Manitoba Hansard — 1 June 2022 (Sitting 61, 42nd Legislature, 4th Session)

42-4-61

Manitoba — Debates (Hansard)

Fourth Session – Forty-Second Legislature of the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba DEBATES and PROCEEDINGS Official Report (Hansard) Published under the authority of The Honourable Myrna Driedger Speaker Vol. LXXVI No. 61 - 1:30 p.m., Wednesday, June 1, 2022 ISSN 0542-5492

MANITOBA LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY Forty-Second Legislature Member Constituency Political Affiliation ALTOMARE, Nello Transcona NDP ASAGWARA, Uzoma Union Station NDP BRAR, Diljeet Burrows NDP BUSHIE, Ian Keewatinook NDP CLARKE, Eileen, Hon. Agassiz PC COX, Cathy Kildonan-River East PC CULLEN, Cliff, Hon. Spruce Woods PC DRIEDGER, Myrna, Hon. Roblin PC EICHLER, Ralph Lakeside PC EWASKO, Wayne, Hon. Lac du Bonnet PC FIELDING, Scott, Hon. Kirkfield Park PC FONTAINE, Nahanni St. Johns NDP FRIESEN, Cameron, Hon. Morden-Winkler PC GERRARD, Jon, Hon. River Heights Lib. GOERTZEN, Kelvin, Hon. Steinbach PC GORDON, Audrey, Hon.

Southdale PC GUENTER, Josh Borderland PC GUILLEMARD, Sarah, Hon. Fort Richmond PC HELWER, Reg, Hon. Brandon West PC ISLEIFSON, Len Brandon East PC JOHNSON, Derek, Hon. Interlake-Gimli PC JOHNSTON, Scott, Hon. Assiniboia PC KHAN, Obby Fort Whyte PC KINEW, Wab Fort Rouge NDP LAGASSÉ, Bob Dawson Trail PC LAGIMODIERE, Alan, Hon. Selkirk PC LAMONT, Dougald St. Boniface Lib. LAMOUREUX, Cindy Tyndall Park Lib.

LATHLIN, Amanda The Pas-Kameesak NDP LINDSEY, Tom Flin Flon NDP MALOWAY, Jim Elmwood NDP MARCELINO, Malaya Notre Dame NDP MARTIN, Shannon McPhillips PC MICHALESKI, Brad Dauphin PC MICKLEFIELD, Andrew Rossmere PC MORLEY-LECOMTE, Janice Seine River PC MOSES, Jamie St. Vital NDP NAYLOR, Lisa Wolseley NDP NESBITT, Greg Riding Mountain PC PEDERSEN, Blaine Midland PC PIWNIUK, Doyle, Hon. Turtle Mountain PC REYES, Jon, Hon. Waverley PC SALA, Adrien St. James NDP SANDHU, Mintu The Maples NDP SCHULER, Ron Springfield-Ritchot PC SMITH, Andrew, Hon.

Lagimodière PC SMITH, Bernadette Point Douglas NDP SMOOK, Dennis La Vérendrye PC SQUIRES, Rochelle, Hon. Riel PC STEFANSON, Heather, Hon. Tuxedo PC TEITSMA, James Radisson PC WASYLIW, Mark Fort Garry NDP WHARTON, Jeff, Hon. Red River North PC WIEBE, Matt Concordia NDP WISHART, Ian Portage la Prairie PC WOWCHUK, Rick Swan River PC Vacant Thompson

2627 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA Wednesday, June 1, 2022 The House met at 1:30 p.m. Madam Speaker: O Eternal and Almighty God, from Whom all power and wisdom come, we are assembled here before Thee to frame such laws as may tend to the welfare and prosperi ty of our province. Grant, O merciful God, we pray Thee, that we may desire only that which is in accordance with Thy will, that we may seek it with wisdom and know it with certainty and accomplish it perfectly for the glory and honour of Thy name and for the welfare of all our people. Amen.

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

Good afternoon, everybody. Please be seated. ROUTINE PROCEEDINGS Madam Speaker: Introduction of bills? COMMITTEE REPORTS Standing Committee on Rules of the House First Report Mr. Andrew Micklefield (Vice-Chairperson): Madam Speaker, I wish to present the first report of the Standing Committee on Rules of the House. Clerk (Ms. Patricia Chaychuk): Your Standing Committee on the Rules of the House– Some Honourable Members: Dispense. Madam Speaker: Dispense. Your Standing Committee on Rules of the House presents the following as its First Report.

Meetings Your Committee met on May 31, 2022, at 4:00 p.m. in Room 255 of the Legislative Building. Matters under consideration Amendments to the Rules, Orders and Forms of Proceedings of the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba Committee Membership • Hon. Mrs. D RIEDGER (Chairperson) • Ms. FONTAINE • Hon. Mr. GERRARD • Hon. Mr. GOERTZEN • Mr. LAGASSÉ • Mr. MARTIN • Mr. MICKLEFIELD • Mr. MOSES • Mr. NESBITT • Mr. WASYLIW • Mr. WISHART Your Committee elected Mr. MICKLEFIELD as the Vice-Chairperson. Officials Speaking on Record • Ms. Patricia Chaychuk, Clerk of the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba • Mr.

Rick Yarish, Deputy Clerk of the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba Amendments to Rules Considered and Reported At the May 31, 2022 meeting your committee agreed to report the following amendments to the Rules, Orders and Forms of Proceedings of the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba: THAT the Rules, Orders and Forms of Proceedings of the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba be amended as follows: THAT sub -rule 1(3) be amended by adding the following

definitions in alphabetical order: "distributed" means the provision of a document to the House, either by providing a physical copy in the Chamber or committee rooms, or by providing an electronic copy; "document" means either a hard copy version or electronic version of a document referenced in the House (in the event of a discrepancy between the two versions of a document, the hard copy version will be considered the correct version);

2628 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA June 1, 2022 "tabling" means the provision of a document to the House by any Member during a House or Committee proceeding, either by providing a physical copy to the Clerks' Table in the Chamber or committee rooms, or by providing an electronic copy; THAT sub -rule 1(3) be amended by deleting the current "supply Bill" entry and replacing it with the following: "Supply Bill" means a Bill relating to interim, main or supplementary supply, such as an Appropriation Act.

THAT sub -rule 2(1) be amended by deleting the current sixth paragraph and sub paragraphs and replacing it with the following: On the last Thursday sitting prior to the Remembrance Day Week, the House will not adjourn until the questions have been put and Royal Assent granted for the following items: (

a) the Designated Bills; (

b) the Business of Supply set out in sub- rule 76(1) including The Appropriation Act; and (

c) The Budget Implementation and Tax Statutes Amendment Act. THAT sub-rule 2(10) be repealed and replaced with the following: Second Reading Completion Days for Specified Bills 2(10) On the same sitting day identified in sub- rule (9), and after Bills have been designated by the Opposition parties, the following provisions shall apply: (

a) if Routine Proceedings has not concluded 90 minutes prior to the usual adjournment hour, the Speaker must terminate Routine Proceedings and proceed to Orders of the Day; (

b) at 60 minutes prior to the usual adjournment hour, the Speaker will interrupt debate and call for Second Reading of all remaining Specified Bills in an order that is to be announced by the Government House Leader, or in the order listed on the Order Paper; (

c) the House shall sit until midnight to consider Second Reading of Specified Bills, and the House may sit past midnight only with unani - mous consent; (

d) for each Specified Bill that has not yet been called for debate by this day, debate shall pro- ceed as follows: (

i) the Minister must move the Se cond Reading motion and may speak for a maximum of 10 minutes, (ii) a question period of up to 15 minutes may occur according to the provisions of sub -rule 136(5), (iii) Critics and each Independent Member may speak for a maximum of 10 minutes, (iv) the Speaker shall then put the question; (

e) for each Specified Bill that has been called for debate previously, debate shall proceed as follows: (

i) if the question period has not yet occurred, it shall take place as described in paragraph (d)(ii), (ii) if the question period was previously inter - rupted, it shall continue as described in paragraph (d)(ii), (iii) any Member identified in paragraph (

d) who has not yet spoken in the debate shall be afforded the opportunity to speak, (iv) the Speaker shall then put the question; (

f) Matters of Privilege and Points of Order will be deferred until all votes are completed; (

g) despite sub- rule 14(4), divisions on these Specified Bills cannot be deferred. THAT sub-rule 2(11) be repealed and replaced with the following: 2(11) On the sitting day following the sitting day identified in sub -rule (9), if there are any remaining Specified Bills at Second Reading or Debate on Second Reading, the House is not to see the clock until the question has been put on all outstanding Specified B ill Second Reading motions and the following provisions are to apply: (

a) at the beginning of Orders of the Day the provisions outlined for limited debate on Specified Bills in Rule 2(10) will apply; (

b) if Routine Proceedings has not concluded 90 minutes prior to the usual adjournment hour, the Speaker must terminate Routine Proceedings and proceed to Orders of the Day; (

c) at midnight, Ministers shall move the Second Reading motions for any remaining Specified

June 1, 2022 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 2629 Bills and the Speaker shall put the questions immediately, without debate. Despite sub- rule 14(3) the division bells shall ring for no more than one minute on each question; (

d) Matters of Privilege and Points of Order will be deferred until all votes are completed; (

e) despite sub- rule 14(4), divisions on these Specified Bills cannot be deferred; (

f) the House shall rise following the consideration of the last motion and any deferred Matters of Privilege or Points of Order. THAT sub-rule 2(12) be repealed and replaced with the following: Committee Completion Day for Specified Bills 2(12) Standing Committees must complete con- sideration of any Specified Bills that have been referred to those Committees no later than the fourteenth sitting day after the sitting day identified in Rule 2(10). Those Specified Bills must then be reported to the House on the following sitting day.

THAT sub -rule 4(9) be repealed and replaced with the following: 4(9) Despite sub- rule 91(7), 10 calendar days' notice is required for intersessional committee meet - ings with the following exceptions; (

a) meetings of the Standing Committee on the Rules of the House (

b) meetings of the Standing Committee on Public Accounts. THAT sub-rule 18(2) be repealed and replaced with the following: Offence in Committee 18(2) When an offence to which sub- rule (1) applies is committed in any Committee of the House, the Chairperson: (

a) shall be authorized to no longer recognize the Member in question to speak in debate for the duration of the meeting; (

b) shall have the ability to suspend the proceedings; (

c) shall pres ent a report on the circumstances to the House immediately or on the next sitting day; (

d) if the Member in question refuses to comply with the direction of the Chairperson referenced in (a), the Chairperson shall be authorized to have the Member removed from the Committee room for the duration of the meeting. THAT the following be added after Rule 19: Members' Dress Code 19.1(1) When participating in a Sitting of the House, Members shall dress in one of the following types of attire: (

a) professional contemporary business; (

b) traditional Indigenous; (

c) traditional cultural or ethnic; that does not offend the dignity of the Assembly. 19.1(2) In Committees of the House a business casual dress code is permitted, in addition to the pro- visions allowed in 19.1(1) (

b) a nd (c). 19.1(3) The Speaker shall oversee dress code ex- pectations for Members, and may provide guidance and authorize exceptions to the dress code in appropriate circumstances. THAT rule 22 be repealed and replaced with the following: Prayer and Indigenou s Land Acknowledgment 22 Each sitting day before any business begins the Speaker shall read the Prayer, followed by an Indigenous Land Acknowledgement. THAT sub -rule 30(15) be repealed and replaced with the following: Debate limited to one sitting day 30(15) Debate on an Opposition Day Motion is to be limited to one sitting day.

The House shall not adjourn until all Members have had an opportunity to speak to the motion. When there are no further speakers in the debate, the Speaker shall put the question. THAT sub-rule 34(9) be repealed and replaced with the following: Exceptions 34(9) The 20-minute limit does not apply to: (

a) Leaders of Recognized Parties; (

b) a Minister moving the Budget motion. A Leader who has not yet spoken in this debate may, by giving writ ten notice to the Speaker before speaking in the debate, designate one Member of their caucus who may speak in the debate with unlimited time. In this instance, the 20- minute limit will then apply to the Leader.

