Manitoba Hansard — 15 April 2025 (Sitting 42B, 43rd Legislature, 2nd Session)

43-2-42b

Manitoba — Debates (Hansard)

Second Session – Forty-Third Legislature of the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba DEBATES and PROCEEDINGS Official Report (Hansard) Published under the authority of The Honourable Tom Lindsey Speaker Vol. LXXIX No. 42B - 1:30 p.m., Tuesday, April 15, 2025 ISSN 0542-5492

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

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

Riel NDP NARTH, Konrad La Vérendrye PC NAYLOR, Lisa, Hon. Wolseley NDP NESBITT, Greg Riding Mountain PC OXENHAM, Logan Kirkfield Park NDP PANKRATZ, David Waverley NDP PERCHOTTE, Richard Selkirk PC PIWNIUK, Doyle Turtle Mountain PC REDHEAD, Eric Thompson NDP 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 Spruce Woods

1289 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA Tuesday, April 15, 2025 The House met at 1:30 p.m. The Speaker: Good afternoon, everyone. Please be seated. ROUTINE PROCEEDINGS INTRODUCTION OF BILLS Bill 218–The Climate Action Month Act (Commemoration of Days, Weeks and Months Act Amended) MLA Robert Loiselle (St. Boniface): I move, seconded by the member for Radisson (MLA Dela Cruz), that Bill 218, The Climate Action Month Act (Commemo- ration of Days, Weeks and Months Act Amended);

Loi sur le Mois de lutte contre les changements climatiques (modification de la

Loi sur les journées, les semaines et les mois commémoratifs), be now read a first time. Motion presented. MLA Loiselle: Honourable Speaker, I rise today to introduce Bill 218, The Climate Action Month Act. Every year in Canada and across the world we recognize April 22 as Earth Day. It's a day for us to reflect on the importance on preserving our environ- ment. This bill would extend the spirit of this day to the entire month of April, ensuring that we raise awareness on the impact of climate change on our environment and encourage everyone to protect our planet.

Every human on Earth will be severely impacted by climate change and its–and it threatens not only our water, air and land but affects our vital infra structure and our com munities. It's up to all of us to take col- lective action to stop climate change, and we must act now. With this bill and the help of every Manitoban, we can work together to save our planet for genera - tions to come. Miigwech, merci. The Speaker: Is it the pleasure of the House to adopt the motion? [Agreed] The honourable member for Fort Garry–the motion is accordingly passed.

Bill 219–The Police Services Amendment Act (Obligation to Respond to Police Wrongdoings) Mr. Mark Wasyliw (Fort Garry): I move, seconded by the MLA for Tyndall Park, that Bill 219, The Police Services Amendment Act (Obligation to Respond to Police Wrongdoings), be now read a first time. Motion presented. Mr. Wasyliw: I'm proud to introduce The Police Services Amendment Act, legislation that strengthens public accountability and reinforces trust in law enforcement. Right now, Manitoba law does not require police officers to intervene or report when they witness wrong- doing by a fellow officer.

This bill would create a clear legal duty to act, requiring officers to step in when they witness excessive force or criminal offence by another officer and to report that conduct within 24 hours. This bill also establishes meaningful con se- quences. Officers who fail to intervene or report can be fined or imprisoned and barred from working as a police officer for 12 months following a conviction. There can be no properly functioning justice system without the trust of communities, and that trust depends on transparent, responsible policing.

This is about building a culture of accountability in policing and making it clear that silence in the face of misconduct is not accepted in Manitoba. The Speaker: Is it the pleasure of the House to adopt the motion? [Agreed] And so the motion is accordingly carried. Bill 227–The Free Trade and Mobility Within Canada Act Mrs. Lauren Stone (Midland): I move, seconded by the member for Lac du Bonnet (Mr. Ewasko), that Bill 227, The Free Trade and Mobility Within Canada Act, be now read a first time. Motion presented. Mrs.

Stone: Honourable Speaker, I'm thrilled today to rise and intro duce Bill 227, which is aimed at removing interprovincial trade barriers and improving labour mobility across our country.

1290 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA April 15, 2025 With the threat of tariffs and ongoing economic uncertainty, it is more impor tant than ever to reduce our reliance on foreign markets and build up our prov- incial and national economic independence. The Speaker: Is it the pleasure of the House to adopt the motion? [Agreed] The motion is accordingly passed. Introduction of Guests The Speaker: And I have some guests in the gallery that won't be with us for very long, so I would like to take this moment to introduce them.

We have seated in the public gallery, from Niverville High School, 39 grade 9 students under the direction of Chris Burns. The group is located in the constituency in the honourable member for Springfield- Ritchot (Mr. Schuler). And just as a note, a special welcome goes to Emme Morris, who is the daughter of our Legislative Assembly payroll manager, who is here with the group also. * * * The Speaker: Committee reports? Tabling of reports? MINISTERIAL STATEMENTS Initiatives for Just Communities' El'dad Ranch Hon.

Nahanni Fontaine (Minister responsible for Accessibility): A couple of weeks ago, our Families team had the incredible privilege of visiting Initiatives for Just Communities' El'dad Ranch, a truly remarkable place changing lives every single day by supporting Manitobans with intellectual disabilities. Through their Day and Alternative Justice program, El'dad Ranch provides not only vocational training and education, but real pathways to self-determination and purpose.

Participants aren't just learning new skills, they're rediscovering their confidence, building meaningful lives and shaping a brighter future, a more inclusive future for themselves and their communities. Care extends across a wide range of supports, including their Supported Cluster Program, residench– Residence Program, Outreach Program and Home Share Program, each one tailored with compassion, dignity and deep respect for where people are in their journey.

Whether someone needs 24/7 support or is working towards greater independence, El'dad ensures that they are never alone, always supported and sur - rounded by kindness and love. The heart of El'dad Ranch is its extraordinary staff. Their warmth and commitment and humanity are nothing short of inspiring. They lead with love and integrity, offering cultural supports like smudging and sweats and medicine picking and expressive arts. These are healing practices that nurture the spirits o f participants.

I lift up some of these incredible leaders: Murray Still, Don Shackel, Kevin Drain, Jen Brisson, Trevor Utech, Kelly Woods and Tim Barron Jr., just to name a few. Your dedication is changing lives. You lead with compassion, and Manitoba is better because of you. I want to give out a very special shout -out to Meeko, who welcomed us so generously, sharing his stunning artwork and allowed us to witness the incredible journey that he is on. Meeko, I am so very proud of you. Your strength and your talent and your pride and your story is incredibly moving. I'm so, so incredibly proud of you.

Miigwech to everyone at El'dad Ranch and Initiatives for Just Communities. Your love, your compassion and your vision are making a real difference in the lives of Manitobans living with dis abilities–intellectual disabilities. You help them not just to live, but to thrive. The El'dad Ranch joins us in the gallery, and I ask the members of this House to join me in honouring and lifting them up for their extraordinary service and for the love they so generously give to our com mu- nities, and I include their names for Hansard.

Tim Barron Jr. , Jen Brisson , Dawn Bruce , Kevin Drain, Chris Fillion , Allegra Friesen Epp , Tiffany Gass, Holly Jonker , Katie Larabie , Ashu Maan , Meeko (Michael) McDonald , Don Shackel , Murray Still, Trevor Utech, Kelly Woods. * (13:40) Ms. Jodie Byram (Agassiz): Honourable Speaker, I would also like to welcome those individuals from El'dad Ranch here to the Chamber today. Today I rise to recognize and honour the remarkable work of Initiatives for Just Com munities and their El'dad Ranch program.

Based in Steinbach, El'dad Ranch is a deeply impactful initiative that provides residential support, vocational training and assistance in designing a future

April 15, 2025 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 1291 of choice for men with intellectual disabilities. Its work empowers individuals to gain skills, build confidence and move toward greater independence. El'dad Ranch began in the early 1980s as a pro- gram of Mennonite Central Committee Manitoba, initially serving as a second chance for young men who had come into conflict with the law. Over the years, it has grown into a comprehensive and multi - dimensional program that continues to evolve in response to the needs of the community.

Today, El'dad offers a wide range of services , including a day program that focuses on life skills, education and vocational training; a home -share pro- gram that provides safe, supportive environments for both men and women; and a justice program designed to assist individuals involved with or at risk of involvement in the justice system. Honourable Speaker, it is an honour to recognize the dedication and compassion of the staff, volunteers, and the leadership behind El'dad Ranch.

Their work has made a lasting difference in the lives of indivi - duals and families not only in Steinbach, but through- out Manitoba. They continue to demonstrate what true community support looks like, rooted in dignity, inclusion and hope. Thank you, Honourable Speaker. Introduction of Guests The Speaker: Prior to moving on, there are some guests in the gallery. I'd like to draw attention of all honourable members to the public gallery where we have with us some of whom have already been introduced, but not all.

We have Don Shackel, Kevin Drain, Jen Brisson, Trevor Utech, Kelly Woods, Ashu Maan, Chris Fillion, Dawn Bruce, Tiffany Gass, Tim Barron Jr., Murray Still, Katie Larabie, Meeko " Michael" McDonald, Holly Jonker, Allegra Friesen Epp, and they are guests of the honourable Minister of Families and the hon ourable member for St. Johns (MLA Fontaine). And on behalf of all honour able members, we welcome you all here today. MEMBERS' STATEMENTS Transcona Community Network MLA Jelynn Dela Cruz (Radisson): Honourable Speaker, there's no doubt that we inherited a mess from the previous government.

Prior to taking office, the financial house was in disorder, health dollars were being sent out of province and kids were left hungry in school. Our government is making tangible progress in repairing the damage done by the failed PCs. Where opposition members cut, cut, cut, we continue to build, build, build: more net-new health-care workers; extended clinic hours at the Concordia Hospital; 90 new beds for Park Manor Care; a new school in Devonshire Park; and, finally, a long-awaited independent office of the seniors advocate.

Though, Honourable Speaker, our government is only as successful as we are able to pull in the same direction as grassroot community builders. That's why I rise today to recognize the hard work of the Transcona Community Network, run out of the ACCESS Transcona in the great constituency of Radisson. This is a network of great people doing incredible things for the Transcona community.

Co- chaired by Stacy Boone, a community facilitator for the WRHA and a decorated individual in her own right, as well as Carol Fletcher, a retired minister of the Transc ona Memorial United Church, the TCN plays a central role in convening local organizations, service providers and community members. It's the work of the TCN to align our community for the benefit of all. The TCN is behind countless community drives, vaccine clinics, wraparound supports, addiction care, care home volunteer organizing and even a grocery shuttle for seniors.

Stacy Boone and Carol Fletcher's ability to bridge sectors and support grassroot engagement has changed the social fabric of the area for the better. With a respective grounding in social work and a faith practice rooted in empathy, collaboration and equity, Stacy and Carol exemplify community leadership. Honourable Speaker, I invite the House to show our gratitude for Stacy, who joins us in the gallery today, and Carol, who watches us virtually, and thank them for their ongoing contributions to shape a more inclusive, more informed and more interconnected Transcona. Association of Manitoba Municipalities Mr.

Trevor King (Lakeside): Honourable Speaker, today, I rise to recognize the significant contributions and tireless efforts of the Association of Manitoba Municipalities. For over 25 years, AMM has been the unified voice of local governments in Manitoba. It plays a vital

1292 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA April 15, 2025 role in shaping the future of municipal government and helping municipalities across this province address the complex challenges that they face each day. The AMM supports local councils, strengthens municipal leadership and fosters important collaboration between municipalities and the provincial govern - ment. It also helps ensure that the voices of Manitobans are heard loud and clear in their communities and here in the Legislature. This week, municipal leaders from every corner of the province are gathering in Winnipeg for the 2025 AMM Spring Convention.

