Manitoba Hansard — 7 December 2010 (Sitting 15B, 39th Legislature, 5th Session)

39-5-15b

Manitoba — Debates (Hansard)

Fifth Session - Thirty-Ninth Legislature of the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba DEBATES and PROCEEDINGS Official Report (Hansard) Published under the authority of The Honourable George Hickes Speaker Vol. LXIII No. 15B - 1:30 p.m., Tuesday, December 7, 2010 ISSN 0542-5492

MANITOBA LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY Thirty-Ninth Legislature Member Constituency Political Affiliation ALLAN, Nancy, Hon. St. Vital N.D.P. ALTEMEYER, Rob Wolseley N.D.P. ASHTON, Steve, Hon. Thompson N.D.P. BJORNSON, Peter, Hon. Gimli N.D.P. BLADY, Sharon Kirkfield Park N.D.P. BLAIKIE, Bill, Hon. Elmwood N.D.P. BOROTSIK, Rick Brandon West P.C. BRAUN, Erna Rossmere N.D.P. BRICK, Marilyn St. Norbert N.D.P. BRIESE, Stuart Ste. Rose P.C. CALDWELL, Drew Brandon East N.D.P. CHOMIAK, Dave, Hon. Kildonan N.D.P. CULLEN, Cliff Turtle Mountain P.C. DERKACH, Leonard Russell P.C. DEWAR, Gregory Selkirk N.D.P.

DRIEDGER, Myrna Charleswood P.C. DYCK, Peter Pembina P.C. EICHLER, Ralph Lakeside P.C. FAURSCHOU, David Portage la Prairie P.C. GERRARD, Jon, Hon. River Heights Lib. GOERTZEN, Kelvin Steinbach P.C. GRAYDON, Cliff Emerson P.C. HAWRANIK, Gerald Lac du Bonnet P.C. HICKES, George, Hon. Point Douglas N.D.P. HOWARD, Jennifer, Hon. Fort Rouge N.D.P. IRVIN-ROSS, Kerri, Hon. Fort Garry N.D.P. JENNISSEN, Gerard Flin Flon N.D.P. JHA, Bidhu Radisson N.D.P. KORZENIOWSKI, Bonnie St. James N.D.P. LEMIEUX, Ron, Hon. La Verendrye N.D.P. MACKINTOSH, Gord, Hon. St. Johns N.D.P. MAGUIRE, Larry Arthur-Virden P.C.

MARCELINO, Flor, Hon. Wellington N.D.P. MARTINDALE, Doug Burrows N.D.P. McFADYEN, Hugh Fort Whyte P.C. McGIFFORD, Diane, Hon. Lord Roberts N.D.P. MELNICK, Christine, Hon. Riel N.D.P. MITCHELSON, Bonnie River East P.C. NEVAKSHONOFF, Tom Interlake N.D.P. OSWALD, Theresa, Hon. Seine River N.D.P. PEDERSEN, Blaine Carman P.C. REID, Daryl Transcona N.D.P. ROBINSON, Eric, Hon. Rupertsland N.D.P. RONDEAU, Jim, Hon. Assiniboia N.D.P. ROWAT, Leanne Minnedosa P.C. SARAN, Mohinder The Maples N.D.P. SCHULER, Ron Springfield P.C. SELBY, Erin Southdale N.D.P. SELINGER, Greg, Hon. St. Boniface N.D.P.

STEFANSON, Heather Tuxedo P.C. STRUTHERS, Stan, Hon. Dauphin-Roblin N.D.P. SWAN, Andrew, Hon. Minto N.D.P. TAILLIEU, Mavis Morris P.C. WHITEHEAD, Frank The Pas N.D.P. WIEBE, Matt Concordia N.D.P. WOWCHUK, Rosann, Hon. Swan River N.D.P. Vacant Inkster

521 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA Tuesday, December 7, 2010 The House met at 1:30 p.m. ROUTINE PROCEEDINGS INTRODUCTION OF BILLS Bill 6–The Workers Compensation Amendment Act Hon. Jennifer Howard (Minister charged with the administration of The Workers Compensation Act): I move, seconded by the Minister of Education (Ms. Allan), that Bill 6, The Workers Compensation Amendment Act; Loi modifiant la

Loi sur les accidents du travail, be now read a first time. Motion presented. Ms. Howard: Mr. Speaker, it gives me great pleasure to introduce The Workers Compensation Amendment Act. This act expands the list of presumptive cancers for firefighters to include four more cancers: multiple myeloma, primary site prostate and skin cancers, and, for the first time in Canada, primary site breast cancer. It's interesting to note that Winnipeg has the largest percentage of female firefighters, many of whom join us today in the gallery. We welcome all the firefighters here.