2630 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA June 1, 2022 THAT sub-rule 40(5) be repealed and replaced with the following: Tabling documents quoted from 40(5) Where in a debate a Member directly quotes from private documents, including digital re- presentation or correspondence, any other Member may require the Member who is speaking to table a copy of the document quoted. THAT sub-rule 44(2) be repealed and replaced with the following: Exceptions 44(2) The 30-minute limit does not apply to: (

a) Leaders of Recognized Parties; (

b) a Minister moving a motion; (

c) a Member moving a motion of "no confidence i n the Government", or the Minister replying to the motion. A Leader of a Recognized Party who has not yet spoken in a debate may, by giving written notice to the Speaker before speaking in the debate, designate one Member of their caucus who may speak in t he debate with unlimited time. In this instance, the 30-minute limit will then apply to the Leader. THAT sub-rule 47(5) be repealed and replaced with the following: Exceptions 47(5) The 20 -minute limit does not apply to Leaders of Recognized Parties.

A Leader who has not yet spoken in this debate may, by giving written notice to the Speaker, designate one Member of their caucus who may speak in the debate for as long as the Member wishes. If the Member then speaks in the debate, the 20- minute limit applies to the Leader. THAT rule 58 be repealed and replaced with the following: Reading the question 58 When the question under discussion does not appear on the Order Paper, or has not been dis - tributed, any Member may require it to be read at any time of the de bate, but not so as to interrupt a Member while speaking.

THAT rule 75 be repealed and replaced with the following: COMMITTEES OF THE WHOLE HOUSE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE COMMITTEE OF SUPPLY Membership and Quorum 75(1) All MLAs are considered Members of a Committee of the Whole House, and a quorum of at least 10 Members is required for the Committee to sit and conduct its business. For the Committee of Supply, quorum consists of 10 Members in total participating in the proceedings in all three sections.

Rules observed in a Committee of the Whole House 75(2) The Rules of the House shall be followed in a Committee of the Whole House, as applicable, with the following exceptions: (

a) Members are not required to rise in their place to speak; (

b) a Seconder is not required for moving motions; (

c) there is no limit on the number of times a Member may speak in a debate; (

d) with the exception of opening statements in the Committee of Supply (see sub- rule 77(2)), speeches in a Committee of the Whole House shall not exceed five minutes . Relevance in debate 75(3) Speeches in a Committee of the Whole House must be strictly relevant to the item or clause under discussion. Order in a Committee of the Whole House 75(4) The Chairperson of a Committee of the Whole House shall maintain order and decide all questions of order, and such decisions are not sub- ject to appeal, in accordance with sub- rule 52(4).

Subject to Rule 18(2), disorder in a Committee of the Whole House may be censured by the House only after it has received a report on the disorder. THAT sub-rule 76(1) be repealed and replaced with the following: Business of Supply 76(1) The business of supply for a fiscal year con- sists of: (

a) motions to concur in interim supply, main esti - mates and supplementary estimates; (

b) motions to reduce, restore or reinstate any item in the estimates; (

c) motions to introduce supply Bills or to pass them at any stage.

June 1, 2022 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 2631 THAT sub -rules 77(7) and (8) be repealed and replaced with the following: Estimates Sequence 77(7) The sequence in which the Es timates of Expenditure are to be considered by the Committee of Supply will be established by agreement of the House Leaders of all Recognized Parties. If the House Leaders are unable to come to an agreement on the sequence, the Speaker shall determine the sequence in consultation with House Leaders of all Recognized Parties.

Tabling of Estimates Sequence 77(8) Once the Estimates Sequence has been deter - mined, the Government House Leader must table in the House a written agreement listing the sequence, signed by the House Leaders of all Recognized Parties. In the event that the Speaker is required to determine the sequence, they will sign and table the document.

THAT sub -rule 77(14) be repealed and replaced with the following: Reports from the Committee of S upply 77(14) The Chairperson of the Committee of Supply shall report to the House items passed during the consideration of interim and main supply, and shall also report at the conclusion of the estimates process, all resolutions passed and the concurrence motion. The Chairperson shall report Matters of Privilege referred by the Committee as well as incidents of grave disorder.

THAT sub-rule 78(1) be repealed and replaced with the following: Concurrence motion in Committee of Supply 78(1) After all supply r esolutions have been con- sidered, a concurrence motion must be moved in the Committee of Supply sitting as a full Committee in the Chamber. THAT rule 82 be repealed and replaced with the following: Standing Committee Size and Composition 82(1) At the beginning of the first session of each Legislature the House Leaders or designates of all Recognized Parties must meet to consider the size and composition of all Standing Committees of the House (listed below).

Agriculture and Food Crown Corporations Human Resources Intergovernmental Affairs Justice Legislative Affairs Private Bills Public Accounts Rules of the House Social and Economic Development Statutory Regulations and Orders The representation of Members on each Committee shall be based on the number of s eats each Recognized Party holds in the House. The House Leaders must report this information in writing to the Speaker. In the event of an impasse, the Speaker shall determine the size and composition of all Standing Committees of the House and report that in writing to all Members.

Changes to Standing Committee Size and Composition 82(2) If the House Leaders determine that a change in Standing Committee size and composition is required at any time due to changes in House composition, they must report the se changes in writing to the Speaker.

In the event of an impasse, the Speaker shall determine the new size and composition of all Standing Committees of the House and report that in writing to all Members. 82(3) Standing Committee size and composition is effective upon receipt of a letter from the House Leaders by the Speaker, or in the event of an impasse, once the Speaker reports to all Members. At the next Sitting, the Speaker must table the Standing Committee membership size and composition.

Chairperson and Vice-Chairperson 82(4) Each Standing or Special Committee shall elect a permanent Chairperson and a permanent Vice-Chairperson at its first meeting in each Legislature, and in the case of a vacancy of either the Chairperson or Vice- Chairperson by reas on of the incumbent dying, resigning their seat in the Assembly, becoming disqualified from sitting or voting in the Assembly, or resigning from the Committee, the Committee shall forthwith elect a successor.

Vice-Chairperson to act 82(5) If at any meeting of the Committee, the Chairperson is not present, the Vice- Chairperson shall act in the place of the Chairperson.

2632 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA June 1, 2022 THAT sub-rule 91(2) be repealed and replaced with the following: Hearing presentations on Bills 91(2) After First Reading of a Bill is adopt ed, members of the public may register to make presentations to a Standing or Special Committee considering a Bill, with the following rules to apply to each presentation: (

a) each presenter may use a maximum of 10 minutes to present to the Committee; (

b) with the unanimous consent of the Committee, a presenter who has spoken for 10 minutes may be granted additional time to conclude their presentation; (

c) following each presentation a five -minute question and answer period between the pre - senter and Members may occur . Questions shall not exceed 30 seconds each. (

d) during question and answer periods on pre- sentations to Government Bills, questions may be addressed to presenters in the following rotation: i. the Minister sponsoring the Bill, ii. a Member of the Official Opposition, iii. a Member of a third recognized party (if present), iv. an Independent Member. (

e) during question and answer periods on pre- sentations to Private Members' Bills, questions may be addressed to presenters in the following rotation: i. the Member sponsoring the Bill , ii. a Member of another recognized party, iii. a Member of a third recognized party (if present), iv. an Independent Member.

THAT sub-rules 110(1) and 110(2) be repealed and replaced with the following: Steering Committee and Meetings 110(1) At the start of a new Legislature, a Steering Committee consisting of the PAC Chairperson, Vice-Chairperson, Auditor General, Committee Clerk and Research Officer must be established. 110(2) The Steering Committee will meet in camera at the call of the Chairperson and Vice -Chairperson to: set meeting agendas, propose witnesses to be called, review sensitive documents, monitor the pro- gress of the Committee's work and other respon- sibilities as deemed necessary. 110(3) Once a meeting agenda has been set and jointly agreed to by the Chairperson and the Vice- Chairperson, the Chairperson, or Vice -Chairperson if the Chairperson is absent, shall give notice of a meeting of the Standing Committee on Public Accounts. 110(4) A minimum of nine PAC meetings shall be called per year.

THAT sub -rule 137(1) be repealed and replaced with the following: Three readings before passing 137(1) Every Bill, other than a Supply Bill, shall receive three separate readings on different days before being passed. THAT rule 144 be repealed. THAT sub -rule 148(2) be repealed and replaced with the following: Duties of Law Officer 148(2) The Law Officer shall (

a) advise upon legislation and prepare and draft Bills as required by the Executive Council or a Member thereof; (

b) render to the Private Members such assist ance in the preparation of Bills as the time at his or her disposal permits; (

c) revise and put notes on all Bills, including Private Bills, and cause them to be published and, where necessary, republished in paper and electronic form, and be responsible f or the correctness of the Bills in their various stages; (

d) report to the Executive Council, or a Member thereof, any provisions in Bills that are deserving of special attention or that appear to affect the public interest prejudicially or that require amendment; (

e) as may be instructed by the Speaker, be present at the sittings of Committees at which Bills are being considered; (

f) prepare the resolutions required in connection with measures to which Rule 66 applies; (

g) prepare and deliver to the Queen' s Printer the copy for the volume of the statutes, including a Table of Contents and a comprehensive index, as soon after the closure of each session of the Legislature as is practicable.

June 1, 2022 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 2633 THAT sub -rule 150(3) be repealed and replaced with the following: Maximum remittance 150(3) The remittance of any deposit or fees paid in accordance with this Rule shall not exceed the amount of the deposit or fees, less the actual cost of preparing the Bill in both hard copies and electronically. THAT Appendix D is amende d by repealing the MAIN AND CAPITAL SUPPLY PROCEDURE and replacing it with the following: MAIN SUPPLY PROCEDURE 1.

Government House Leader moves Concurrence Motion and Committee of Supply considers it (debatable motion - 100 hour time limit does not apply). 2. Chairperson of the Committee of Supply presents the report of the Committee to the House and moves that it be received (not debatable). 3. Government House Leader moves Concurrence Motion in the House (cannot be debated, amended or adjourned). 4. House considers and adopts motion regarding The Appropriation Act (no notice required). 5. Finance Minister moves First Reading of The Appropriation Act (may not be debated, amended or adjourned). 6.

House staff distributes copies of The Appropriation Act immediately after adoption of the First Reading Motion. 7. Finance Minister moves Second Reading of The Appropriation Act, and referral to a Committee of this House (debatable motion – may be agreed to without debate or adjourned). 8. Speaker announces that the House will resolve into Committee of the Whole to consider and report on The Appropriation Act for Concurrence and Third Reading. 9. Committee of the Whole considers The Appropriation Act (debatable matter, but no debate if 100 hour time limit has expired). 10.

Chairperson of the Comm ittee of the Whole House presents report of the Committee to the House and moves that it be received (not debatable). 11. Finance Minister moves Concurrence and Third Reading of The Appropriation Act (debatable motion – may be agreed to without debate or adjourned). 12. Lieutenant Governor gives Royal Assent to The Appropriation Act.

2634 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA June 1, 2022 Agreements Your Committee reached the following agreements during the meeting on May 31, 2022: • THAT these amendments to the Rules, Orders and Forms of Proceedings of the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba come into force on September 28, 2022. • THAT the Clerk may renumber the Rules, Orders and Forms of Proceedings of the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba and make other minor corrections that in no way alter the intended meaning of these amendments. • THAT the Clerk is authorized to make minor corrections to the French version of the Rules, Orders and Forms of Proceedings of the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba to ensure the equivalence of both versions of the Rules, en- suring that the y in no way alter the intended meaning of these Amendments. • THAT the Clerk prepare revised rule books incorporating all amendments, additions and deletions. • THAT these amendments to the Rules, Orders and Forms of Proceedings of the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba are permanent. • THAT the document entitled: "Legislative Assembly of Manitoba Rule Change Proposals – May 2022" be included at the end of the Hansard transcript of this meeting.

Mr. Micklefield: Madam Speaker, I move, seconded by the honour able member for Borderland (Mr. Guenter), that the report of the com mittee be received. Motion agreed to. Madam Speaker: Further committee reports? Committee of the Whole Report Mr. Dennis Smook (Deputy Chairperson): The Committee of the Whole has considered and reports the following without amendment: Bill 41, The Child and Family Services Amend ment Act; Bill 44, The Employment Standards Code Amendment Act (Minimum Wage).

The Committee of the Whole has also considered and reports the following with amendments: Bill 234, the drug-related bereavement–death bereavement day act. I move, seconded by the honourable member for Riding Mountain (Mr. Nesbitt), that the report of the committee be received. Motion agreed to. Standing Committee on Public Accounts Fourth Report Mr. Jim Maloway (Chairperson): Madam Speaker, I wish to present the fourth report of the Standing Committee on Public Accounts. Clerk: Your Standing Com mittee on Public Accounts– Some Honourable Members: Dispense. Madam Speaker: Dispense.