Under the capable leader - ship of president Kathy Valentino; vice -presidents, Brad Saluk and Scott Phillips; and executive director, Denys Volkov, the AMM continues to lead the way in advocating for strong, sustainable and effective muni- cipal governance. As someone who has spent many years in municipal politics and has worked closely with the AMM, I can confidently say that real solutions are born from gatherings like this.

The conversations happening at the spring convention will help shape the direction of our communities, and I can't wait to hear the great ideas and practical solutions coming from our local leaders. Honourable Speaker, the AMM remains a power- ful and respected voice for municipalities across Manitoba. To quote their vision: we are ready to move forward with determination to advance the interests of Manitoba municipalities across the finish line. To the AMM, our PC caucus proudly stands with you.

We remain committed to working alongside you to strengthen our communities and to ensure that local governments have the tools they need to succeed. Thank you, Honourable Speaker. Aida Harrison Hon. Glen Simard (Minister of Municipal and Northern Relations): I am pleased to rise today to recognize Aida Harrison. In August 1999, Aida Tahhan and her husband, Jonnie, and their two children, Grace and Jamil, immigrated to Canada from Bethlehem in Palestine. They moved to Brandon to live in a safe community with a better future in mind.

Her husband was a registered nu rse working at the Brandon general hospital until, after a battle with cancer, he passed away in 2014. In Bethlehem, Aida was employed by Bethlehem University in the business administration office. When she came to Brandon, she entered the ACC culinary arts program and successfully graduated from there. This led to employment at the Brandon general hospital kitchen. However, Aida wanted to cook, and the hospital kitchen was not for her. She moved to the Rideau Park Personal Care Home, working as the head chef.

While Aida was employed at Rideau Park, she became active in a number of committees, such as the ethics committee, wellness committee, social commit- tee, as well as becoming the union representative for her workplace. When Aida's children were ready to attend university, she decided that she could not pay the bills associated with university on a single salary. With 'determinatia,' Aida accepted a second job teaching part time at the ACC culinary arts program from which she graduated. The style of food and the taste of her dishes were such that her students convinced her to open her own restaurant.

As a result of Aida's hard work, both Grace and Jamil graduated university. Grace is currently em - ployed as a senior office at Global Affairs Canada and Jamil is active in business and accounting ventures in Brandon. In 2014, Aida had a vision for a catering business. She bought a house near the university and retrofitted it to include a commercial kitchen to facilitate a new catering business. In September 2015, Aida's Catering opened and is enjoying continued success. Aida expanded her catering business in 2021 and opened a new busi- ness venture, The Backyard on Aberdeen.

A community leader, Aida has sat on many boards, such as the Brandon Chamber of Commerce, Westman Immigrant Services and has a seat on the YWCA. This past February, Aida planned and hosted the Palestinian pavilion at the Westman Multicultural Festival. Colleagues, please join me in celebrating an icon in Brandon's hospitality and culinary scene and a shining example of entrepreneurial spirit, Aida Harrison. * (13:50) Bell's Trailer Hitches Mrs.

Kathleen Cook (Roblin): Honourable Speaker, I rise today to recognize a remark able local business and the dedicated individuals behind it at Bell's Trailer Hitches located in Headingley and proudly operated

April 15, 2025 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 1293 by Craig and Jack Bell, the fifth generation of the Bell family to carry on a legacy that began over a century ago. Founded in 1917 by their great-great-grandfather Robert Bell, what started as a humble livery stable and tractor repair shop, Bell's Trailer Hitches was known predominantly for stabling horses and repairing early automobiles. As time went on, the second and third generations of the family expanded the business.

They still ran the garage, but also started hauling necessities like gas, heating oil, diesel and water to various homes and businesses in Headingley. The busi ness has grown and evolved with the times and is today a trusted name in trailer hitches and automotive accessories. They are one of only a few businesses in Manitoba that special- ize in installing and repairing trailer hitches, and they don't like to brag, but the biggest hitch manufacturers in the world know them by name. What truly sets Bell's apart is not just their longevity in busi ness but their enduring commit ment to our community.

For over 100 years, the Bell family has been more than business owners; they have been com- munity builders. Today, Craig, Jack and their team continue that proud tradition. From active involve - ment with the Phoenix Recreation Association and volunteer support for the Phoenix Winter Carnival to generous contributions toward the new RM gymnasium and their support of the Chamber of Commerce, their contributions run deep. In addition to their community spirit, Bell's Trailer Hitches is also a place of op portunity and inclusion.

They currently employ four individuals, including a recently arrived Ukrainian refugee, offering a warm welcome and a path forward to someone starting a new life in Canada. Honourable Speaker, Bell's Trailer Hitches exem- plifies what it means to be rooted in tradition while looking toward the future with compassion, generosity and a true sense of civic duty. Please join me in recog- nizing and celebrating this outstanding local business and the family behind it. Education Week MLA Robert Loiselle (St.

Boniface): Honourable Speaker, this week we celebrate Edu cation Week, which is intended to acknowledge the importance of kindergarten-to-grade 12 education and 'educashors'– educators' crucial role in ensuring all children and youth have a sense of belonging and succeed in reaching their full potential.

À l'occasion de cette Semaine de l'éducation, nous tenons à souligner l'importance de l'éducation au Manitoba, et nous souhaitons exprimer notre grande reconnaissance envers les enseignants pour le travail exceptionnel que ceux -ci accomplissent chaque jour auprès de tous nos élèves, et spécialement auprès de ceux qui ont besoin – des besoins particuliers. Grâce à eux, chaque élève se sent soutenu, compris et capable de réussir, peu importe les obstacles.

Les enseignants sont des personnes importantes dans le parcours des élèves, et leur expertise enrichit la vie scolaire de ceux-ci et soutient également les familles manitobaines. Translation As we mark Education Week, we want to emphasize the importance of education in Manitoba, and we want to express our deep appreciation for the exceptional work teachers do every day with all our students, especially those with special needs. Thanks to educators, every student feels supported, understood and able to succeed, no matter what the obstacles.

Educators are important people in students' educational journeys, and their expertise enriches students' academic lives and supports Manitoba families. English We acknowledge K -to-12 educators as well as business and apprenticeship partners who work within and across our provincial education system to support young people as they prepare for the careers and chal- lenges of the future.

It is our hope that the observance of Education Week will encourage all Manitobans to reflect on the historic and enduring influence of edu cation in our province and the education system's continued relation- ship to the health of our communities and workplace. After all, Honourable Speaker, education is the great equalizer. A famous quote from Horace Mann which speaks to the importance of our education system as we celebrate education week here in Manitoba as well as across Canada.

Edu cation encourages and promotes diversity, equity and inclusion, and celebrating educa- tion week is also a way to celebrate belonging in our schools, our learning centres and communities across the province. Au nom de notre gouvernement, nous disons un immense merci aux éducateurs manitobains. Nous sommes fiers de pouvoir compter sur vous et de vous

1294 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA April 15, 2025 avoir aux côtés de nos familles et de nos élèves aux quatre coins du Manitoba. Merci. Miigwech. Translation On behalf of our government, we would like to say a huge thank -you to all Manitoba educators. We are proud to be able to count on you and to have you at the side of our families and students throughout Manitoba. Thank you. Introduction of Guests The Speaker: Prior to oral questions, there is another guest in the gallery that I'd like to introduce.

Seated in the public gallery is Desiree Pappel from the Manitoba Teachers' Society, who is the guest of the honourable member for St. Boniface (MLA Loiselle). We welcome you here today. ORAL QUESTIONS Non-Renewal of Hydro's US Energy Contracts Future Power Supply Needs–Value of Hydro Assets Mr. Wayne Ewasko (Leader of the Official Opposition): I welcome El'Dad Ranch to the gallery today, as well as our other guests. And I know that El'Dad Ranch is an absolute gem of another organi - zation within Eastman area that works with our com- munity members, with adults with disabilities. So for that, we all thank you.

Honourable Speaker, Hydro is not renewing expiring contracts with Xcel Energy. These contracts involve the sale of 375 megawatts of summer power, as well as 125 megawatts of annual power to the northern states' power. There are areas of Manitoba classified as abnormally dry and all the way to extreme drought. During drought, Manitoba Hydro and its customers often rely on our southern neighbour's power supply. What is the government's plan to keep Manitobans' lights, furnaces and air conditioners on if we see another hot and dry summer this year, Honourable Speaker? Hon.

Wab Kinew (Premier): I want to say a big shout- out to all of our guests who are joining us here today. To all the young people: I hope that you see yourself in your democracy, and I hope that you know that you could be elected here as an MLA and maybe even premier sometime in the future. When it comes to Manitoba Hydro, we're very, very reliable; we're a great partner to our American neighbours. Even after what we've announced this week, we'll still be exporting more than 1,300 megawatts of power. We've got reliable power; we're reliable people. That's who Manitobans are.

Of course, the members opposite, they want to prioritize the interests of the Trump administration, at a time when everyone else is standing up for Canada. And if you don't believe me, just look what they announced in the House yesterday: They are blocking a bill that would make sure that kids in Manitoba sing O Canada. On behalf of everyone out there, all I have to say is: How dare they? The Speaker: The honourable Leader of the Official Opposition, on a supplementary question. Mr. Ewasko: So, again, Honourable Speaker, Premier stands up, puts misinformation on the record.

There is not one student in this great province of ours that is not able to or is not singing O Canada as we stand today. The Premier talks about supporting Canadian energy and infra structure. This is the same NDP that used Manitobans' money to build the American trans mis- sion lines. With the Premier ending Hydro contracts, Manitobans are left questioning the value of these assets. The Manitoba-Minnesota Transmission Project was to provide additional capacity for new export sales, allow for imports during droughts and enhance reliability.

With the non- renewal of these two contracts, is the Premier abandoning his mentor Greg Selinger's investment? Mr. Kinew: You know, when Gary Doer built up Hydro, he did it in partnership with the US but with a priority on Canada. What we're announcing this week is that we're going to make more money for Manitobans by doing business with our Canadian partners, which sounds like a good deal to me. But when we talk about abandoning, I'd like the member opposite to share with the House whether he's abandoning his soon- to-be boss. Did they check in with Wally before they blocked the bill to have kids sing O Canada?

I don't think Wally would be a big supporter of blocking the bill that will make sure kids sing our national anthems in classrooms across the province forevermore.

April 15, 2025 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 1295 And here's the concerning thing: This is only one of number of major mistakes that they made yesterday. So let's hear this; let's hear it from the members opposite: Did they check with Wally before they blocked these bills? The Speaker: The honourable Leader of the Official Opposition, on a final supple mentary question. [interjection] Order. Interprovincial Transmission Plan Mr.

Ewasko: So again, it's shameful that the Premier stands in his place, puts misinformation on the record and also is part of a govern ment sitting next to the Education Minister that's trying to get rid of our Royal Anthem, Honourable Speaker. The NDP have not been interested in an east-west power grid. Instead of years, they push south, ignoring our provincial neighbours. The Premier provided almost no details yesterday: 50 megawatts to Nunavut, but only if the federal gov- ernment or someone else pays for it; 450 megawatts for our Canadian neighbours, but not a single plan to deliver this, Honourable Speaker.

While repatriating our energy sounds good, with- out any details, it's just another in those–one of those endless plans of no action, Honourable Speaker. * (14:00) The Premier says he's advised Governor Walz months ago of this decision. What specific financial commitments has this Premier solidified from the federal gov ernment to fund east, west and north transmission lines, or has he even had a conversation, Honourable Speaker? Mr. Kinew: Well, I'll take it from the member oppo- site who says our an nouncement on Manitoba Hydro sounds good; sounds good to us, sounds good to Manitobans.

What's all the quarrelling about? Well, perhaps, maybe the member for Fort Whyte (Mr. Khan) didn't get that check in, that shoulder check before they announced the plan to delay bills. You know, Bill 30, the election financing amend- ments that we brought forward here, do you know why we did that, Honour able Speaker? We did that because they did the worst thing in the history of Manitoba politics. Those landfill ads? That is why we brought that bill in. And what did they do? They got together in their caucus and they decided to block that bill. That is shameful.

