Manitoba Hansard — 1 October 2025 (Sitting 67, 43rd Legislature, 2nd Session)

43-2-67

Manitoba — Debates (Hansard)

Second Session – Forty-Third Legislature of the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba DEBATES and PROCEEDINGS Official Report (Hansard) Published under the authority of The Honourable Tom Lindsey Speaker Vol. LXXIX No. 67 - 1:30 p.m., Wednesday, October 1, 2025 ISSN 0542-5492

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

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

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

WHARTON, Jeff Red River North PC WIEBE, Matt, Hon. Concordia NDP WOWCHUK, Rick Swan River PC

2649 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA Wednesday, October 1, 2025 The House met at 1:30 p.m. The Speaker: O Eternal and Almighty God, from Whom all power and wisdom come, we are assembled here before Thee to frame such laws as may tend to the welfare and prosperity of our province. Grant, O merciful God, we pray Thee, that we may desire only that which is in accordance with Thy will, that we may seek it with wisdom 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. O Eternal and Almighty God, from Whom all–oh, sorry.

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

Please be seated. Introduction of New Member The Speaker: Before we begin, I've got a few things to bring up. First, I 'm pleased to inform the House that the Clerk of the Legislative Assembly has received from the Chief Electoral Officer a letter declaring the election of Colleen Robbins as the member of this Assembly representing the constituency of Spruce Woods. I hereby table a notice of the return of the member elected. On behalf of–no. Mr.

Obby Khan (Leader of the Official Opposition): Honourable Speaker, I have the honour to present you Colleen Robbins, the new member for the constituency of Spruce Woods, who has taken the oath and signed the roll and now claims the right to take their seat. The Speaker: On behalf of all honourable members, I welcome you to the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba and I wish you well in your parliamentary career. Order, please. Speaker's Statement The Speaker: Before we begin, I have a statement on decorum for the House.

First, I'd like to welcome all honourable members back to this Chamber, and before we begin, I need to address a matter that has been bothering me over the summer break, and in fact has been on my mind since you chose me to be your Speaker almost two years ago. You've heard me speak from this Chair before about my concerns over decorum. I can also share that Manitoba Speakers have been sharing their concerns about decorum for the last 150 years. This is not a new problem, but it is problem that I believe has gotten considerably worse in the last 10 years, and worse still over the last two.

In recent years we' ve also seen general and per - sistent deterioration of decorum in public discourse about politics and society across the country and around the world. As your Speaker, as an MLA and as a citizen, I find these trends deeply troubling, and I believe we all have a responsibility in this moment. I feel that it is essential for this Assembly to start a trend in the opposite direction, towards civility and respect, and away from division and hate. I want you all to understand that this statement is– about decorum is the most serious that I have ever offered from this Chair.

We cannot continue to carry on the way we have. We must do better, and we will. The example we set in this room echoes across our province, and if we truly want political discourse to improve, we must improve what we do in here. Our spring session did not end well. Members were displaying the worst decorum I 've seen in this Chamber.

2650 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA October 1, 2025 I've always said that heckling itself is not the problem, it–if it is done with some respect and restraint. However, hollering angry insults and name calling across the Chamber definitely is a problem. Members can make their points in debate. You do not need to shout over someone who has the floor to make your point. During my time as an MLA, I 've heard many angry comments and loud heckling from both sides of this House.

In the latter part of the spring sittings this year, though, it was clear to me that one side of the House was showing worse decorum than the other. To be clear, though –and I want to be perfectly clear on this–this message is directed to every member in this Chamber. I am particularly concerned about angry, loud heckling that takes the form of personal attacks or insults, and I believe that such behaviour is not worthy of this place. There is no other workplace in this province where such behaviour among colleagues would be acceptable, and it should not be acceptable here.

While we do have the parliamentary privilege of freedom of speech in this place, with that privilege comes the respon sibility to act accordingly and respectfully towards one another. I need you all to be aware of this: that if this behaviour does not improve, as your Speaker, I will be duty bound to act. My role includes the responsi bility to preserve order and decorum and enforce the rules. * (13:40) I have been somewhat patient with members about decorum in the past, but my patience has run out.

Please be aware that if I, as your Speaker, call you to order for excessive or loud heckling and you ignore me, I will consider and acknowledge such behaviour as disregarding the authority of the Chair. If I call you to order again and you continue to ignore me, that will put you on a path to being named and removed from this Chamber. I will not hesitate to proceed down that path with any member of this House if I believe your behaviour warrants that response.

I'm asking you all to carefully consider whether or not hollering at someone across the Chamber is more important than participating in debate or in question period. The choice in this is yours. Please be aware of your behaviour and consider yourselves warned and do not be shocked and aghast if I need to remove a member from this Chamber. I sincerely hope that you will prove me wrong, and that we will conduct ourselves more respectfully in debate without angry comments being hollered across the Chamber. Thank you for your attention to this very serious matter.

ROUTINE PROCEEDINGS The Speaker: Introduction of bills? COMMITTEE REPORTS Standing Committee on Legislative Affairs Sixth Report MLA Carla Compton (Chairperson): Honourable Speaker, I wish to present the sixth report of the Standing Committee on Legislative Affairs. Clerk (Mr. Rick Yarish): Your Standing Committee on Legislative Affairs– Some Honourable Members: Dispense. The Speaker: Dispense. Your Standing Committee on Legislative Affairs presents the following as its Sixth Report.

Meetings Your Committee met in camera on the following occasions in the Legislative Building: • March 27, 2025 , at 6:00 p.m. (2 nd Session – 43rd Legislature) • September 16, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. (2 nd Session – 43rd Legislature) Matters under Consideration • The hiring process for a Seniors' Advocate Committee Membership Committee Membership for the March 27, 2025 meeting: • Ms. BYRAM • MLA COMPTON • MLA CROSS • Mr. JOHNSON • MLA LOISELLE • MLA PANKRATZ Your Committee elected MLA CROSS as the Chairperson.

October 1, 2025 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 2651 Your Committee elected MLA PANKRATZ as the Vice-Chairperson. Committee Membership for the September 16, 2025 , meeting: • MLA BEREZA • Ms. BYRAM • MLA COMPTON • MLA CROSS • MLA LOISELLE • MLA PANKRATZ (Vice-Chairperson) Your Committee elected MLA COMPTON as the Chairperson. Motions Your Committee agreed to the following motion at the March 27, 2025, meeting: • THAT a sub-committee of the Standing Committee on Legislative Affairs be struck to manage the process of hiring a Manitoba Seniors ' Advocate, under the terms and conditions as follows: (

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

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

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

d) the Clerks as well as the Legislative Assembly Administration staff be authorized to attend all meetings of the sub-committee. Your Committee agreed to the following motions at the September 16, 2025, meeting: • THAT the report and recommendations of the Sub-Committee be received. • THAT the Standing Committee on Legislative Affairs recommends to the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba that Leigh Anne Caron be appointed as the Seniors' Advocate. REPORT FROM THE SUB-COMMITTEE Your Sub- Committee presents the following as its First Report.

Meetings Your Sub-Committee met on the following occasions: • March 27, 2025, at 6:03 p.m. • April 23, 2025, at 9:00 a.m. • June 13, 2025, at 9:00 a.m. • July 11, 2025, at 9:00 a.m. The March 27, 2025 , meeting was held in camera in Room 255 of the Legislative Building. The April 23, 2025, meeting was held in camera in Room 255 of the Legislative Building. The June 13, 2025, meeting was held in camera in Room 254 of the Legislative Building. The July 11, 2025, meeting was held in camera in Room 255 of the Legislative Building.

Matters under Consideration • The hiring process for a Seniors' Advocate Sub-Committee Membership Sub-Committee Membership for the March 27, 2025, meeting: • Ms. BYRAM • MLA COMPTON • MLA CROSS • Mr. JOHNSON • MLA LOISELLE • MLA LAMOUREUX • MLA PANKRATZ Your Sub- Committee elected MLA LOISELLE as the Chairperson. Your Sub- Committee elected MLA COMPTON as the Vice-Chairperson. Sub-Committee Membership for the April 23, 2025, meeting: • Ms. BYRAM • MLA COMPTON (Vice-Chairperson) • MLA CROSS • Mr. JOHNSON • MLA LOISELLE (Chairperson) • MLA LAMOUREUX • MLA PANKRATZ

2652 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA October 1, 2025 Sub-Committee Membership for the June 13, 2025, meeting: • Ms. BYRAM • MLA COMPTON (Vice-Chairperson) • MLA CROSS • Mr. JOHNSON • MLA LOISELLE (Chairperson) • MLA LAMOUREUX • MLA PANKRATZ Sub-Committee Membership for the July 11, 2025, meeting: • MLA BEREZA • Ms.

BYRAM • MLA COMPTON (Vice-Chairperson) • MLA CROSS • MLA LOISELLE (Chairperson) • MLA LAMOUREUX • MLA PANKRATZ Staff present for all Sub-Committee meetings • Carrie Perumal, Director of Legislative Assembly Human Resource Services (except July 11, 2025) • Deanna Wilson, Executive Director of Legislative Assembly Administration Branch • Katerina Tefft, Clerk Assistant/Clerk of Committees (except July 11, 2025) • Tim Abbott, Deputy Clerk (July 11, 2025) Agreements by the Sub-Committee Your Sub- Committee reached the following agree - ments during the meeting on March 27, 2025: • The Legislative Assembly Human Resource Services will draft all paperwork involved in the hiring process of a Seniors ' Advocate, including the Advertising Plan, Selection Criteria, Paper Screening Criteria, and Advertisement, for the Sub-Committee's consideration and review. • To advertise the position both locally and nationally, and that the successful candidate should have a solid understanding of Manitoba and services offered to seniors in Manitoba • To adopt the following Terms of Reference: Legislative Assembly of Manitoba Terms of Reference for Hiring of Independent Officers of the Assembly March 27, 2025 Purpose: On March 27, 2025, the Standing Committee on Legislative Affairs passed a motion to strike a Sub-Committee to manage the process of hiring a new Seniors' Advocate.

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

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

a) devise a hiring process which includes an adver- tising plan, a paper screening process, an inter - view process and a selection process; (

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

c) print the advertisement as set out in the adver - tising plan; (

d) conduct the paper screening of applications received; (

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

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

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

October 1, 2025 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 2653 (

h) conduct reference checks on candidate(

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

s) will be interviewed by the Legislative Assembly Human Resource Services. 5. Each Member of the Sub- Committee shall be entitled to observe the interviews while having participation in the scoring process, with a minimum of one designated Member per recog- nized party in attendance at each interview. 6. The Sub- Committee will review the interview rating results and, pending successful reference checks, determine the candidate to be recom - mended for the position of Seniors' Advocate. 7.

The Sub-Committee must provide a report to the Standing Committee on Legislative Affairs that includes a recommendation for the Seniors ' Advocate. Your Sub-Committee reached the following agreements during the meeting on April 23, 2025: • The Legislative Assembly Human Resource Services will post the Advertisement for a minimum of 10 days per publication, with a June 8, 2025, deadline for applications.

Following the closure of the advertisement, Human Resource Services will conduct the paper screening of applications received and provide to the Sub-Committee a list of all qualified candidates for review in advance of its next meeting. • The Sub-Committee will then meet to review the list of qualified candidates and determine which applicant(

s) will be interviewed. • The Legislative Assembly Human Resource Services will draft interview questions for the Sub-Committee's consideration and review. Your Sub- Committee reached the following agree - ments during the meeting on June 13, 2025: • To interview six of the seven candidates selected for review by Legislative Assembly Human Resource Services. • Note: One of those six candidates declined to be interviewed. • To replace Mr.

