficit. It is embarrassing how far this government and this province has fallen under this NDP government. The NDP are offering you $100 a year of savings with their PST junk food tax.

On this side of the House, the PCs are offering you up to $3,000 a year. By increasing the basic per - sonal exemption, by allowing families to keep more of their paycheque, we can help families make the healthy choice for their families. We can help families pay their bills, put gas in their car by increasing their basic personal exemption, not by removing 7 cents on–[interjection] The Speaker: Order. Mr. Khan: –a can of pop.

The question, again, is simple for the Premier: Will the Premier do the right thing today and support a call for an increase of basic personal exemption to $30,000 and give Manitobans $3,000 a year? Yes or no? Mr. Kinew: All joking aside, we tabled a document that proves we need BITSA to pass in order for your groceries to get cheaper. Let's have that vote today. If not, they'll find out what happens. Basic Personal Tax Rate Call to Index to Inflation Mrs. Lauren Stone (Midland): Manitobans are struggling under the weight of rising costs while this Premier (Mr.

Kinew) has failed to offer any real – [interjection] The Speaker: Order. Mrs. Stone: –meaningful tax relief. Families are struggling to pay for groceries, they're struggling to pay for gas and they're struggling to pay for this NDP's rising education property taxes. These are some of the highest costs that families in recent memory have ever experienced, while every other province has indexed income taxes to inflation or increased the basic personal exemption. BC, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Ontario, Quebec and Nova Scotia this year all indexed to inflation. And what has this NDP done?

They've cancelled it, pushing more Manitobans into higher tax– The Speaker: Honourable member's time has expired. Hon. Adrien Sala (Minister of Finance): Honour- able Speaker, under our government, Manitobans are getting more help than they've ever received when it comes to their education property tax bill, more than ever before. Again, we know the member opposite doesn't support this, but nine out of 10 people in her com - munity are better off as a result of our education property tax credit.

So what does she say to those members of her community that she wants to go back to an approach where nine out of 10 of them were worse off? It's not clear to me how successful a communications plan that's going to be. What we do know is that we're going to keep doing this work each and every day. We brought in gas tax cuts for a full year, now a permanent 10 per cent cut. We're lowering our education property tax bill. We're restoring renters' tax credits that they took away to raise taxes on renters. And now, if they support, we're going to take the PST– The Speaker: Member's time has expired.

The honourable member for Midland, on a supplementary question. Basic Personal Tax Rate–Exemption Increase Request for Government to Support Resolution Mrs. Lauren Stone (Midland): While Winnipeggers opened their tax bills this weekend, they were shocked at again the increasing and skyrocketing education taxes. I would like to ask the member what his colleagues, the MLA for Lagimodière, the MLA for Southdale,

May 11, 2026 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 1923 the MLA for Waverley and the MLA for Kildonan-River East what their constituents say about those skyrocketing education taxes that have been a result of this NDP government. [interjection] The Speaker: Order. Mrs. Stone: Over 50 per cent of Manitobans are reporting they're within $200 of insolvency. That's why we want to give families back $3,000 a year. Every other province is increasing the basic personal exemption. So will this Premier (Mr.

Kinew) stand up, co-operate with our PC team to increase the basic personal exemption, which he can do today– The Speaker: Member's time has expired. Hon. Adrien Sala (Minister of Finance): Honour- able Speaker, again, the members opposite don't even know what it is they're proposing. It is a billion-dollar cost, is it $10 billion? Nobody knows. Here's what we know: If we went back to them, we know that what Manitobans would face would be more cuts across the board, or another $2- billion deficit hole that they left us on their way out the door.

That's their record: terrible fiscal management and cuts across the board. What is this team doing? Every single day Manitobans know we're showing up for them and we're working to lower their costs. And this BITSA bill will help to do that. Why will they not get on board, Honourable Speaker? Why don't they want to support PST off all groceries or raising the renters' tax credit or creating more help for homeowners with their education property tax bills? Will she stand up in this House today and actually come out in support of our bill that will bring more dollars– The Speaker: Member's time has expired.

The honourable member for Midland, on a final supplementary question. Mrs. Stone: The answer is very simple, Honourable Speaker. Do Manitobans want $100 in tax savings per year or $3,000 in tax savings per year? Because that's what our PC team has proposed. So let's look at this record that this minister is talking about since he came into office: highest property taxes than ever before, highest food inflation in the country, highest inflation in the country, high fuel costs, rising utility rates and the lowest economic growth in the entire country. That's his record and that's the record of this Premier.

Increasing the basic personal exemption will put more money into the pockets of Manitobans, more money that Manitobans desperately need. They can do this today. Will they at the very least come to the table and work with our PC– The Speaker: Member's time has expired.

MLA Sala: Honourable Speaker, Manitobans remem- ber what life was like under the members opposite when they raised costs for renters, when they jacked up hydro rates again in new and novel ways that we've never seen before, undermining the role of the Public Utilities Board and, of course, raising costs on pro- ducers, trying to jack up the costs of Crown lands, which we've done important work to keep their costs low. What is our team doing, and what did this last budget promise?

No PST on groceries; of course, in addition to that, free child care for the lowest income families in Manitoba, free transit for kids in Manitoba. This team is helping Manitobans across the prov- ince. We don't want to go back to the way things were. We know how tough life was. We know how bad of a fiscal set of managers they were. Manitobans know they can trust this team, make life more affordable– The Speaker: Member's time has expired. Basic Personal Tax Rate Call for Indexation to Inflation Mr.

Konrad Narth (La Vérendrye): Honourable Speaker, last week this Premier threatened that if their weak budget bill didn't pass, this House could sit all summer. Well, on this side of the House, we're not afraid of hard work. We are prepared –I'll let the Premier listen to this. We are prepared to stay here working for Manitoba families because we understand how important affordability is. Instead of political threats, will the Premier com- mit today to raising the basic personal exemption so that we can pass BITSA and let Manitoba's struggling families keep more of their hard-earned money? Hon.