They bring forward an apology, but their actions speak so much louder. Bill 30 is the bill to stop a political party from running shameful, landfill -style attack ads again. Why would they block that bill, if for no other reason that their other frontrunne r in the leadership candidate, the member for– The Speaker: The member's time has expired. Education Property Taxes Increase Concerns for Homeowners Mr. Wayne Ewasko (Leader of the Official Opposition): Again, Honourable Speaker, the Premier stands up to put false narratives on the record. Is he in the majority, or is he not?

He can fast forward these bills, but he chooses not to. Or he just doesn't know the rules, Hon ourable Speaker. Not–this is typical of you-know-who, the member from Fort Rouge. As members of AMM meet at their spring con - vention, NDP school tax increases are an intense topic. The NDP have broken their campaign promise to keep the 50 per cent rebate and I table that platform today, Honourable Speaker. Their broken promises sounded just like Trudeau's carbon tax spin that 80 per cent of homeowners would be paying less. But we know that's not true.

With the stroke of a pen, this NDP government raised taxes on Manitoba's residences, cottages and businesses. When will the Premier apologize to homeowners for not being honest about the NDP plans to raise taxes? Would he please answer one question? Hon. Wab Kinew (Premier): Go to the doors in Lac du Bonnet and ask people if they want that $1,500 tax credit on their property tax bills. Go anywhere in the province and ask people if they want that to go up to $1,600 every year. I know what people will say in Flin Flon to Fort Rouge, Honour able Speaker. They'll say that's making life more affordable.

Now, for the member opposite, is anyone in Manitoba going to be thinking about Justin Trudeau the next time we vote in a prov- incial election? I don't know, but I know people in Manitoba will be thinking about the landfill ads that the PCs ran in 2023. We knew that that did not line up with your values,

1296 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA April 15, 2025 which is why we brought in Bill 30, the election financing amendment act. It would ask for political parties to show some class; to, at the bare minimum, show some respect; to never run ads attacking murder victims again. Now, the PCs had the op portunity to vote in favour of this, as they have for other parts of our legis- lative agenda. But instead, they announce that they're blocking it. If it wasn't the member for Fort Whyte (Mr.

Khan) who they're rallying around to be their next leader asking them to block it, then who on the opposition benches thought it was a good idea to prevent legislation standing up against the landfill ads. The Speaker: The member's time has expired. Mr. Ewasko: Once again, Honourable Speaker, we're standing here today and asking questions of concerns of Manitobans, and this Premier refuses to answer any- thing. One year ago, this Premier patted himself on the back and the Finance Minister, promising a home - owner tax credit.

But the media have taken this challenge and shown that even the small increase to the edu cation critic– credit–education–or in, I quote, won't keep pace with the assessment increase in huge property tax increases approved last month–[interjection] The Speaker: Order. Mr. Ewasko: –by Manitoba school divisions, let alone next year's school tax increases, end quote. Under the NDP's property tax plan, Manitobans are falling further behind as this Finance Minister raises school and property taxes.

When will the Premier stop off -loading higher education taxes onto homeowners, or is he content with Manitobans continuing to live paycheque to paycheque–which is one thing he does not do, Honour- able Speaker? Mr. Kinew: We're saving you $1,500 on your property tax bills this year. That's going to go up next year to $1,600. We're working with you to make life more affordable. We're also working with you to make this one Manitoba, a province that we can all be proud of. Part of the reason that we talk about one Manitoba is because they tried to divide Manitobans with their landfill ad campaign last year.

The member for Swan River (Mr. Wowchuk) knows full well this kind of politics, because this is what he puts out in his local communiqués. But the reality is this: Manitobans don't want that. Manitobans never want to see politicking like the landfill ads again. That's why we brought in Bill 30. Why did the members opposite delay it? There is no reason that they are willing to state publicly. You just saw the proof of that right here. So why don't you bring some- thing forward as the opposition, into the House, and if you don't have anything decent to say, get out of the way–[interjection] The Speaker: Order. Mr.

Kinew: –and let us pass legislation for the good people of Manitoba. The Speaker: I would just remind the First Minister to always direct his comments through the Chair, not directly to members opposite. Mr. Ewasko: Once again, Honourable Speaker, rules don't seem to apply to this Premier because of his extensive large ego. He just can't help himself. The Premier likes to point fingers and look back- wards. This Premier needs to stop campaigning and for once start governing, Honourable Speaker.

To quote the Brandon Sun editorial, and I quote: the previous Pro- gressive Conservative government cannot be credibly blamed for the higher school taxes and lower rebates that many Manitobans are experiencing, end quote. Honourable Speaker, 7 per cent property tax increase in Brandon, 15 per cent property tax increase in River East-Transcona, 11 per cent property tax increase in Seine River. All these increases are the result of this NDP Premier's failures. When is the Premier going to actually keep his commitment that 83 per cent of homeowners will be better off under his plan? Mr.

Kinew: We're saving you $1,500 a year on your property tax bills, and we're properly funding educa- tion. That means one hundred per cent of Manitobans are better off. But you know the personal invective that he launched at me there? You know what I say? If that's what you put in your attack ads the next time around, great. Attack me. Don't ever attack the families of murder victims again. That is a simple proposition, and I think every Manitoban would support the principle behind Bill 30 except, of course, the PC caucus. A leadership contest is about choices.

I know there's members opposite there who view themselves as perhaps having a lo ng

April 15, 2025 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 1297 career in politics. Why would they block legis lation like this? Everyone in Manitoba knows–[interjection] The Speaker: Order. Mr. Kinew: –that the landfill ads were a mistake. PC candidates rushed out after the election to condemn the landfill ads. The PCs had an oppor tunity to put action behind what's looking like the empty words of their apology. Instead, they came in here and blocked this legislation– The Speaker: Member's time has expired. Crime by Repeat Offenders Need for Bail Reform Mr.

Wayne Balcaen (Brandon West): A new day and another bail, not jail convict released by this minister to prey on Manitobans once again. Prior to highlighting this failed minister's endeavours, it's worth reminding him what his boss said, and I quote: there's no need to wait for other levels of government to take action on bail reform, end quote. February 22 to April 5, an individual was involved in almost 25 criminal acts, ranging from credit card theft to grand theft auto.

What is particularly shocking about this arrest is that the person has also been charged with six counts of failing to comply with his condition of release. Why does this minister release him only to revictimize Manitobans? The Speaker: The honourable First Minister. [interjection] Order. Hon. Wab Kinew (Premier): Our Minister of Justice (Mr. Wiebe) is doing impor tant work. Just earlier today, he stood with the leadership of the Association of Manitoba Munici palities to not only reaffirm the work that we're doing on bail, but also to call in the federal government to come to the table.

But I have to ask, through you, the Chair, this member: Where did he stand on the decision to block the legislation saying there should be no more ads like those targeting the landfill families? He used to work in law enforcement. How is it then, the 2023 campaign, somebody who came from the front lines decided to stand with the leader, Heather Stefanson, who would attack the family of murder victims? That doesn't seem like serve and protect to me.

That seems like divide, target and use a very cynical approach to politics that no Manitoban ever wants to see again. * (14:10) So before he tries to pit Manitobans one against the other again, I would like him to stand in his place and explain why they are blocking Bill 30 so that they can run more disgusting attack ads again. The Speaker: The honourable member for Brandon West, on a supplementary question. Mr. Balcaen: Honourable Speaker, I'm surprised that the Premier didn't bring forward the ample questions about the failed policies of this Justice Minister during the AMM today.

Just yesterday, Winnipeg Police Service advised that they had made an arrest following another violent stabbing assault aboard the transit bus that occurred on April 2. A 21- year-old victim, just trying to get home, was robbed and stabbed, requiring emergency medical aid–so much for this Premier's promise, and I quote: we will end violent crime. What Manitobans I talk to are so upset about is the most recent act involved not only all of these charges, but failed to comply with condi tions of a release order, once again.

When is this minister going to slam shut the door on violent criminals re-offending because he insists on continuing– The Speaker: Member's time has expired. Mr. Kinew: Our Minister of Justice is making sure – [interjection] The Speaker: Order. Mr. Kinew: –that we have bail reform in Manitoba. He's taken the policy steps here at the provincial level, he's hired more law en forcement officers and he's standing with AMM, municipal leaders, to ensure that we work with the feds.

But one of the things that we're working on 'prevending' is we're trying to prevent the PCs from re- offending the sensibilities of the people of Manitoba. Those landfill ads were the worst thing to happen in the history of Manitoba politics. The member opposite from Brandon West stands in here and asks questions about safety? What about the safety of Indigenous women? What about the families of Marcedes Myran and Morgan Harris?

The member opposite needs to stand up today and announce why he can remain part of a caucus that would block legis lation to take impor tant steps, not only to make everyone in our province safer, but also

1298 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA April 15, 2025 to prevent the PCs from doing the terrible kind of politicking they tried in 2023. The Speaker: The honourable member for Brandon West, on a final supplementary question. Mr. Balcaen: Honourable Speaker, clearly this minis- ter and myself stand on totally opposite sides when it comes to law enforcement. On April 14, the Winnipeg Police Service reported from March 25 until April 13, three individuals com- mitted a series of violent commercial robberies. Knives were 'branished', money was forcibly stolen.

And what do these individuals all have in common, other than robbery times two, possession of a weapon, theft under $5,000, break and enter? Well, Honour able Speaker, guess what? All of these criminals were also released back into the com munity under this faile d minister's watch. Does this minister not understand that jail, not bail, is the simplest way to protect Manitobans? Mr. Kinew: Our minister's hiring more law en force- ment; he's working with municipal leaders; he's working with the federal government to make you safer. But what do the members opposite have in common?

The members opposite in the PC caucus are the only people in Manitoba who have not condemned the 2023 PC election campaign. Everyone else, including in their own party, Rochelle Squires, Wally Daudrich– they've all gone out to condemn those landfill ads. Now the member came out to offer an apology. What about this member for Brandon West, who now heckles from his chair? Why is he silent when ques - tions about the landfill ads come forward? He's fired up when the mic's not on, but when we put the question to him, he's got nothing to say.

They're blocking legislation to hold them account- able–[interjection] The Speaker: Order. Mr. Kinew: –for the shame that–shameful behaviour in 2023. Why do they continue to avoid accountability for the worst thing to ever happen in Manitoba politics? Cancellation of School Bus Charters Safety Concern for Students Taking Transit Ms. Jodie Byram (Agassiz): Winnipeg parents are now forced to worry about the safety of their kids getting to school, and for good reason.

Winnipeg Transit is cancelling school bus charters across the city at the same time random violence, on and around public transit, is escalating under this NDP government. Two people were assaulted on transit just this week, and now this Education Minister expects parents to trust the safety of their children on general transit buses. What is the Minister of Education doing to protect these kids now that safe transit options are being taken away? The Speaker: The Honourable First Minister. Some Honourable Members: Oh, oh. The Speaker: Order. Hon.

Wab Kinew (Premier): Our Education Minister is doing an amazing job. Not only are we making com- munities safer by feeding hungry children in class - rooms, we're also ensuring that children, all children, including trans children, are safe in the classroom. We're going to keep working with parents in this part of the city to ensure that your kids get home safely from school. And bringing Manitobans home safely is the reason we searched the landfill. These members opposite tried to run–well, they didn't try; they did. It was terrible.

Everyone hated the landfill ads, and now that we try to bring in legislation to allow Manitobans to be free of terrible attack ads like that in the future, what do they do? They block it. That is not only shameful; it is doubling down. They're trying to keep open the op - portunity for them to run ads like that again, and they need to be called out on it. So the member opposite from Agassiz should weigh in. Did she support this decision to block legis- lation that would hold– The Speaker: Member's time has expired. Ms.