Your Standing Committee on Public Accounts presents the following as its Fourth Report. Meetings Your Committee met on May 31, 2022, at 6:00 p.m. in the Chamber of the Legislative Building. Matters under Consideration • Province of Manitoba Annual Report and Public Accounts – dated March 31, 2020

June 1, 2022 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 2635 • Auditor General's Report – Public Accounts and Other Financial Statement Audits – dated December 2020 • Province of Manitoba Annual Report and Public Accounts – dated March 31, 2021 • Auditor General's Report – Public Accounts and Other Financial Statement Audits – dated December 2021 Committee Membership • Mr. LAMONT • MLA LINDSEY • Mr. MALOWAY (Chairperson) • Mr. MARTIN • Mr. MICHALESKI • Ms. NAYLOR • Mr. NESBITT (Vice-Chairperson) • Mr. SMOOK • Mr. TEITSMA • Mr. WASYLIW • Mr. WISHART Officials Speaking on Record: • Mr.

Tyson Shtykalo, Auditor General of Manitoba • Mr. Richard Groen, Deputy Minister of Finance • Ms. Andrea Saj, Provincial Comptroller Agreements: As per the motion passed by the Standing Committee on Public Accounts on October 14, 2020, your Committee agreed to the following: 1. To ask the Chairperson and Vice-Chairperson to request, by joint letter, that the Department of Health complete, within six months of receipt of this letter, a Progress Report with an update on the status of all outstanding recommendations related to the Auditor General's Report titled "Management of MRI Services", dated April 2017. 2.

To ask the Auditor General and the Steering Committee to review the completed Progress Report, and then for th e Steering Committee to report back to the full Committee whether or not there is a will to invite the Department to appear before the Committee to discuss the Progress Report and any outstanding recommendations.

Reports Considered and Passed Your Committee considered and passed the following reports as presented: • Province of Manitoba Annual Report and Public Accounts – dated March 31, 2020 • Auditor General's Report – Public Accounts and Other Financial Statement Audits – dated December 2020 • Province of Manitoba Annual Report and Public Accounts – dated March 31, 2021 • Auditor General's Report – Public Accounts and Other Financial Statement Audits – dated December 2021 Mr. Maloway: Madam Speaker, I move, seconded by the honourable member for Flin Flon (MLA Lindsey), that the report of the committee be received.

Motion agreed to. TABLING OF REPORTS Hon. Scott Fielding (Minister of Natural Resources and Northern Development): It's my pleasure to rise today to the Assembly to table the Five -Year Report on the Status of Forestry, April 2016 to March 2021. Thank you. MINISTERIAL STATEMENTS Madam Speaker: The honourable First Minister–and the required 90 minutes notice prior to routine proceedings was provided in accordance with rule 26(2). Would the honour able Premier please proceed with her statement. Special Olympics Awareness Week Hon.

Heather Stefanson (Premier): I rise in the House today to recognize Special Olympics Awareness Week in Manitoba. And I want to recog - nize guests in the gallery tod ay: board chair Duane Brothers; CEO for Special Olympics Manitoba, Jennifer Campbell; athlete Josiah Brothers. Thank– and I want to thank them for being here in the gallery with us today. Nine years ago, I had the privilege of introducing and passing bill 209, The Special Olympics Awareness Week Act, to proclaim the second week of June each year as Special Olympics Awareness Week in our province. It remains one of my greatest honours

2636 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA June 1, 2022 in public life, and I continue to cherish the memory of passing bill 209 unanimously in this House. This year, Special Olympics Awareness Week begins on June 13th, but it has become customary for members of the Legislative Assembly to celebrate just as the legislative session winds down for the summer. Madam Speaker, while th ere was no barbecue outside this year, I was pleased to provide Special O with a virtual greeting on the theme Why I Love Special Olympics Manitoba to mark the occasion.

For 35 years, Special Olympics Manitoba has provided sports programs that enrich the lives of thousands of Manitobans with intellectual disabilities. Over 1,800 Manitobans regularly participate in Special Olympics activities along with over 530 coaches and almost 1,000 volunteers. They have truly become a flagship organization supporting inclusion for Manitobans with intellectual disabilities right across our province. The dedicated police officers involved in the Law Enforcement Torch Run also continue to carry the flame of hope into the opening ceremony of com - petitions here in Manito ba and around the world.

These Guardians of the Flame are truly a beacon of hope and love for so many. Madam Speaker, I love Special Olympics Manitoba because it makes our province more in- clusive for all those who call our province home. Special Olympics Manitoba makes clear to all Manitobans that we must accept everyone and their unique abilities. As their theme states, we must: Accept With No Exception. Our government will continue to do exactly that. * (13:40) I wish all athletes, coaches, staff and volunteers with Special Olympics Manitoba another suc cessful awareness week and all the best in the upcoming events and competitions.

Thank you very much, Madam Speaker. Ms. Nahanni Fontaine (St. Johns): Madam Speaker, we're so excited to celebrate Special Olympics Awareness Week, which recognizes the hard work and dedication of athletes with intellectual disabilities in our province. This year's theme is the same as the last: acceptance with no exceptions. We need to en - sure that there are no bar riers to Special Olympics, and this theme reminds us of the value of these phenomenal Manitobans and what they provide to sport, both in Manitoba and across the world.

Special Olympics Manitoba supports over 1,800 athletes across 18 sports and seven regio ns of our beautiful province. We note how tough it has been on athletes over these last–past years, as much of their program has gone virtual, and we're so excited to watch them get back to competing in person. So, to all of Manitoba's Special Olympians: we honour and congratulate you for all of your accom - plishments and wish you all of the best in your games and competitions in the months to come.

We also want to thank all those who support Special Olympics through fundraising, like 79- year- old Bridgwater resident Tom Creighton, who has been walking virtually across the country since the new year in an effort to raise $100,000 for Special Olympics Manitoba, and has so far walked 900 miles and has raised $35,000. To Tom and all those other phenomenal folks who are raising money and donating to this great cause: miigwech on behalf of our NDP caucus.

Finally, Madam Speaker, we encourage Manitobans to participate in a number of events organized by Special Olympics Manitoba this week, like the Kingsmen [phonetic] outdoor track-and-field meet on June 4th and 5th and the Wolseley golf tournament on June 14th. For more infor mation on that, please reach out to Special Olympics Manitoba. And, once again, on behalf of our NDP caucus, congratulations, and we look forward to seeing the events as we go forward. Miigwech. Mr. Dougald Lamont (St. Boniface): Madam Speaker, I seek leave to speak to the min isterial statement.

Madam Speaker: Does the member have leave to respond to the ministerial statement? [Agreed] Mr. Lamont: It's a real pleasure to speak honouring Special Olympics Awareness Week and their theme, Accept With No Exception: Why I Love Special Olympics. I had a great coach many years ago who had a simple philosophy, which I think is summed up in the values of the Special Olympics, and his philo- sophy was that everybody gets to play. Special Olympics Manitoba has officially been around for 35 years. Former NHL hockey player Ted Irvine brought the concept of Special Olympics to

June 1, 2022 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 2637 Manitoba in the 1970s and it is now recognized as the sport-governing body for individuals with an intel - lectual disability today, as they provide 18 supports to over 1,800 athletes in all seven regions of the province.

And, in parti cular, I want to salute th eir dedi - cation to their values, because Special Olympics Manitoba really walks the talk when it comes to in - clusion and inclusive com munities: acceptance and promoting diversity by honouring what is unique in each individual; empowerment; respect by working in co-operation, col laboration and dignity; and excel - lence by elevating standards and performance.

And I think if there's a single idea that bears promoting and repeating, is it's the idea that no person is a burden, that everyone has something to contribute, and, in making room for that contribution, we're all richer for it. So, thank you to the organizers of the Special Olympics. To the athletes, best of luck. Thank you. Merci. Miigwech. Madam Speaker: Further ministerial statements? The honourable Minister of Families–and I would indicate that the required 90 minutes notice prior to routine proceedings was provided in accordance with rule 26(2).

Would the honourable minister please proceed with her statement. Deaf-Blind Awareness Month Hon. Rochelle Squires (Minister responsible for Accessibility): Imagine not being able to see or hear. It is difficult and yet it is a reality for many people right here in Manitoba. Deaf-blindness is a unique disability that includes the se nsory loss of both sight and hearing. Persons who are deaf -blind face complex barriers that can make it challenging to access services and information they need.

As the Minister responsible for Accessibility, I am pleased to proclaim June 2022 as deaf -blind awareness month in Manitoba to raise our under - standing and awareness of deaf -blindness and to re - cognize and celebrate the contributions that many Manitobans who are deaf -blind make in their communities. The Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, The Human Rights Code and The Accessibility for Manitobans Act all reflect on an abiding commitment to equitable access for all persons with disabilities.

Accessibility is a priority for this gov ernment, and, in recent years, we've made significant strides in support of persons with disabilities. We continue to work towards becoming a province that is fully ac - cessible and inclusive, where all abilities are valued, diversity and independence are celebrated, barriers are removed and human rights are protected. The public is often unaware of the barriers faced by people who are deaf -blind and the measures that can be taken to reduce and remove these barriers.

We collectively have the responsibility to do all we can to raise awareness and ensure that all individuals can communicate, access infor mation and make choices so that they can achieve equal opportunities, indepen- dence and full economic and social inclusion. Today, in the gallery, I am happy to welcome staff and volunteers from the Resource Ce ntre for Manitobans who are Deaf-Blind–welcome here today. I would like to acknowledge and thank them for their work in providing and promoting opportunities for independence, dignity and empowerment for Manitobans who are deaf-blind.

The resource centre serves adults who are deaf - blind due to accident, trauma, disease or condition. And since 1996, the resource centre has provided the resources, advocacy and supports such as intervener services, co-ordinating community activities and link- ing other individuals to other community resources. To all those who are experiencing deaf-blindness, we recog nize the challenges that you face, and our government remains committed to removing those barriers so you may achieve a full destiny. Thank you for being here today.

MLA Malaya Marcelino (Notre Dame): June 2022 marks deaf and blind awareness month, an oppor - tunity for us all to raise awareness about the distinct experience of Manitobans who are deaf and blind. Deaf-blindness is a unique disability that incorporates the loss of both sight and hearing. People observe this event in the month of June because it is the birth month of Helen Keller, an extra- ordinary advocate who lived with deaf-blindness. Recently, the Manitoba NDP caucus met with folks from Manitoba Possible, Barrier -Free, Abilities Manitoba, Manitoba Supported Employment Network and other folks.

They impressed upon us the need for this government to champion the spirit of The

2638 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA June 1, 2022 Accessibility for Manitobans Act, which is landmark legislation which was passed unanimously by this House in 2013. Right now, this gov ernment is falling short –no meaningful consultation and very limited imple men- tation of this act. Issues top of mind for dis ability advocates are ensuring em ployment oppor tunities, proper enforcement of the compliance framework and significantly updating 10-year-old building codes. Manitobans who are deaf -blind can thrive in - dependently with the right supports in place.

Manitobans with disabilities are looking fo r invest- ments in affordable housing, meaningful implementa- tion of the accessibility act, increased employment opportunities through the RFP process and ensuring public spaces are accessible by persons with dis - abilities. On behalf of my NDP colleagues and I, we re - cognize and celebrate the contributions that deaf-blind Manitobans make in their com munities, and we will always stand up for all Manitobans with disabilities. Thank you, Madam Speaker. * (13:50) Hon. Jon Gerrard (River Heights): Madam Speaker, I ask leave to speak to the minister's statement.

Madam Speaker: Does the member have leave to respond to the statement? [Agreed] Mr. Gerrard: Madam Speaker, June, this month, deaf-blind awareness month, is an important time for us to pay attent ion to those who are deaf -blind; individuals with a substantial degree of both hearing and vision loss, the combination of which results in significant difficulties in accessing infor mation, in pursuing educational, vocational, recreational and social goals. It's estimated that there are about 460,000 deaf - blind individuals in Canada. This is a very substantial number.

My father, in the last few years of his life, lost both his sight and his hearing, so I have some personal experience of the impact of losing both sight and hearing. He was legally blind as a result of acute macular degeneration. His hearing was almost zero without a hearing aid. His hearing loss may have been in part a result of his experiencing a months -long bombard- ment at Anzio in Italy during the Second World War. The latter is a reminder of the side effects of war and of what is happening today in Ukraine.