In addition, Workers Compensation Board benefits for all workers are automatically indexed to the rate of inflation. This act ensures that WCB benefits will not be reduced when indexing factors are negative in any year. Mr. Speaker: Is it the pleasure of the House to adopt the motion? [Agreed] PETITIONS Multiple Sclerosis Treatment Mr. Rick Borotsik (Brandon West): I wish to present the following petition to the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba.

The reasons for this petition are: More than 3,000 Manitobans and their families are impacted by multiple sclerosis, and Manitoba has one of the highest rates of MS in the world. New research indicates that there may be a link between a condition known as chronic cerebrospinal venous insufficiency, CCSVI, and multiple sclerosis. Preliminary studies indicate that many MS symptoms can be relieved with angioplasty, a common procedure. In order to test this procedure for safety and effectiveness, additional res earch and clinical trials are needed.

Manitoba is not testing for CCSVI, conducting research or conducting clinical trials. The Province of Newfoundland and Labrador will be monitoring MS patients who have undergone the liberation treatment and studying its impact. Saskatchewan has announced that it will move forward with a clinical tr ial when their research community presents a proposal and has invited other provinces to join them. Meanwhile, Manitoba's provincial government has not taken up this initiative nor shown any leadership on this issue.

We petition the Legislative of Assembly of Manitoba as follows: To urge the Minister of Health to consider making the province of Manitoba a leader in CCSVI research and move forward with clinical trials as soon as possible. Mr. Speaker, this petition is signed by M. Speers, K. McKay and M. Donald and many, many other very, very concerned Manitobans. Mr. Speaker: In accordance with our rule 132(6), when petitions are read they are deemed to be received by the House. Mrs. Myrna Driedger (Charleswood): I w i s h t o present the following petition to the Legislative Assembly.

These are the reasons for this petition: More than 3,000 Manitobans and their families are impacted by multiple sclerosis, and Manitoba has one of the highest rates of MS in the world. New research indicates that there may be a link between a condition known as chronic cerebrospinal venous insufficiency and multiple sclerosis. Preliminary studie s indicate that many MS symptoms can be relieved with angioplasty, a common procedure. In order to test this procedure for safety and effectiveness, additional res earch and clinical trials

522 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA December 7, 2010 are needed. Manitoba is not testing for CCSVI, conducting research or conducting clinical trials. The Province of Newfoundland and Labrador will be monitoring MS patients who have undergone the liberation procedure and studying its impact. Saskatchewan has announced that it will move forward with a clinical tr ial when their research community presents a proposal and has invited other provinces to join them. Meanwhile, Manitoba's provincial government has not taken up this initiative nor shown leadership on this issue.

We petition the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba as follows: To urge the Minister of Health to consider making the province of Manitoba a leader in CCSVI research and to move forwar d with clinical trials as soon as possible. And this is signed by F. Budzey, J. Budzey, E. Desrochers and many, many others. RCMP Rural Service Mr. Stuart Briese (Ste. Rose): Mr. Speaker, I wish to present the following petition to the Legislative Assembly. And these are the reasons for this petitions: Manitoba deserves to live in a safe environment and to feel secure in their homes and their communities.

Some regions of rural Manitoba have been hard hit by crime, including residential break and enter, property theft, vandalism and other offences that threaten people's security. In some areas, RCMP detachments are not staffed on a 24-hour basis. Criminal elements capitalize on this, engaging in crime at times when officers may not be readily available to respond to calls for service. Some believe the current RCMP detachment boundaries need to be redrawn so that service delivery could be faster and more effective.

We petition the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba as follows: To request the Minister of Justice to consider working with the RCMP, the federal government and communities to develop strategies to address service challenges in rural Manitoba, such as the possibility of having response units that could be dispatched to regions affected by crime waves. And to request the Minister of Justice to consider working with stakeholders to determine if the current RCMP detachment boundaries are designed to ensure the swiftest and most effective service delivery. This petition is signed by M. Halliday, K. Brown, W.