Byram: Maybe this Premier can allow his minis- ters to stand up and answer a question in this House. Since January 1, there have been 10 separate Winnipeg Police news releases tied to stabbings, robberies and physical and sexual assaults on transit, and I'll table that for the House. Middle-school students should not be forced to feel unsafe in their bus ride to school. Parents should not have fear to –for their kids who might run into issues on the school bus or on the transit bus. Charters solve that problem, and now, under this NDP govern- ment, that option is completely gone.

What additional resources will the minister commit to ensure that students are safe on Winnipeg Transit?

April 15, 2025 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 1299 Mr. Kinew: Well, the member opposite voted against more money for the Winnipeg Police Service. On the other hand, just yesterday, the Minister of Justice (Mr. Wiebe) met with the Amalgamated Transit Union in order to advance the safety of your children and everyone in Manitoba. But what about the kids who had to drive by on a transit bus past that billboard on Route 90, the one that said, stand firm against the landfill dig –intentionally wordsmithed to cause the maximum amount of division and pain for the families of the landfill victims.

So, member for Agassiz, through you, the Chair, where do they stand, I wonder, when it came to block- ing legislation to hold them accountable for the worst thing ever to be done in Manitoba's political history? Are they going to be silent like everyone else there or are they going to show the courage to distance them - selves from those terrible, despicable ads? The Speaker: The honourable member for Agassiz, on a final supplementary question. Ms.

Byram: One Winnipeg mother told me, and I quote: In September, my 11-year-old daughter has to cross Main Street and take the bus by herself with the general public where every bus shelter either gets smashed or has someone living in it. The NDP allowed school tax hikes across the city, hitting families hard in the middle of a cost- living crisis. [interjection] The Speaker: Order. Ms. Byram: Yet, despite these tax increases, critical service like safe student transportation are now gone.

How can the minister justify raising school taxes while cutting essential services like safe rides to school and forcing families to fend for themselves? Mr. Kinew: Our Minister of Edu cation is working with the Minister of Justice and everyone else on this team to make sure the kids in Manitoba are safe and can reach their full potential. I'll table the letter that was written to Heather Stefanson during her time as premier, asking for action to make transit safer. We'll cut to the spoiler at the end of the story. Nothing was done.

What Heather Stefanson instead focused on was running ads attacking the families involved with the landfill search, a search that we have now concluded–well, perhaps not concluded but been able to deliver on for at least two of these families. But this member from Agassiz –again, there's so much criticism of every single thing that they read about in the newspaper, but where is the account - ability when it comes to what they did in the 2023 election campaign? And here's another spoiler alert. Everyone else who is getting up today is going to have to add to these questions of accountability.

The worst thing done in the history of Manitoba politics–[interjection] The Speaker: Order. Mr. Kinew: –will not soon be forgotten. We brought in Bill 30 to hold them accountable. Why did they block it? The Speaker: Member's time is expired. * (14:20) Mandatory Overtime for Manitoba Nurses Staffing Levels and Patient Safety Concerns Mrs. Kathleen Cook (Roblin): Despite repeated and misleading claims from the NDP of improve ment, Manitoba nurses worked more than 1.1 million hours of overtime last year, the highest level ever recorded.

These aren't just numbers; they represent missed breaks, lost time with family, physical and mental exhaustion and, most im portantly, increased risk to patient safety. The Manitoba Nurses Union has called this not just a staffing crisis, but a patient safety crisis. While in opposition, the minister promised to elim- inate mandatory overtime entirely. Nurses are still waiting. So when will this minister deliver a real plan to rebuild the front lines of health care that doesn't rely on nurse burnout? Hon. Wab Kinew (Premier): You know, our Minister of Health is doing amazing work staffing up the front lines.

We've already seen a 40 per cent reduction in the use of–[interjection] The Speaker: Order. Mr. Kinew: –mandatory overtime at the Health Sciences Centre, and we're going to work with the MNU and the front-line nurses and you, the patient, to deliver more. But when we're talking about safety, what about the safety of the families involved with the landfill search? No answer now. [interjection]

1300 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA April 15, 2025 No heckling now, save for the member for Turtle Mountain (Mr. Piwniuk). But again, when's the last time he ever got up to say anything in the House? The members opposite opposed these families' call for dignity, for humanitarianism. We did not; we listened; we search the landfill, and now we brought in Bill 30 to hold them accountable. So was it the member for Roblin who refused to join the interim leader's approach here, or did she support it? Is she standing in the way of the PCs facing accountability for the 2023 campaign?

She should weigh on–weigh in on this. Manitobans deserve– The Speaker: Member's time has expired. Mrs. Cook: In a recent post, the Manitoba Nurses Union revealed that at Thompson General Hospital, just 13 nurses in–[interjection] The Speaker: Order. Mrs. Cook: –the obstetrics unit logged nearly 14,000 hours of overtime–[interjection] The Speaker: Order. Mrs. Cook: –in a single year. That's the equivalent of–[interjection] The Speaker: Order, please. The honourable Minister of Health will come to order. Mrs.

Cook: Honourable Speaker, 13 nurses in the ob- stetrics unit logged nearly 14,000 hours of overtime in a single year. That's the equivalent of seven full-time jobs on top of their regular workloads. Does the minister truly believe it's safe or sustain- able to run our health-care system this way? How is it fair to patients or nurses to rely on exhaustion and crisis staffing instead of actually hiring and retaining the full-time staff we need? Mr. Kinew: Our Minister of Health has hired more than 1,200 new net front -line staffers.

The member opposite was an adviser to Heather Stefanson who fired more than 300 nurses. So, again, fly back in the time machine two years ago and ask yourself why you caused the nurse staffing crisis. At the same time, you perhaps might want to warn the PCs through you, the Chair, and say that the landfill ads are going to be the worst decision made in the history of Manitoba. I know it seems like in the backrooms of the PC Party in 2023 it seems like a good idea, but no, stop. This thing is going to be a disaster. Manitobans spoke on election day. They rejected that form of politics. They gave us a mandate.

We're bringing in Bill 30 to prevent that from ever hap- pening again. How would any reasonable Manitoban justify blocking that legislation? How does the mem- ber justify blocking that legislation? The Speaker: The honourable member for Roblin, on a supplementary question. Mrs. Cook: Perhaps the Minister of Health would like to take some of their heckling energy and turn it into action on behalf of nurses who expect real answers to the questions. The Manitoba Nurses Union is sounding the alarm again and again.

Just yesterday, their president told the media that, quote: Our overtime rates are still more than we've ever seen before. The use of agency nurses is still extremely high. And, earlier this year, she questioned this NDP Health Minister's claim–[interjection] The Speaker: Order, please. The honourable Minister of Health will come to order. Mrs. Cook: Earlier this year, Darlene Jackson ques - tioned this NDP minister's claims of staffing up our health-care system, asking, quote: Where are they? Because nurses are not seeing the impact of having more nurses in the system.

So I'll ask the minister directly: Where are these so-called reinforcements? They're not showing up in the overtime numbers; they're not on the floor of our ERs, and they're certainly not reflected in the wait times patients are facing in Winnipeg and acr oss the province. The Speaker: Member's time has expired. Mr. Kinew: The nurses we hired are working on the front lines. The PCs cut nurses. There were fewer nurses in Manitoba after they left office than when they started.

But the member opposite should know this: just a few weeks ago she was in a such a rush to criticize Wally, but why not criticize Heather Stefanson? Where's the urgency now on an issue that actually did determine public perception of her party? She style s herself as perhaps a future leadership candidate after the member for Fort Whyte (Mr. Khan) flames out?

April 15, 2025 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 1301 Well, she is going to need to address this issue, and it would start to lay the groundwork–[interjection] The Speaker: Order. Mr. Kinew: –for such a public position if she spoke out against the interim leader's misguided attempt to block Bill 30. Bill 30 is about preventing landfill ad- type attacks from being mounted in Manitoba again. If they want to make this a doorstep issue– The Speaker: Member's time is expired.

Oak Tree Towers Resident Case Concern MLA Jeff Bereza (Portage la Prairie): Honourable Speaker, there was lots of talk of getting rid of criminal activity out of rental apartment units. Yet, in Oak Tree Towers, a resident was jailed for six months and he was welcomed back with open arms at Oak Tree Towers to continue his illicit activities. Honourable Speaker, can the minister tell us why this person is still residing at Oak Tree Towers? Hon. Wab Kinew (Premier): You know, our Minister of Housing, Addictions and Homelessness (Ms.

Smith) is doing im portant work to Manitoba safer by addressing issues at the root cause. If the member opposite has casework that he wants her to focus on or specifically wants to connect with constituents, I know that she'll be happy to do so. She's going to do that later today, actually, in a very public forum. But this member opposite was part of a team that was elected under those shameful landfill ads. Where does he stand? Did he support –did he feel good, perhaps we should wonder, going to the doorstep in Portage la Prairie while Heather Stefanson was trying to attack the families of murder victims?

How did he– he shrugs his shoulders today. Apparently, it didn't bother him. Well, here's the news for you: it bothered every- one in Manitoba. And for any PC member who hopes to be re-elected again, they are going to have to address these serious questions. It is a question of judgment, it is a question of temperament, it is a question of character. We are the humble servants for you, the people of Manitoba. We're bringing in legislation to stop those– The Speaker: Member's time has expired. The honourable member for Portage la Prairie, on a supplementary question.

MLA Bereza: After much advocacy done by the residents of Oak Tree Towers, there is now 24 -hour security on site, yet the criminal activity has moved to on-site cottages. Honourable Speaker, when will this minister pro- vide security for all residents at Oak Tree Towers, not just a few? Thank you. Mr. Kinew: Our minister is working hard with the folks at the Oak Tree Towers to make sure that every- one is safe. The member concedes that in his answer that she's listening. Now, there's still much more work to do.

But when we were talking about a question of standing up for only a few and leaving other folks behind, could there be any worse example of that than the landfill ads, trying to bring one group of–[interjection] And he's heckling, by the way, Honourable Speaker. I'd advise the PC members to perhaps just listen when we're talking about their ads saying stand firm against the landfill dig. Very disrespectful language, inten - tionally calculated to try and leave some folks behind. Intentionally calculated to try and target one group of voters.

Here's the good news: Manitobans rejected that and joined together to send the PCs packing and they elect us with a mandate to do what? Among other things, ensure ads like that will never run again. Bill 30 does exactly that. Why did this member oppose it? Why does he sit in a caucus with people who opposed it as well? The Speaker: Member's time has expired. The honourable member for Portage la Prairie, on a final supplementary question.

Manitoba Housing Suite Vacancies MLA Jeff Bereza (Portage la Prairie): There are many vacant suites in Oak Tree Towers for the past 18 months, as well as the Stephens Apartments in Portage, another Manitoba Housing building, with some people telling me they've applied up to four different times with Manitoba Housing, and they're still couch-surfing. Honourable Speaker, when will this minister be opening up to the –opening up these suites for the people that are in need, instead of letting criminals remain in those suites? * (14:30)

1302 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA April 15, 2025 Hon. Wab Kinew (Premier): The Minister of Housing, Addictions and Homelessness (Ms. Smith) is opening up suites and housing people, getting people out of tents right now. And do you know why? Because we believe that every single Manitoban deserves to have a place to call home. Home: reflect on that. Consider where people would've been left as their home if they had had their way when it came to the landfill search. We stood up and we did the right thing. It was not easy because of the attack ads that were being run by the PCs.

But we are bringing two Manitobans home because of the leadership of the families. Now that their PC 2023 campaign has been thoroughly debunked, why is it that not a single former candidate can now stand up to defend it? And yet why, at the same time that they don't want to talk about it, would they stand in this same House and announce that they're going to block the legislation to hold them accountable? Well, it seems like the PCs want to continue with the action without abating the accountability. It seems like they– The Speaker: Member's time has expired.