His last few years, when he was deaf -blind, were very frustrating ones for him, though he compensated and he persevered in spite of the challenges. Doing what we can to help those who are deaf - blind, or at risk of becoming deaf -blind, is vital. It is one reason why I've been calling on the government repeatedly to address the long wait -lists for cataract surgery, and why I've been reading so many petitions to ensure those who are older have access to cochlear implants and hearing aids when they need them.

Those who are deaf but do not have access to cochlear implants or hearing aids are at higher risk of becoming isolated and, later on, of having dementia. For those like Helen Keller who was born deaf - blind, support is critical to enable them to pursue their educational, vocational, recreational and social life goals. We must never stop doing all we can to provide the best support possible for those who are deaf-blind. Madam Speaker: Further ministerial statements?

The honourable Minister of Advanced Education, Skills and Immigration–and I would indicate that the required 90 minutes notice prior to routine pro - ceedings was provided in accordance with rule 26(2). Would the honour able minister please proceed with his statement. Ukrainian Refugees in Manitoba–Update Hon. Jon Reyes (Minister of Advanced Education, Skills and Immigration): Madam Speaker, I rise in the House today to update all members on the Ukraine situation.

Our government has taken action since day one, and I would like to take this opportunity to reiterate that Russia's unprovoked attack on Ukraine is tragic and our government condemns the events taking place right now. We are proud that the first of three charter flights carrying 328 Ukrainian citizens and 39 pets, including a hamster named Chups, landed safely on May 23rd into the Winnipeg international airport. While this was the first round of Ukrainian citizens coming to Winnipeg, we welcome more arrivals in the future.

The work to co-ordinate these arrivals was made possible by the leadership of our Premier (Mrs. Stefanson) and that of the Ukrainian Refugee Task Force and the Deputy Minister St eering Committee. Many community partners, such as the

June 1, 2022 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 2639 Ukrainian Canadian Congress, Manitoba, under the steady leadership of Joanne Lewandoski, Nick Krawetz, their staff and volunteers, helped to facilitate the safe arrival at every stage, from the airport, to the welcome reception centre, to integration into the community. The welcome reception centre, led by staff from the Emergency Measures Organi zation and the Department of Families, has been second to none.

To date, there are nearly 1,500 visits sinc e its opening, and currently over 160 families and individuals are being supported with temporary accommodations, access to a Manitoba Health card and a SIN number and connecting with public health nurses and volun- teers from the Ukrainian Canadian Congress. As well, eligible Ukrainians may also apply to our government's Temporary Assistance Program if they do not have access to other sources of income.

Benefits from this program will provide short -term monthly income for basic needs, including transitions to long-term community rental housing and access to health benefits not otherwise covered, such as pre - scription drugs, dental and optical benefits. Madam Speaker, we are taking a whole- of- government approach to the Ukraine situation since the war started in February.

To date, over $21 million has been committed, including $800,000 in direct humanitarian aid; over $5 million in newcomer sup - port funding; waived the $500 application fee for Ukrainian nationals; and agreed to cover the costs of medical exams for Ukrainian newcomers to have them update their work permits and get employed in health care, child care and agriculture. As well, the funding commitment has gone to- wards mental health supports for Ukrainian citizens, multiple expansions of the re fugee reception centre and accommodations, and monies towards the various health-care services.

I also want to thank the many post -secondary institutions who have stepped up during the human- itarian crisis. Not only did they handle the pandemic, but they also pivoted to offer supports for Ukrainian students such as providing domestic tuition parity; offering student scholarships and bursaries; establish- ing an emergency support fund for tuition, textbooks and meal plans; and offered deferred fee payments for those affected by the war. On a personal level, for me, to see first -hand the stories of many Ukrainian families arriving to Winnipeg was very heartwarming.

On two occasions at the welcome reception centre, I heard from many individuals say how fri endly our province was, how resourceful the staff and volunteers were with any questions they had and the leadership our government did with providing a range of provincial support ser - vices once they arrived. And at a recent tour of an immigrant settlem ent organization, the Ukrainian individuals and families I met were also in awe of our friendly Manitoba wel - come and our nice weather. I did not tell them about our Manitoba winters, but I know they will enjoy our winters very much.

Our caring and compas sionate government will continue to welcome as many Ukrainians as possible. We will continue working closely with all govern - ment departments, community partners, as well as Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada. And I know that many households and communities across Manitoba will do their part and offer up their homes and hearts to many Ukrainian citizens. I know that the members opposite like to criticize when they have no plan for the Ukraine situation, but we on this side of the House do have a plan, and over the past four months, all Manitobans have seen our plan in action.

We are a government that is taking action for the betterment of Ukrainian citizens wish - ing to come to Manitoba, the home of hope, Madam Speaker. Thank you. Mr. Mark Wasyliw (Fort Garry): Madam Speaker, the Russian invasion of Ukraine continues. Putin's illegal war has unleashed untold suffering onto inno- cent people. Ukrainians persevere against this horrible invasion, determined to protect their homeland and those they love. They are defying all expectations in their successful defence of their country.

And as Ukrainian families flee the country as refugees, Manitobans are stepping up to welcome them into our province. We've seen fundraisers hosted to raise support, fa milies renovating their basements to give new arrivals a place to stay and resettlement experts working hard to help these families adjust to a new place and a new language.

As more Ukrainians arrive in the coming weeks, the Manitoba NDP reiterates our call for measures that can be taken to help support them, like recruiting more refugee resettlement co-ordinators, increasing human- itarian aid to Ukraine and creating an all -party com- mittee to help plan for the long-term resettlement.

2640 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA June 1, 2022 As this Legislature breaks, we'll continue to sup- port Ukrainians and their future, both in Eastern Europe and in Manitoba. Slava Ukraini. [Glory to Ukraine.] Heroyam slava. [Glory to the heroes.] Ms. Cindy Lamoureux (Tyndall Park): Madam Speaker, I ask for leave to respo nd to the minister's statement. Madam Speaker: Does the member have leave to respond to the statement? [Agreed] Ms. Lamoureux: I want to begin by thanking the minister for sharing this update with us before we rise for the summer.

Before I get into the update on displaced Ukrainians, I also want to mention the refugees who have come here from Afghanistan. Several of these individuals have joined us today up in the gallery. Madam Speaker, there are over 180,000 Manitobans with Ukrainian heritage, and that is in part why our Province continues to openly welcome all of those who have been displaced by this unjust war and are resettling here in Canada. Now, as people begin resettling, there is so much we can be doing to support them. And by supporting these individuals, we are also supporting a free, demo- cratic and independent Ukraine.

So, Madam Speaker, people may be asking, how else can we support? Well, I am very pleased that this government im- plemented the request we made on May 18th to have medical exams covered. This contributes to ensuring every displaced individual has continued access to health care. * (14:00) In addition to health care, we can help with edu- cation, child care, jobs and food security, and all new- comers must also be supported with a sense of secur- ity, safety and community. These are all necessities that can help with–that we can help with provincially for a smoother transition.

And just before wrapping up, I want to encourage those who are here in Manitoba to find ways to sup - port individuals as they resettle; and if you are a Ukrainian and are considering coming to Canada, consider exploring Manitoba Operation Blue Skies. Thank you. Introduction of Guests Madam Speaker: Prior to moving into members' statements, we have some guests in the gallery that I would like to introduce to you before they do leave the gallery.

And we have seated in the gallery from École Swan River school 16 grade 7 and 8 students under the direction of Chris Chmelowski, and this group is located in the constituency of the honourable member for Swan River (Mr. Wowchuk). So, welcome to you, in the Manitoba Legislature. MEMBERS' STATEMENTS Daniel Joseph Lalama Mr. Obby Khan (Fort Whyte): Today gives me great joy to not only highlight a resident in my riding of Fort Whyte, but to highlight someone who is a living example of –with hard work, perseverance, dedication and passion you can reach your dream. Daniel Joseph Lalama is living proof of this.

DJ grew up playing football for the Fort Garry Lions at the young age of seven. He attended St. Paul's High School where he played hockey, football, student council and was on the academic honour roll. He went on to attend University of Manitoba from 2012 to 2016, where he was a rare gem –and I mean rare gem –where he was an academic and athletic scholar: he was a conference all -star, All-Canadian, Academic All-Canadian and the founder of the Bisons give-back initiative; he has the record for most tackles in a game and a season; he's the CIS defensive player of the year, and much more.

From there DJ went on to battle an uphill–or big- hill battle–making it to the CFL. He was too short, too slow and not strong enough, they said. He was the last pick by the Edmonton Elks in 2016 and everyone had written him off. But DJ proved all the naysayers wrong, then went on to play another five years in the CFL. DJ lived his dream by playing for his hometown Blue Bombers in 2019, running onto the field here with his proud mom and dad, Donna and Dave Lalama, in the stands, as they were cheering him on there and they are here today. DJ has a heart of gold and his desire to give back is always there.

With COVID 2019 disrupting what was the prime of DJ's career, DJ made a tough decision to walk away

June 1, 2022 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 2641 from his passion a few weeks ago and move on to the next

chapter of his life. For this, I want to recognize DJ for the sacrifice he made to get to where he is in the CFL, but also know when it was time time to walk away–the toughest and saddest day in an athlete's career–and DJ did it with humility, grace and for the love of the game. In the next

chapter of his life, DJ was able to fill the rest of his heart with the love of his life, Carley, who he married this off-season. DJ, you are the living proof of what hard wor k can do and I'm proud to shine a light on you for all you've accomplished. Madam Speaker, I would ask that my colleagues stand and recognize DJ for his accomplishment as a former professional athlete but, more importantly, for his role in the community and as a positive role model for thousands of kids to achieve their dreams. John Morrisseau and Ovide Mercredi Ms.

Amanda Lathlin (The Pas-Kameesak): It is my great honour today to recognize two remarkable individuals and constituents, John Morrissea u and Ovide William Mercredi. Both were appointed to the Order of Canada by our Governor General Mary Simon on last December, which is one of the country's highest civilian honours to recognize outstanding achievements, dedication to the community and se rvice to the nation. John and Ovide perfectly exemplify the order's Latin motto, which translated means they desire a better country.

John Morrisseau is a residential school survivor and esteemed Métis leader from Grand Rapids, Manitoba. He has done so much in his 82 years that when he learned late last year that he had been ap - pointed to the Order of Canada, he couldn't –and still can't–pinpoint why he was nominated. Well, John has led a life of service as a Canadian Ranger, member of the Canadian Armed Forces, as a politician and a founding member and president of the Manitoba Métis Federation. John worked as an assist- ant deputy minister in the Howard Pawley NDP government and later became deputy minister of Northern Affairs.

John is now retired but sti ll active as a member of the Indian Residential School Survivor Committee. Ovide Mercredi is a member and former chief of Misipawistik Cree Nation. He was appointed to the Order of Canada for his leadership and advocacy of Indigenous rights and non-violence. Ovide has a law degree from the University of Manitoba and was elected regional chief of the Assembly of First Nations for Manitoba in 1989.

Having specialized in constitutional law, Ovide became a Cree–a key strategist for the assembly during the time of Meech Lake Accord constitutional reform discussions and had a strong leadership role in resolving the Oka Crisis. Later, he was elected as national chief for the Assembly of First Nations and played a major role in the Charlottetown Accord constitut ional discussions. In addition to serving as a lawyer and a politician, Ovide is a noted author.

Please join me in congratulating John Morrisseau and Ovide Mercredi, who are exceptional men and leaders in our province, and thank them for their ser - vice and tireless dedication in advance–to advance the rights of Indigenous people. Ekosi. Jamaican Independence from the UK Hon. Audrey Gordon (Minister of Health): Madam Speaker, I'm honoured to rise in the Chamber to celebrate the Diamond Jubilee of Jamaica's independ- ence from the United Kingdom.

It was at midnight on August 6, 1962, in the National Stadium in Jamaica, that the Union Jack, the flag of the British Empire that once ruled Jamaica, was lowered for the final time. In its place, the flag of Jamaica, with its bold colours of yellow, black and green, was raised, and so, too, were the hopes and dreams of Jamaicans around the world at the birth of their new independence. Since then, Jamaica has come a long way. Our presence on the world stage in politics, arts, theatre, sports, music and fashion has been nothing short of magnificent.