Adrien Sala (Minister of Finance): Again, Honourable Speaker, it's make- believe time with these proposals. They don't even know if they are coming or going. What number is it? We don't know. Manitobans don't know.

1924 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA May 11, 2026 What they do know is that this team has been doing a lot of work to make their lives more afford- able, whether it's a broad, middle -class tax cut, whether it's reducing the costs of their gas, whether it's reducing the cost of their electricity, whether it's reducing the cost of rent. This team has done that work since we got in. They know that the ot her side made life more expensive. They know–they didn't focus on their day-to-day needs. This team is going to keep doing the work.

I ask the member: Will he support our BITSA bill to bring savings to Manitobans, yes or no? The Speaker: The honourable member for La Vérendrye, on a supplementary question. Investment in Economic Development Call to Address Cost-of-Living Challenges Mr. Konrad Narth (La Vérendrye): Honourable Speaker, what we do know are the facts. Manitoba families are falling further behind.

They're paying higher school taxes –that's a fact –higher hydro bills, higher fuel costs, and they are also paying more income tax because this government cance lled indexation, saving pennies of –saving pennies on Slurpees is what this government has to offer, and that's not a serious solution. Affordability starts with a strong economy. Will the Premier (Mr. Kinew) finally stop the slogans and political threats and take serious action to unleash our economy, support private sector jobs and job creations and make Manitoba competitive and affordable again? * (14:30) Hon.

Adrien Sala (Minister of Finance): Honour- able Speaker, this team is bringing in the biggest education property tax rebates Manitobans have ever seen. He says fuel costs are going up. We got some of the lowest prices in the country, and that's thanks to the work we're doing to reduce them with our permanent 10 per cent fuel tax cut. Of course, on other parts of energy– electricity– what did we do? We froze them for an entire year. What happened under the members opposite? Again, new and creative ways to find new ways of jacking up electricity costs on Manitobans. We know their record.

We saw what happened for seven and a half years. And now, again, what are they doing? They're standing in the way of savings for Manitobans. They're standing in the way of a $1,700 education property tax rebate. They're standing in the way of us raising the renters tax credit, which they cut to make life more –or, less affordable for renters. And they're standing in the way of a PST cut on all groceries. Will they get out of the way? Will they stand up today and– The Speaker: The member's time has expired. Business Development and Licensing Request for Single-Desk Model Mr.

Konrad Narth (La Vérendrye): Honourable Speaker, those are just slogans and empty promises. After nearly three years in office, Manitobans are still waiting for a real plan for economic growth from this NDP government. Private investment is weak and weakening. Agri- culture producers face more costs and more regula - tions each and every day, and young Manitobans are struggling to find opportunity and affordability within our province. Will the Premier commit today to real economic action by reducing regulations, speeding up approvals and creating a single -desk model for busi ness dev - elopment and licensing?

Hon. Jamie Moses (Minister of Business, Mining, Trade and Job Creation): Well, Honourable Speaker, we continue to build a strong economy here in Manitoba by making sure we take the tax off of all equipment for manufacturers, by creating a $50-million trade investment financing program, investing in new critical mineral projects like the gold mine in Lynn Lake, a billion-dollar investment. These are all strong projects that help to move our economy forward, not even talking about the amazing project in the Port of Churchill.

But the matter for today that questions have – members opposite have to answer: Will they support our budget which will make life more affordable for Manitobans? Taking the tax off of groceries, ensuring we have a large affordability measure for homeowners and for renters. It's up to them. Are– The Speaker: Member's time has expired. Education System New Funding Model Mr. Wayne Ewasko (Lac du Bonnet): Manitobans last week in Estimates found out that this Kinew gov- ernment has no plan for a fair funding model for edu- cation.

May 11, 2026 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 1925 Instead, this Kinew government is forcing double- digit education tax increases on all Manitobans. Will this minister commit to reverse course, listen to educators and families and finally introduce a sus- tainable funding model for education in this great province of ours? Hon.

Tracy Schmidt (Minister of Education and Early Childhood Learning): It was a pleasure to sit with the member opposite in committee last week where I shared with him the great news of the new funding model here in Manitoba which is that Manitobans have elected a government that is finally funding edu cation. That's our model, Honourable Speaker. Our model, Honour able Speaker, is stable and predictable funding. It is a fact that since this NDP government was elected, every single school division, every single year, has seen their budgets increase. What was their record, Hon ourable Speaker? Cuts, cuts.

The question of the day is, Hon ourable Speaker: Will the member for Lac du Bonnet be supporting our budget and making Manitobans save money, making sure that Manitobans save money on child care, making– The Speaker: Member's time has expired. The honourable member for Lac du Bonnet, on a supplementary question. River East Transcona School Division Funding Level Concerns Mr. Wayne Ewasko (Lac du Bonnet): Honourable Speaker, Manitoba Teachers' Society said, edu cation funding announcement falls–fails students yet again. End quote.

Honourable Speaker, the PCs, in our last three years, had increased funding to the River East Transcona School Division by $25.3 million. Under the last three years of this NDP Kinew gov ernment, they've only increased to River East Transcona by $12.4 million. Will the minister please reverse course, because Manitobans cannot afford this Kinew government? Hon.

Tracy Schmidt (Minister of Education and Early Childhood Learning): I'm so glad, Honourable Speaker, that the member opposite brings up the River East Transcona School Division so that I can share with this House some of the incredible work that River East Transcona School Division is doing thanks to increased funding by our government.

So, in order to improve attendance, Honourable Speaker–something that our government and our school division partners are working so closely and so carefully on–thanks to the increased funding by our government, River East Transcona School Division has been able to hire nine attendance youth- care workers embedded in their schools to support students experiencing absenteeism. They're going to help those students get back to the classroom, Honourable Speaker.