WRHA Centralization of Home-Care Scheduling Impact of Delays and Cancellations on Patient Care MLA Cindy Lamoureux (Tyndall Park): Recent reports have highlighted deep concerns from health - care professionals following the WRHA's overhaul of its home -care scheduling system. These disruptions have resulted in delays, confusion and dif ficulty in providing timely quality care to patients who rely on home-care services. What immediate actions is the government taking to resolve these issues and ensure that vul nerable patients don't have any more cancelled visits? Hon.

Uzoma Asagwara (Minister of Health, Seniors and Long-Term Care): I really appreciate the member for–the question–[interjection] The Speaker: Order. MLA Asagwara: –from the member for Tyndall Park, and I always appreciate, quite frankly, her approach in respecting all communities and all Manitobans. Honourable Speaker, this is a really important issue. I've had the oppor tunity to meet with many health - care workers, nurses, health -care aides, home- care providers, and I want to reassure those folks that we've been listening to their concerns.

The WRHA is actively taking steps to address those concerns, actively hiring on more folks to do the scheduling work, making sure that they're having daily huddles with the front lines to communicate what is happening to close those gaps that they identified existed, want to reassure folks that many of these concerns have been addressed. We're going to keep working with them and directing the WRHA to continue to address them and listen to the front lines. The Speaker: The honourable member for Tyndall Park, on a supplementary question.

Home-Care Workers–Burnout Concerns MLA Lamoureux: The Manitoba Nurses Union has expressed sig nificant concerns during the planning phase of this centralization process and recommended piloting the new system before full rollout. Unfor - tunately, there was no pilot project and the full -scale transition has contributed to staff burnout. Is the govern ment considering rolling back this decision, or what steps are they taking to assist home- care workers now experiencing burnout? MLA Asagwara: Again, very, very important question.

I want to reassure that member and all health -care workers who are provi ding home care with WRHA that we're working very quickly, supporting the WRHA to take imme diate action to address their concerns. Some of those concerns have already been addressed; we recognize there's more to do. We directed the WRHA to maintain open lines of communication with the front lines; they're having daily huddles.

They're actively hiring folks to fill the gaps that they identified when they rolled this out, and they're going to continue to do that work, making sure that the scheduling system, which came as a result of review done under the PCs, due to their failings in Home Care, that those concerns are meaningfully addressed and we have a stronger Home Care program as we move forward as a result. The Speaker: The honourable member for Tyndall Park, on a final supplementary question.

Impact of Delays and Cancellations on Patient Care MLA Lamoureux: Centralization of scheduling was supposed to streamline operations, reduce administra- tive inefficiencies and improve co-ordination. However, the feedback from front -line workers suggests that these intended benefits have not material- ized as expected. The most im portant thing is that patient outcomes are not compromised.

April 15, 2025 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 1303 How does the gov ernment plan to evaluate and address the impacts that this is having on patients? MLA Asagwara: Again, a really important question. We know that the changes to home -care scheduling came as a direct result of a review that was done when, under the PCs, a Manitoban was unable to receive home care in a timely manner and passed away before that care was received. It's really important that we adhere to these really strong recom mendations.

Centralized scheduling is being rolled out, recognizing what work needs to be done to support the front lines and make sure Manitobans get appro priate care. Our gov ernment's going to make sure that we continue to support the WRHA in addressing those concerns and meeting the needs of Manitobans. Anne Oake Family Recovery Centre Funding Announcement MLA Jelynn Dela Cruz (Radisson): Earlier today, our Minister of Families (MLA Fontaine) and Minister of Housing, Addictions and Homelessness (Ms. Smith) announced a historic investment that will get more addictions treatment to women who need it in Manitoba.

Since day one, our government has been committed to supporting women recovering from addictions, help- ing them live full and free lives. Can the minister please tell the House how our government is getting women in Manitoba the addic- tions treatment they need to build a strong future for themselves and their children? Hon. Nahanni Fontaine (Minister responsible for Women and Gender Equity): Miigwech to my colleague with the best question of the day. This morning, our govern ment announced $1.5 million to support the Anne Oake Family Recovery Centre.

A new centre offering hope and healing to women, this investment reflects Manitoba's deep commitment to creating pathways for Indigenous women, girls, two-spirit and gender-diverse relatives to be empowered, supported and ultimately, to be safe. We take a whole- of-government approach, with $1 million for construction from Mino'Ayaawag Ikwewag and half a million for start-up from Housing, Addictions and Homelessness. We believe and we know that every woman deserves the oppor tunity to heal, not just for herself, but for her children and– The Speaker: Member's time has expired.

And the time for oral questions has also expired. Introduction of Guests The Speaker: We have some more guests in the gallery–in the public gallery. I'd like to intro duce Clayton Canart, reeve, Wallace- Woodworth; Mark Custance, councillor, Two Borders. And they are guests of the honourable member for Riding Mountain (Mr. Nesbitt) and for Turtle Mountain (Mr. Piwniuk). We welcome you here today. PETITIONS Schools in Tyndall Park MLA Cindy Lamoureux (Tyndall Park): I wish to present the following petition. The back–to the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba, the background to this petition is as follows:

(1) In October 2024, the Province halted plans to build nine new schools in the province, even though they were already in motion.

(2) This decision directly affected the building of a much -needed school in Tyndall Park, where the population continues to grow rapidly.

(3) The provincial gov ernment has stated many times that it is committed to building schools that respond to the needs of students and educators across Manitoba by working with all school divisions on this issue.

(4) Students in many public schools are having to learn in hallways, gymnasiums, libraries and music rooms, which, year in and year out, is unacceptable.

(5) Schools in many areas of the province are ex- periencing dire infrastructure needs, from basic issues like leaking roofs, aging boilers and updating older school buildings, to larger problems relating to the capital projects that are required for the accom- modation of the growing student populations. We petition the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba as follows:

(1) To urge the provincial gov ernment to follow through with the previous plans to build a much- needed school in Tyndall Park.

(2) To urge the provincial gov ernment to ensure that these schools have plans to address critical needs for public transportation and child-care facilities; and

(3) To urge the provincial government to increase budgets for infra structure re placement, repairs and maintenance in order to preserve and upgrade existing schools in Manitoba.

1304 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA April 15, 2025 This petition has been signed by many Manitobans. The Speaker: Seeing no other petitions, grievances? ORDERS OF THE DAY (Continued) GOVERNMENT BUSINESS Hon.

Nahanni Fontaine (Government House Leader): Could you please call second reading of Bill 18, The Public Schools Amendment Act (Indigenous Languages of Instruction); followed by Bill 27, The Income Tax Amendment Act; followed by Bill 14, The Insurance Amendment Act; followed by Bill 16, The Municipal Councils and Schools Boards Elections Amendment and Public Schools Amend ment Act; followed by Bill 20, The Community Child Care Standards Amend- ment and Education Administration Amendment Act; followed by Bill 22, The Environment Amendment and Waste Reduction and Preven tion Amend ment Act; followed by Bill 33, The Public Health Amend- ment Act; followed by Bill 41, the reporting of sup- ports for child survivors of sexual assault act, trained health professionals and evidence collection kits, amendment act; followed by Bill 7, The Human Tissue Gift Amendment Act. * (14:40) The Speaker: It has been announced that we will now proceed to second readings of Bill 18, The Public Schools Amendment Act (Indigenous Languages of Instruction); followed by Bill 27, The Income Tax Amendment Act; followed by Bill 14, The Insurance Amendment Act; followed by Bill 16, The Municipal Councils and School Board Elections Amendment and Public Schools Amend ment Act; followed by Bill 20, The Com munity Child Care Standards Amendment and Education Administration Amend - ment Act; followed by Bill 22, The Environment Amendment and Waste Reduction and Pre vention Amendment Act; followed by Bill 33, The Public Health Amend ment Act; followed by Bill 41, the reporting of supports for child survivors of sexual assault act, trained health pro fessionals and evidence collection kits, amend ment act; followed by Bill 7, The Human Tissue Gift Amendment Act.

So we will–the honour able Gov ernment House Leader. MLA Fontaine: Could you please canvass the House to see if there is leave to not see the clock until the question has been put on second reading of the following bills, or 6:30, whichever is earlier: bills 18, 27, 14, 16, 20, 22, 33, 41 and 7. The Speaker: Is there leave to not see the clock until the question has been put on the second reading of the bills the Gov ernment House Leader just announced, or 6:30, whichever is earlier?

Is there leave? [Agreed] SECOND READINGS Bill 18–The Public Schools Amendment Act (Indigenous Languages of Instruction) The Speaker: So we will now, as announced, move on to second reading of Bill 18, The Public Schools Amendment Act (Indigenous Languages of Instruction). The honourable Minister of Health–oh, sorry. The honourable Minister of Edu cation and Early Child- hood Learning. Hon.

Tracy Schmidt (Minister of Education and Early Childhood Learning): I move, seconded by the Minister of Families (MLA Fontaine), that Bill 18, The Public Schools Amendment Act (Indigenous Languages of Instruction); Loi modifiant la

Loi sur les écoles publiques (enseignement en langue autochtone), now be read a second time and be referred to a com - mittee of this House. Motion presented. MLA Schmidt: Pardon me, thank you, Honour able Speaker. Our government, led by the vision of our Premier (Mr. Kinew), is taking impor tant steps to revitalize Indigenous languages in Manitoba. It is impossible to talk about Indigenous language revitalization in Manitoba without addressing the harms of colonization and of residential schools, notably that generations of speakers were banned from speaking their own language at school.

And even today, Honourable Speaker, despite what we know to be true, and despite our societal commit- ment to reconciling that colonial history, even today only French and English may be taught as the language of primary instruction. Indigenous language instruction can only take plus –place for less than 50 per cent of the day. Bill 18 seeks to change that by allowing for Indigenous language immersion program ming in Manitoba. The importance of Indigenous languages now being taught in schools, the very environment where they were once taken away, is not lost on our government and on our team.

April 15, 2025 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 1305 Teaching Indigenous languages in schools creates the opportunity to ensure that Indigenous languages, lessons and traditions are passed on to future genera - tions. As we all know, the ability to learn and speak one's own language has deep ties to culture and com- munity and to our world view. The Truth and Reconciliation Commission's Call to Action No. 14 recognizes the fundamental importance of Indigenous languages and the need for them to be protected and revitalized. This bill takes a significant step down that path.

We know that the more time students are exposed to a language students are exposed to a language during classroom instruct ion, the more they develop their language skills, which in turn supports their learning more broadly. Bill 18 proposes to change The Public Schools Act to designate Indigenous languages as languages of instruction when authorized by a school board. This would enable school boards to author ize immersion programs in Cree, Dakota, Dene, Inuktitut, Michif, Ojibwe and Ojibwe-Cree. This bill was informed by previous work undertaken by the Manitoba Aboriginal Languages Strategy.

This was a col laborative effort between four organizations, including Manitoba Edu- cation and Early Childhood Learning, to advance the preparation of teachers in Manitoba to deliver educa- tion in Indigenous languages and promote Indigenous language programming. Currently, there are three public schools that are offering bilingual Indigenous language programs. The school district of Mystery Lake at Wapanohk Community School provides an in–pardon me – Ininímowin language program. The Seven Oaks School Division at Riverbend Com munity School offers an –pardon me –Anishinaabemowin program.

And in the Winnipeg School Division, Isaac Brock school offers both of those languages in programming. We also know of other schools around our pro- vince that are offering great language courses. We have the–some folks on our team had the opportunity to meet with Michif French teachers that are offering those courses in St. Laurent School in the Interlake, and we want to lift up their work here today, as well, with this bill. Our govern ment is working hard to support an expanded Indigenous language program in Manitoba. This bill is an initial step we are taking to support this work in our education system.