Today, Canada and Jamaica benefit from a rich and diverse bilateral relationship, founded on our shared democratic heritage, common values and strong people -to-people ties. We share a large and vibrant Canadian Jamaican community of over 300,000 people, and every one of them has a story. It is these people, their families and their journey that make this anniversary's theme all that more impactful: Reigniting a Nation for Greatness. Here in Manitoba, we are the proud home of over 4,000 Jamaicans, and after 60 years, Madam Speaker, Jamaica's national motto Out of Many , One People

2642 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA June 1, 2022 stands as true for us all, now more than ever. It is this same tradition of unity in diversity that is so treasured in Canada. I would like to acknowledge Her Excellency Sharon Miller, Jamaican High Commissioner, who is viewing online. Your steadfast commitment to strengthening our bilateral relationship has been an inspiration to us all. Madam Speaker, I am also pleased to welcome many members of Manitoba's Jamaican community here in the gallery. Today we have with us Dr. Lois Stewart-Archer, honorary consul for Jamaica in Winnipeg; Mr.

Tony Beach, the president of the Jamaican Association of Manitoba; Mrs. Mavis McLaren, past president; and Donna Taylor, president of the Afro- Caribbean Association of Manitoba. Every Jamaican living at home and abroad has made a considerable contribution to helping put Jamaica's name on the map. To everyone in the Jamaican community, as you prepare to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the independence of Jamaica, may you continue to be a symbol of Jamaica's strength, the hope, endurance and successes.

Madam Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in recognizing the 60th anniversary of Jamaica's in - dependence. [interjection] Madam Speaker: Order. The honourable Minister of Health (Ms. Gordon). Ms. Gordon: Madam Speaker, I ask for leave to table the full list of guests' names so that they m ay be included in Hansard. * (14:10) Madam Speaker: Is there leave to–[interjection] Oh. The member does not need leave. She just needs to give it to Hansard.

Ayodele Abiodun, Mildred Beach, Tony Beach, Carmel Chambers, Diedre Coleman, Diandre Douglas, Azariah Francis, La-Toya Gibbons, Patrice Gilman, Shana Goodridge, Kishaun Haffenden, Neville Hamilton, Dr. Karl B. Koth, Bishop Calvert Layne, Mavis McLaren, Natayla Petrekin, Shereese Porter, Keisha Powell-Ewers, Diana Raynor, Kamta Singh, Dr. Lois Stewa rt-Archer, Donna Taylor, Kareen Thompson, Nathalie Waite East Side Eagles Football Club Mr.

Matt Wiebe (Concordia): I rise today to con- gratulate the East Side Eagles Football Club on their 50th anniversary of bringing people together in north- east Winnipeg through sport. The East Side Eagles were founded in 1972 as a single team playing out of the Chalmers Community club. In 1985, Chalmers burned down and the Eagles moved to Anderson Park as they expanded to include teams of younger ages. In 1995, they moved again to their current field at Kildonan-East and currently field seven teams, ages seven to 30 years, of all genders.

Over time, the field has been significantly upgraded to include artificial turf, which has been widely used by athletes across the province, especially in a wet season like we've had this spring. Throughout it all, the East Side Eagles Football Club has continued to represent their strong working- class roots by ensuring all youth in northeast Winnipeg feel a sense of belonging in their com- munity through sport. A big part of their success has been the many volunteers and coaches throughout the years–coaches like Al Leitch, who was recently inducted into the Football Manitoba Hall of Fame.

Al began with the East Side Eagles in 1988 as a coach for his kids' team and continued to coach for 10 years. He went on to serve for 17 years as the club rep for the Manitoba Minor Football Association and was instrumental in increasing involvement. Al has always believed that football should b e accessible to everyone, no matter your gender, phys - ical ability, income or background. During the five years he spent as president of the Manitoba Minor Football Association, they saw an increase from 1,200 to 2,100 players. Through it all, Al has 'remaided' grounded in why he initially got involved.

For him, it was–always been about the kids and finding ways to get them on the field to play, no matter the barriers and obstacles in the way. Madam Speaker, on behalf of the Manitoba Legislature and in particular, at least a couple of for - mer players here in the Legislature, former Eagles, I want to congratulate and thank Al Leitch and all the coaches and volunteers over the 50 years of East Side Eagles who have made football a point of pride for our community.

June 1, 2022 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 2643 We look forward to the next 50 years and beyond. Thank you, Madam Speaker. Sherry Janzen Hon. Cameron Friesen (Minister of Finance): Madam Speaker, I rise to recog nize Sherry Janzen, CEO of Salem Home in Winkler. Raised in Saskatchewan, Sher ry worked as a health-care attendant in a Saskatchewan nursing home. She studied gerontology at Wichita State. And she came to Salem Home in 1991, bringing a vision of a relationship-centred care facility.

Salem has grown over 50 years to be leader in providing long- term home care focused on Christ - centred care, compassion and dignity. Bringing deli - berate meaning and purpose to the residents' lives has been Sherry's and her team's mission. Sherry's dedi - cated her life to residents and the families that she's served. People speak about her using words like men- tor, leader, influencer, innovator, cheerleader, teacher and confidante. James Peters, the board chair, says Sherry's biggest priority has been the residents, that they would live in a home -like environment with meaning and purpose.

And under her leadership, Salem has been on the cutting edge of PCH practices. The relationship- centred care model she helped implement with the QUIS-EH-O measurement tool helps residents flour - ish and received the leading practice designation from Accreditation Canada in 2012. Salem is–has the only behavioural treatment unit in the province. They were the first to utilize micro - fibre cleaning systems. They're an early adopter of technology. They decentralized dining. They pioneer- ed innovative models like DementiAbility and spiritual-care volunteer program.

Sherry even found a robotic dog on the Internet and is in the process of com missioning it for use by residents. People say it's not safe to give Sherry a magazine because stuff ends up being bought and put in the facility. Sherry, your commitment, compassion and dedi- cation to the residents of Salem Home these 31 years is to be commended. Throughout the pandemic, you remained strong in the face of uncerta inty, adversity and challenging community conditions. I have appre- ciated our meetings and discussions on policy, PCHs, fundings and care models.

Your retirement is just around the corner, and we wish you well. And also we wish you well in your new role as a member of the group–the advisory group on seniors for the province of Manitoba. Thank you, Sherry, for a lifetime of service. Introduction of Guests Madam Speaker: Prior to oral questions, we have some guests that I would like to introduce to you. I would like to draw the attention of all honour - able members to the public gallery, where we have with us today the 2022-2023 legislative pages who are here to observe proceedings. And we look forward to welcoming you in the fall.

Also in the public gallery, we have with us refugees from Afghanistan and members of the Winnipeg Afghan community, who are the guests of the honour able member for River Heights (Mr. Gerrard). And on behalf of all members here we welcome you to our Manitoba Legislature. * * * Madam Speaker: It is also now time to say goodbye to our last two pages. And one of our pages, Abrianna, is serving her last day in the Chamber today, and I wanted to share some of her comments with the House: I am very grateful to have been chosen as a provincial page this past year.

It has been an amazing opportunity that I'll never forget. I've got to meet so many incred ible people. I now have a greater appreciation for the legis- lative process here in Manitoba. I admire all the h ard work and dedication each and every one of you puts in to make our province a better place every day. I will be graduating this June from Collège Belivue [phonetic], a French immersion high school, and plan to attend the Asper School of Business at the University of Manitoba this upcoming fall.

You have inspired me to some day consider a career in politics and to continue all the good work that has been done to improve the lives of Manitobans. I have profound gratitude and respect for each and ever y one of you, and I thank you again for making my time so memorable. Introduction of Guests Madam Speaker: Abrianna is joined today by her parents, Jeri-Lynn and Kevin Graham, brother, Ben, and grandmother, Carol Kreitz. * * *

2644 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA June 1, 2022 Madam Speaker: And we have Chelsea Capellan, who is serving her last day in the Chamber today, and I wanted to share some of her comments with the House. Chelsea Capellan is a young woman who will be graduating from Springs Christian Academy this year with the intention of pursuing a degree in psychology at the Univer sity of Manitoba.

In the years to come, she aspires to contribute to her com munity by being able to provide them with services that will positively impact their mental health, a matter that has been discussed in the Legislative Chamber numerous times. By being a page, she has developed a new - found understanding of the legis lative processes in Manitoba, and she thoroughly enjoyed being able to assist the MLAs, even if it just meant delivering a coffee, tea or retrieving an important document. Her most memorable day was when the member for Burrows (Mr.

Brar) acknowledged the sacrifices his parents made when his family first arrived in Manitoba. As an immigrant herself, she appre ciated his acknowl edgement of the sacrifices immigrant parents make in order to provide their children a life full of opportunities. She is grateful for the opportun- ity of being able to work in parliament alongside the Speaker, Deputy Speaker, legis lative staff and the MLAs, and will use this experience to better serve her community.

So, on behalf of all of us, we wish our two pages all the best as they venture forward into their new path that will take them forward into their new lives. ORAL QUESTIONS Surgical Backlog Timeline to Clear MLA Uzoma Asagwara (Union Station): Madam Speaker, I just want to take a moment to welcome our guests in the Chamber from Afghanistan, and I hope that they're settling into Manitoba –the big Manitoba family–very well, and to congratulate our pages on all their hard work. They're amazing; it's been an absolute joy to have them in the Chamber.

There are tens of thousands of Manitobans wait - ing for surgeries and tests, and Doctors Manitoba's up- date is con cerning. It shows that there are over 166,000 Manitobans waiting for essential health care. Manitobans are waiting in pain and are demanding accountability. That's why we've called on this gov - ernment to set a date to clear the surgical backlog. It's a simple request. It's a choice this government can make to be accountable. Will the Premier show leadership? Will the Premier set a date to clear the surgical backlog today? * (14:20) Hon.

Heather Stefanson (Premier): Madam Speaker, as this is the last day of session, I just want to thank you and all the table officers, the Clerk and the pages and everyone who has made this Chamber function and run throughout the session. Thank you all so much, including our Hansard staff , as well ; thank you so much for that. When it comes t o the member's question, one thing I'd like to point out is that I think Manitobans want to know that we're moving in the right direction, and I know that Doctors Manitoba has recently in- dicated that they know that we are tackling the surgical and diagnos tic backlogs.

They see that we have peaked and that we're moving in the right direction. That is the the most important thing, that we ensure that Manitobans are getting the surgeries and the diagnostics when they need them. Madam Speaker: The honourable member for Union Station, on a supplementary question. MLA Asagwara: Madam Speaker, the problem is that over 166,000 Manitobans are not getting the surgeries and tests that they need when they need them. It's disappointing that the Premier has chosen not to set a date to clear the surgical backlog.

We've learned through public reporting there are more Manitobans waiting for surgery than there were just a few months ago, and those Manitobans are waiting longer for hip, knee, cataract surgeries and other im portant tests. These Manitobans deserve to know when they'll be able to get their surgeries and essential medical services. So will the Premier show some leadership today and set a date to clear the surgical backlog? Mrs. Stefanson: Well, Madam Sp eaker, we have a plan to tackle the surgical and diag nostic backlogs in Manitoba.

That include–that is included in our budget that we intro duced in the Manitoba –Chamber some weeks ago. It includes $110 million that will be in - vested towards decreasing the surgical and diagnostic backlogs. We know that this has resulted as a result of COVID-19. We know that it's not unique to Manitoba. I had–I was at a Western Premiers' Conference last

June 1, 2022 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 2645 week, Madam Speaker. Everyone is having chal - lenges as a result of COVID when it comes to surgical and diagnostic backlogs. I just want to thank Doctors Manitoba for recog- nizing that we're making progress. Madam Speaker: The honourable member for Union Station, on a final supplementary. MLA Asagwara: Madam Speaker, the diag nostic tests and surgical backlog –Dr. Matear has actually already made clear those backlogs started before the pandemic. Those lists were growing before COVID ever reached Manitoba's borders.

And the Premier should simply set a date to clear that surgical backlog. That way, tens of thousands of Manitobans waiting for hip, knee and cataract sur - geries would know when they could get the pro- cedures that they need. That way, the Premier would be accountable to Manitobans and this House. It's a choice the Premier has to make. Will the Premier show leadership and set a date to clear the surgical and diagnostic backlog today? Mrs.