With our support, River East Transcona has also hired an additional social work clinician with the responsibility to support attendance in the early–in the ear–pardon me, in the early years levels. They've also been able to hire more dedicated– The Speaker: Member's time has expired. The honourable member for Lac du Bonnet, on a final supplementary question. Louis Riel School Division Funding Level Concerns Mr. Wayne Ewasko (Lac du Bonnet): The facts are, Honourable Speaker, that River East Transcona, in the last three years, have raised their taxes by 36 per cent.

Another point: Louis Riel School Division said, and I quote: Our financial position has eroded. End quote. So Louis Riel School Division: in the last three years of PC government, $23.2 million went to them; under the last three years of this Kinew govern ment, $12.2 million, Honourable Speaker. Will this minister reverse course? Because, obviously, Manitobans cannot afford this Kinew gov- ernment, as they're seeing Louis Riel School Division in the last three years raise their taxes by 43 per cent. Shame on this minister. Hon.

Tracy Schmidt (Minister of Education and Early Childhood Learning): Honourable Speaker, on this side of the House, we understand the value of investing in education, and that's what we're doing. That's what Manitobans elected us to do. After years of cuts and chaos, teachers losing their jobs, teachers and EAs, clinicians running from the public education system because they could not get the support or the resources or, quite frankly, even the respect that they deserve from the previous failed PC government, it is our government that has come in with increased funding every single year. It is our

1926 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA May 11, 2026 government that stood with the MTS, with the Manitoba School Boards Association, and fought bill 64–which was, again, the worst piece of legislation ever intro- duced in Manitoba. It's our team that's going to continue working with school divisions, more than 800 more teachers here in Manitoba. That's a school funding model– The Speaker: Member's time has expired. Cost of Living in Manitoba Request to Address Affordability Challenges Mrs. Kathleen Cook (Roblin): The No. 1 issue we're hearing about from Manitobans is affordability.

Manitoba leads the country in food inflation. Grocery staples like meat, fruit and vegetables have all gotten more expensive. Gas prices have gone up. Hydro rates have gone up. Pharmacare deductibles have gone up. And this NDP government's only response, the only cost relief they will provide is to save Manitobans a few pennies on chips and pop. Why is this NDP government failing Manitobans so miserably when it comes to making life more affordable for families? Hon. Adrien Sala (Minister of Finance): Manitobans do continue to face challenges when it comes to the affordability of food.

And that's why our government is taking steps no government has taken in the entire country to respond to that, starting with, of course, freezing the price of a one-litre jug of milk. We brought in more competition into our com - munities to make sure that more grocery stores are present, to ensure that we can see lower prices through more competition. We're taking action when it comes to some of the exploitative practices we've seen with online grocery shopping.

We're going to put an end to predatory pricing here in Manitoba–again, something Manitoba is doing that no other province is doing in the entire country. In addition to that, of course, we're doing the food study. And then, should the member actually care about the price of food for her constituents and Manitobans across this province, let's see her stand up today and stand in support of our move to take the PST off all groceries in Manitoba. The Speaker: The honourable member for Roblin, on a supplementary question. Mrs.

Cook: This NDP government needs a reminder that Manitobans' hard-earned dollars are not actually the NDP's money. It's Manitobans' money, and on this side of the House, we believe that Manitobans know best how to spend it. The most effective way to provide cost relief for Manitobans is to allow them to keep more of their hard-earned dollars. We know they'll spend that money right here in Manitoba on things like groceries, on their kids' sports and activities and maybe have enough money left over to enjoy a meal at one of Manitoba's great restaurants with their families.

Why is this NDP government so ideologically opposed to allowing Manitobans to keep more of their own hard-earned money? * (14:40) MLA Sala: Honourable Speaker, this team is working to put more money in Manitobans' pockets to give them the capacity to make those decisions. We're doing that, whether it's through gas tax cuts –again, permanent 10 per cent cut, something they never did for seven and a half years. They never took any action of any kind when it came to reducing energy costs for Manitobans. In fact, we know that they seem to have worked very hard to lift them up when it came to their hydro costs.

Middle-class tax cut: we're putting thousands dollars more–of dollars more in Manitobans' pockets through changes to the basic personal exemption and changes to the brackets. We put more money in renters' pockets through our increase to the renters' tax credit–again, something that they cut. They brought it from $700 to $525 during their tenure. That's shame- ful, Honourable Speaker. Those are some of the Manitobans who are facing, we know, some of those greatest struggles. So when we look– The Speaker: Member's time has expired. The honourable member for Roblin, on a final supplementary question.

Basic Personal Income Tax Call to Increase the Exemption Mrs. Kathleen Cook (Roblin): Families are struggling, but this NDP government is actively working against them by raising income taxes, allowing inflation to soar unchecked and refusing to let Manitobans keep more of their own hard- earned dollars. Every other province is indexing its income tax brackets to inflation or raising their basic personal exemption, and this NDP government refuses to do either. Manitoba families are falling behind and being forced to do more with less.

May 11, 2026 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 1927 Will the NDP government finally get on the side of Manitobans, raise the basic personal exemption so that Manitoba families could keep more of their own hard-earned money? Hon. Adrien Sala (Minister of Finance): Again, Honourable Speaker, Manitobans don't even know what that proposal is; they didn't cost it; we have no idea what the impacts of that would be, except we do know, if history is any judge, that if we listen to what they wanted to see us do, we know where that takes us. It takes us where the PCs went during their last year: a $2-billion deficit hole.