This bill also proposes an amendment to The Public Schools Act, to require at least two of the members of the language advisory committee to have expertise respecting and–the teaching of Indigenous languages. This will ensure that Indigenous ways of knowing, being and doing inform any future discussions of this committee. Honourable Speaker, the proposed amendments to The Public Schools Act align with the policy direc- tion in Mamàhtawisiwin: The Wonder We Are Born With, Manitoba's Indigenous education policy frame- work for the K -to-12 system.

The de partment will continue to engage with our partners, as well as the sector, to clearly com municate and implement these changes. Honourable Speaker, thank you very much. Merci, miigwech. 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 critics or designates from other recognized opposition parties; subsequent questions asked by each independent member; remaining questions asked by any opposition member. And no question or answer shall exceed 45 seconds. The floor is now open for questions. Mr.

Wayne Ewasko (Leader of the Official Opposition): I appreciate the Education Minister putting some of the infor mation in her opening four -minute statement on this bill. So can she itemize and list who she consulted with or the department has consulted with on Bill 18? Hon. Tracy Schmidt (Minister of Education and Early Childhood Learning): As mentioned in my opening comments, this bill was informed by previous and ongoing collaboration with the Manitoba Aboriginal Language Strategy.

So that's a part nership of four organizations, being the Department of Education and Early Childhood Learning, the Manitoba First Nations Education Resource Centre, the University College of the North and Indigenous Languages of Manitoba. I can also share that our govern ment and our Premier (Mr. Kinew) has been meeting with Manitobans over the last 18 months on the good work that we are pursuing, both with this bill and across govern ment with many government bills and initiatives. We think that this bill is long overdue, and we're very excited for it to receive the full support of this House. Thank you.

1306 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA April 15, 2025 Mr. Ewasko: I'm glad to hear that the minister is coming today with Bill 18 and prepared to bring a list of partners that the department has consulted with on Bill 18, and I appreciate her mentioning the good work of preparing Mamàhtawisiwin: The Wonder We Are Born With.

Can she let the House know: What is the process if a person wants to have instruction carried out in an Indigenous language? * (14:50) MLA Schmidt: It is true that today in Manitoba, under our current legislative framework, that there are Indigenous language programming–there is Indigenous language programming offered across our great pro- vince, thanks to the great work individual educators, again, some of which I mentioned in my opening comments, the teachers and the educators that are at the St. Laurent School, which have developed their own Michif French language course.

There are also bilingual language programs offered at some of the school divisions and some of the schools which I read in my opening comments. What's not happening today in Manitoba, Honour- able Speaker, is that there is no room for Indigenous language– The Speaker: Member's time has expired. Mr. Ewasko: Can the minister tell us when the schools that she cited in the list that are already providing Indigenous instruction, when did they start those programs within their own schools? MLA Schmidt: Yes. I can thank the member opposite for that question. I don't have those dates in front of me today.

If he's interested I'd be happy to follow up and provide him with that information at another time. Mr. Ewasko: That would be great if we could get that prior to this next round of bills that are coming forward by this Education Minister. I would like to know if there is an appeal process, because it is up to the school board on making this as a Indigenous instruction in the schools. So is there an appeal process that–if the school board does not allow it? MLA Schmidt: Unlike the members opposite, we are not here to pick fights with school boards. We are not here to question their decision making.

We believe, and has been evidenced by the school boards that are offer–already offering excellent Indigenous language programming, those in the school district of Mystery Lake, those in the school division of Seven Oaks, and the Winnipeg School Division, to make decisions that reflect their community. That's ultimately what school boards are there to do. The community will bring forward a proposal or sometimes a school or sometimes an educator, and sometimes it comes from the community.

And on this side of the House, we trust school divisions to make decisions on all of their pro gramming based on the best interests of their students, and we know that they will do so. Mr. Ewasko: And it's a different –bit of a different tone today. I mean, same tone, just different answers today, Honourable Speaker, in regards to what school boards are being allowed to or not allowed to do under this Education Minister.

I do want to know if the courses that will be instructed in an Indigenous language, are we talking all im - mersion courses, and how is this minister prepared to back up and to support those schools and school divisions with–that choose to do this language immersion? MLA Schmidt: I appreciate the question because it gives me an oppor tunity to both thank and highlight the excellent work coming out of the branch of Indigenous education within our department. So here's just a few of the things, Honour able Speaker, and I fear I'm going to run out of time, so I'm going to get right into it.

Here's a few of the things that we're doing to support this work: we've invested $120,000 to the Uni versity of Winnipeg's Teaching Indigenous Languages for Vitality program; we've invested more than $32,000 to the Misipawistik Cree Nation to support their language program ming at family camps; $25,000 to Norway House Cree Nation to support their summer Cree language progr am; $70,000 to the Uni versity College of the North to support the annual Manitoba Aboriginal Languages Strategy symposium that's happening in May of 2025. And just very recently– The Speaker: Member's time has expired. Mr.

Ewasko: I'd like to ask the minister: How does Bill 18 help with the shortage of not only teachers we have in this great province of ours, but spe cifically Indigenous language teachers? MLA Schmidt: I believe I answered some of the mem- ber opposite's question in my last response. We are making investments across the province to ensure that we have Indigenous language teachers in this province to be able to teach a program such as an Indigenous language program.

April 15, 2025 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 1307 But we are doing a lot of great work, but I would be remiss to say that, you know, we have a significant hurdle before us, thanks to the colonial history of this country and the ongoing impacts of the resi dential school system. The truth of the matter is there are just not enough Indigenous language speakers in this province, and so there is a lot of great work being done, again, by Jackie Connell leading our Indigenous– The Speaker: Member's time has expired. Mr.

Ewasko: I guess part of my question was originally, and one of my more previous questions, I guess, is what spe cifically has the Manitoba School Boards Association have had to say in regards to how they're going to be able to implement this, and has the Manitoba Schools Boards Association asked this minister for additional supports and resources to carry out this initiative? MLA Schmidt: As I've said previously, we absolutely understand that there are sig nificant supports and investments that are going to be needed to make, and that we are making, in order to make sure that a program like this is successful.

But don't –but we have to act now, Hon ourable Speaker. If we do not act now, we are going to lose further Indigenous language here in the province. This bill is designed to makes sure that we are teaching the next generation of Indigenous language spea kers so that Indigenous languages can proliferate and be supported and spoken across our great province. That's what this bill does. Mr.

Ewasko: So I guess, moving forward, my ques - tion to the Education Minister: When someone or a community member or a school chooses to come forward with this, would they be coming forward with a SIC, or would they be coming with a SIP? MLA Schmidt: So there are currently several school divisions that are teaching Indigenous languages pro- gramming across the province. Those are brought forward through an SIC.

What we know about this bill is that this bill is going to allow school divisions, if they so choose, and if they see the need in their com munity, to bring forward a proposal to offer an Indigenous language immersion program in their school. That's something that this government believes in; that's something that we support. My question for the member opposite is: Does he support the revitalization of Indigenous languages in our province, and does he support immersion Indigenous programming in the province of Manitoba? Mr.

Ewasko: It's interesting that the interim Education Minister is already preparing to ask questions for the next go around when we form government. Oh, I sit– I stand corrected, Honourable Speaker, the Education and Early Childhood Learning Minister. So my question to them is: Because this is con - sidered–there's SICs available now, how does she see this changing and moving forward?

Is this a one -off course, or do we see an absolute, fully-immersed pro- gramming that covers math, science, social studies and, of course, the language of the particular Indigenous subject that the teachers– The Speaker: Member's time has expired. MLA Schmidt: For those Manitobans that might be unclear, there is a difference between bilingual pro - gramming and immersion programming. And that dif- ference–I mean, there's a few differences, but fun da- mentally, the difference is how much of the day can be instructed in that language.

So for a bilingual program, something like a German bilingual program, a Punjabi bilingual pro- gram, a Spanish bilingual program, all of which we have here in Manitoba–those are fantastic programs– they are only–that language, that secondary language, can only be spoken for less than 50 per cent of the day. An immersion program, which is some thing that can be taught more than 50 per cent of the day, some- thing that can be taught throughout the day, currently in Manitoba right now, you can only do that for the English and French language.

We believe that th at's wrong; we believe– The Speaker: Member's time has expired. * (15:00) Mr. Ewasko: I guess I'm going to ask the Education Minister–so she's already mentioned a few of the other languages being taught presently in our Manitoba school system. Is–has there been thought, or has she consulted with other groups to include those other languages also in Bill 18? MLA Schmidt: I thank the member opposite for that question because I think it's a really important part of this discussion. And certainly, here in Manitoba, our government, we respect all languages.

We love that there are Spanish bilingual programs, German bilingual

1308 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA April 15, 2025 programs, Punjabi bilingual programs and we hope that there are more in the future. I think that this bill, though, recognizes the really distinct, cultural, historical significance that Indigenous people and Indigenous languages have here in our province. In the same way that English and French have been recog nized, we believe that Indigenous languages deserve that same recog nition and that same level of– The Speaker: The member's time has expired. Mr.

Ewasko: I'd like to ask the Educa tion Minister: With Bill 18, how specifically–how exactly is Bill 18 contributing to the calls of actions 62 and 63 that was given out in the truth and reconciliation Calls to Action?

MLA Schmidt: We know that the Truth and Recon- ciliation Commis sion's Calls to Action touched on many things including Indigenous languages and the need to have them be revitalized, including the need to eliminate educational gaps that exist, employment gaps that exist and the need to preserve –thank you– revitalize and strengthen Indigenous languages, com- munities and cultures across our beautiful province. We believe that this bill does exactly that. Mr. Ewasko: I thank the minister and I encourage the minister to brush up on those Calls to Action, but I appreciate the answer.

I would like her to–she mentioned Mamàhtawisiwin: The Wonder We Are Born With–when, spe cifically, was Mamàhtawisiwin brought in? And I applaud the fact that she has not cancelled that great program and the initiative to keep moving in a strong way to Manitoba schools. MLA Schmidt: We haven't cancelled it, Honourable Speaker, but I'll tell you this: we are certainly going to improve it. And it does–when Mamàhtawisiwin was released is a matter of public knowledge. The member opposite knows this.

Unfortunately, what the member opposite chooses to do in this Chamber, instead of thinking about Manitobans and how we can serve Manitobans with legislation, he would like to exalt himself and his work. He would like to talk about–he would like to try to reminisce and recollect about the time that he had in government as the failed Education Minister. That's really unfortunate. On this side of the House, we are here to talk about bills and legislation that are going to make the lives of Manitobans better. That is our focus. Unfor - tunately, the member opposite is focused on himself and his own record of failure.

The Speaker: The time for questions has expired. Debate The Speaker: The floor is open for debate. Mr. Wayne Ewasko (Leader of the Official Opposition): Once again, Manitobans–the thousands of Manitobans that tune in to watch this on a daily basis–has seen the true colours of the Education Minister in her last response. Mr. Tyler Blashko, Deputy Speaker, in the Chair Again, it's unfortunate.

You know, much like we saw earlier, honourable Speaker, on the bill that was brought forward by the MLA for Tyndall Park on screening tools for students with potential disabilities in the K-to-12 system, but specifically K to 3, K to 4. And this minister took it upon themselves to do a news release late last week and stealing that idea. The nice thing, honourable Deputy Speaker, that the bill passed this morning. We heard very few things–matter of fact we didn't hear from this Edu ca- tion Minister at all this morning.

And then she stands up in her place during question period, during this Q-and-A time for Bill 18 and wants to, again, throw anger, shade on this side of the House. But basically, I just wanted to point out in my last question the fact that we, as the Progressive Conservative government, and the Educa tion ministers –not only including myself, but others on this side of the Chamber–were actually consulting and working with our Indigenous cultures, or our Indigenous partners throughout this great province of ours and made sure that we were listening.