J OHNSON as a Member of the Sub-Committee for the interviews and any further meetings going forward due to scheduling conflicts. • Note: MLA BEREZA was selected as the replace- ment Member by the PC caucus.

Your Sub- Committee reached the following agree - ment during the meeting on July 11, 2025: • Pending successful reference checks, the Sub-Committee agreed to recommend to the Standing Committee on Legislative Affairs that Leigh Anne Caron be appointed as the Seniors ' Advocate. • In the event that the chosen candidate declines the offer or the reference checks are unsuccessful, the Sub-Committee agreed to meet again to discuss further options.

Legislative Assembly Human Resource Services Activities: As agreed to by the Sub- Committee on March 27, 2025, Legislative Assembly Human Resource Services was tasked with all the logistics and paperwork involved with the hiring process of the Seniors ' Advocate. On June 13, 2025, the Legislative Assembly Human Resource Services reported to the Sub -Committee a list of seven qualified candidates for review and selection to be interviewed.

The Sub- Committee considered applications for the position of Seniors' Advocate as follows: • 111 applications were received for the position. • Four individuals were interviewed for the position on July 3, 2025. • One individual was interviewed for the position on July 4, 2025.

2654 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA October 1, 2025 On July 11, 2025, Legislative Assembly Human Resource Services reported to the Sub-Committee the interview rating results of the five candidates interviewed. MLA Compton: Honourable Speaker, I move, seconded by the hon ourable member for Kirkfield Park (Mr. Oxenham), that the report of the com mittee be received. Motion agreed to. TABLING OF REPORTS Hon. Adrien Sala (Minister of Finance): I am pleased to table the Province of Manitoba Annual Report and Public Accounts for the year ended March 31, 2025. The Speaker: And I have several reports to table. First, I have a document to table for the House in accordance with

section 49(2), The Conflict of Interest (Members and Ministers) Act. I am tabling a report by the Ethics Commis sioner regarding the hon ourable First Minister, dated August 27, 2005. Next, I have, in accordance with

section 49(2), The Conflict of Interest (Members and Ministers) Act, I'm tabling a report by the Ethics Com missioner regarding the honour able member for River Heights (MLA Moroz), dated July 16, 2025. I'm pleased to table the Annual Report of the Legislative Assembly Management Com mission for the year ending March 31, 2025. Copies of the report will be sent by email directly to members. And, finally, I 'm pleased to table the report of members' expenses for the 2024-2025 fiscal year. No further tabling of reports? MINISTERIAL STATEMENTS Call to Denounce Political Violence Hon.

Mike Moroz (Minister of Innovation and New Technology): Honourable Speaker, I rise today on a matter critically important to all members of this House. Indeed, to all Manitobans. As the session begins, we find ourselves returning to the Chamber during a deeply troubling time; a time when the rules of political civility, of open and free public discourse–the very rules that have governed us for decades–are being swept aside by anger, fear and isolation, and the resulting political polariza tion that is often fueled by politicians looking for op portunity has resulted in an escalating tide of violence.

Much of that violence takes place where society does not see it, but that doesn' t make it less harmful. It takes many forms: toxic social media posts that ignite algorithms; threatening emails, texts and phone messages and persistent harassment; attempted arsons, angry graffiti on walls, smashed windows and burned offices; and shockingly abusive comments about appearance, gender, religion and ethnicity–all designed to extract a personal toll. Sadly, all have become part of the everyday public service experience for too many of our col - leagues in this Chamber, in chambers across the country and beyond.

I want to acknowledge the targeting of the office of the MLA for St. Johns on Orange Shirt Day and the targeting of the MLA for Point Douglas, the first two Indigenous women ever to serve in the Manitoba Cabinet. This is unacceptable, and as a govern ment, we unequivocally reject violence against Indigenous women and all forms of political violence. Increasingly, Honourable Speaker, that violence takes place in broad daylight, and tragically, lives are being taken out of rage and division. And it 's being witnessed in real time by millions–then streamed and rewatched by millions more.

The recent pages of history are lined with the names of its victims–far too many to recount on an individual basis. But nor should we. We pause and recognize the tragedy that each loss represents. Honourable Speaker, this violence is becoming normalized, and in the process, we're losing our ability to talk to one another, to seek common ground, to compromise, to build our communities together along–alongside those whose opinions we do not always share–the very reason this institution exists. And, as a result, many of our citizens are slowly losing faith in public processes.

As we begin the new session, I want to encourage members of this Chamber to stand together against all forms of political violence, and against the rage farming and division that create it. What brings Manitobans together is a shared set of values, and a deep understanding that ultimately we all want the same things: to lead meaningful lives, to raise our families in peace, to build a better world –to build one Manitoba. As has been said many times before by others, Honourable Speaker: the arc of the moral universe is long, and it bends towards justice.

But it does not bend on its own–it–can 't–bends because we pull it in that direction.

October 1, 2025 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 2655 My call today is to every member of this Chamber, to every Manitoba who–Manitoban who is listening, to commit themselves to this task. Pull your neighbour closer. Unite, rather than divide. The alter- native must become unthinkable. I ask now for a moment of silence for all members to stand together against all political violence and its many victims. * (13:50) The Speaker: Is there leave for a moment of silence after the opposition response? [Agreed] Mr.

Josh Guenter (Borderland): Honourable Speaker, I rise today to join my colleagues in affirming that democracy is sustained through free speech, respect - ful debate and the peaceful exchange of ideas, not through violence or intimidation. Recent tragedies across North America, including the assassination of public figures and elected officials, serve as grim reminders of the dangers of allowing political grievances to cross the line into violence. We have also seen disturbing incidents closer to home, including repeated acts of arson against constituency offices of elected members of this Legislature.

These acts are unfortunately not new to Manitoba. MLA constituency offices and homes have been att acked in the past simply because someone disagreed. These attacks are not simply property crimes; they are attacks on our democratic institutions, on the ability of elected officials to serve the public and on the safety of their staff and constituents. In a democracy, our disagreements must never escalate to violence. We may defer –passionately on ideas, but we must always defend one another 's right to be heard. Words and ideas, absent clear incitement to harm, are not violence.

They remain the only legitimate means by which a free people can resolve differences. That is the essence of democracy: the contest of ideas through reason, persuasion and debate. Honourable Speaker, Manitobans expect more from their leaders. They expect us to rise above partisan divisions and to reaffirm our shared values of respect and dialogue. Above all, they expect us to demonstrate unity, as Manitobans and as Canadians, in co ndemning violence and protecting democratic freedoms. And we can do even more.

Manitoba can be a beacon to others around the world, showing how political debate can be passionate yet peaceful, principled yet respectful. We can demonstrate that unity and democracy are strengthened not by silencing voices, but by allowing every voice to be heard in safety and respect. Today I add my voice in calling on all members of this House, and indeed all Manitobans, to reject violence, to condemn those who attempt to justify it and to affirm that the proper way to resolve political and social differences is through dialogue, reason and democratic debate.

That is how we show unity as Manitobans and Canadians. That is how we preserve the values of com- munity, freedom and democracy that we all cherish. Thank you, Honourable Speaker. The Speaker: Members' statements. Oh, my mistake. A moment of silence. A moment of silence was observed. MEMBERS' STATEMENTS Yom Kippur Hon. Mike Moroz (Minister of Innovation and New Technology): Sundown today marks the beginning of the holiest day on the Jewish calendar, Yom Kippur. This sacred day will be observed by many of my friends and neighbours in River Heights, and by the wider Jewish community across our province.

Yom Kippur, or Day of Atonement, concludes the Ten Days of Repentance, which began with Rosh Hashanah. For those who observe the day in a more tradi - tional manner, Yom Kippur serves as a time of deep reflection on personal shortcomings over the past year, seeking forgiveness and committing oneself to improvement in the year ahead.

Others, Honourable Speaker, may use this time to reflect on their personal journey, assessing both successes and challenges and considering how their lives and the well- being of their communities might be improved if we all committed ourselves to being more compassionate with each passing year. Honourable Speaker, the act of self-reflection and the courage to seek forgiveness are not only essential for personal growth but they' re also fundamental to the strength and cohesion of our communities. These

2656 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA October 1, 2025 are values that transcend faith and background, and ones we might all be wise to contemplate. While deeply self-reflective, Yom Kippur is also one of the most joyous days on the calendar, as it offers a profound sense of hope and renewal for the coming year. After a challenging year for many of our– in our province, hope for a brighter future resonates deeply with us all. Honourable Speaker, I ask members to join me in extending heartfelt best wishes to the Jewish com - munity in Manitoba for a safe, happy and prosperous new year.

Thank you, shalom and may peace embrace us all in the year ahead. Criticism of NDP's Management Record Mr. Obby Khan (Leader of the Official Opposition): Honourable Speaker, I want to take this moment and welcome the newest member to this Legislative Assembly, the honourable member for Spruce Woods (Mrs. Robbins). This member is sitting here today in spite of this Premier (Mr. Kinew) breaking the law. Now, under the NDP Premier and his failing Minister of Finance (MLA Sala), Manitoba is ranked the worst province in Canada–the worst GDP growth in Canada, under this NDP government.

The Premier has proven everything we've said on this side of the House, and that is the economic horse is dead under the NDP. Unem ployment is up to 6 per cent. Youth unem ployment is 12.5 per cent. Grocery prices are higher now than they've ever been in this history of this province, under this NDP. But it gets worse. Wait times for emergencies, surgeries and diagnostic testing are the longest they've ever been, under this failed Health Minister.

The Premier promised bail reform in the first 100 days; now over 700 days later, crime is the highest it's ever been in this province, under this failed Justice Minister. And the minister that represents Families and Manitobans for accessibilities shames and insults an ASL interpreter and the entire Deaf com munity. She blocks foster families and national Indigenous news reporters from contacting her. And the same minister condones public violence and states that she has no empathy for someone who is murdered in front of his own family for exercising their rights for freedom of speech.

To top it all off, this Premier wants Manitobans to believe that prosperity is ahead of us only in 2040, while on this side of the House, we disagree. That prosperity can happen and now. It starts by unleashing the potential of Manitoba by extracting critical minerals, exporting oil and energy and bringing billions of dollars into this province. It starts with op portunities for all Manitobans equally, and on this side of the House, we're going to work to make that happen.

New Liberal Leader Willard Reaves MLA Cindy Lamoureux (Tyndall Park): As you all know, after the last provincial election, the Manitoba Liberal Party faced some challenges. I entered these Chambers as the only Manitoba Liberal, and it became a new experience. But because of many of you and the great team around me, I have never felt that I have stood alone. It was all a bit of a whirlwind, but I am happy– and I was happy–to become the interim leader while prioritizing the constituents of Tyndall Park and start- ing my family.

I owe a big thank-you to a few individuals including our party president, Terry Hayward, my team and staff at the party headquarters here at the Legislature and through my constituency office. I am also very grateful for my personal friends and family for their support as I undertook the interim leader role these past two years. But now, Honourable Speaker, I am proud to share that we have a new Manitoba Liberal Party Leader, Willard Reaves, who has joined us today in the gallery. * (14:00) Willard is exceptionally passionate about making our province safer and stronger.

He is a man with integrity, resilience and vision. Over the last four decades, he has served Manitoba proudly through the Manitoba Department of Justice, sports and politics. Now, Honourable Speaker, it is hard not to refer- ence football when speaking about Willard, so allow for me just to say that I know he is going to bring his team spirit to build up the Manitoba Liberal Party and provide Manitobans with more than a two- party system. Thank you, Honourable Speaker, and congratula- tions, Willard. The Speaker: Are there no further member statements?