They're bringing forward proposals that they haven't even costed. They still don't know what it is they're bringing forward. What we know is this: we're focused on the needs of Manitobans. I ask the member, in all honesty: Will she stand up today and stand behind this BITSA bill, which we know is going to bring savings directly to Manitobans pockets at a time that they need it? Let's work together; let's raise that education property tax credit; let's raise that renters' tax credit; let's take the PST off all food in Manitoba. We know that we have this work to do. Will they get on board, yes or no?

The Speaker: Member's time has expired. Great Lakes Forest Fire Compact Manitoba Supports Neighbouring Jurisdictions MLA David Pankratz (Waverley): Honourable Speaker, when people are in need, Manitobans step up. We are one Manitoba. From flood prevention this spring to an unprecedented wildland firefighting operation last summer, Manitoba front -line crews, you know, they've proven that they're always there to get the job done. Can the Minister of Natural Resources and Indigenous Futures please tell this House more about how Manitobans are stepping up to help those in need? Hon.

Ian Bushie (Minister of Natural Resources and Indigenous Futures): It gives me a chance to talk about the Great Lakes Forest Fire Compact. It's an agreement where neighbourhood jurisdictions can share shared resources on forest fire support. We, unfortunately, last year had a devastating wildfire season, so we count on this compact to be able to step up and called on our neighbouring jurisdictions to step up and support. And we got that support from Minnesota.

So it gives me my pleasure today to stand up and talk about us being able to return that favour to our neighbouring jurisdiction in Minnesota, to say that we've sent wildfire firefighters to assist in their time of need, as they did for us. So as we stand up–and I could look to our neighbouring jurisdictions and say to them specifically, you were there for us; we will be there for you. And for all the Manitobans that stepped up and being able to get out there and support our neighbouring jurisdictions, that is what it's like to live as one Manitoba. Seniors Housing Resident Safety Concerns Mr.

Obby Khan (Leader of the Official Opposition): This government's housing strategy has failed miserably, and impacted Manitobans are now worse off than they were before they started. As one senior told media, quote: it's got to be more thought -out and planned, because right now it is chaos. End quote. Right now, seniors are afraid to leave their units and worried about being robbed of their prescription drugs in their own apartment buildings. There are concerns about open drug use, strangers getting into the building, assaults on residents and more.

That is all under the golden years of this NDP government, a province where seniors needing home care have to go off-site to get home care. This NDP government has said overly that they–[interjection] The Speaker: Order. Mr. Khan: –are not tenanting folks in senior housing, while the seniors are saying something different. What does the minister have to say to them who are fearing their lives every single day? Hon. Bernadette Smith (Minister of Housing, Addictions and Homelessness): We are working hard on this side of the House every day to make sure that Manitobans are safe and secure in our housing.

We're going to continue to do that work, something that members opposite didn't do. They fired security officers in the buildings. The Speaker: The honourable Leader of the Official Opposition, on a supplementary question. Mr. Khan: Seniors are afraid to go home because of this NDP gov ernment. In a province of 1.5 million, this–[interjection] The Speaker: Order.

1928 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA May 11, 2026 Mr. Khan: –minister has the full power of the govern- ment behind her; yet, she manages to only house 15 people a month. At this rate, it's going to take 300 months to house the current homeless population in Manitoba. Under this NDP government, only would they call 25 years to fix the homeless strategy in this province a success. The minister can read whatever canned lin es she wants, but the reality is, it's her–[interjection] The Speaker: Order. Mr. Khan: –choices that have made seniors feel unsafe and keeping their grandchildren away from safety concerns.

Why is the minister disrespecting seniors by ignoring their calls for safety and saying they simply don't understand? Ms. Smith: They sold off housing; we're building housing. We're going to continue to support Manitobans in ensuring they have safe and secure housing, unlike members opposite, who left them out on the street in tents with no support. The Speaker: The honourable Leader of the Official Opposition, on a final supplementary question. Hamper Delivery Programs for Seniors Funding Commitment Inquiry Mr.

Obby Khan (Leader of the Official Opposition): You heard it right there from the minister herself: she said they're going to continue doing what they're doing, which means it's going to take 300 months – 25 years–under the continued path that they are going on to–[interjection] The Speaker: Order. Mr. Khan: –solve the homeless issue in this province. That is sheer disrespect for Manitobans, homelessness and the seniors. [interjection] The Speaker: Order. Mr. Khan: The seniors in this province are asking for help. The Minister of–[interjection] The Speaker: Stop the clock, please.

I ask the honour able Minister of Families (MLA Fontaine) to come to order. Mr. Khan: I will table a letter from my office, received from one senior who says they have no idea how they will get the needed food supplies they need to survive. It's not just physical security that is in jeopardy because of the failures of this NDP govern ment; it is food security. Manitobans are visiting food banks at record numbers because of the failures of this NDP government. Will the Premier (Mr. Kinew) commit today to fully funding the continuation of hamper delivery programs for seniors– The Speaker: Member's time has expired.

Hon. Bernadette Smith (Minister of Housing, Addictions and Homelessness): I can tell you, on this side of the House, we will stand up and support seniors each and every day, something members opposite didn't do. When Lions Manor was asking and begging for their support, they didn't get–they didn't support them. We–on this side of the House, we'll stand with seniors each and every day, unlike members opposite, who don't support Manitobans.

Leader of the Official Opposition Female Staff–Retention Concerns MLA Bob Lagassé (Dawson Trail): Honourable Speaker, I had a question that I was going to direct towards government today, but since the opposition has decided they want to fool around a bit today, my question is going to go to them. I'm curious how the Leader of the Opposition feels about the mass exodus of female staff since he's become the leader of the party. Some Honourable Members: Oh, oh. The Speaker: Order. Order. Order. Order. Order. Hon.

Wab Kinew (Premier): Honourable Speaker, you know, with humility, I do rise with respect for the member. I would say that we take workplace respect and health and safety very, very seriously. We'd be very supportive of anything that needs to be brought forward through official channels, and, of course, we would respect confidentiality to the utmost. The Speaker: The honourable member for Dawson Trail, on a supplementary question.