And I did want to put a couple words on the record, hon ourable Speaker, on some of the things that, of course, the Educa tion Minister, in her four minutes talking about Bill 18, she stands there and says how important this is for Manitoba students which, us on this side of the House, are not disagreeing with that, because we, on this side of the House, are the actual ones that brought forward Mamàhtawisiwin: The Wonder We Are Born With. And it was, you know, time stamped 2022, copyrighted.

And so, you know, unlike the partisan politics that the Education Minister likes to put on the record, hon- ourable Deputy Speaker, is the fact is, is that when curriculum documents, when these policy documents

April 15, 2025 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 1309 are brought forward in the Education De partment, in the Ag Department, in Transportation Department, in other de partments, it doesn't mean that these docu- ments can't be strengthened. And so, unfortunately, this Education Minister is so stuck in their ideology that can't handle the fact, much like her Premier (Mr. Kinew), can't handle the fact that there might be others that are doing good public service work in this great province of ours, and brings forward ideas.

It doesn't mean that in the next year, couple of years, whatever else, that a lot of that good work doesn't continue. But then, as time rolls along, you might have to actually consult with some of the education partners in the province, specifically on these topics, on educa- tion topics, and yes, honourable acting–or, honourable Deputy Speaker, some of these things do get tweaked, changed. What's working? Leave it alone. What's–you know it could use a little bit of a tweak, so you make those tweaks. Or what's not working at all, and you sort of move away from it.

But I am glad to see that Mamàhtawisiwin was referenced in the Education Minister's answers. And, you know what I'm really, assist ant speaker–Deputy Speaker–what I'm really thrilled to hear today is the fact that on Bill 18, this minister has acknowled ged the hard work of the department working with the edu- cation partners in this great province of ours and actually consulting with them. Because the other day, we didn't really hear that.

But again, as I mentioned the other day in bill debate on another bill that was brought forward by this Education Minister, all I said was–all I basically asked was–who did you consult with? The Educat ion Minister was unable to, but I took that time to help– because we, as new members, hon ourable Deputy Speaker, we, as new members, at times in the Chamber, we don't know what we don't know.

So sometimes it takes, you know, members who have been here for a few more years, or whatever else, to sort of lend that helping hand, even if it has to be across the aisle, to inform other members, sponsors of bills, whether that's ministers or MLAs with in this great Chamber of ours that are maybe doing a private member's bill or a private member's resolution, but to sort of give you a bit of a heads up that one of the, sort of, the canned questions on any type of legis lation or anything that we're doing in this Chamber, is who did you consult with?

And so I'm thrilled to hear today we had some answers in regards to who the minister – actually, the minister's department consulted with, so that's great. * (15:10) I did want to reference, of course, the new assist- ant deputy minister of Indigenous Excellence in Edu- cation who started with the department on January 29, 2024: Jackie Connell. I had the pleasure of working with Jackie over the year and a half, I guess, that I was an Edu cation minister, but also as a edu cational leader within her school division, as well.

She was a wealth of knowledge and definitely helped with many of the committees and outreach that we were doing from the department, so it's really great to see that she would – was hired on and–in this newly created position. I know, very, very much so, that the variety of Indigenous knowledge that Jackie's bringing to t he table on equity-based policies and research related to Indigenous education; she's definitely a huge asset to the department.

And I strongly encourage –and I'm not saying, honourable Deputy Speaker, I'm not saying this to suggest that the minister's not doing this, because I don't need some aggression coming from that side of the bench–but I would strongly recom mend that the minister has those good conversations with Jackie, but also her other senior bureaucrats in the de partment, because they absolutely are in credible individuals who have the thoughts of Manitoba students at –on their mind. March 31, we know, is National Indigenous Languages Day, a day to celebrate and honour Indigenous languages right here in Canada.

And the day reminds us all of the importance of supporting the reclamation, revitalization, strengthening and main - tenance of the Indigenous languages. Absolutely. Honourable Deputy Speaker, I've shared in this House, on more than one occasion as well, spe cific- ally when we're talking about Bill 18 and bringing forward Indigenous languages to be part of the im - mersion program if it's seen fit by school boards.

It was a little interesting that the minister started to take offence for some reason on a couple of the questions, because, you know, I know for fact, and other members on the NDP side know as well, that –of the challenges that we have, not only in Manitoba, recruiting and retaining teachers. And I think that under this Kinew govern ment, where we've seen and heard that edu cation is lower than No. 5 on the priority list, it's unfor tunate,

1310 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA April 15, 2025 honourable Deputy Speaker, but I think more and more Manitobans are realizing the absolute harms – you know what? I'm not even going to say solely on this Education Minister's shoulders. It's a team effort over there between the Edu cation Minister, the Finance Minister and, of course, their Premier (Mr. Kinew) on the fact that they went and are –have cut funding to education.

And so that's why in the Q-and-A time on Bill 18, I was trying to ask, you know, how are the resources going to be applied to these school divisions that agree to carry on with Indigenous language instruction? Knowing the fact that you're going to need to hire some proficient teachers in the language, which there are many out there, Deputy Speaker. But it's going to be interesting to see how this continues to move forward.

And when we talk about a true immersion pro- gram, we are talking about not only the language instruction on a specific language, but it's to also then start to incorporate math, science, social studies, you know, other subjects that the schools –the school divisions and the schools–will see fit. I guess where I was going to go earlier, honour - able Deputy Speaker, was briefly on the fact that we've seen various different languages come and go in different schools and school divisions in our province. I know at one time–and this shows on how, of course, we continue to evolve.

And when I asked the minister –and no doubt, moving forward, the minister will have some answers in regards to the Calls to Action from the Truth and Reconciliation committee–that in the schools that I had attended–and I'll even back up to many of the historical pieces in regards to school divisions and schools in this great province of ours. There were times when there was only one language allowed to be taught, and that was English.

And then over time, you know, French, as we're amending this piece of legis lation, French was being then included, and now, moving forward with Bill 18, we're actually seeing Indigenous languages be included in the legislation as well. The minister made a comment –I had a quick question for the minister and again in principle, we absolutely agree with this piece of legis lation. And I guess, as time rolls along, maybe the minister's going to be bringing forward amend ments; I don't know.

We've seen the minister, in the last few days, steal other pieces of legis lation from other parties, try to create their–to, you know, their own. And then let some- thing pass.

What troubles me with the piece of private mem- bers' legislation that was brought forward this morning that was passed on to com mittee is we're going to see what the Liberal member for Tyndall Park (MLA Lamoureux) has to do in order to jump through whatever hoops this Educa tion Minister and her Government House Leader (MLA Fontaine) is going to put in front of the member for Tyndall Park in order to actually bring that bill to committee. So, hon ourable Deputy Speaker, we've seen, in the past, school divisions and schools have different language instruction.

We've seen Ukrainian, we've seen German; French, of course, but that is in the legis- lation now. We've got Indigenous language. There's a process in order to allow languages to be taught. The minister did mention, you know, to–answered my question on the SICs which is a school-initiated credit. And I guess one question that I didn't have for her, but I guess as time will roll along, because, of course, we're going to–I look forward to seeing Manitobans come to committee and speak to Bill 18. But I guess part of it is, will this fall under the optional credits?

Or will this fall under compulsory credits, depending on the school or the school divi - sions' decisions? And if there's a group of parents or guardians, they're not either thrilled–or if she actually goes and actually does some consul tation with some of the education partners and they see or want some - thing else, what is the appeal process later on? There's nothing in here, honourable Deputy Speaker, where it then comes back and falls on this Education Minister, who is making these changes.

Or if there's not–if they offer a specific language in Ojibwe next school year and if that teacher carries on and ends up getting a position in another school division or some thing like that, then what ends up happening that following year? * (15:20) Well, she's saying that it totally falls on the school board, which is great, because that's where we were on Bill 40 the other day. But she took issue with that and she really didn't feel that some of the program - ming and–that we said falls upon local autonomy and that's why school boards are elected. So, today, she seems to be–what's the terminology?

She seems to be flip-flopping like her Premier a little bit, like a pickerel on a dock, I think used to be the old saying.

April 15, 2025 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 1311 But I've changed that in the last few speeches I've done and, you know, to talk about a language, a good friend of mine –and for those members on the NDP side that either didn't hear this or didn't catch it–a good friend of mine who speaks fluent Cree shared with me, and so this goes with how I changed like a pickerel on a dock, flip- flopping, I've changed it to jackfish because in Cree there's a saying where you don't trust an individual who smiles like a jackfish. And so I brought forward that in a debate a little bit ago.

But it's amazing, Deputy Speaker, that the mem - bers of the NDP side can't help them selves. I really think that the whole notion of self-control over things are really lacking in the NDP caucus and I strongly encourage them to sign up for some training to help them out with that. I think there's an opportunity for those NDP mem- bers that are–obviously want to share a few words, to get up and put a few words on the record for Bill 18.

But I did want to, again, highlight Mamàhtawisiwin policy as the holistic approach that we developed with–in conjunction with our Indigenous partners, all across this great province of ours, so that we aim towards excellence in edu cation, helping Manitoba educators to incorporate Indigenous languages, 'culturals'–cultures and identities. Honourable Deputy Speaker, what I find is–interesting is that the Edu cation Minister, who spoke for four minutes on Bill 18, now wants to get up and say a few more words. And I know that we'll have another couple of bills, later today, maybe, that she'll want to add into that.

And I just wanted to highlig ht the fact that her four minutes was less than the six minutes that her Premier (Mr. Kinew) put on the record on this year's budget. So it just really means that there's not a whole lot of good things that they have to say about anything that they're bringing forward, honourable Deputy Speaker.

So back to Mamàhtawisiwin and the fact that it's helping Manitoba educators to incorporate Indigenous languages, cultures and identities into their teaching and practices, and from what I'm hearing and what's nice that the Edu cation Minister is moving f orward with this, is the fact that when Premier Stefanson amalgamated early child hood learning with the K-to-12 system education, one of our goals, when I had the pleasure of serving as an Education minister, was–again, when we saw Mamàhtawisiwin come in, but to also then start to incorporate Mamàhtawisiwin into the teachings and the practice of our early childhood learning as well.

So I think that's big kudos, you know, to the department and all of our incredible Education staff, whether that's in the K -to-12 system or in the early childhood learning system. So we also released the Treaty Edu cation for All plan in 2023 to offer all teachers, school staff and students educational resources about the original spirit and intent of the treaties.

As we know, honour able Deputy Speaker, you can't have reconciliation without the truth and I think it's very im portant to make sure that those things are happening on a day-to-day basis and, you know, we encourage our educators and our staff to, you know, to move forward on making sure that we're building those br idges and repairing those bridges as we move forward with any education. But what I fear a little bit, hon ourable Deputy Speaker, is the level of cuts to education made by this Education Minister, Finance Minister and the Premier.

We've seen, in the former days of the Selinger, you know, government, and the Doer govern ment, where when we're talking about excellence not only in teaching, but excellence in our edu cation world right here in Manitoba, we saw that when the NDP govern- ment took over power in 1999, they– we did some testing.

And it's nice to hear this –from this morning that the member for Tyndall Park (MLA Lamoureux) championed a bill, even though the Education Minister tried to steal it–you know, they're not big fans of rules, Deputy Speaker, but that being said, back when we started, you know, testing various different things, numeracy and literacy, in 2003, matter of fact, Manitoba was third in the country in numeracy and literacy in 2003, following many years of the great Filmon error–era as the PC government.

Honourable Deputy Speaker, I don't know if–I'm not going to speak directly to the Deputy Speaker, because, again, I don't need to be reprimanded. But when it came time, when I was elected in 2011, do you want to know where Manitoba sat on that scale to all provinces in this great country of ours? On numeracy, literacy and science, we were ninth and tenth in those three. By 2014, honourable Deputy Speaker, under almost 17 and a half years of debt, decay and disaster by the former NDP gov ernment, the Selinger govern ment, we were dead last in all three. Dead last. And further behind ninth.

We couldn't even see ninth any more under this NDP government. And what I fear, and I'm hoping it doesn't happen for the sake of our –of Manitoba students, is to go back, to slide back.