October 1, 2025 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 2657 Acknowledging Spruce Woods Constituents Mrs. Colleen Robbins (Spruce Woods): It's an honour to rise today for my very first private statement– member's statement–and to thank the people of Spruce Woods for placing their trust in me to represent them in this Legislature. I am deeply grateful for the confidence and sup- port of my constituents, and I look forward to serving our community with dedication and pride. Spruce Woods is a diverse and resilient constitu- ency.

Spruce Woods ' strength lies within its people, so I'd like to take this opportunity today to recognize some outstanding achievements close to home. Congratulations to Rachelle Boyes on being named Cowgirl of the Year, a well deserved honour and that reflects her hard work and talent. I'd also like to extend my best wishes to Jenel Boyes, her daughter, as she heads to Las Vegas to compete in the Rope for the Crown. We are cheering you on as a champion from here. And also Stran Dunham that has now, today, entered the finals at the Canadian Finals Rodeo in Edmonton. All the best, Stran.

But, finally, congratulations to Team Canada 's women's rugby team for making history and winning the silver medal on the world stage. I am especially proud to recognize No. 2, Emily Tuttosi, as a Souris hometown girl. What an incredible achievement and an inspiration to young athletes from across this province. Honourable Speaker, I am proud to celebrate these successes in the Chamber today, and once again I thank the constituents of Spruce Woods for the honour of representing them. As I begin this new chapter, I do so with humility and deep sense of duty.

I will ensure the voices of Spruce Woods are heard in this Chamber, and I will dedicate myself to a stronger future for all Manitobans. Convalescent Home of Winnipeg Mr. Mark Wasyliw (Fort Garry): Honourable Speaker, today is National Seniors Day, and I'm proud to rise and recog nize the Convalescent Home of Winnipeg, a non- profit registered charity, which has served Manitobans with compassion and excellence for more than a century.

Established in 1883 as Manitoba's first care home, the convalescent home has always held a simple but profound mission: to provide older adults with dignity, care and comfort they deserve. In 2026 they' ll be celebrating their 120th anni - versary of opening their first home on McDermot Avenue. Today the home serves 84 residents, most of their mid-80s, each living with physical and cognitive challenges. Beyond providing health care, their com- mitment is to create an environment where residents feel valued, respected and truly at home.

Every service they provide supports not only the individual resident, but also their entire family, creating a true circle of care. As the home 's current location on Hugo Street was built in 1960s, the staff face numerous challenges while maintaining the aging building. Recently, the home embarked on an exciting initiative called Rooms to Thrive. This $1.5-million completely donor-supported revitalization project is transforming residents' spaces, refreshing rooms with light, warmth and accessibility. While their walls may be old, their vision is full of energy, comfort and love.

The home's dedication to excellence has not gone unnoticed. Recently, Convalescent Home of Winnipeg was recognized by Eldercare Review magazine as a 2025 Top Senior Home Care provider. This honour belongs to their entire team: the staff, volunteers, families and supporters who together make the home such a special place. The Convalescent Home of Winnipeg stands as a proud example of tradition meeting innovation, where history, compassion and community come together to create a true home for older adults.

I encourage all members to join me in acknowl - edging the hard work and dedication of the development co-ordinator Sherry Hemper [phonetic] and her team who join us here in the gallery today. The Speaker: Member's time has expired. An Honourable Member: Leave. The Speaker: Is there leave for the member to finish his statement? An Honourable Member: Agreed. An Honourable Member: No. The Speaker: I've heard a no. Is there leave for the member to finish his state - ment? [Agreed]

2658 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA October 1, 2025 Mr. Wasyliw: Their impact is felt not only by the individuals they support, but also by their families and the broader community. Thank you. Introduction of Guests The Speaker: Prior to oral questions, I have some introductions I'd like to make. First all–first of all, I'd like to draw attention of all honourable members to the Speaker 's Gallery where we have the six individuals who are serving on the Assembly's internship program for the 2025-2026 year are seated.

In accordance with the established practice since the program originated in 1985, the interns are divided between the recog nized parties in the House, with three interns assigned to the govern ment caucus and three to the official opposition. The interns will be performing a wide variety of writing and research work as well as other im portant tasks for members of each caucus. The interns com- mence their assignments on September 8, 2025, and will complete them at the end of June 2026.

And just a note of interest, we held the first ever interns ' reunion in this place this summer, and it was a huge success, with interns from over the years coming back to join us. So this year 's interns: working with the govern - ment caucus, Ahdieh Bimrew, from the University of Winnipeg, Sidney Burzynski from Queen' s Uni ver- sity, Hayden Gilmour from the University of Manitoba. And working with the official opposi tion caucus, Fredrich McCracken from the University of Winnipeg, Ngozi Okose from the Uni versity of Manitoba and Emma Winram from the University of Manitoba.

The new academic director for our internship program is Professor Brandon Trask from the Univer- sity of Manitoba. The day-to-day administration of the intern program is carried out by Andrea Norlock, the Clerk's Office admin istrative assistant, assigned to the internship program. The program operates under the direction of our Clerk, Rick Yarish. The caucus representatives on the intern administration commit- tee are the member for Seine River (MLA Cross) and the member for La Vérendrye (Mr. Narth).

I'd like to take this oppor tunity on behalf of all honourable members to con gratulate the interns on their appointment to the program. And I hope that you will have interesting, productive and a successful year with the Assembly. Welcome. And I would like to draw the attention of all hon- ourable members to the public gallery where we have with us today Nathan Cullen, who is the former Member of Parliament and former member of the British Columbia legislature, who is the guest of the Minister of Innovation and New Tech nology (MLA Moroz). On behalf of all honourable members, we welcome you here today.

I would further like to draw the attention of all honourable members to the public gallery where we have with us today Carol Hogson [phonetic], Jodi Logan, Maralee Dodds, Nancy Brennan, Donna Devins, who are the guests of the honourable member for Spruce Woods (Mrs. Robbins). On behalf of all honourable members, we welcome you here today. And I would like to draw the attention of all hon- ourable members to the public gallery where we have with us today Mickey Wharton and Giovanna Blixt , who are guests of the honourable member for Red River North (Mr. Wharton).

And on behalf of all honour able members, we welcome you here today. * (14:10) ORAL QUESTIONS Crime and Public Safety Timeline for Bail Reform Mr. Obby Khan (Leader of the Official Opposition): Honourable Speaker, Manitobans have been demand- ing answers from this Premier on the increasing level of crime in this province. This Premier falsely promised you: he said he would reform the bail pro- cess in 100 days after being elected. Now, over 700 days later, nothing from this Premier other than higher crime rates in this province. One night in June, five separate stabbings occurred.

I table that for the Premier here today. One week later, in June, a man released on bail by this minister stabbed another man and then was released. I table that. In June again, a man was randomly assaulted with a machete. I table that for this Premier to review. These are just a few examples of out -of-control repeat violent offenders under this NDP government.

October 1, 2025 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 2659 Where is the bail reform this Premier promised in his first 100 days? Hon. Wab Kinew (Premier): Keeping you safe is one of the most im portant jobs that govern ment has. That's why in the first few months of office, under the leadership of our Minister of Justice (Mr. Wiebe), we implemented a five -point plan called for by the National Police Federation. It led to the National Police Federation saying that, on bail reform, Manitoba was leading the country, and they encourage other pro- vinces to follow suit.

I will say that the member opposite, though, struck a bad tone in his opening statement. We heard the member for Borderland (Mr. Guenter) appeal to people to not engage in rage farming, and yet the member opposite couldn't resist but taking a cheap shot and trying to inflame division in this House. Here's the thing about public safety: on this side of the House, we don't need to pick and choose who we keep safe. We're trying to make Manitoba safer for every single person –our MLAs in this Chamber included, Indigenous women included.

Can the members opposite, who campaigned on not searching the landfill, say– The Speaker: Member's time has expired. The honourable Leader of the Official Opposition, on a supplementary question. Government Record Mr. Khan: Here's where the Premier has it wrong: stating facts is not rage baiting. It is the facts of this failed NDP gov ernment under this Premier's leader - ship that crime is out of control in this province, the highest crime rates has ever been under this NDP government. This pattern continued all summer.

In Thompson, a group of young offenders, and I quote, with many machetes, end quote, assaulted a 15 -year-old boy. And I table that here for the Premier. In August, a 17-year-old boy was injured when a man with a machete assaulted him; I table that as well for the Premier. In spring, the member on this side of the House, from Brandon West, stood right here and said: We need to do more in restricting machetes and other weapons. What did this Premier do–and Justice Minister? They laughed in his face. So much for a listening gov- ernment.

Will the Premier admit today that he and his Justice Minister are complete and utter failures when it comes to protecting lives in Manitoba? Mr. Kinew: You know, our Minister of Justice (Mr. Wiebe) banned the sale of machetes to kids. Seems like a common sense solution, but it's some - thing that the PCs never did. That member opposite never did that while he was sitting around the Cabinet table. And I'll go ahead and remind the folks here today that the member for Brandon West (Mr.

Balcaen) didn't actually stand up on any questions on public safety in this Chamber this spring once the Winnipeg crime stat numbers came out. Do you know why that was? Because crime is down in the latest statistics. And so the member opposite wants to stand up today and show his outrage. Why doesn't he show his outrage at what is happening with the targeting of two of his colleagues? Go tell the people who are going to gather here this afternoon that you should not be protesting a minister of the Crown's right to serve the people of Manitoba.

And I would say to the goofballs out front: if you have an issue, you have an issue with me. I am the one who decided to keep this minister at the Cabinet table– The Speaker: Member's time has expired. The honourable Leader of the Official Opposition, on a final supplementary question. Manitoba Crown Attorneys Bail System Recommendations Mr. Obby Khan (Leader of the Official Opposition): So much for one Manitoba under this false Premier. Manitobans have the right to protest. They have the right to freedom of speech. You heard it here; this Premier is trying to silence you.

Democracy, freedom of speech, debate: these are all healthy things in this province. What is not healthy is when the Premier and the Minister of Families (MLA Fontaine) showed no empathy for someone who was murdered for expressing those rights. This Premier wants to talk about a five-point system that this failed NDP Justice Minister put out. It's a failure. Crime rates are higher than ever. The Manitoba Association of Crown Attorneys has called on the provincial gov ernment to make changes that would allow Crown attorneys enough time to properly prepare for bail hearings. What does this Minister of

2660 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA October 1, 2025 Justice say? Nothing. Absolutely nothing from this Minister of Justice. So I'll ask the Premier: Will the Premier commit today to implement all of the recommen dations brought forward by the Manitoba Crown attorneys to strengthen Manitoba's bail system to keep violent offenders in jail and not out on bail? Hon. Wab Kinew (Premier): You know, I've got so much respect for people who go to work each and every day to keep our com munity safe. I've got a ton of respect for everybody working in the Justice system, including our correctional officers.

And I think the member opposite really does a disservice through his heckling, because he doesn't even remember what he did at the Cabinet table. He cut the number of Crowns. He cut the pay for cor - rectional officers. He led to un precedented overtime. They closed the Dauphin jail. They closed the Agassiz Youth Centre. And then they want to come run around and tell rural people the NDP cause crime–n o, you didn't. You are the ones who set people free by closing jails, by closing correctional facilities.