Provincial Roads 210, 206 and 207 Timeline for Speed Limit Review MLA Bob Lagassé (Dawson Trail): So I'll shift away from that one and I'll go to the question regarding highways and speed limits. I have several constituents in Lorette that are concerned about the speed limit, as we've discussed, along the highway, and I have local councillors

May 11, 2026 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 1929 asking, when can we expect a review of the speed limits along the PR 210 and 206, as well as 207. * (14:50) Hon. Lisa Naylor (Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure): I thank the member opposite for that question. And I'm sure he can appre ciate, because he has clearly lost any faith in the opposi tion, that a lot of the challenges to the speed limit reviews became as a part of the previous government. They cancelled the Highway Traffic Board who had significant responsi- bility in reviewing highway speeds.

When I came into this role, the backlog was anywhere from two to five years for reviews of speed limits. So I'm really excited to let this House know that, as of the beginning of this year, we stood up a new unit within the department with dedicated engineers who are clearing that backlog. Everything in that backlog should be cleared by the end of the year, and all municipalities have to do is– The Speaker: Member's time has expired. And the time for oral questions has also expired. PETITIONS Funding Crime Cost Mitigation for Small Business Mr.

Derek Johnson (Interlake-Gimli): Honourable Speaker, I wish to present the following petition. To the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba, the background to this petition is as follows:

(1) Small businesses are vital in supporting their local economy and the provincial government has a responsibility to act and support them.

(2) The recent increase in vigilantism shows that Manitobans do not trust this provincial government to fulfill its responsibility.

(3) More than half–54 per cent–of small businesses in Manitoba are impacted by crime. Property damage, theft, littering and public intoxication are some of the crimes that affect most businesses, according to the Canadian Federation of Independent Business. There has been a 44 per cent increase in shoplifting incidences over the last year.

(4) In order to combat this rise of crime, small businesses try, unaided, to implement various out-of- pocket security measures and safety training for their staff and they face increasing costs when they incur property damage or theft.

(5) Vandalism, break-ins and other senseless acts cannot be accepted as a cost of doing business for businesses throughout Manitoba, and the provincial government must do more to ease the burdens small businesses are carrying with its catch -and-release justice system.

(6) Failing to support small businesses is failing the Manitoba economy, failing Manitoba families and failing Manitobans' dreams.

(7) The security rebate program in place for homeowners and small businesses does not cover the real costs impacting businesses, such as vandalism, property damage and repairs. We urge the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba as follows: To urge the provincial government to support Manitoba businesses through specific funding to reimburse the expenses and insurance deductibles that they incur as a result of a crime. This petition is signed by Reed Sutherland, Gerald Sawatsky, Luke Lovenjak and many, many other fine Manitobans. Thank you, Honourable Speaker. MRI Machine for Portage Regional Health Facility Mr.

Obby Khan (Leader of the Official Opposition): Honourable Speaker, I wish to present the following petition. Mr. Tyler Blashko, Deputy Speaker, in the Chair Okay. To the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba, the background to this petition is as follows:

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

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

1930 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA May 11, 2026

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

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

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

(6) Located in close proximity to the new Portage regional health facility 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 op portunity for –the oppor - tunity to transport patients by air from more remote communities to access MRI imaging services. * (15:00)

(7) The average wait time for Manitobans to receive an MRI scan is currently six to eight months. Having an MRI machine in the Portage regional health facility will help reduce these wait times for patients and provide better care sooner. We petition the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba as follows: To urge the provincial government to support the investment and placement of an MRI machine in the Portage regional health facility in Portage la Prairie, Manitoba. This has been signed by Murray McIntyre, Carolyn Whitfield and Ken Wettlaufer and many, many other Manitobans. Mr.

Jeff Wharton (Red River North): I wish to present the following petition to the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba. The background to this petition is as follows:

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

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

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

(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 services and ambulance use. It will bring care closer to home and reduce wait times for MRI scans across the province.

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

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

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

May 11, 2026 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 1931 Honourable Deputy Speaker, this petition is signed by Aiden Mekkes, Tori Nabess, Maiyahk Likely-Walder [phonetic] and many, many more Manitobans. Thank you. Provincial Trunk Highway 34 Mrs. Colleen Robbins (Spruce Woods): I wish to present the following petition to the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba. The background to this petition is as follows:

(1) Provincial Trunk Highway 34, PTH 34, is a two-lane provincial primary highway that runs from the US border where it meets with ND 20 to PTH 16 at the town of Gladstone.

(2) PTH 34 runs north-south in the south- central region of the province. It is the main highway for the towns of Crystal City, Pilot Mound and Holland, serving as a main corridor for semi -trailers, farm equipment, daily drivers and local school bus routes.

(3) A new bridge is currently being constructed over the Assiniboine River at PTH 34, north of Holland, in the RM of Victoria. The bridge serves as an important north- south link over the Assiniboine River between the Trans-Canada Highway and PTH 2.

(4) The deterioration of PTH 34 has raised major concerns due to its narrow shoulders and numerous deep potholes that pose serious safety risks considering farmers often need to use the highway to transport heavy equipment.

(5) Construction of a new bridge in accordance current design codes and the RTAC standard, located on PTH 34 crossing the Assiniboine River, will support trade and commerce and improve public safety in the area, and also accommodate flood events on the Assiniboine River. We petition the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba as follows: To urge the provincial government to address the conditions of the Provincial Trunk Highway 34, making the necessary upgrades to RTAC standard and to resurface the road once the new bridge has been completed.

This petition has been signed by Kylan Cemystruck [phonetic], Hailey Hildebrand, Mackenzie Couling and many, many more Manitobans. Provincial Road 482 Mr. Greg Nesbitt (Riding Mountain): I wish to present the following petition to the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba. These are the reasons for this petition:

(1) Upgrading Provincial Road 482 will accelerate economic development as it will enhance connectivity, facilitate efficient transportation and promote economic growth in the region.