1312 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA April 15, 2025 Because what we saw in a mere seven and a half years of being in govern ment under the PC govern - ment, the most recent PC government–even with two years–two and a half years of COVID, we had gained traction and we got back up to six and seventh in the country, honourable Deputy Speaker. So I take a look at what this Education Minister is doing with the cuts to educa tion.

We on this side of the House, honourable Deputy Speaker, are encouraged because, of course, a lot of the things moving forward in regards to truth and reconciliation, the Calls to Action, have started to be actioned by our govern - ment. Treaty education, making sure that Indigenous language and instruction and culture is a ll being taught as well in the schools, because you don't know what you don't know.

And so with that, honour able Deputy Speaker, I look forward to seeing Bill 18 go forward to commit- tee, and we'll see if the minister has some amendments to bring forward, or if the public–you know, once she starts actually consulting with additional people and organizations and partners in this great province of ours, we'll see if they want to see any amendments to this piece of legislation. So with that, hon ourable Deputy Speaker, thank you for allowing me an opportunity to put a few words on the record. The Deputy Speaker: Are there any further members wishing to speak in debate?

Seeing none, is the House ready for the question? Some Honourable Members: Question. The Deputy Speaker: The question before the House is second reading of Bill 18, The Public Schools Amendment Act (Indigenous Language of Instruction). Is it the pleasure of the House to adopt the motion? [Agreed] Bill 27–The Income Tax Amendment Act The Deputy Speaker: We will now move on to second reading of Bill 27, The Income Tax Amend- ment Act. Hon. Adrien Sala (Minister of Finance): I move, seconded by the Minister of Justice (Mr.

Wiebe), that Bill 27, The Income Tax Amendment Act; Loi modifiant la Loi de l'impôt sur le revenu, be now read a second time and be referred to a com mittee of this House. Her Honour the Lieutenant Governor, has been advised of the bill, and I table the message. * (15:30) The Deputy Speaker: It has been moved by the hon- ourable Minister of Finance, seconded by the honour- able Minister of Justice, that Bill 27, The Income Tax Amendment Act, be now read a second time and be referred to a committee of this House. Her Honour the Lieutenant Governor has been advised of the bill, and the message has been tabled.

MLA Sala: It gives me great pleasure to rise to speak to this bill that we're bringing forward here today for second reading. The tax changes included in Bill 27 will make the Cultural Industries Printing Tax Credit permanent so that it will continue to support the printing and publishing industry here in Manitoba. This tax credit offers a refundable tax credit to Manitoba printers equal to 35 per cent on salary or wages paid to Manitoba employees employed in their book-printing divisions.

For years, the decision to leave industry wondering whether this credit would be maintained or eliminated created uncertainty. And in these times of uncertainty, when we are in the midst of a two-front trade war, government should be taking action to improve the invest ment climate here in Manitoba. We need more certainty in our economy, not less, and that's why our government has made other impor- tant changes with Budget 2025 that will increase econo- mic certainty and drive invest ment while improving productivity.

For example, we're making a permanent cut to the payroll tax to help small- and medium-sized businesses build and hire; we've introduced a perma- nent cut to the gas tax to help make life more affordable for Manitobans. And there's a simple message here: when this government makes a commitment, you know we'll follow through. That's why Manitoba busi nesses know they can trust us when we say we will deliver the largest capital plan in Manitoba's history and put nearly 18,000 people to work.

Manitobans know with certainty that we will build schools, build highways, health-care facilities and trade-enabling infrastructure. Manitobans know with certainty that we'll build more affordable housing and more child-care facilities. Honourable Speaker, the message with this legis- lation is that our govern ment is helping to drive economic certainty, whether that's in the printing and

April 15, 2025 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 1313 publishing industry or in other sectors right across our wonderful province. Honourable Speaker, as I conclude my remarks, let me say words about the uncertainty we are facing in this two-front trade war. My message to Manitobans and Manitoba businesses is that we'll have your back. We're here to support you. We'll get through this together building one Manitoba, together. Thank you. Questions The Deputy Speaker: A question period of up to 15 minutes will be held.

Questions may be addressed to the minister by any op position or in dependent member in the following sequence: first question by the official opposition critic or designate; subsequent questions aske d by critics or designates from other recognized opposition parties; subsequent questions asked by each independent member; remaining ques- tions asked by any opposition members. And no question or answer shall exceed 45 seconds. Mrs.

Lauren Stone (Midland): I appreciate the opening comments that the Minister of Finance has made, and I have no doubt that he and his team will support Bill 227 to remove interprovincial trade barriers and improve labour mobility, that we brought forward today. So my question, as it relates to this bill that he has brought forward, The Income Tax Amendment Act: Can the minister just explain why these changes –or he's decided to make these changes through a separate piece of legislation rather than including these amend- ments in BITSA? Hon. Adrien Sala (Minister of Finance): Yes.

We won't speak to House strategy here, but we will say that this is, of course, an important bill that will create certainty with businesses in Manitoba, businesses that are facing a lot of uncertainty right now, unfor - tunately, because of the overall environment that folks to the south have created, spe cifically President Trump with his tariff tax. We need to do everything we can as a government to ensure that businesses in Manitoba have that confi- dence about the path forward. This is one thing that we can do as government to do that. And, again, we're proud to be supporting publishers here in Manitoba.

Mrs. Stone: Can the minister just explain a little bit about how the–considering this bill is pre dominantly focused on making the cultural printing tax credit permanent, can the minister explain how that works and how many printers and authors making this permanent will benefit within the province? MLA Sala: Thank you so much for the question. So we know, again, that Manitoba's cultural printing industries have benefited from this tax credit for years.

Under the former govern ment, it was renewed year over year, creating uncertainty for those businesses as to whether or not they were going to be able to con- tinue doing the important work they do, creating the good products that they create and creating jobs for Manitobans. This bill will help to, again, just create certainty by making this tax credit permanent to ensure that businesses that qualify can get that 35 per cent credit on salary or wages to help them continue doing the important work they do of, again, creating great pro- ducts and supporting good jobs here in Manitoba. Mrs.

Stone: So this bill is specific to the cultural industry tax credit. However, is the minister also committed to keeping all other tax credits, like the Book Publishing Tax Credit, the Film and Video Production Tax Credit and the Interactive Digital Media Tax Credit?

MLA Sala: Yes, today we're here to talk about the Cultural Industries Printing Tax Credit, and it's a tax credit, again, that today we're proud to bringing forward here, second reading, where we're focused on creating certainty for busi nesses in Manitoba that, again, for many years, didn't have certainty because of the sort of year -to-year approach that the former government took. And I mean, frankly, this is, you know, only one type of uncertainty that the members opposite created; there was, of course, a much broader concern with the uncertainty they created through their actions over seven and half years.

I could go on about listing their failure to create new energy to support busi nesses, their huge cuts, like with chainsaw-like cuts to health care, their failure to create new child-care spaces. So for seven and a half years, we had a govern - ment that was not focused on creating a great climate for business here in Manitoba. We're ensuring that we do– The Deputy Speaker: The minister's time has expired. Mrs. Stone: So other than the Cultural Industries Printing Tax Credit, this bill also looks to remove some of the outdated references. So can the minister please explain these changes to the calculations that

1314 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA April 15, 2025 he's creating through this bill? Will they have any retroactive impacts on taxpayers? MLA Sala: So the bill does propose some minor tech- nical changes that simplify calculations to make it easier for businesses to understand this credit. And again, this is about working to support businesses, making sure that, you know, those businesses working in the sector can easily understand how this credit works so they can do more of the good work that they're doing: creating jobs, creating great products here in Manitoba. That's something we can be proud of.

And again, this is about ensuring that, on year–on a year-to-year basis, they're not wondering whether or not they're going to have access to this credit, which helps to support the important work that they do and, again, creating great op portunities for Manitobans in the process. Mrs.

Stone: So the minister just said that this will simplify the formula for the specific tax credit of the Cultural Industries Printing Tax Credit, but can the minister please tell us if there are other, non - refundable tax credits that will be impacted or affected by the changes that he's bringing forward in this bill with those formulation and calculation changes? MLA Sala: To my knowledge, the answer to that is no.

But again, this is a great bill that will help to support the good work of these printers that are, again, creating great jobs and great products here in Manitoba, something we can all be very proud of, to have this type of industry here in Manitoba. So this will, again, change the overall environ- ment that those busi nesses are operating within and ensuring that, on a year-to-year basis, they don't have to guess any more as to whether or not this benefit will be there to help them do the im portant work they do.

They'll know that our gov ernment has made this permanent, so that on a year-to-year basis, they can be confident that they can access this credit that will help them to do the great work that they're doing–again, creating opportunities for Manitobans. Debate The Deputy Speaker: Seeing no further questions, the floor is open for debate. Mrs. Lauren Stone (Midland): I do appre ciate the opportunity and the time today to rise to put just a couple words on the record on Bill 27, The Income Tax Amendment Act.

And I know we have quite a few bills to get through over the next couple of days, so I'll make my comments relatively short today. You know, as we heard throughout the question period session, the most notable piece within this piece of legislation is making the Cultural Industries Printing Tax Credit permanent in Budget 2025.

So I do want to say, and make it clear, that the printi ng industry does play a very vital role in Manitoba's cultural sector, and the Cultural Industries Printing Tax Credit supports both local cultural groups as well as Manitoba authors and publishers. * (15:40) Small businesses in Manitoba, where the business is printing, assembling or binding books, have been able to claim the Cultural Industries Printing Tax Credit to date, and busi nesses in Manitoba's printing industry have been able to apply for the 35 pe r cent refundable credit on salary as well as wages that are paid to Manitoba employees who are employed in the printer's book printing division.

You know, so as has already been brought up today in previous remarks, the former PC government supported the Cultural Industries Printing Tax Credit and reviewed the tax credit during their time in office. In cases where the tax credit was set to expire between 2016 and 2020, the former PC government renewed it in those instances. So the annual maximum tax credit that can be claimed is –I believe it's $1.1 million per corporation. So it is impor tant to support our small businesses in Manitoba, as small busi nesses are the backbone of our provincial economy.

Unfortunately, what we have seen with this current NDP government is that they have chosen to actually increase taxes on busi nesses in their budget. They're adding additional taxes to many of these busi nesses that they are actually claiming to support through this bill. So as we saw, just as a couple of examples, deputy honourable Speaker, as we saw in the budget, the NDP are adding a new PST charge to cloud com- puting software. As most businesses are shifting their IT services to cloud, the NDP is capitalizing on that and are actually charging a PST on that.

This increases the red tape–significant red tape–in an era of modern technology that is actually supposed to make things simpler and cheaper for our small busi nesses in Manitoba. So I do want to put a few words on the record about how Manitoba does have a very vibrant cultural sector. We know and we have seen it that there–it has become a hub for film, animation, arts, music and festivals across our great province. And our cultural industry in Manitoba does support a significant amount of jobs within our provincial economy, and it's an

April 15, 2025 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 1315 important part of Manitoba's diverse –very diverse – entertainment scene and enhances our quality of life. I personally support our arts and cultural sectors through attending plays, performances at Rainbow Stage, Winnipeg Symphony that we spoke about earlier, MTC and the Royal Winnipeg Ballet. What we have seen over the past number of years is film production has continued to grow within our province, and it is a common occurrence now to see Hallmark movies being filmed across the city and the province.

We're also thrilled to have Jette Studios in Niverville, which recently opened a 25,000- square-foot movie studio to accommodate those large-scale prod

Document details

Collection	Manitoba — Debates (Hansard)
Citation	43-2-42b
Type	hansard
Volume / chapter	43rd 2nd hansardpdf 42b.pdf
Language	en
Format	pdf
Source	PROVINCIAL
Identifier	aa1bc81f31ed146616f19f6a12db2006e98668fa

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