The thing about rural Manitoba, that they saw through them in the Spruce Woods by-election is that they always, on the PC side of the House, under esti- mate their intelligence. We're straight up. We talk to you straight up. Mature con versations, real solutions. Two years in, we're making Manitoba safer. We're growing the economy. We're fixing the health care. And you know what the best

part is, Honourable Speaker? The Speaker: Member's time has expired. And I would just remind all members to make sure you direct your comments through the Chair, not directly at members across the way. The honourable Leader of the Official Opposition, on a new question. Minister of Families Cabinet Removal Request Mr. Obby Khan (Leader of the Official Opposition): I want to start off by being incredibly clear here: violence and threats have no place in political discourse or society. Everyone should feel safe at work, in public or at home, no matter how much someone else might disagree with them.

The vandalism and fires at 'costinchency' offices are egregious, and I condemn such acts completely. This must stop. This is not right. Now, when the Minister of Families (MLA Fontaine) rationalized the assassination of Charlie Kirk, she crossed a line that I did not expect to see from a member in this Chamber. Regardless of political beliefs, violence is never the answer and never some- thing to be justified or rationalized. But the Minis ter of Families did just that: she justified and rationalized the murder of someone whom she did not agree with.

The question is simple: Why is the Premier keep- ing a minister in his Cabinet who has showed such visceral hate, condoned political violence and showed no empathy for someone that was murdered in front of– The Speaker: Member's time has expired. Hon. Wab Kinew (Premier): Well, I'm keeping the minister in Cabinet because she's a great minister, and because I don't believe in cancel culture, unlike the members opposite. But here's the thing about the Leader of the Opposition: he wants to throw the stone and hide the hand. He wants to engage in the wedge politics but appear to rise above at the same time.

What was that nonsense of a question we just witnessed here? He says targeting political people is wrong and then he runs and targets a political oppo- nent in this very Chamber. This is what I mean by he underestimates the intelligence of the members of the Conservative base. Hey, if you're a PC supporter, guess what: there's too much corruption in the PC Party of Manitoba.

They're going to block debate this afternoon on fines levied against Heather Stefanson, the first premier to be fined under conflict of interest law –who, by the way, was just appointed to the board of a financial firm out of the Cayman Islands. The Speaker: Member's time has expired. The honourable Leader of the Official Opposition, on a supplementary question. * (14:20) Mr. Khan: Manitobans, you heard it right here: according to this Premier, I can't even ask a question. A question to hold them accountable is deemed violence by this Premier. No, a question is democracy; we're having debate.

Manitobans have the right to get answers from this failing NDP government.

October 1, 2025 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 2661 He said he's falsely listening; well, will he listen today? Manitobans have been loud and clear. They've lost faith in this Minister of Families. She blocked the only Indigenous national news team, she blocked foster families from contacting her, she's separated children from families and put them in hotels, she posted that she has no empathy for a man that had been murdered in front of his family. So Hon ourable Speaker, today I table over 450 emails from different Manitobans demanding the minister be removed from her office.

Will the Premier listen to Manitobans, like he falsely says he is, and remove the minister, the failed Minister of Families (MLA Fontaine), from her Cabinet position today? Mr. Kinew: Well, I'm going to resist commenting on how he struggled to lift the binder and instead focus on the words, okay? When we're talking–[interjection] The Speaker: Order. Mr. Kinew: –about the words that the member oppo- site used here, let's focus on this. Everybody watching here in the House, everybody watching at home: Does he attack me? No, he doesn't. He attacks the Indigenous woman sitting in the front row.

That is what we're calling out. That's what my colleague from River Heights brought attention to. People will come to my con stituency office, 300 people, and they will protest, but nobody ever thought to light a match. Why is it that that happens to our colleague from St. Johns? Why is it that that happens to our colleagues from Point Douglas? Seems like gender-based violence. It seems like Indigenous- specific racism. And what is the member opposite engaging in here? Does he call me to account? No, he has to target the member for St.

Johns (MLA Fontaine) because he doesn't have the heart to strike out a new path. He wants to pander to the base; he wants to pander to division; he wants to continue– The Speaker: Member's time has expired. The honourable Leader of the Official Opposition, on a final supplementary question. Mr. Khan: Here is the difference, Honourable Speaker and Manitobans: I don't need to attack the Premier, but I can ask him tough questions. I can hold him to account, and that is what our job is. That's what I'm doing. And when I do that, what does he say? Violence. It's not violence.

I am asking him a question to be accountable for Manitobans, and what does he throw? Racism in our face. What does he throw? Violence. This is gaslighting by the Premier right here, clear as day. It is our job to hold him accountable. Clearly the government standards on that side–the member from Fort Garry was kicked out because his law partner was hired by Peter Nygård; he kicked him out. Will this Premier, today, explain to all the Manitobans, over 450 emails, why he is keeping this failed Minister of Families in Cabinet?

Will he respond to each one of them personally, or will he just avoid them like he's avoiding all of the accountability for his failed ministers across the way? Mr. Kinew: So there you go, the law and order party sticking up for Peter Nygård, the biggest creep in Manitoba history. You know what was missing from the question– any of the questions he asked today? Health care, the No. 1 issue. Guess why? Honourable Speaker, 3,400 new front-line–[interjection] The Speaker: Order. Mr. Kinew: –jobs, 285 new physicians, emergency rooms reopened in western Manitoba. You know what else was missing?

Roads, one of the top topics in the Spruce Woods by-election. We're fixing Highway 2. We're fixing Highway 2 between Souris and Deleau. Guess what else? We put Churchill on the national agenda. We've got critical minerals and potash moving out of that port now. We cut property taxes; we cut income taxes; we cut the gas tax; we cut the payroll tax. Two years into govern ment, we are delivering on our promises to you. They're focused on them selves; they're focused on the wedge; they're focused on social media. We're focused on what really counts: you and your family being– The Speaker: Member's time has expired.

Provincial Finances Deficit Concerns Mrs. Lauren Stone (Midland): Billions of dollars of growing debt is on the backs of Manitobans with never-ending NDP deficits. While the PCs left the NDP with a $373-million surplus, the NDP have now run back- to-back deficits since being in office. The

2662 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA October 1, 2025 NDP has now posted a $1.1 -billion deficit last year, and this year they are projecting $890-million deficit. Manitoba's finances are getting worse under this NDP government. Will this NDP minister admit that he will not balance the books by 2027 and plans to run years of high deficits and high taxes on Manitobans? Hon. Adrien Sala (Minister of Finance): Honour- able Speaker, it seems that the member opposite has forgotten that her govern ment–previous government left Manitobans with a $2 -billion deficit hole that Manitobans needed to climb out from.

What did we do in the following budget, and what did we achieve as certified by the Auditor General? We've reduced that by 42 per cent, almost $850-million reduction. We're focused on setting a right fiscal path forward. We're committed to balance, and we're going to do that in a good way, with a fiscal plan. It's very different than what the members opposite left with – Manitobans with, a giant fiscal hole to climb out of. We're going to keep doing that work of finding a fiscally responsible path forward while we invest in health care, affordability and making Manitoba safer.

The Speaker: The honourable member for Midland, on a supplementary question. Mrs. Stone: Credit agencies are against what this minister is saying and are contradicting what this minister is saying today. Moody's has warned about Manitoba's worsening finances under this NDP govern ment. They are predicting Manitoba's deficit will be far higher than what the NDP projected in last spring's budget. And Moody's said growing deficits will likely continue next year, contradicting this minister's claim that he plans to budget by 2027.

Who should Manitobans believe: the credit rating agencies or this failed NDP Finance Minister? MLA Sala: Honourable Speaker, we were very proud to see Moody's and S&P reaffirm our credit ratings with stable outlooks, showing their independent con- fidence in our fiscal management. You know what else, Honour able Speaker? This year, public accounts show this was the first year that Manitoba has had a clean audit opinion since 2017. Let's take a moment to think about what happened in 2016 and the following year. Their entire period in government, they didn't get one single clean audit opinion.

What happened this year? The first one in seven and a half years. We're proud to be bringing proper fiscal manage- ment and accountability to this province after way too long a period under their leadership. The Speaker: The honourable member for Midland, on a final supplementary question. Mrs. Stone: A $373- million surplus left by this PC government has been turned into back- to-back deficits by this NDP government. The minister failed to say whether he would rise taxes to balance the budget. He's already raised income taxes by removing indexation. He's raised hydro rates by 12 per cent.

He has increased education property taxes by $350 million on the backs of Manitobans since 2023. Taxes are increasing; spending is increasing; unemployment is up, and our deficit is continuing to increase, year after year on the backs of Manitobans while our economy is failing. How much more is this NDP minister going to raise taxes on Manitobans and make Manitobans suffer for his failures? [interjection] The Speaker: Order. MLA Sala: Honourable Speaker, the former members left Manitoba with a $2 -billion deficit. They don't have to take our word for it. We hired an independent accounting firm, MNP.

I don't know if they don't believe what MNP has to say, but MNP verified that they made reckless and risky decisions that left Manitoba with a $2-billion deficit. The reason is the former government did not have a plan, they did not have any intention on being trans- parent with Manitobans, and they left us with a giant mess to clean up. And what did we do? In one year, we reduced the deficit by $850 million. That's because we can do the work.

We can do the work of finding a fiscally sustain- able path forward while we do what Manitobans sent us here to do, which is to fix the health-care mess they left for everybody in this province. Violent Crime and Public Safety Request for Plan to Address Mr. Wayne Balcaen (Brandon West): All summer long, Manitobans have watched this Minister of Justice pat himself on the back while Manitobans are

October 1, 2025 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 2663 forced to watch their own back, worried about random violence. Under this NDP, there are no con sequences. Doesn't matter if you're old or young, men or women, rural or urban; we're all suffering under this NDP inaction on crime. The common thread: violent criminal offenders known to police. * (14:30) Honourable Speaker, 729 days since that election, a 100-day promise on bail; obviously, this Minister of Justice didn't get the memo. Hon.

Matt Wiebe (Minister of Justice and Attorney General): I note that there wasn't a question there, but I'm happy to talk about keeping Manitobans safe, because it is a focus of this government. Of course, coming into office, we instituted our five-point bail plan and this was, of course, after years of inaction under the previous government. We knew that it was impor tant to bring along our Crown attorneys to make sure that they had clear dir ection about the importance of public safety, about trust in the Justice system. It was impor tant for us to bring along members from community.

I note that there are folks from the AMM here. Of course, we worked with communities around Manitoba. And, of course, we worked with law enforcement; we increased the funding in a way that hadn't been done under seven and a half years of freezes under the previous government. This is what the member opposite misses– The Speaker: Member's time has expired. The honourable member for Brandon West, on a supplementary question. Mr. Balcaen: You can pick up a newspaper – [interjection] The Speaker: Order, please. Mr. Balcaen: You can pick up a newspaper from– The Speaker: The honourable member for Brandon West. Mr.

Balcaen: You can pick up a newspaper from any community within Manitoba and guarantee to read an

article on a violent criminal that has been walking free. Just this past Saturday, WPS reported a road rage incident that es calated when words turned to blows, ending with one man getting a weapon out of his vehicle, charged with assault, possession of multiple weapons, possession of drugs for dis tribution and much more. The Premier (Mr. Kinew) told this Chamber that he would be tough on drug dealers. Was this another empty promise that this NDP government brought forward? Mr.

Wiebe: Well, first let's talk about the WPS, because as of today, there are 36 new officers funded by the provincial government, including 24 that are in community, 12 that are focusing on bail. What was the record of the members opposite? It was a net loss of 55 officers here in the city of Winnipeg. That's shameful, Honour able Speaker. Why is it that the members opposite continue to not take account –be accountable for their actions, for crime going up year over year over year under their watch? We've started to turn the corner.