Stefanson: Well, Madam Speaker, we are making some headway in the right direction here, and I just want to thank all of those who are working tire- lessly on our surgical and diagnostic task force. They are working day in, day out to ensure that we find those innovative solutions to ensure that citizens of Manitoba are able to get those surgeries and diagnos- tic procedures when they need them. We have invested $110 million, Madam Speaker, in surgical and diagnos tic backlogs. That was in our recent budget.

I'll remind members opposite, what did they do when we are investing record amounts of money in surgical and diagnos tic backlogs? They voted against it. We will take no lessons from members opposite. Education System Funding Concerns Mr. Matt Wiebe (Concordia): Madam Speaker, after spending $1.5 million on their failed bill 64 campaign, the PCs have now hire d yet another consultant, this time for $344,000. This time the focus will be on education funding. Well, we're prepared to save the Premier (Mrs. Stefanson) a few bucks here and just tell her what Manitobans want.

They want smaller class sizes and they want no more cuts to education. Will the Premier start listening to the people of Manitoba, or is just going to be more of the same from this government? Hon. Wayne Ewasko (Minister of Education and Early Childhood Learning): I appreciate the q ues- tion from my friend from Concordia who is –must have been a little bit of a opposition shuffle over there, Madam Speaker, and –as he's the new critic for Education. Just to put some facts on the record, Madam Speaker, we have had record investments in education over the last two years: $327 million.

That's a 17.2 per cent increase over the last two years – 17.2 per cent. That's even more than the NDP got in their votes in the Fort Whyte by-election. Madam Speaker: The honourable member for Concordia, on a supplementary question. Mr. Wiebe: Madam Speaker, the reality is is that school funding is nowhere close to keeping up with either inflation or with the higher enrolments. So, while this minister wants to get cheeky, he should know that these cuts ha ve been hurting kids in our classrooms. Class sizes have grown under this minister's watch; 28 educators in Seven Oaks have been let go; 11 in Brandon.

The minister doesn't need to spend hundreds of thousands of dollars on an external con- sultant just to learn that his gov ernment is on the wrong track when it comes to education funding. Will the minister just start to listen to educators, to parents, to students, to people across this province and stop cutting education across Manitoba? Mr. Ewasko: Madam Speaker, $327 million over the last two years, 17.2 per cent increase. It's unfortunate that this member from –or, from Concordia –and he might as well join the member from Transcona, be - cause they need to both stand up and apologize today.

They co ntinue to talk about certain things that school divisions are making certain decisions within their school divisions, Madam Speaker. I table the document today that Brandon School Division are open for busi ness. They're hiring. I'm tabling the documents today. It's the member who needs to apologize today and put on the record that he's going to apologize for the misinformation that he continues to put on the record, Madam Speaker. Some Honourable Members: Oh, oh.

2646 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA June 1, 2022 Madam Speaker: Order. The honourable member for Concordia, on a final supplementary. Mr. Wiebe: Well, the minister doesn't need to take it from me. The Auditor General went ahead and sur - veyed school leadership. [interjection] Madam Speaker: Order. Mr. Wiebe: The over whelming majority of them don't believe this government will do what's right and help our kids, especially as they recover from the pandemic. And at the end of the day, this gov ernment has broken trust with families and with educators. They're asking for a new approach.

They want to see a gov - ernment that stands behind them to provide smaller class sizes and resources that keep up with inflation and rising enrolment. Will the minister listen to the Auditor General, to educators, to school leadership, to parents and stu - dents across this province and stop cutting teachers in our schools? Mr. Ewasko: Madam Speaker, there's so much false information that that member just put on the record, I might have to ask for leave to continue talking for the remainder of question period today.

In fact, the Auditor General said himself that the Department of Edu cation and Early Child hood Learning, Madam Speaker, led an effective kindergarten-to-grade-12 system–[interjection] Madam Speaker: Order. Mr. Ewasko: –response to COVID-19. We've got the action plan. We've got Mamàhtawisiwin. We've got the learning for –the framework for learning. We've got so many of our education partners all across – [interjection] Madam Speaker: Order. Mr. Ewasko: –this great province of ours com - mending this government for moving forward and try- ing to create success for all learners.

I just wish the member for Concordia would stand up and apologize today. Private Liquor Sales Public Service Revenue Mr. Adrien Sala (St. James): Madam Speaker, the PCs are privatizing the sale of alcohol in this province. Information provided by gov ernment shows al - cohol sold by private providers will take 11 per cent of each product sold from public services. That's mil- lions of dollars less for health a nd education, and millions more for private corporations.

Those are dol- lars that should go to help pay for our hospitals and our schools. * (14:30) Why is the gov ernment taking millions from public services? Hon. Scott Fielding (Minister responsible for the Manitoba Liquor and Lotteries Corporation): Our government is about standing up for consumers, Madam Speaker. We know that Manitobans want convenience, we know that Manitobans want choice and we know that Manitobans also want a modernized system, and that is the difference between our govern- ment and the NDP.

We have a plan to make life more easy and acces- sible for many Manitobans when they're doing their shopping. This means over 70 different locations in Manitoba where people can buy their alcohol just in Winnipeg alone, and over 170 different locations in rural Manitoba. That will make life more convenient for Manitobans. Madam Speaker: The honour able member for St. James, on a supplementary question. Mr. Sala: Madam Speaker, the PC government's own information shows millions will be lost for health and education because of the gov ernment's plans.

Retail liquor products have a markup of over 11 per cent, which will now be given to private providers instead of supporting services that Manitobans rely on. That's a tre mendous transfer of public wealth. These are funds for our hospitals and for our schools. Why is the gov ernment taking millions from public services? Mr. Fielding: The member is just wrong. We know rig ht now that over 70 per cent of the volume of liquor is sold in the private sector right now, Madam Speaker. That's choice that's there. What Manitobans will get with this new legislation is more convenience.

If you're in the city of Winnipeg, over 70 different locations to buy your wine, spirits and other pro- ducts like this. Same thing in rural Manitoba, Madam Speaker: over 169 different locations where Manitobans can go. What that means is convenience,

June 1, 2022 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 2647 it means better choice and it means a more modern - ized system like other provinces. Madam Speaker: The honour able member for St. James, on a final supplementary. Mr. Sala: Madam Speaker, the minister is counting every drop of wine and beer sold at restaurants as part of that 70 per cent. We're talking about alcohol sold in our liquor commissions. This government is trying to mislead Manitobans. Retail liquor products have a markup of over 11 per cent. We're talking about millions of dollars or more.

These are funds for public benefit for our schools, our hospitals and our roads. Manitobans de - serve to know how much revenue is being lost. Will the minister table the documents? How much public money will soon go to private benefit? Mr. Fielding: This is some thing–legislation that we know Manitobans want. They want a more modern- ized system, Madam Speaker. They want more choice. They want more convenience when they're buying their alcohol products. We know that the liquor com missions are – [interjection] Madam Speaker: Order. Mr.

Fielding: –Liquor Marts are doing a very good job and Manitobans love the exper iences. What we want is to make sure there's a more modernized system and there's even enhanced services and sup - ports for Manitobans when they make their choice of where they buy alcohol. That's what our plan is. We want to know what the NDP's plan is. Violence Against MMIWG2S People Request for Action Plan to Address Ms. Nahanni Fontaine (St. Johns): Within the last three weeks, Madam Speaker, we have lost Rebecca Contois, age 24; Doris Trout, age 25; and Tessa Perrier [phonetic]–Perry, age 31, who have all been murdered.

On behalf of our NDP caucus, our pro- found and deepest condol ences to each of their fam - ilies and the communities. The loss of these women illustrates the continued epidemic levels of violence against Indigenous women, girls and two- spirited. I, alongside the Indigenous collective com munity here in Manitoba, are in creasingly frustrated and disappointed by the lack of response by this PC caucus and, in pa rticular, by the new Premier (Mrs. Stefanson). This is a crisis. Will the Premier actually start addressing the crisis of MMIWG2S today? Hon.

Rochelle Squires (Minister responsible for the Status of Women): On behalf of our government, we also do extend our condolences to the families and the loved ones, for these women and their lives who were tragically taken all too soon. Our gov ernment recognizes that gender -based violence and intimate partner violence is a significant threat facing women in this province, and particularly that Indigenous women are dis proportionately repre- sented.

That's why I was very honoured the other day to host Diane Redsky from the Ma Mawi Wi Chi Itata, who came to support a piece of legis lation that this government introduced that will put greater tools in the hands of people to protect them selves against violence and greater tools for all of com munity, including law enforcement, to ensure that we can put an end to these tragic deaths. Madam Speake r: The honourable member for St. Johns, on a supplementary question. Ms.

Fontaine: The murders of Rebecca, Doris and Tessa should be a cause for concern for this PC gov - ernment, for all communities and, quite frankly, for all Manitobans. I cannot stress this enough, that this is an ongoing genocide of Indigenous women, girls and two- spirited. We, as Indigenous women, should be able to live safely and wholly in our communities and be able to thrive. There should be some kind of sense of urgency on be half of the PC caucus to address this issue in a com prehensive and strategic manner, Madam Speaker. And yet, we see nothing.

Will the Premier finally commit to taking urgent action on the issue of missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls and two-spirited today? Hon. Alan Lagimodiere (Minister of Indigenous Reconciliation and Northern Relations): MMIWG continues to be a pressing and extremely im portant issue. And part of this is intimate partner violence. This is why I'm so pleased and prou d of my col- leagues, the members for Riel and Steinbach, on their work in introducing Clare's Law before the House and for increasing awareness of intimate partner violence for all Manitobans.

2648 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA June 1, 2022 Madam Speaker: The honourable member for St. Johns, on a final supplementary. Ms. Fontaine: Last night, the member for Point Douglas (Mrs. Smith) attended a vigil that had hundreds of people there in honour of Tessa Perrier [phonetic], including teachers and friends of her children. This is the third vigil in jus t a matter of weeks, Madam Speaker. Vigils come downstream from a series of systemic realities that face Indigenous women, girls and two-spirited and put us more at risk.

For some, we need social safety –social housing and increased and –resources for women' s shelters, who are often forced to turn away Indigenous women and their children, who are still operating at the same levels as 2016. Will the Premier get up in the House today and commit to a com prehensive housing strategy for Indigenous women? Ms. Squires: Following up on a Throne Speech commitment that our Premier had made just this past fall, our government invested more than $5 million in enhanced supports for domestic violence shelters.

A lot of this included operating dollars so that the shelters could increase their capacity so that they could continue to serve the com munity that greatly needs them. And I'd like to remind a–members oppo- site that it was –really disappointed that they voted against those dollars that went into these shelters that are on the front lines of intimate partner violence every day of the year. They voted against that. Paid Sick Leave Request for Program MLA Tom Lindsey (Flin Flon): With the cost of living going up every day, it's more im portant than ever t hat workers have paid sick leave.

Many Manitoba workers are being forced to go to work when they are sick, because they simply can't afford to stay home. Paid sick leave would solve this and keep people safe. The minister can take action today. Will the minister implement a permanent paid sick leave program for Manitoba workers and Manitoba families today? Hon. Reg Helwer (Minister of Labour, Consumer Protection and Government Services): Well, Manitoba's current approach to sick days is consistent with most other jurisdictions.

Now, we pay attention to what's happening in other provinces and, in fact, we were the first to –in– jurisdiction to intro duce paid sick leave through the COVID supports that we had, with the minister of Finance, Mr. Deputy–Madam Speaker. Madam Speaker: The honourable member for Flin Flon, on a supplementary question. MLA Lindsey: This government is far from first in many things when it comes to workers. Minimum wage, for example. * (14:40) Too many Manitobans have to choose between staying home when they're sick or going to work. This is true even more so now. Gas prices are going up. Food prices are going up.

This gov ernment keeps cranking up hydro rates. People can't afford to stay home when they're sick. This government could address this issue today by implementing a paid sick leave program. Will they do so? Mr. Helwer: We–as I said before, we are con sistent with what happens in other jurisdictions. What is not con sistent, Madam Speaker, is the affordability that it is –that we have enabled for Manitobans. Manitoba is a much more affordable pro- vince in which to live than many other juris dictions, thanks to the changes that we have made through several budgets.

Madam Speaker: The honourable membe r for Flin Flon, on a final supplementary. MLA Lindsey: Madam Speaker, I don't know what dream world that minister is living in, but clearly it's not the same world that Manitoba workers are forced to live in without paid sick leave. They can't afford to stay home and pay their bills if they get sick. So, the minister could do the right thing, maybe even lead for a change rather than be dead last all the time in doing the right thing. Will he introduce paid sick leave today? Mr.