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

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

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

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

(6) Efficient transportation networks contribute to Manitoba's economic competitiveness, as upgraded roads support interprovincial and international goods movement, benefiting both trade and commerce. We petition the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba as follows: To urge the Minister of Transportation and Infra- structure to take the necessary steps to upgrade Provincial Road 482 to meet RTAC standards. * (15:10) This petition has been signed by Melissa Wilson, Anna Oliver, Jim Kennedy and many, many, many other fine Manitobans. Thank you. Provincial Road 210 Mr.

Konrad Narth (La Vérendrye): I wish to present the following petition to the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba. The background to this petition is as follows:

1932 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA May 11, 2026

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

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

(3) PR 210 is a significant commuting route for Eastman families and is also notably used by those in the agriculture, tourism, trade and commerce industries.

(4) The condition of PR 210, Woodridge to Highway 12, is in an unacceptable state of disrepair.

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

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

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

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

(2) To urge the provincial government to include the stretch of Provincial Road 210 from Woodridge to Highway 12 in its reconstruction plans. This petition has been signed by Dan Barius [phonetic], Tim Hamm, Fredd Shastid and many, many other Manitobans. Provincial Road 227 Mr. Trevor King (Lakeside): I wish to present the following petition to the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba. And the background to this petition is as follows:

(1) As part of ongoing strategic infrastructure investments to the provincial highway network, it was announced in August 2022 that almost $70 million would be spent on upgrades to provincial road PR 227.

(2) Over 72 kilometres of PR 227 were to be paved along with the repair or replacement of three bridges and multiple drainage works.

(3) Mayors, reeves, councillors and residents of the surrounding municipalities, cities, towns and villages were ecstatic and overwhelmingly supportive of this plan.

(4) The planned PR 227 was to connect Highway 16 with Highway 6, thus creating an alternative route to Highway 1.

(5) PR 227 was to be part of Manitoba's trade and commerce grid initiative, an expanded grid of highways that can accommodate heavy commercial loading that will attract new industrial activity, reduce transportation costs and optimize supply chain efficiency, which will benefit all Manitobans.

(6) The 2023 multi-year infrastructure investment strategy is a five -year, $4.1- billion investment in Manitoba's roads, highways, bridges, airports and flood protection. The paving of PR 227 was part of this strategy.

(7) The Minister of Transportation and Infra - structure has cut the PR 227 project, notwithstanding that the project appears in the multi-year investment– infrastructure investment strategy and listed on the Manitoba Transportation and Infrastructure website as an active project.

(8) Additional keystone projects in the 2023 multi-year infrastructure investment strategy were the Winnipeg One Million Perimeter Freeway Initiative, the Lake St. Martin and Lake Manitoba outlet chan - nels and the twinning of the Trans -Canada Highway to the Ontario border. The actions of the NDP government now bring into question whether any of these projects will be completed as planned. We petition the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba as follows:

(1) To urge the Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure to immediately restore funding to the PR 227 paving project; and

(2) To urge the Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure to commitment to Manitobans to carry out all of the projects as outlined in the 2023 multi - year infrastructure investment strategy in their totality, to the same scope and in accordance with already stated timelines.

May 11, 2026 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 1933 This petition is signed by Daniel Schott, Karen Madden and Shelley Krause, and many, many Manitobans. Thank you. Intersection of PTH 75 and PR 305 Mr. Josh Guenter (Borderland): I wish to present 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 and Provincial Road 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 commu- nity members, commuters and commercial traffic, making safety improvements critical. * (15:20)

(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 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. This petition has been signed by Cori Shaw, Rachel King, Lori Simpson and many, many Manitobans. Opposition to Releasing Repeat Offenders Mr. Wayne Balcaen (Brandon West): I wish to present the following petition to the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba. The background to this petition is as follows:

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

(2) Despite repeated violations of his bail conditions, the offender was free to roam the streets and 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 admin istrative–sorry–the admin istra- tion 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

1934 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA May 11, 2026 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 the continued victimization of law -abiding Manitobans while granting repeat offenders additional rights. And, hon ourable Deputy Speaker, this petition was signed by Nicole Nickels, Scott Millenburg [phonetic], Shawn Eaton and many, many other fine Manitobans. Programs for Adolescents with Disabilities Mr. Wayne Ewasko (Lac du Bonnet): 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 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; and

(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. * (15:30) This petition is signed by Lindsay Nelson, Tiffany Easton, Maryse Catagas 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, a 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. Because the school is now over capacity, the school division has had to install portable classrooms on site as of fall 2024. For several consecutive years, the top capital priority of the St. James -Assiniboia School Division 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

May 11, 2026 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 1935 operator in Phoenix School has been told that they will continue to have space within the school for the 2024-2025 school year only, that further expansion of child-care space within the school is not possible and that space may be reduced moving forward due to the shortage of classrooms. If new space is not constructed as planned, many families may be left without child care.

It is critical that the expansion and renovation of Phoenix School proceed as planned in order to support the needs of students, teachers and families in the growing community of Headingley. We petition the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba as follows: To urge the provincial government to proceed with the planned renovation and expansion of Phoenix School without further delay. And this petition is signed by Sarah Oliver, Margo Price, Rachel DeCorby and many, many other Manitobans. Opposition to Releasing Repeat Offenders 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) 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 of the available tools to address this issue effectively.

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

(6) Immediate action is required to close gaps in the justice system that 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 the continued victimization of law -abiding Manitobans while granting repeat offenders additional rights. This is signed by Lynda Tunny, Dick Tunny, Bernice Radomski and many, many more Manitobans. MLA Jeff Bereza (Portage la Prairie): I wish to present the following petition. The background to this petition is as follows:

(1) Kellie Verwey, a beloved young woman from Portage la Prairie 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 reform–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.