More work to do, but members opposite need to be accountable for their actions first. The Speaker: Order, please. Order, please. I just remind members to make sure you keep your papers and stuff off the mics; it's causing problems for our interpreters and Hansard people, and it could actually cause an injury. So please be more careful. Mr. Balcaen: What about the couple who was arrested with a quarter million dollars worth of fentanyl? Legal drugs in–or, illegal drugs, lethal to the community, in colourful dinosaur shapes. And I table the WPS release.

Once again, released on an under taking despite drugs and firearm charges. Clearly, the Minister of Justice isn't going to act. This was West Broadway. Lethal drugs in colourful, kid-friendly shapes. Will the Minister of Trans portation and Infra - structure (MLA Naylor), the MLA for Wolseley, at least stand up and agree it's unacceptable and that we need action from this Minister of Justice, or is she staying silent for her constituents as well? Mr. Wiebe: You know, our philosophy has been to be tough on crime and also tough on the root causes of crime.

And, of course, what that means, when we're talking about being tough on crime, it's about going after those drug dealers who bring in those toxic drugs into community. And one of the first bills that we brought forward here in this Legislature was the unexplained wealth

2664 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA October 1, 2025 act, an idea that we campaigned on. Of course, mem- bers opposite derided–and then, they managed to delay that bill and ultimately voted against it. You know, it's clear, Honour able Speaker, we're going to take action to be tough on crime. We're also going to get to the root causes. And I work very closely with the Minister of Housing, Addictions and Homelessness (Ms. Smith), my friends here in the caucus in Education, health care and Families. We're going to get to the root causes, but ultimately it's about– The Speaker: Member's time has expired.

Manitoba's Health-Care System Wait Times and Staff and Patient Safety Mrs. Kathleen Cook (Roblin): After two long and damaging years of NDP govern ment, health care in Manitoba is measurably worse by almost every metric. ER wait times are a great example. They are longer today than they were two years ago–that is a fact. Last night, posted ER wait times at the Grace Hospital were 12 and a half hours. Hon ourable Speaker, you could get on a plane, fly to Halifax, have dinner on the waterfront, fly home, and you still wouldn't have been seen by a doctor at the Grace Hospital last night.

Can the Minister of Health explain, after two failed years in the job, why are ER wait times now worse under their watch? Hon. Uzoma Asagwara (Minister of Health, Seniors and Long-Term Care): Honourable Speaker, I find it interesting that the same person who was advising Heather Stefanson to fire nurses and close emergency rooms is now claiming to be an advocate for health care. Honourable Speaker, the member opposite was part of firing hundreds of nurses –over 300–from our health-care system, driving doctors out in droves and closing major emergency rooms in our province.

In less than two years, we have hired a net -new 3,400 health-care workers who just aligned with our health-care system; we are actively reopening emer - gency rooms; we've added over 450 beds to health care in this province–but that is nowhere near enough to fix the damage done by that member and members opposite. We're going to keep that good work going for Manitobans. That's what they deserve from their government. The Speaker: The honourable member for Roblin, on a supplementary question. Mrs.

Cook: Imagine being the Minister of Health of this great province and thinking that's an acceptable answer about ER wait times. Every day, their failures in health care compound. HSC is still greylisted –something that hasn't hap- pened since the last time the NDP were in gov ern- ment, by the way. But yesterday, a patient in Thompson's hospital was stabbed. Can the Minister of Health explain, after two failed years on the job, why is patient and health-care worker safety getting worse under their watch?

MLA Asagwara: Honourable Speaker, I want to be very clear: every health -care worker, every patient deserves to be safe when they're accessing care or delivering care across this province. Unequivocally, we condemn any violence in our hospitals and sites across the province. Now, it concerns me that for seven and a half years, and including when that member opposite was advising Heather Stefanson, they took no action to address safety and security. Our gov ernment has added over 120 institutional safety officers to hos - pitals across this province.

We've implemented metal detector technology to help keep people safer, and we are continuing to make sure we take further steps, including 24-7 police officers– The Speaker: Member's time has expired. Mrs. Cook: Honourable Speaker, here are the facts. After two long and damaging years of NDP govern - ment, Manitobans are facing longer waits for care; patients and staff are less safe in health-care facilities; home care is in chaos. If the NDP won't keep their promises and won't actually improve things, can they at least stand up today and tell Manitobans they'll at least stop making things worse?

MLA Asagwara: Honourable Speaker, the member opposite knows she has zero credibility on health care. That is why she resorted to a personal attack in her second question. My priority and our priority is fixing the damage done by the previous govern ment over seven and a half years. We are going to focus and I am going to focus on continuing to hire record numbers of net-new health-care workers, making health care safer an d ensuring that we continue to train record numbers of

October 1, 2025 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 2665 students in health care for the front lines in this province. We are training more health- care workers now than we ever have in our province's history. It's not enough. There is more to do. We're going to keep doing that work because that's what Manitobans deserve. Duck Mountain and Porcupine Hills Moose Population Numbers Mr. Rick Wowchuk (Swan River): The minister has yet to answer Manitobans. Moose popula tions in the Duck Mountain and the Porcupine Hills were well below the level that the NDP imple mented a conser- vation closure. Why?

Why is this minister ignoring the science? * (14:40) Hon. Ian Bushie (Minister of Natural Resources and Indigenous Futures): Before I address the mem- ber's question, which I'm happy to do, I'm also a member of the Hollow Water First Nation and this is my first chance to rise. A month or so ago, there was a tragedy in Hollow Water. And I do want to take this opportunity to thank the paramedics, the RCMP, the First Nations safety officers, people, boots on the ground, our community members–including members opposite –that reached out in that time of need to share their thoughts and prayers.

Knowing full well what that meant for my community and what that means for us as society, we are going to do better in our com munity. We need to do better in society. And I'm happy to address the member's question in my following response. The Speaker: The honourable member for Swan River, on a supplementary question. Mr. Wowchuk: A failed rollout condemning that entire ecosystem, the minister refusing to act in the west and in the east. When communities challenge the rule of law, the minister caved and amended regula - tions without consultation. Why did the minister speed through these changes? Mr.

Bushie: The member talks about no consultation. That's their MO over there: no consul tation, no en- gagement. When it comes to the moose popula tion and the moose conservation here in Manitoba, we are going to engage with hunters, we are going to engage with non -Indigenous hunters, Indigenous hunters, First Nations, wildlife federations across all aspects of Manitoba. So we're going to invest in the science, we're going to invest in our area of service. We almost tripled what they did because we know they totally ignore this conversation.

They, in fact, just wanted to do nothing but create and make this a wedge issue across the province. And they're still doing it to this day. We're going to engage, we're going to collaborate and we're going to listen to the science that's before us today. The Speaker: The honourable member for Swan River, on a final supplementary question. Mr.

Wowchuk: I will go back in the previous survey, when the NDP, for the last two years, they have been in–or, they have been allowing harvest in the Duck Mountain knowing the population is 1,169, rather than 2,400, which is resulting in a collapsed population for all stakeholders: Métis, Indigenous and also licensed hunters. Can the minister tell me why he is ignoring the science? Mr. Bushie: Honourable Speaker, nothing could be further from the truth. We here are investing in that science. We are tripling our invest in it–investment in that science to be able to come up with more real-time accurate infor mation.

Members opposite, what did they do? They randomly select where they're going to do surveys across the province, and by the time they actually made decisions based on information, it was so far out of date. It's unbelievable that the member stands up here and wants to be able to talk about things in the past. If he wants to go back, let's go back to the seven and a half years of failed moose management that they had under their term.

He doesn't want to talk about that, including the six or seven ministers that they had on his file, because they know full well they have no leg to stand on when it comes down to the moose manage- ment in this province, and we're going to engage. I know the member opposite had a difficult time being able to talk about the rights holders and the stakeholders in his question, but we are engaging all members of Manitobans –all aspects of Manitoba, when it comes to moose manage ment, because that, for us, is the right thing to do. The Speaker: Member's time has expired.

2666 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA October 1, 2025 Manitoba's Health-Care System ER and Surgical Wait Times MLA Cindy Lamoureux (Tyndall Park): Honour- able Speaker, Manitobans continue to wait countless hours in emergency rooms, and even longer for necessary surgeries across all of our communities. Last month, multiple media sources reported wait times at Health Sciences Centre and St. Boniface Hospital, despite the upgrades, are continuing to go up. Some people have been waiting for over 20 hours and are even going home or, perhaps, to Halifax in between their waits.

Does the minister think it is acceptable that people are still having to wait so long for emergency care two years since they formed government? Hon. Uzoma Asagwara (Minister of Health, Seniors and Long-Term Care): I really appreciate that ques- tion from the member from Tyndall Park; it is a really important one. And I'm going to answer that and just say no, it's not acceptable; those wait times are not acceptable. And I think what's important for us to note is how we got here. You know, the challenges we're facing in health care weren't created over night.

We're talking about three major emergency rooms in Winnipeg were closed by the previous govern ment, hundre ds of health-care workers were fired, all of the expertise, the folks we had working in those ERs, moved on to other jobs and career paths. Our gov ernment is doing the work of training those health -care providers, reopening emergency rooms, and we have experts working with us to make sure times move in a better direction. Manitobans deserve quality health care at the right time and the right place.

That's why we're working so hard to make those improvements despite members– The Speaker: Member's time has expired. MLA Lamoureux: Honourable Speaker, on September 15, CBC reported that since the NDP formed government the support needed for health care has not kept up with the demand. We now have more Manitobans than ever before having to wait longer for necessary surgeries, incl uding cataracts and knee surgery. Many individuals are not even being pro- vided surgery dates. Honourable Speaker, can the minister please share with the House how Manitobans can confidently have timely access to urgent care?

MLA Asagwara: Again, a really important question from the member for Tyndall Park. We are doing more surgeries now in Manitoba than we ever have before. We have invested in more capacity in this province. We've added an additional 800 surgeries alone at Selkirk. We anticipate to getting to about 676 this year. We are actually on track to achieve that 800 number in this budget. I recognize that Manitobans, again, are waiting too long. We're working very hard to build more capacity.

We also recognize that for seven and a half years the previous govern ment was actually cutting, not investing in more capacity in our own province. We're also making sure that Manitobans who couldn't even get their names on a wait list–they were ignored by the PCs–are finally getting care. That's part of the reason why–it is the reason why –we're seeing longer time– The Speaker: Member's time has expired. The honourable member for Tyndall Park, on a final supplementary question.

Impact of Nurse Shortage MLA Lamoureux: Honourable Speaker, nurses and health-care workers have been very clear that burnout and staffing shortages are at crisis levels. The Manitoba Nurses Union president, Darlene Jackson, repeats the frustrations and highlights that the NDP government is going in the wrong direction for improving health care. I table this

article now. This crisis is not new. According to MNU member- ship data, 117 nurses have left Health Sciences Centre since January, with 65 per cent of them being volun- tary resignations. Honourable Speaker, how has this shortage of nurses impacted the safety and well -being of Manitobans? MLA Asagwara: We have a net-new over 200 nurses working at Health Sciences Centre. That is in addition to the over 900. So it's about 1,100– 1,200 net -new nurses working on the front lines of our health- care system in Manitoba. And, Honourable Speaker, it's not enough. It's just not enough.