Helwer: Well, on May 7th, 2021, Manitoba introduced the Manitoba Pandemic Sick Leave pro - gram, which provides employers with up to $600 per employee for up to five full days of a COVID -19- related sick leave to fill gaps in coverage provided by the federal government.

June 1, 2022 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 2649 This is something that we were the first province in Canada–among the first provinces in Canada to do, Madam Speaker, in addition to all the affordability measures that we have put into place. Vulnerable Indigenous Women and Girls Addiction Treatment and Housing Supports Mrs. Bernadette Smith (Point Douglas): Three Indigenous women were murdered in the last three weeks here in Manitoba. Des perate action is needed now more than ever. This is a life -or-death situation. Much more needs to be done to address homelessness and addiction.

The gov ernment has an op portunity to support people where they are at to make sure that they can get access to the services that they need. Will the minister support a real strategy to address homelessness and addiction today? Hon. Rochelle Squires (Minister responsible for the Status of Women): I would like to thank the nearly 400 Manitobans, including 100 Manitobans with a lived experience in being unsheltered, for their input in our whole -of-government strategy on com - batting homelessness. It was a commit ment that our Premier (Mrs.

Stefanson) had made in the Throne Speech and a commit ment that this gov ernment is going to live up to in addressing the homelessness situation and ensuring that all Manitobans have a– safe, affordable access to a place to call home. Our gov ernment was also very proud to stand with the Clan Mothers and make a signi ficant contri- bution to their healing village, because we believe that more supports need to be done, and the ir model of land-based healing, we believe, will get the right sup- ports to the right individuals.

And we'd like to thank the Clan Mothers Healing Village for the work that they're doing to improve the lives of Indigenous women in the province of Manitoba. Madam Speaker: The honourable member for Point Douglas, on a supplementary question. Mrs. Smith: The recent string of murders shows that not enough is being done to protect Indigenous wo- men and girls in our province. Urgent action is needed today. Two Indigenous women at Tessa's vigil last night approached me and shared that they recently left a domestic abusive relationship.

They put in for a Manitoba Housing transfer and are living in fear wait- ing for this transfer. Housing and addiction support needs to be greatly enhanced and it needs to be en- hanced today. We need to keep women safe in this province. Will the minister support real and immediate sup- ports to housing here in Manitoba so women like this don't have to sit in fear while waiting to get transferred in Manitoba Housing? Ms. Squires: Our gov ernment is committed to creating safe and affordable housing for all Manitobans.

That is why we've created more than 745 housing units, since we formed office, at a price of $110 million. That is why we signed onto the National Housing Strategy and that is why we're moving forward with many initiatives to get new housing in the community. And if the members opposite would like to bring the names forward or put me in touch with the constit- uents that she met with that are ex periencing chal - lenges, I'd be more than happy to look into that. Madam Speaker: The honourable member for Point Douglas, on a final supplementary. Mrs.

Smith: I thank the minister for that, and I will connect with her after that–after this on that. Four hundred and seven Manitobans lost their life last year to addictions. Addictions and the lack of housing leave far too many Indigenous women, girls vulnerable to violence. Much more needs to be done to help support folks where they are at and ensure their safety. The government has the power to address this with safe consumption sites and more investments in social housing. Will the minister support safe con sumption sites and greatly increase the investments in social housing here in Manitoba? Hon.

Sarah Guillemard (Minister of Mental Health and Community Wellness): The member is right that there needs to be more done for the – Manitobans who are dealing with addictions issues, which is why our gov ernment has invested over $58.1 million in 40 initiatives since 2019. We've also increased our budget $17.3 million in this year's budget alone to support people with mental health and addictions issues. We have fulfilled our promise to build 100 sup- portive recover ing housing beds –that's over two

2650 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA June 1, 2022 years, Madam Speaker–which is the equivalent num- ber of beds that the NDP had built in 17 years in gov- ernment. There is more to do. We are deter mined to get it done, and I'd be happy to work with the member oppo- site on initiatives. Thank you. Government's Management of Health Care Prairie Mountain Health Report Findings Mr. Dougald Lamont (St. Boniface): Prairie Mountain Health in Westman is looking at losing 20 doctors by the end of the summer, and we're hear- ing Winkler will lose another three.

I table a report, virtually, from Prairie Mountain Health that shows that while one third of physicians across Canada are ex periencing burnout, depression and even suicidal ideation, in Prairie Mountain Health, it's half: 49 per cent. Two thirds of those doc- tors say excessive job demands are the problem, and 20 more doctors leaving is going to make it worse, not better. We've heard from folks in Westman. They feel this gov ernment has abandoned anyone who lives north of the Trans-Canada, and it's up to communities to the–do the recruiting. If it's up to com munities, what is Shared Health doing?

What is this Premier (Mrs. Stefanson) doing to stop the bleeding in our health- care system and keep doctors working in rural Manitoba? Hon. Audrey Gordon (Minister of Health): I thank the member for St. Boniface for the question. And these are challenging times, and it's challenging in terms of the added pressures related to the COVID pandemic, and it is very challenging, of course, in our rural communities to maintain the staffing levels. But our government is committed to ensuring that all areas of the province are provided with the medical profes- sionals and services that they need.

And that's why, Madam S peaker, we have made this record investment of $7.2 billion. It's also why I have gone across the province and will continue to do that to hear directly from the regions what their chal- lenges are so that we can develop solutions to those challenges. Madam Speaker: The honourable member for St. Boniface, on a supplementary question. Mr. Lamont: We all know there's a pandemic hap - pening everywhere. Inflation is a problem happening everywhere. Global warming is a problem that's hap- pening everywhere.

But health care is run by this pro- vincial government, and there's only one party that's been running it and ruining it for the last six years. Lots of other places have shortages, but not every province has doctors and nurses leaving in droves because the g overnment isn't supporting or listening to them. And that's what half the doctors in Prairie Mountain Health say, that ineffective leadership and inflexible work place policies are making things worse, because when doctors are asked for their opinions–and this is a quote –it often seems like a decision or a plan has already been made. End quote.

One reason they are leaving is because gov ern- ment isn't listening. Is that going to change? Ms. Gordon: The member for St. Boniface is wrong. We are listenin g, Madam Speaker. That is why our gov ernment invested $812 million to build, ex - pand and fix health- care facilities in all regions through the clinical preventative services plan. That's why we're looking at dev elopment of a northern hub so that individuals can get care closer to home.

That is why I was so pleased to join my colleague in the Interlake-Eastern Regional Health Authority last year to welcome internationally educated medical gradu - ates to the region. * (14:50) Madam Speaker, we're going to continue to work with the University of Manitoba Rady faculty to en- sure we have physicians and clinicians throughout the province. Regulation of Therapy Services Request to Establish Ms. Cindy Lamoureux (Tyndall Park): Madam Speaker, over th e last year I have continued to push for therapy to be regulated here in Manitoba.

The need for mental health resources continues to rise, and we need to ensure that therapy is ac cessible and afford - able, that there is a standard of care from trained pro- fessionals, and that mechanisms are in place to protect the public and hold therapists accountable. Madam Speaker, regulating therapy would alle - viate stress and save money in many departments, in- cluding health care, Education and Justice. There is currently no regula tion for therapy, and Manitoba needs immediate oversight as a first step to addressing the long-standing issue.

June 1, 2022 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 2651 What is the minister doing to ensure we don't keep falling behind on this important issue? Hon. Audrey Gordon (Minister of Health): I'm pleased to provide the member for Tyndall Park with an update. After receiving the proposal from the counsellors and therapists across the province, it was referred to the regulated health professionals association. That is before them, Madam Speaker. There's a process we have to go through to identify what type of regulation is required, and that process is under way. Pleased to update the member after the process has concluded.

Voluntary Intoxication and Violent Crime Supreme Court of Canada Ruling Mr. James Teitsma (Radisson): Recently, the Supreme Court made a decision that allowed the de - fence of extreme intoxication for violent crimes. This quickly became a significant concern for Manitobans and for all Canadians. The victims of these violent attacks are often women and children. I immediately began to work with the Minister of Justice to call on the federal gov ernment to address this issue. I brought forward yesterday a resolution to do just that.

Unfor tunately, the NDP sided with violent criminals and refused to pass this resolution. Can the minister explain concrete steps our gov- ernment is taking, despite the NDP blocking this im- portant resolution? Hon. Kelvin Goertzen (Minister of Justice and Attorney General): I want to thank the MLA for Radisson, who is a strong advocate for children, seniors and others who might be vulnerable to violent offences, particularly sexual offences.

He did bring forward a reso lution yesterday be - cause Canadians were rightfully very concerned when the Supreme Court of Canada made a decision that said voluntary extreme intoxication could be used as a defence against violent offences–fenders, often sex- ual offenders, Madam Speaker. We have written, as a government, to the federal Minister of Justice, asked them to fill this gap, to change this legislation, Madam Speaker. We've talked to and written to other Attorneys General. I'll continue to work with my colleagues across Canada. I appreciate the member for Radisson for bringing this forward.

We'll stand with victims even when the NDP won't, Madam Speaker. Provincial Parks Safety Concerns Ms. Lisa Naylor (Wolseley): You know, it's actually hard to stand and ask this question with this degree of misogyny going on in the House. We know how im portant Manitoba's provincial parks are to Manitobans and, unfor tunately, recent weather events have caused a lot of damage to our parks. Flooding has washed out access roads and has damaged campsites. Many reservations had to be cancelled for safety reasons.

The gov ernment needs to make ap propriate in - vestments in a timely manner to repair and clean up our parks. Will the minister make this commitment today? Hon. Jeff Wharton (Minister of Environment, Climate and Parks): Certainly, pleased to get up to answer a question regarding our parks, Madam Speaker. We know that parks were not a priority for the former government, under the NDP. We know that cuts were made over several years while they were in government. We are committed, as a gov ernment, to ensure that the right investment at the right time for our parks is taking place.

It's exactly what we're going to en- deavour to do over the coming weeks, months and years. Madam Speaker: The honourable member for Wolseley, on a supplementary question. Ms. Naylor: I know the minister's new to this port - folio, but he might want to look back in the budget at the subsequent cuts that were made over the first few years his government was in power. Provincial parks are where Manitobans go to vacation and spend time with their families. It's im- portant that our parks are safe for everyone.

Safety issues at Grand Beach have been raised by advocates, yet they were told that addressing these concerns would be too expensive. They want more staff on site, a designated boat on standby for emer - gencies to help prevent drownings. The minister could address these safety concerns by implementing their recommendations: Will he do so today?

2652 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA June 1, 2022 Mr. Wharton: Again, we'll take no lessons from the NDP on –when it comes to invest ments in parks, Madam Speaker. We know that the NDP cut parks' budget by–tunes of millions of dollars–we know they did it. And I can tell you, they held the program–they froze the program from 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, '12, '13, '14 and, yes, before Manitobans threw them out, they even closed the budget in 2016. We will ensure that parks have the investment and Manitobans have the ability to go to our parks and enjoy all the services that Manitobans deserve.

Madam Speaker: The honourable member for Wolseley, on a final supplementary. Ms. Naylor: Madam Speaker, safety issues in Manitoba's prov incial parks need to be addressed today, in 2022. Grand Beach community advocates are frustrated that this government hasn't taken their safety concerns seriously. We know two children drowned at Grand Beach several years ago, and there was a near drown- ing last summer of multiple people in one event.

Advocates want invest ments to be made to pre- vent drowning and more staff on site, a rescue boat nearby, but this government has told them it would be too expensive to invest to prevent drownings. We're not satisfied with that answer. Will the minister commit to imple menting addi- tional safety measures today? Hon. Rochelle Squires (Minister responsible for the Status of Women): Madam Speaker, in response to the member for Wolseley's

preamble, I would like to put on the record that, when our Justice Minister stands up for survivors of sexual violence, that is not misogyny; that is compassionate. Catalytic Converter Theft Initiatives to Prevent Mr. Jim Maloway (Elmwood): My question is to the Premier. The gov ernment needs more than Bill 9 to prevent catalytic converter theft. Betw een 2020 and 2021, MPI reports a 450 per cent increase in catalytic converter theft; 2022 promises to even be worse. A few weeks ago, a seniors block in my riding had their parking lot targeted.