1936 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA May 11, 2026

(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 encourage –sorry, 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 the public safety is prioritized over leniency; and

(2) To urge the provincial government to lobby the federal government to immediately repeal provisions of the Criminal Code that allow for the continued victimization of law -abiding Manitobans while granting repeat offenders additional rights. This is signed by Pat Williams, Wendell Williams, Jody Williams and many, many more Manitobans. Thank you, honourable Deputy Speaker. * (15:40) The Deputy Speaker: Seeing no further petitions, grievances? ORDERS OF THE DAY GOVERNMENT BUSINESS Hon. Nahanni Fontaine (Government House Leader): Can you please call all stages of Bill 53.

SECOND READINGS Bill 53–The Budget Implementation and Tax Statutes Amendment Act, 2026 The Deputy Speaker: We will now move on to all stages of Bill 53, The Budget Implementation and Tax Statutes Amendment Act, 2026. Hon. Adrien Sala (Minister of Finance): I move, seconded by the Minister of Families (MLA Fontaine), that Bill 53, The Budget Imple mentation and Tax Statutes Amend ment Act, 2026; Loi d'exécution du budget de 2026 et modifiant diverses dispositions législatives en matière de fiscalité, be now read a second time and be referred to a com mittee of this House.

Her Honour the Administrator has been advised of the bill, and I table the message. The Deputy Speaker: It has been moved by the hon- ourable Minister of Finance, seconded by the honour- able Minister of Families, that Bill 53, The Budget Implementation and Tax Statutes Amendment Act, 2026; Loi 'd'exucation' du budget de 2026 et modifiant diverses dispositions législatives en matière de fiscalité, be now read a second time and be referred to a committee of this House. Her Honour the Administrator has been advised, and the message has been tabled.

The Speaker in the Chair MLA Sala: It gives me great pride to rise today and move second reading of Bill 53, The Budget Imple - mentation and Tax Statutes Amend ment Act, 2026. This legis lation implements key measures from Budget 2026: our plan to deliver good jobs, lower costs and better health care for Manitobans. I do want to begin by thanking the incredible team in the public service and across government for all the work that went into developing this budget and the legislation that's before us today, which helps to deliver on the commitment we brought for ward to Manitobans in Budget 2026.

And when we talk about those commit ments, Honourable Speaker, there's one issue Manitobans have raised more than any other when it comes to affordability, and that is the cost of groceries. We've heard it everywhere. Manitobans are stretching every dollar. They're clipping coupons, buying fewer fresh fruits and vegetables and skipping brands they used to buy. And despite doing everything they can, many families still feel like they're falling behind. Families are feeling squeezed at the grocery store in a very real way.

So the question we asked ourselves, as a govern- ment, was a simple one: What can we do to help bring those costs down? The members opposite said there was nothing a provincial government could do, but on this side of the House, we reject that view. We believe that when families are struggling with the cost of essentials like food, govern ment has a respon sibility to step up and help, and that's exactly what Bill 53 does. The centrepiece of this legis lation removes the PST from food –all food sold at the grocery store, effective July 1. And timing matters here, Honourable Speaker.

These savings are tied directly to this legis - lation. Passing this bill means Manitobans start saving money on July 1. It means that on Canada Day, families across this province could walk into a grocery

May 11, 2026 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 1937 store and immediately see a lower total at the check - out. Not months later, not after filing taxes–right away. We know what that looks like in real life. It's a parent picking up a rotisserie chicken after hockey practice, it's a worker grabbing a pre -made salad at lunch, a family trying to make sure there's enough food on the table for the week ahead. These aren't luxuries; these are everyday essentials, and this bill would lower the cost of those essentials. Honourable Speaker, this bill also takes important steps to make housing more affordable.

It increases the Homeowners Affordability Tax Credit from $1,600 to $1,700 for 2027, and for the first time, we are asking the top 1 per cent to give back a little bit more by reducing the credit for high- value homes and eliminating it entirely for homes over $1.5 million, because we believe support should go to where it's needed most. This legislation also supports renters by increasing the Renters Affordability Tax Credit to $675 and helping seniors with an increased top up. Of course, this work does not stop here. Our gov- ernment is also increasing grocery competition.

We're banning grocery pricing practices–predatory 'priceces'– and we're taking action against restrictive property controls that drive up food costs and limit com - petition. We are tackling affordability from every angle because Manitobans need relief now. But the imme diate relief in front of this House today is Bill 53. And the reality is this: Delaying the bill means delaying the savings. Every single day this legislation is stalled is another day Manitobans continue paying more at the checkout. Familie s shouldn't have to wait for relief on some thing as essential as food.

Manitobans have been clear about their priorities, Honourable Speaker. They want help with the cost of groceries. They want help with the cost of living. And they want a government that listens and takes action, and that's exactly what this legis - lation is about. Let me clear, Honourable Speaker. Members oppo- site cannot continue to hold hostage real affordability relief for Manitobans. This bill will lower grocery costs, increase supports for renters and homeowners, put money back in people's pockets, starting July 1.

These are practical measures that Manitobans n eed right now, measures the members opposite are block- ing. We're committed to doing whatever it takes to pass this legis lation because we know it will help Manitobans, and we're committed to ensuring families can start seeing those savings as soon as possible. We expect every member of this House to help move this bill forward so Manitobans can start saving on July 1. Thank you, Honourable Speaker. Questions The Speaker: A question period of up to 15 minutes will be held.