We're graduating over 1,000 nurses a year. We're training more nurses than we ever have in this province. We're training more health-care workers than we ever have in this province, and there's more work for us to do, and we're going to keep doing that work because we know that when you have more

October 1, 2025 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 2667 nurses and health- care workers standing shoulder to shoulder delivering care, health care improves, safety and security improves and the out comes of Manitobans get better. We know there's more work to do. We're com - mitted to doing it no matter what the PCs across the way have to say about it when they heckle in this House.

Former Premier of Manitoba New Board Appointment MLA David Pankratz (Waverley): Honourable Speaker, this morning Manitobans learned that after breaking the law in this province, former premier Heather Stefanson was given yet another board ap- pointment, this time in the Cayman Islands, and it's clear that she's still benefiting from her time as premier, a time when she broke the law an violated our constitution. And it's not the first time she's used her reputation from her time in office to get a job on a board.

Could the minister please tell the House, the Minister of Education, please tell the House more about Heather Stefanson's announcement this morning? Hon. Tracy Schmidt (Minister of Education and Early Childhood Learning): It's true, Hon ourable Speaker. There is too much corruption in the PC party, and unfortunately for their caucus and their members they have done nothing to change it. We know now that the Member for Fort Whyte's (Mr. Khan) mentor, Heather Stefanson, is joining yet another board.

Apparently, she's off to the Cayman Islands this time, and she's told media about this ap - pointment that serving families and foundations with integrity and innovation resonates deeply with me. I table that press release for the House. These comments are shocking in light of the report of the Ethics Commis sioner, a report that the opposi tion refuses to debate, despite the PCs and the member for Fort Whyte's attempt to deny it.

Manitobans know for a fact, Honourable Speaker, that the former premier broke the law, violated our con- stitution and undermined the integrity of our elections, all while the member for Fort Whyte was in her Cabinet cheering her on. There is too much corruption in the PC Party and Manitobans deserve better. Hospitalization of Child in Care Trust in CFS System Ms.

Jodie Byram (Agassiz): In September a child in care was sent to a Winnipeg hospital in critical condi- tion, and a 25-year-old care provider was charged with aggravated assault, assault and failing to provide the necessities of life. * (14:50) This has undermined Manitobans' faith in our social services. What is the failed Minister of Families doing to restore that trust? [interjection] The Speaker: Order. Hon. Nahanni Fontaine (Minister of Families): Violence against children is one of the most hor - rendous things that anybody can do, particularly the most vulnerable that are in your care.

So let me state unequivocally how heartbroken I am to hear of the violence against children. I want to thank first our first respon ders and police and staff from the Child Protection Branch who are investigating these horrible events. I also want to say in the House that this is why we are investing more supports for all caregivers and more support for front-line CFS staff. We have also–we are hiring two leading practice specialists– The Speaker: Member's time has expired. And the time for question period is also expired. Petitions? There are no petitions. GRIEVANCES Mr.

Rick Wowchuk (Swan River): Honourable Speaker, I rise today on a grievance. I had hoped that my words would have been delivered as a ministerial statement response, an opportunity to join all members in a shared recognition of the courageous work of Manitoba conservation officers. Unfortunately, that opportunity was not granted, and so I pivot today to present these remarks as a grievance, because there are truths that need to be told about how this government treats our officers and how different things looked under the lead ership of the Progressive Conservative government.

Honourable Speaker, October 1 is Manitoba Conservation Officers Recognition Day. It is a day set aside to honour the service, professionalism and sacrifice of the men and women who wear the uniform

2668 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA October 1, 2025 of Manitoba Conser vation Officer Service. These officers are Manitoba's third largest armed law enforcement agency, and they put their lives on the line to protect our wildlife, our natural resources and our communities. The history of the service is long and proud. As far back as 1879,

an act for the protection of game in the province of Manitoba created the first game guardians, with the powers of constables to safeguard fish and wildlife. In 2015, The Conserva tion Officers Act brought together enforcement staff from across fish, wildlife and natural resources and protected areas and gave them full powers and protec tions of peace officers. That was an important recognition of their status, but laws on paper don't keep officers safe in the bush. It takes real investment in people and resources, and the risks are real.

Since 1966, six Manitoba conserva tion officers have lost their lives in the line of duty. Their families, friends and colleagues carry the memory of that sacrifice. Every officer who heads into the field knows that their work can turn dangerous in an i nstant, whether it's confronting poachers, dealing with unsafe hunting practices or responding to emergencies in remote areas. Honourable Speaker, when the PCs came into government in 2016, we saw imme diately these officers had been neglected under the previous NDP.

They were using outdated radios and dispatch systems that sometimes left them without communi cation in life-threatening situations. Their safety equipment was inadequate and their vehicle fleet was aging and insufficient for the vast areas they patrol. We changed that under the PC govern ment. We invested in modern radios and dispatch systems so officers would never again be left without back out – backup. We provided new tactical safety equip ment so they could protect them selves and others.

We added 11 new unmarked patrol vehicles to the fleet, giving officers the ability to move discretely and cover more ground effectively, and we expanded helicopter surveillance capacity, providing vital aerial support for operations across the province. We also took strong legis lative action. In 2017, our govern ment esta blished Manitoba Conserva tion Officers Day, a day today we celebrate so their contri- butions would be formally recognized every year. And with Bill 29, the safe hunting and shared management act, we finally tackled reckless and dangerous practices of night lighting.

For too long, Honour able Speaker, the NDP ignored night hunting. Communities raised concerns, farmers raised concerns, hunters raised concerns. But nothing was done. The risks were obvious: bullets fired at night without visibility, putting people, li ve- stock, property in harm's way. Our PC govern ment took action where the NDP had failed. Bill 29 curtailed night lighting, making our communities safer, protecting landowners and sup- porting fair and sus tainable hunting practices. That leadership, real action responded to Manitoba con- cerns and gave conserva tion officers the tools to enforce the law.

But today under this NDP govern ment we're sliding backwards instead of building on the progress we made. Conservation officers are once again being neglected, and worse, misused. Honour able Speaker, conservation officers should be patrolling our parks, our lakes, our forests and all wild spaces, not patrolling the borders of the United States. These officers are highly trained in resource law enforcement. They're the ones who protect our fisheries, monitor hunting activity, safeguard our endangered species.

They are the ones who respond when Manitobans call about poaching or unsafe activity in rural and northern areas. Yet this govern - ment has chosen to pull away from that work and deploy them to the border. Every hour that an officer spends patrolling the border is an hour they're not in the Duck Mountain or the Porcupine Hills. It's an hour they're not in the Whiteshell or at Lake Winnipegosis, or in west – western or central Manitoba, or in our provincial forests. It's an hour they're not serving the people who expect them to be present in our wild spaces.

This is a complete misuse of service and it shows the govern ment doesn't understand the role or the value of conser vation officers. The NDP is quick to give speeches about supporting law enforcement, but the reality is different. When they were in power, con- servation officers were left with outdated equip ment, unsafing work conditions. They refused to act on night lighting. Today, instead of focusing officers in their core duties, they are –have them patrolling the border. Manitobans deserve better, officers deserve better.

October 1, 2025 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 2669 Meanwhile the challenges facing our conservation officers continue to grow. Illegal hunting practices are still a concern. Fisheries need pro tection to remain sustainable. Our parks and protected areas, wildlife– or, wildfires threaten com munities and require every available hand in such a climate. The last thing we should be doing is diverting office rs away from their duties that they were sworn to uphold. Honourable Speaker, I'm proud of the record our PC gov ernment has made.

We added vehicles, we modernized radio and dispatch, we equipped officers with better tools, we gave them legis lative backing they needed with Bill 29. Today, I grieve. I grieve that the government has chosen a path of neglect. I grieve that officers are being sent to patrol the border instead of protecting Manitoba's natural resources, and I grieve that safety of our communities, sustainability of our wildlife and the legacy of our wild spaces are being undermined. On the Manitoba Conserva tion Officers Recog - nition Day I call on this government to change course.

Invest in the service, equip our officers, support them in the roles they are trained. Honour the memory of those who have fallen by never again leaving their colleagues without the tools they need. Let conserva- tion officers do what they do best: patrolling our wild spaces, protecting resources and serving Manitobans. Because when a gov ernment neglects con serva- tion officers, it neglects rural and northern Manitoba; neglects natural heritage; and it dishonours the sacrifices made by those who have put their lives on the line for this province. That is why today, honour Speaker, I rise on a grieve–grievance.

I commend the conservation officers on this very im portant day of recog nition. We value, from the PC Party, we value what we do. We will continue to stand up for you, and we take your values seriously. Thank you. ORDERS OF THE DAY GOVERNMENT BUSINESS OPPOSITION DAY MOTION The Speaker: The House will now consider the op- position day motion brought forward by the honour - able Leader of the Official Op position; and for the information of all members, according to rule 31(15), 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. * (15:00) Mr. Obby Khan (Leader of the Official Opposition): Honourable Speaker, I move, seconded by the member for Midland (Mrs. Stone), that the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba call on the Premier (Mr.

Kinew) and the provincial gov ernment to sign the memo - randum of understanding with fellow provincial premiers committing to co-ordinate the safe transportation and export of western Canadian oil, natural gas and critical minerals to refineries, seaports and storage facilities in Manitoba, and across Canada and beyond with the goal of esta blishing a Canadian energy corridor for the next Canadian pipelines and energy trans mission projects for the benefits of the Manitoba economy and to create jobs for Manitoba tradespersons and union workers in the resource sector.

The Speaker: Just before I bring the motion forward, is there leave for the motion to be adopted as – considered as written as opposed to as was spoken by the Leader of the Official Opposition? Is there leave?

Is there leave? [Agreed] THAT the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba call on the Premier and the Provincial Government to sign the Memorandum of Understanding with fellow provincial Premier committing to coordinate the safe transportation and export of Western Canadian oil, natural gas, and critical minerals to refineries, seaports and storage facilities in Manitoba, across Canada and beyond with the goal of establishing a Canadian energy corridor for the next Canadian pipelines and energy transmission projects for the benefit of the Manitoba economy and to create jobs for Manitoba trades persons and union workers in the resource sector.

The Speaker: It's been moved by the honour able Leader of the Official Op position, seconded by the member for Midland, that the Legis lative Assembly of Manitoba call on the Premier and provincial government to sign the memorandum of under - standing with fellow provincial premiers committing to co -ordinate the safe trans portation and export of western Canadian oil, natural gas, critical minerals to refineries, seaports and storage facilities in Manitoba, across Canada and beyond with the goal of establish- ing a Canadian energy corridor for the next Canadian pipelines and energy trans mission projects for the benefit of the Manitoba economy and to create jobs

2670 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA October 1, 2025 for Manitoba tradespersons and union workers in the resource sector. Is it the–the floor is now open for debate. Mr. Khan: It gives me great pleasure to rise today to talk about such an im portant project, or oppor tunity before Manitobans, before this NDP government and Premier for the success for the future, for the vibrancy, for the jobs, for the economy, for all the social services in this province.

It gives me great pleasure to stand up and talk about this today, this MOU, this memorandum of understanding that was signed with Saskatchewan, Alberta and Ontario. Sadly, there's one province missing right in the middle there, and it's no other than this NDP govern - ment's province, the province of Manitoba under this Premier (Mr. Kinew). Saskatchewan, Alberta, Ontario want to build their provinces; this Premier wants to destroy this province. Under this NDP Premier, the province of Manitoba is ranked the worst province in Canada with a GDP growth at 1.1 per cent.