Our bill, 234, requires car dealers to add vehicle identification numbers on the catalytic converter on every vehicle sold by the dealership, new and used cars. This gov ernment should also direct MPI to provide insurance discounts to drivers who get their VIN engraved on the part. Will the minister support these initiatives? And I have a recent CanStar news

article that I would like to table dealing with the thefts from the block in my riding. Hon. Heather Stefanson (Premier): Well, Madam Speaker, today is the last day of session, and all I can say for members opposite is each and every day they stood in this House and they put false information on the record. They are negative nabobs of negativity – nattering nabobs of negativity , nothing but nega - tivism.

They have no plan, no vision for the future of our province. * (15:00) Well, we have a plan and we have a vision; a plan to strengthen health care, a plan to rebuild our eco- nomy–[interjection] Madam Speaker: Order. Mrs. Stefanson: –Madam Speaker, a plan to protect our environment, to invest in our communities. There is going to be a better, brighter future for our province here in Manitoba because of our plan. Thank you to all Manitobans out there. And I say to everyone in the Chamber: Have a wonderful summer.

Madam Speaker: The time for oral q uestions has expired. * (15:00) Speaker's Ruling Madam Speaker: I have a ruling for the House. Prior to routine proceedings on Thursday, May 26, 2022, the honourable Official Opposition House Leader (Ms. Fontaine) raised a matter of privilege contending that on the previous day, the honourable Minister of Natural Resources and Northern Development (Mr. Fielding) had made num- erous comments to the media in relation to Bill 42, even though the bill had yet to be introduced or distributed in the Assembly.

At the conclusion of her remarks, the honourable Official Opposition House Leader moved, and I quote: that the introduction of Bill 42 be immediately stopped and treated as being out of order until such a time as this matter can be ruled on by the Speaker. End quote.

June 1, 2022 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 2653 The honourable Government House Leader (Mr. Goertzen) also offered contributions to the Chair, and noted that it is a common occurrence for govern- ments to signal that legislation is coming. He also stated that the text of legislation was not shared with shareholders. The honourable member for River Heights (Mr. Gerrard) opined that a government may mention a bill is coming; however, it is inappropriate to share details. I took the matter under advisement in order to consult the procedural authorities.

There are two conditions that must be satisfied in order for a matter raised to be ruled in order as a prima facie case of privilege: was the issue raised at the earliest opportunity, and was sufficient evidence pro- vided to support the member's claim that their privil - eges or the privileges of the House were breached. On the first issue of whether the issue was raised at the earliest opportunity, the honourable member indicated she was raising the issue at the earli est opportunity, and I accept the word of the honourable member.

On the second issue whether sufficient evidence was provided, there are a number of considerations to explore. I will note that the underlying principle here is the primacy and authority of the Assembly. As elected representatives it is our duty to carefully consider the business before us so that we may make informed decisions. Any matter destined for consideration by this body–including legislation–should be introduced and explained here first before it is shared with the public or the media. This has been the practice of this place for many years. The honourable Official Opposition House Leader (Ms.

Fontaine) noted that in 2001, House of Commons Speaker Peter Milliken had ruled that the provision of information concerning legislation to the media without effective measures to secure the rights of the House constituted a prima facie case of con - tempt, which is indeed what he ruled on that occasion. However, on May 13, 2003, Speaker Milli ken also ruled that a burden of proof existed in order to achieve a finding of a prima facie breach of privilege in order to a claim of disclosure of a bill to the media before distribution to members of Parliament.

He stated, and I quote: Unless there is some considerable evidence that the minister has made available copies of the bill to someone else, it is hard for the Chair to find any breach of privileges of the House. End quote. He went on to say, quote: Of course, the honour- able member I am sure wi ll monitor the situation closely and watch and see if copies are being bandied about in advance, which I admit might be a breach of the privileges if that sort of thing were going on. We do not have evidence of that at the moment, so there is no question of privilege here. End quote.

In turning to the case associated with this matter of privilege, the claim for a valid prima facie case of privilege is hampered by the fact that the honourable Official Opposition Leader did not provide any proof that the minister gave the media copies of the bill or substantive details about the legislation. In looking at an online

article from the Free Press on May 25th, 2022, it notes that the minister answered questions from the media at a scrum, but the event was not described as a briefing, nor was it reported that copies of the legislation were provided to the media. The same

article has the minister indicating that a new bill is coming to provide a more modern alcohol deli- very system and that he consulted with stake holders. However, the minister is also quoted as saying he could not share specifics of the bill before its intro - duction in the Chamber. In recent years, it has become more commonplace for members on both sides of the House to discuss, in general or conceptual terms, potential legislation out- side of the House in advance of introduction. These discussions have occurred in the form of consultations with stakeholders and also through interactions with the media.

I would give the caution to all members that such discussions must not reveal or relate any detailed provisions of upcoming legislation to ensure that the primacy and authority of the Assembly is not infringed on. To aid in this matter, members might consider having press conferences or media briefings after legislation has been introduced. In the current circumstance, no specific evidence was provided that the media received copies of the legislation or detailed information about specifics of the bill.

This is a crucial point, because in the absence of such proof, it is difficult for a presiding officer to rule that any privileges were breached. Accordingly, after careful consideration of the matter, I am ruling that a prima facie case of privilege has not been established.

2654 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA June 1, 2022 I would further like to note that the motion moved by the honourable Official Opposition Leader con- tained a procedural irregularity in that it called for first reading of the bill to be prevented. In consideration of this, such an action would not be taken until the Speaker has returned to the House with a ruling find- ing a prima facie case of privilege and the House also adopting the motion containing the remedy sought by the Official Opposition House Leader.

Had the first reading been prevented from happening when the matter was first raised, and had the matter of privilege not been found prima facie, then a member would have been unfairly prevented from introducing a bill. As I explained to the House when ruling on a related point of order raised on May 26th, I have con- cerns about the potential use of parliamentary privil - ege to prevent a member from introducing a bill, as it could be unduly punitive, and it could also develop into a routine tactic to prevent members from one side of the House or the other from introducing a bill.

Members can assist with this potential concern by ensuring they are not providing copies of a bill or details of a bill to the media and stakeholders, and they can save themselves a world of grief by holding press conferences after the bill has been introduced. And clarification for the House: I would just like to indicate that in one of the sentences, it should have said, I would further like to note that the motion moved by the honour able Official Opposition House Leader (Ms. Fontaine) contained a procedural irregu- larity. And I would like to ensure that this is corrected in Hansard.

Speaker's Statement Madam Speaker: I also have a statement for the House. As the House is adjourning for the summer today, I would encourage all honourable members to remove the contents of their desks now. I would further en- courage members to recycle as much of the material as possible. The blue bins here in the Chamber are designated for recycling of Hansards only. Any other material you would like to recycle may be placed in the larger recycling bins in the message rooms located just outside the Chamber. PETITIONS Hearing Aids Hon.

Jon Gerrard (River Heights): I wish to present the following petition to the Legislative Assembly. The background to this petition is as follows: A hearing aid is a battery-powered electronic de- vice designed to improve an individual's ability to perceive sound.

Worn in or behind a person's ear, they make some sounds louder, helping people hear better when it's quiet and when it's noisy. * (15:10) People who suffer hearing loss, whether due to aging, illness, employment or accident, not only lose the ability to communicate effectively with friends, family or colleagues, they also can experience unemployment, social isolation and struggles with mental health. Hearing loss can also impact the safety of an individual with hearing loss, as it affects the ability of–[interjection] Madam Speaker: Order. Mr. Gerrard: –to hear cars coming, safety alarms, call 911, et cetera.

A global commission on the state of the research for dementia care and prevention released an updated consensus report in July 2020, identifying 12 key risk factors for dementia and cognitive decline. The strongest 'riks' factor was– that was indicated was hearing loss. It was calculated that up to 8 per cent of the total number of dementia cases could potentially be avoided with management of hearing loss.

Hearing aids are therefore essential to the mental health and well -being of Manitobans, especially to those at significant risk of dementia, Alzheimer's, a disorder of the brain affecting cognition in the ever - growing senior population. Audiologists are health -care professionals who help patients decide which kind of hearing aid wil l work best for them, based on the type of hearing loss, patient's age and ability to manage small devices, life- style and ability to afford. The cost of hearing aids can be prohibitive to many Manitobans, depending on their income and circumstances.

Hearing aids cost on average $995 to $4,000 per ear, and many professionals say the hearing aids only work at their best for five years. Manitoba residents under the age of 18 who require a hearing aid, as prescribed by an oto - laryngologist or audiologist, w ill receive either an 80 per cent reimbursement from Manitoba Health of a fixed amount for an analog device, up to a maximum of $500 per ear, or 80 per cent of a fixed amount of a

June 1, 2022 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 2655 digital or analog programmable device, up to a max - imum of $1,800. However, this reimbursement is not available to Manitobans who need the device who are over the age of 18, which will result in financial hardship for many young people entering the work- force, students and families. In addition, seniors re - presenting 14.3 per cent of Manitoba's population are not eligible for reimbursement, despite being the group most likely in need of a hearing aid.

Most insurance companies only provide a min - imal partial cost of a hearing aid, and many Manitobans, especially retired persons, old -age pen- sioners and other low -income earners do not have access to health insurance plans. The Province of Quebec's hearing devices pro- gram covers all costs related to hearing aids and assistive listening devices, including the purchase, repair and replacement. Alberta offers subsidies to all seniors 65 and over and low-income adults 18 to 64 once every five years.

New Brunswick provides coverage for the pur - chase and maintenance not covered by other agencies or private health insurance plans, as well as assistance for those for whom the purchase would cause financial hardship. Manitobans over age 18 are only eligible for sup- port for hearing aids if they're receiving Employment and Income Assist ance, and the reimbursement only provides a maximum of $500 an ear. We petition the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba as follows: To urge the provincial government to consider hearing loss as a medical treatment under Manitoba Health.

To urge the provincial government to provide income-based coverage for hearing aids to all who need them, as hearing has been proven to be essential to Manitobans' cognitive, mental and social health and well-being. Signed by Sharon Neufeld, Darren [phonetic], Bruce Gehlert and many other Manitobans. Madam Speaker: In ac cordance with our rule 132(6), when petitions are read they are deemed to be received by the House. Catalytic Converter Engraving Credit Mr. Jim Maloway (Elmwood): Madam Speaker, I wish to present the following petition to the Legislative Assembly. The background of this petition is as follows:

(1) The spike in catalytic converter thefts occurring across North America has hit Winnipeg. The price of precious metals in catalytic converters like rhodium, palladium and platinum are worth thousands of doll ars an ounce. Scrap metal dealers have catalytic converters priced to the vehicle, with some catalytic converters worth $800.

(2) Organized groups of criminals are climbing under vehicles and cutting catalytic converters, and selling them to scrap metal recyclers for cash without any record of these transactions.

(3) Catalytic converter thefts cost consumers about $2,000 for each replacement. Manitoba Public Insurance charges a betterment fee for new replace- ments, so insurance doesn't cover the full cost.

(4) Catalytic converters do not have any part number or vehicle identification number, VIN, and the inability to tie a catalytic converter to a specific vehicle is a major enforcement issue.

(5) Engraving of a vehicle's VIN on its catalytic converter would be a major deterrent to theft by tying the vehicle to the part and making enforcement possible. We petition the Legis lative Assembly of Manitoba as follows: To urge the prov incial gov ernment to bring in consumer protec tion legis lation directing Manitoba Public Insurance to initiate credits to Manitobans for engraving vehicle identification numbers on their catalytic converters. This petition signed by many, many Manitobans. Madam Speaker: Are there any further petitions? If not, grievances.

GRIEVANCES MLA Uzoma Asagwara (Union Station): Madam Speaker, I rise on a grievance. The 2022 Winnipeg Pride started on May 27th, just last week, and today marks the first day of Pride across the country.

2656 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA June 1, 2022 Also, Winnipeg is hosting the Fierté Canada Pride national human rights conference. It's a conference that has people from across the country attending, in- cluding folks participating from Manitoba. But you wouldn't know any of that, Madam Speaker, from this gov ernment, because neither t he Premier (Mrs. Stefanson), the Minister for Sport, Culture and Heritage,

Document details

Collection	Manitoba — Debates (Hansard)
Citation	42-4-61
Type	hansard
Volume / chapter	42nd 4th hansardpdf 61.pdf
Language	en
Format	pdf
Source	PROVINCIAL
Identifier	b79344fd2844be7f188fedca0bfcc785248ffaf6

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