Cabak and many, many other fine Manitobans. Bipole III Project Mr. Blaine Pedersen (Carman): I wish to present the following petition to the Legislative Assembly. The background to this petition is as follows: In September of 2007, the Minister responsible for Manitoba Hydro directed the utility to abandon an east-side route for its Bi pole III project. Five days later, Manitoba Hydro announced that the utility would be proceeding with a west-side route. Manitoba Hydro staff, technical experts and regular Manitobans have communicated to the provincial government that they would prefer an east-side route.

A west-side route would–will be almost 500 kilometres longer than an east-side route, less reliable, and cost taxpayers at least an additional $1.75 billion. The extra cost being forced on Manitoba Hydro and Manitobans by the provincial government will mean that every Manitoba family will end up paying $7,000 for this decision. Since the current provincial government has come into power, hydro rates have already increased by almost 20 per cent. If this decision is not reversed, it will result in further rate increases for Manitobans.

We petition the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba as follows: To urge the provincial government to allow Manitoba Hydro to proceed with the shorter, cheaper and greener east-side route, subject to necessary regulatory approvals, enabling the utility to keep our hydro bills lower and to ensure a more reliable electricity system. And this petition is signed by R. Mazarat, R. Veugen, R. LeNeil and many, many more fine Manitobans.

December 7, 2010 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 523 PTH 15 and Highway 206 Changes–Public Consultation Mr. Ron Schuler (Springfield): Mr. Speaker, I wish to present the following petition to the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba. These are the reasons for this petition: In August 2008, the Minister of Transportation stated that traffic volumes at the intersection of PTH 15 and Highway 206 in Dugald exceeded those needed to warrant the installation of traffic signals.

We petition the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba as follows: To request that the Minister of Transportation consider holding a public consultation process with Springfield residents, present design options and the rationale for the planned changes to PTH 15 and Highway 206 intersection and also in regards to the planned hard median at a public open house in Dugald. To request that the Minister of Transportation recognize the value of the businesses affected by the proposed changes, as well as the lives and well-being of the students, seniors and citizens of Manitoba. This is signed by T. Wachal, R. Chornley, I.

Lafrance and many, many other Manitobans. * (13:40) COMMITTEE REPORTS Standing Committee on Social and Economic Development First Report Mr. Tom Nevakshonoff (Chairperson): Mr. Speaker, I wish to presen t the First Report of the Standing Committee on Social and Economic Development. Madam Clerk (Patricia Chaychuk): Your Standing Committee on Social and Economic Development– Mr. Speaker: Dispense? Some Honourable Members: Dispense. Mr. Speaker: Dispense. Your Standing Committee on SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT presents the following as its First Report.

Meetings Your Committee met on December 6, 2010 at 6:00 p.m. in Room 255 of the Legislative Building. Matters under Consideration • Bill (No. 3) – The Victims’ Bill of Rights Amendment Act (Denying Compensation to Offenders and Other Amendments)/Loi modifiant la Déclaration des droits des victimes (refus de versement d'indemnités aux auteurs d'infractions et autres modifications) • Bill (No. 4) – The Retail Businesses Holiday Closing Amendment Act/Loi modifiant la

Loi sur les jours fériés dans le commerce de detail • Bill (No. 5) – The City of Winnipeg Charter Amendment Act (Historic Property Designations)/Loi modifiant la Charte de la ville de Winnipeg (désignations de biens historiques) • Bill (No. 8) – The Legal Aid Manitoba Amendment Act/Loi modifiant la

Loi sur la Société d'aide juridique du Manitoba • Bill (No. 9) – The

Summary Convictions Amendment Act/Loi modifiant la

Loi sur les poursuites

sommaires • Bill (No. 10) – The Employment Standards Code Amendment Act (Leave for Citizenship Ceremonies)/Loi modifiant le Code des normes d'emploi (congés relatifs aux cérémonies de citoyenneté) Committee Membership • Ms. B RICK • Mr. BRIESE • Hon. Mr. CHOMIAK • Mr. DYCK • Mr. HAWRANIK • Hon. Ms. HOWARD • Hon. Mr. LEMIEUX • Mr. MARTINDALE • Mr. NEVAKSHONOFF (Chair) • Mr. SCHULER • Hon. Mr. SWAN Your Committee elected Ms. B RICK as the Vice-Chairperson. Public Presentations Your Committee heard the following two presentations on Bill (No. 4) – The Retail Businesses