We are the worst under this NDP govern ment, we are the worst under this failed Minister of Finance (MLA Sala), all because–actually, we don't know why. The Premier won't say why he's really not signing this memorandum of understanding. It's clear that nation building projects are needed right now in this country, in this province. Every other province has got on board to booster –boost their economy, to grow their workforce, to combat Trump's tariffs. And what has this Premier done? Nothing. Nothing.

What he's done –he's picked up the phone and he called Ottawa, and he asked the Prime Minister for help, and that was it. That was literally all this Premier has done and that's the truth. On the other side, I mean, they're not even saying anything because they know that's the truth. Premier Scott Moe went to China to grow his province and his economy. Danielle–Premier Danielle Smith has made announcements and investments to grow her economy. Doug Ford has done the same thing in Ontario. Mr. Tyler Blashko, Deputy Speaker, in the Chair This Premier has done nothing; he has stayed silent.

We need to get on board with the rest of Canada, with this memorandum of under standing, to grow our economy. For some reason, the province –the Premier doesn't want it. I don't know why. It's shocking. On July 22, 2025, our neighbours–Alberta, Saskatchewan, Ontario–signed a landmark memorandum of under- standing that–to advance pipelines, critical minerals and energy infrastructure. But the Premier's signature was absent. Kind of need Manitoba in the middle there to make this pipeline work, to get on board with the rest on–rest of Canada.

The Premier talks a big talk, but when it comes to action, he has done nothing. Nothing. Nothing when it comes to growing our economy, nothing when it comes to bail reform, nothing when it comes to make our health care better in this province. All failures under this NDP, and it is a failure by this NDP Premier and this NDP government to not sign on board with this MOU. This agreement represents a bold and necessary step towards building a true Canadian energy corridor. Why would he be against that? Well, I'm going to get to that in the next six minutes and 22 seconds.

Might ask for leave; I feel like I could go on and on forever about the failures of this Premier, this NDP gov ern- ment. It's embar rassing, it's pathetic, it's shameful. This Premier–it's not too late to get on board with the rest of Canada. Why are you absent from this MOU? This MOU is about pipelines, critical minerals, export corridor; it's about preparing Canada to com - pete globally while ensuring our industries and workers succeed locally. Oh, hold on, wait. This Premier might not want to sign because he thinks prosperity in this province is in 2040.

Honour able Speaker, 2040 is the plan this Premier talks about. It's 2025 right now, and Manitobans are struggling. Unem ployment is over 6 per cent. Youth unemployment is over 12 per cent. Honourable Speaker, 5,300 Manitobans left Manitoba this summer in manufacturing and the con- struction workforce to go to other provinces under this NDP. The largest exodus of workers is happening under this NDP. Why? Because they're increasing our taxes. The largest historic increase in edu cation property taxes, under this NDP. They're taxing you more and they're providing you less oppor tunity.

This MOU will provide Manitobans with opportunities to grow, to succeed, to have a great job here, locally, in Manitoba. And what does this Premier do? He says, no, we don't want them. We don't want it. We don't want this MOU. They can leave. They can leave this province and go somewhere else. We're not going to sign on with the rest of Canada because apparently, according to this Premier, he thinks he knows best when it comes

October 1, 2025 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 2671 to everything. And the proof is in the pudding, where everything in this province has gotten worse under this Premier. This is about jobs for Manitobans. It's about growing Manitoban busi nesses, future opportunity here in Manitoba. It is about securing invest ments in new mining and processing facilities. Manitoba is home to world- class deposits of lithium, nickel and other critical minerals. And this Premier doesn't want to join an MOU to help export these to the rest of the world. They want to keep it in the ground.

Actually, when I think about it, kind of makes sense why this Premier (Mr. Kinew) wants to keep it in the ground. He's been on the record saying that before. He signed the Leap Manifesto, saying: let's leave it all in the ground. That is this Premier. He has signed it, he said it over and over again. He doesn't want to do these projects. He says one thing and his actions are completely opposite of what his words are. They claim they're going to fix health care, it's worse. They claim they're going to build–reform bail in 100 days, it's worse 700 days later.

They claim they're going to grow the economy, it's the worst economy in the country, is in this province under this failed NDP government. We're calling on the Premier to sign the memo - randum as soon as possible so that we can support economic growth in this province and jobs for northern communities, First Nations, Métis, all Manitobans. We can all prosper together. But according to this Premier, he wants to funnel you all in. He wants to get everyone into this tight silo funnel and say everything only comes from this Premier. He wants to control it all. He wants Manitobans begging for prosperity under him.

That's not the way we see it on this side of the House. We believe in free market. We believe in opening it up. We believe in supporting nation- building projects. * (15:10) This Premier wants to put Manitobans against Manitobans, unions against non- unions, Manitobans against Manitobans. If you're from a different part of Manitoba, you have rights. If you're from a different Manitoba, you have –part of Manitoba, you have different set of rights. This Premier thinks that having verbal dialogue or conversation or criticizing him is a act of violence.

That is how insane this gov ernment has gotten with their ideology and policies, that even saying some - thing against what they're saying is a act of violence, according to this Premier. Well, on this side of the House, we say no. We say we have a right; we have a right for freedom of speech; we have a right to express our opinion, and we–all Manitobans–have a right to prosper, not be suf- focated under this NDP government. When you look at what they've done, it's nothing– absolutely nothing. And the Premier talks about –he wants to have a province–he wants to go forward with his project with con sultation.

With con sultation was his only explanation as to why. Well, I don't think the Premier has read the memorandum of understanding, and I would table it for him to read, and maybe it will actually enlighten him. If he looks at clause 6, it says, between Alberta and Ontario:

whereas Alberta and Ontario are com - mitted to fulfilling their respective duties to consult with Indigenous communities and advancing economic reconciliation in relation to new infra structure dev - elopment in Canada. The con sultation is baked right into the MOU, and yet this Premier says he wants con sultation. There's 41 Indigenous and Bayside com munities, including 29 First Nations, that are on board with Arctic Gateway to serve northern Manitoba. Where is the con sultation with the Premier? Has he had any consultation? There's been no updates. He hasn't said anything.

He hasn't informed Manitobans of what's happening. Honourable Speaker, 41 Indigenous and Bayside communities, including 29 First Nations. Where's this consultation? Because of this Premier's ego, because of his arrogance, because of his blind ideology, he is punishing all of Manitoba. He is punishing Manitobans. He is destroying our economy; he is destroying for the future for all children and the success and prosperity of Manitoba, and on this side of the House, we– The Deputy Speaker: And the honourable member's time has expired. Hon.

Jamie Moses (Minister of Business, Mining, Trade and Job Creation): I'm happy to rise and put some words on the record with respect to the opposi- tion day motion regarding the MOU. Now, before I put some words and with respect to the motion, I want to just take a minute and –just to show appreciation and thanks. We had probably one

2672 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA October 1, 2025 of the worst –definitely the worst wildfire season in living memory for Manitoba.

And knowing the toll it takes on evacuees, know- ing the fact that we've had, sadly, some loss of life – two losses of life in our province –knowing the toll it takes on communities to be evacuated away from the home community, the challenges to deal with that, the stress that it puts on, that's on top of t he fact that we had an incredible amount of work go into our Wildfire Service emergency management teams to co-ordinate efforts and work with Red Cross and other partners, the Canadian Armed Forces, to co-ordinate an effective response that treated people as right and justly as pos- sible while also providing the right protection and care and–for their home communities while fighting those fires and putting themselves in dangerous positions.

I want to just take a moment to show appreciation and thanks to the entire Wildfire Service team, to con- servation officers who play that role, to the Environ- ment and Parks staff who play the role, the emergency management team, the numer ous First Nations and Métis groups who participated in that effort. So I just want to take a moment in the Chamber to show acknowledgement. I thought maybe we could have a round of applause to show our appreciation for all the people who helped Manitobans during the wildfire season this year.

Now, with respect to this MOU, I think members opposite brought it today here very clearly to distract from their terrible record when it comes to the conflict of interest debate and the reports that were brought in. Very clearly, they just don't want to talk about the fact that their former premier–former failed premier–broke the law and was fined $18,000.

The fact that she broke the law is some thing that's very im portant for us to discuss here, and they brought this motion forward in a way to distract and deflect from their terrible record, the fact that their party has a lot of corruption issues in it, the fact that they have failed when it came to building any sort of economic development project in a good or meaningful way. That's their record. Th at's the record that they're trying to avoid telling Manitobans. They're trying to not talk about it and bring something like this that's, quite frankly, has no merit to it, forward for us to discuss today.

So, I'll talk around what their record is in terms of economic dev elopment. Anyone who's looked in Manitoba's GDP over the last 25 years can very easily see there was an upward trajectory under the former NDP govern ment under Gary Doer going up with upward trajectory of GDP growth. And what happened in between 2015 and 2025, the time period where we had that former failed Pallister-Stefanson govern ment? We saw that GDP rate not go as high. That's their record. Their record is a lagging GDP growth in Manitoba.

Now, where all their busi ness focus, all their unleasing mining potential, what 's their record on mining? Three mines closed under their record. That's their record. Their record is three mines closing during their time in office. How about that for unleashing any potential? I don't think they even know what that means, honourable Deputy Speaker. But what we know in Manitoba is how to get projects done. So we've rolled up our sleeves; we worked col laboratively with First Nations, Métis communities.

We've rolled up our sleeves and worked collaboratively with environmental groups, stake - holders, industry, and within 18 months of us being in office, we opened our first gold mine in northern Manitoba. This is a project that's going to employ 600 Manitobans in northern com munities during its construction phase and 450 Manitobans during its ongoing life of mine. Now, this is an incredible economic potential and opportunity for northern Manitobas and it happened because we know how to get projects off the ground.

It happened because we know how to do it in col lab- oration and it happened because we don't have to deal with a PC gov ernment that, quite frankly, fails in every single regard when it comes to building a strong and resilient economy. We know in our current economic landscape when it comes to major projects that Churchill is on the list of the federal gov ernment. We're happy to be supporting it with–by providing $36 million of support to the project of Churchill. We know that, over that time, we've also seen the project of growing expan- sions to the Port of Churchill has grown with it.

MOUs signed with Saskatchewan to produce and ship agri - culture products out of there. We now have seen critical minerals through HudBay shipped out of the Port of Churchill, and recently we've seen deals struck to ship Manitoba potash out of the Port of Churchill. This is real economic deventure –potential–real economic opportunity that is happening because our government knows how to get things done. We don't just talk and have bluster like the member opposite. We actually roll up our sleeves, work together and get the job done.

October 1, 2025 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 2673 On top of all of this, we've released an economic development strategy, one that is bringing forward a robust plan to make sure we have economic success, both now in into the future, one that addresses the real and current economic challenge of tariffs brought on by Donald Trump and his administration, the same Donald Trump and the same tariffs that were–that the member opposite, the Leader of the Official Opposition (Mr.

Khan) was for thanking Donald Trump for bring- ing those tariffs, the tariffs that threaten manu - facturers, threaten rural communities and threaten our Manitoba economy. That's the same tariffs that the member opposite was saying thank you to Donald Trump for. Now, we reject that appreciation he's showing for the president in the White House. We, instead, want to double down on investing in Manitobans, investing in jobs here in Manitoba, investing in our manu- facturing base, in our aerospace sector, in our agricul- tural sector and in our critical mineral sector.

Pharmaceuticals and film are things that are now being threatened by the US administration, and I wonder if members opposite are going to thank the White House for threatening those sectors, too. Now, we're not going to take that path. Instead, honourable Deputy Speaker, we're going to take the path of investing in Manitoba jobs. How do we do that? We do that by incentivizing growth. That means that we're going to change our Manitoba invest ment tax credit to ensure that it is going to be paid up front by removing it off of the PST.