Questions may be addressed to the minister by any opposition or independent member in the following sequence: first question by the official opposition critic or designate; subsequent questions asked by each inde pendent member; remaining questions asked by any opposition member. And no question or answer shall exceed 45 seconds. The floor is now open for questions. Mrs. Lauren Stone (Midland): Last year, this NDP government made the damaging decision to cancel indexation on income taxes. Now we're in 2026 and Manitoba remains the last juris diction to not index income taxes to inflation.

Every other province now has some kind of indexation of income tax thresholds. We are seeing again in BITSA that indexation was not brought back, so now that Manitoba is the last juris - diction in Canada to not have this, I wonder if the minister can speak to why that rationale to not bring back indexation in Manitoba, leaving it the last juris- diction not to have it. Hon. Adrien Sala (Minister of Finance): Honour- able Speaker, we've been doing a lot of work to lower personal income taxes for Manitobans.

Whether that's increasing our basic personal exemption, whether that's making changes to the brackets, the reality is Manitobans have thousands dollars mor e in their pockets thanks to those changes. But, of course, we didn't stop there. We brought in a full-year gas tax holiday, now a permanent gas tax cut going forward. And this bill brings forward more tax relief. I ask the member opposite, will she support those changes? Mr. Derek Johnson (Interlake-Gimli): In

section 3(4.3)(

b) of this bill, it defines a bakery as a restaurant. Does this apply to in -store bakeries? I mean, members opposite, they are falsely claiming to be cutting taxes for Manitobans, and then something essential as bread is going to be taxed. MLA Sala: Honourable Speaker, we know Manitobans are facing those food affordability challenges, and that's why we're so proud to bringing forward with this bill a means of taking the PST off all groceries in

1938 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA May 11, 2026 grocery stores and convenience stores in Manitoba. This means that those prepared salads, rotisserie chickens, all those healthy items and things across the grocery store that previously had tax applied to them are now tax free. So we're doing that work of lowering costs for Manitobans; we know how im portant that is, and we ask the members opposite to get on board. Mr. Johnson: Pretty simple question, Hon ourable Speaker. Will goods from a bakery be tax free, such as bread?

MLA Sala: Again, we're doing that work, that impor- tant work, of reducing the costs of groceries every- where where Manitobans buy their groceries. So we're very excited, again, to be bringing this forward. We know for years the members opposite weren't interested in bringing forward real relief for Manitobans where it counted. That's exactly what we're doing with this bill. We're responding to those challenges that Manitobans are facing, we're proud to be reducing their costs, and, again, the only people in the entire province that don't seem to be in support are sitting across from us. * (15:50) Mr.

Wayne Ewasko (Lac du Bonnet): I didn't quite seem to get that answer from the minister, the question put forward by my good friend and colleague. So I'll re-ask the very first question that my friend from Midland had asked. So removing the indexation of tax brackets by this Kinew government and the basic personal exemption– the basic personal amount over the past two years, how does this minister square that circle that this is actually going to save people money? You get a raise, you get into a different tax bracket and you get charged more money; you get taxed more.

So can the minister explain the Kinew govern- ment's rationale for getting rid of indexing tax brackets to inflation– The Speaker: Member's time has expired. MLA Sala: I'm proud of the work that our govern- ment has done to reduce costs for Manitobans and, ultimately, to reduce their personal income taxes. When we got in, we made bracket changes. We lifted the basic personal exemption. And we've made tax cuts across the board. We're looking at –whether it's for renters, whether it's for homeowners, we're making life more affordable.

Again, for years, Manitobans had a government that wasn't focused on that, and now they do. And not only do they have a government focused on making life more affordable, we're doing that in a fiscally sustainable way, bringing those savings while we have the lowest deficit in the entire country. Mrs. Stone: The minister in one of his previous responses indicated that they have increased the basic personal exemption. So can the minister please point to in what

section of the BITSA bill he's brought forward today–or this week–that has increased the basic personal exemption for Manitobans in the 2026-2027 budget year? MLA Sala: There was never any comment about doing it this year; that was done two years ago. So we're proud to have raised that basic personal exemption two years ago, again, bringing more savings to Manitobans' pockets, including changes we made to brackets. We're putting thousands of dollars more in the wallets of Manitobans, again, after years of the PCs doing nothing. Mr.

Johnson: Seniors that have just received a cost-of-living increase in their CPP –Canada Pension Plan–and Old Age Security are now having the benefits clawed back, but not by the federal govern - ment; it's by this Kinew NDP government with bracket creep. Will the minister increase the bracket so at least seniors that are receiving OAS and CPP aren't being clawed back from the Kinew government? MLA Sala: Well, Honourable Speaker, we know one of the areas where the PCs did raise taxes was on renters–by $175. Who's often in the rental units? Seniors, people on fixed incomes. That's their record. What are we doing?

We're increasing the Renters Affordability Tax Credit to $675 in this budget. And, of course, this BITSA bill –it will not go up to $675 as we've committed without their support, at least not in the time frame we want to see it be brought in. And then, beyond that, we're also increasing the seniors top-up, bringing it to a maximum of $385.71. We're doing the work to lower costs for Manitobans after years of neglect from the members opposite. Mrs. Stone: In the BITSA bill, under

part 2,

section 18, 3(4.2),

part C, it indicates that an exemption for the PST cut does not include those ordered by telephone, through an online sales platform or by–through other

May 11, 2026 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 1939 electronic means and are delivered or picked up from any of the premises referred to in clause (a). So if a senior with mobility issues calls their local Co-op and orders a rotisserie chicken, do they not get their PST decrease because they've ordered through the telephone? MLA Sala: Honourable Speaker, there was a long period there –about seven and a half years –where Manitobans had a government that was n

Document details

Collection	Manitoba — Debates (Hansard)
Citation	43-3-53
Type	hansard
Volume / chapter	43rd 3rd hansardpdf 53.pdf
Language	en
Format	pdf
Source	PROVINCIAL
Identifier	a87a181086c950eaf73dcbe07142a4fccd72adb1

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