We're going to do that by increasing our loan program so that more businesses have the capital to invest in their economic growth, putting their busi ness success first and Manitoba's jobs first. * (15:20) How do we do that, honourable Deputy Speaker? We do that by enhancing our Small Business Venture Capital Tax Credit, by increasing the cap, lowering the threshold including more investments like SAFE, and doing so in a way that includes general partnerships.

This is real action to boost our economy, boost innovation and ensure that Manitobans who want to look at where they can set up a career, where they can set up their busi ness, realize that it's right here in Manitoba, and at the same time, provide the right incentive for Canadians who are looking right across the country and say, where are the best op portunities and places to grow? Well, it's a place here where we know how to col laborate, we know how to get stuff done. We have a strong manufacturing base. We have power–clean baseload power to do it. We have a manufacturing hub like none other in the country.

Oh, and by the way, you've got a provincial gov ernment that listens and works to make sure we have busi - nesses and Manitobans working hard.

This is how we get this done, and in face of the uncertainty–the global uncertainty and the tariff chal- lenges we face both from the US and from China, we're supporting our agriculture sector, but we're also supporting Manitoba busi nesses to diversify, and that's why we're doubling the export support program, making sure more businesses have the resources to get to a new market, to make sure that they tell the incred- ible story of Manitoba to Europe and to Asia and to more partners throughout the United States. That's how we grow and diversify our economy.

Now, we're doing this because we know it's the right thing to do for our economy. We listen to busi ness leaders who said that our economic develop ment strategy is one of the strongest they've ever seen in the history of our province. We know that we are addressing these issues in a real, meaningful and tangible way and we're going to keep doing it, regardless of what motions the opposi- tion brings forward, regardless of how they try to distract from their terrible record of their con flict of interest, regardless of all of that, we'll continue to work for Manitoba businesses.

We'll continue to work to grow our economy. We'll continue to work to invest in realizing the potential of the Port of Churchill, working col laboratively with First Nations, working collaboratively with the Métis Federation, working collaboratively with Manitobans from all walks of life to grow an economy that works for all of us. Mrs. Lauren Stone (Midland): Despite what the member opposite just put on the record, the truth is is that investors are fleeing this province after two years of this NDP government putting forth anti- business, anti-tax competitive policies since they've been in government.

For the past 11 months, discussions of trade and resource independence have been at the forefront for business, industry and, quite frankly, for politicians in the wake of US and China tariffs and geopolitical issues facing our country and countries a round the world.

2674 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA October 1, 2025 We are at a critical time here in Manitoba, a time to enshrine Manitoba's commitment to unleashing not only Manitoba's potential but Canada's economic potential, but rather than making the tough decisions to grow our economy, this Premier (Mr. Kinew) con- tinues to take a wait- and-see approach to economic growth. We`ve seen this over the past two years.

The NDP was one of the last provinces to introduce legis lation to remove interprovincial trade barriers, and it wasn't until our team and our party put forth a bill to remove interprovincial trade barriers and recognize reciprocity agreements that this NDP decided to do some thing within the last seven days of the last session. They are chasing away investors with their labour policies and our tax competitiveness continues to lag behind other provinces in Canada. We have increased hydro rates of 12 per cent.

Education property taxes are increasing and have increased by $350 million just in the two years since this NDP took office, and we have one of the highest payroll taxes in the entire country. Manitoba is failing to attract the investment we need to grow the economy and become a have -not province. Despite Manitoba holding more critical minerals than Saskatchewan, this year Manitoba ranked 26th in most attractive places to invest in mining. Manitoba was sixth in 2023 under the former PC government, a 20-point drop in less than two years once this NDP government took power.

Investors in this report express concern over all aspects of policy in Manitoba, including roadblocks, and uncertainty over land protectionism were identified as concerns for not coming and investing in Manitoba. Other premiers, as the Leader of the Op position pointed out, are aggressively chasing invest ment and pro-resource development policies. Just today, in fact, Alberta announced its plans to apply for a new bitumen pipeline to the northern British Colum bia coast. Saskatchewan premier has been actively in China as a result of Chinese tariffs on our canola producers in Manitoba.

Premier Smith is active, Premier Moe is active in chasing investments and Premier Ford is growing his economy in Ontario. Yet what's Manitoba doing? Nothing. They are choosing to sit out on key nation- building projects. This is showing where their priorities lie, and it's showing that their priorities tell a very different story than what the Premier (Mr. Kinew) smiles and tells the media.

Claiming to support Canadian resources with a smile to the media while actually putting pen to paper to unleash key economic development projects are two very different things, and this Premier is clearly failing on the latter. This summer, Alberta, Saskatchewan and Ontario signed an MOU to study the feasibility of an east-west Canadian energy corridor project, which would signal to investors that Canada is open for business. This has the potential to create thousands of Canadian jobs and bring billions to the Canadian economy. Yet notice - ably absent was Manitoba.

This leaves a key geo - graphical gap in what could be an incred ibly impor- tant nation-building project. This MOU was simply a commitment, a commit- ment for provinces to work together on the construc - tion of new pipelines, rail lines and trade infra - structure and to study their economic feasibility and their geographical feasibility to see if it can be done. This lack of commitment from the NDP is incredibly problematic, particularly at times when pipeline construction would generate prosperity and national independence from not only the US but foreign energy countries.

The NDP has chosen to not even be at the table, to not even partake in those conver sations to study this economic feasibility. So this is very telling on where the NDP actually lies within their support for Canadian resource development. We know that Canada is in the midst of a trade war with our largest trading partner. We also have a vast amount of geopolitical issues across the world, and this should cause concern for this Premier on our reliance on foreign energy. Reports have indicat ed that Canada imports 2.5 million barrels of Russian oil since the invasion of the Ukraine in 2022.

In addition, roughly half a million barrels of crude oil per day are imported into Canada, with 75 per cent coming from the US. Canada has a problem despite the abundance of resources that we have sitting right here in western Canada. This MOU to study the economic and geo- graphical feasibility across province projects to move resources and not being at the table for Manitoba, a key geographical mess from Ontario to Alberta, was a major lapse in judgment by this Premier.

Major economic development projects are years in the making, from economic feasibility, geographical complexities, environmental stewardship, Indigenous and com mu- nity consul tations, local permitting, provincial and environmental licensing requirements, Manitoba Hydro, just to name a few.

October 1, 2025 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 2675 That's just in the province of Manitoba. We're not even talking about all the licensing and permitting and requirements that come from the federal government. These types of projects take time. For anything to get done, all of these components need to happen in tandem with each other. One does not replace the other, which is exactly why it is so confusing that the Premier of this province chose not to be at the table to discuss a major nation-building project that could be years in the making.

Absolutely, Indigenous and community consulta- tion is critical to moving any major economic development project forward. However, one does not need to negate the other. The MOU spe cifically reaffirmed the Province's duty to consult with First Nations and Indigenous communities to support meaningful economic engagement through partnership programs. * (15:30) The Premier (Mr.

Kinew) clearly did not read the clauses of the MOU when it was presented, so to intentionally choose not to even be at the table with our neighbouring provinces while resource projects aim to reduce our foreign independence on the US and Russia are explored is a major error in judgment by this Premier. Manitoba's absence is a signal to investors that Manitoba doesn't want to be in a table–at the table, and in extension, it's a signal to investors that Manitoba will become a problem and a potential roadblock to any investment.

Manitoba's absence is a signal that this province is closed for busi ness, and its absence is a signal to other provinces that the NDP has no real in- tention to support nation-building projects like this. What is not clear is the real reason why this Premier chose not to be at the table, as this could be the foundation for a major economic success story for Manitoba and the prairie province. So what is Premier Kinew's objection? Is his ideology– The Deputy Speaker: Order. The member should be referred to by their port - folio or their constituency. Mrs. Stone: So one has to ask: What is the Premier's objection?

Is it his ideology, or the ideology of his NDP base limiting him from unleashing Manitoba's potential? His track record speaks for itself. He signed on to the Leap Manifesto which committed to move away from western Canadian resources. He signed on to the 30x30 federal plan just last year, committed to tripling protected areas in Manitoba away from economic dev- elopment. And when we asked in QP last year whether the Premier would support a west -to-east Canadian pipeline project, he refused to answer. Kinew–Premier Kinew's NDP government– The Deputy Speaker: Order. Mrs.

Stone: The Premier's gov ernment is putting ideology over the economy. They're putting thousands of jobs and billions of dollars at risk. Manitoba received the second highest in equalization payments, over $4.6 billion last year. The NDP is gladly taking money from resource-rich Alberta, but will not sup - port them in getting their resources across the country and to market. If we want to be a have province, it's time for Kinew's NDP to quit putting ideology– The Deputy Speaker: Order. Order. Members of the Legislative Assembly should be referred to by their constituency or their portfolio. For the third time.

Mrs. Stone: Manitoba needs to put the economy and people overhead of the NDP's political ideology. The Deputy Speaker: The member's time has expired. Hon. Ian Bushie (Minister of Natural Resources and Indigenous Futures): Thank you, honour able Deputy Speaker, for the op portunity to share a few words on the opposition day motion for the MOU. It's interesting to hear the members stand up and talk and trying to encourage members to sign on to the work of somebody else, which is exactly what they do.

They kind of just build this up and try and create wedge issues to be able to say they're putting in the work, or they're doing the right thing by Manitobans. And instead, all they're trying to do is create these wedge issues. So as we stand up, and I heard the Leader of the Opposition, including the member for Midland (Mrs. Stone) that just spoke, and I believe probably in their notes somewhere where they're talking about, there's a little star that says, make sure you menti on First Nation, make sure you mention Indigenous, make sure you mention Métis, make sure you mention Inuit.

Because it's not part of their notes. It's not part of who they are; it's not part of who they believe in; it's not part of the en gagement proces s that they rightfully should be doing.

2676 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA October 1, 2025 So as much as they refer to–you know, the MOU talks about that; they don't even talk about that in their motion because that's not a priority for them. And for us, that's what it is. There is a priority for us to have that engagement with Indigenous communities here in Manitoba, the rights holders in Manitoba to have that full, meaningful discussion going forward. So for us, it's im portant to be able to say we're having those engagements. As the federal government rolled out Bill C -5, other juris dictions rolled out various aspects of a bill like that.

It did not, first and foremost, talk about Indigenous engagement, and for us, that's a priority. For us, that's a must. I know members opposite, that's not a must for them at all; that's not a priority for them; it's just an afterthought that they want to be able to bring to the table, to say that in a meaningful way. But let's be clear: they made Manitoba a have-not province. We're on the path to being a have province because of the work that we're doing, because of the work that we're putting in, because of the work that we're putting in right from day one, honourable Deputy Speaker.

So our invest ment that we've done in Churchill was prior to the American election, prior to the nation-building project conver sation, because we believed in northern Manitoba, we believed in Churchill, we believed in that Indigenous engagement as well, too, which is some thing we bring forth each and every day. So as my colleague talked about the mining activity in northern Manitoba, we know we're a very have province. And, again, three mines closed under the previous government. We've op

Document details

Collection	Manitoba — Debates (Hansard)
Citation	43-2-67
Type	hansard
Volume / chapter	43rd 2nd hansardpdf 67.pdf
Language	en
Format	pdf
Source	PROVINCIAL
Identifier	dc07c0398c8973de293f9d0145c5b4ac7997dbce

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