524 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA December 7, 2010 Holiday Closing Amendment Act/Loi modifiant la

Loi sur les jours fériés dans le commerce de detail: Chuck Davidson, Winnipeg Chamber of Commerce Lanny McInnes, Retail Council of Canada Your Committee heard the following presentation on Bill (No. 10) – The Employment Standards Code Amendment Act (Leave for Citizenship Ceremonies)/Loi modifiant le Code des normes d'emploi (congés relatifs aux cérémonies de citoyenneté): Sergio Glogowski, MEAAC (Manitoba Ethnocultural Advisory and Advocacy Council Written Submissions Your Committee received the following written submission on Bill (No. 3) – The Victims’ Bill of Rights Amendment Act (D enying Compensation to Offenders and Other Amendments)/Loi modifiant la Déclaration des droits des victimes (refus de versement d'indemnités aux auteurs d'infractions et autres modifications): Michael Silicz, Manitoba Association for Rights and Liberties Your Committee received the following written submission on Bill (No. 5) – The City of Winnipeg Charter Amendment Act (Historic Property Designations)/Loi modifiant la Charte de la ville de Winnipeg (désignations de biens historiques): Cindy Tugwell, Heritage Winnipeg Corporation Bills Considered and Reported • Bill (No. 3) – The Victims’ Bill of Rights Amendment Act (Denying Compensation to Offenders and Other Amendments)/Loi modifiant la Déclaration des droits des victimes (refus de versement d'indemnités aux auteurs d'infractions et autres modifications) Your Committee agreed to report this Bill without amendment. • Bill (No. 4) – The Retail Businesses Holiday Closing Amendment Act/Loi modifiant la

Loi sur les jours fériés dans le commerce de detail Your Committee agreed to report this Bill without amendment. • Bill (No. 5) – The City of Winnipeg Charter Amendment Act (Historic Property Designations)/Loi modifiant la Charte de la ville de Winnipeg (désignations de biens historiques) Your Committee agreed to report this Bill without amendment. • Bill (No. 8) – The Legal Aid Manitoba Amendment Act/Loi modifiant la

Loi sur la Société d'aide juridique du Manitoba Your Committee agreed to report this Bill without amendment. • Bill (No. 9) – The

Summary Convictions Amendment Act/Loi modifiant la

Loi sur les poursuites

sommaires Your Committee agreed to report this Bill without amendment. • Bill (No. 10) – The Employment Standards Code Amendment Act (Leave for Citizenship Ceremonies)/Loi modifiant le Code des normes d'emploi (congés relatifs aux cérémonies de citoyenneté) Your Committee agreed to report this Bill without amendment Mr. Nevakshonoff: Mr. Speaker, I move, seconded by the honourable member for St. Norbert (Ms. Brick), that the report of the committee be received. Motion agreed to. TABLING OF REPORTS Hon.

Peter Bjornson (M inister of Entrepreneur- ship, Training and Trade): I'm pleased to table the following reports: the annual report for the Manitoba Opportunities Fund Limited for the fiscal year ending March 31st, 2010; and the annual report for the Manitoba Development Corporation for the fiscal year ending March 31st, 2010. Hon. Gord Mackintosh (Minister of Family Services and Consumer Affairs): I'd like to table two Orders-in-Council made under

section 114 of The Insurance Act. MINISTERIAL STATEMENTS Winnipeg Grenadiers Hong Kong Battle Veterans Hon. Greg Selinger (Premier): Yes, Mr. Speaker, I have a statement for the House, a ministerial statement. In September of this year, I had the great honour of joining the Lieutenant-Governor of Manitoba in laying a wreath at the Sai Wan base cemetery in Hong Kong where dozens of members of the Winnipeg Grenadiers are buried. We also paid

December 7, 2010 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 525 special tribute to Sergeant Major John Osborne of the Winnipeg Grenadiers. As some of you might know, Sergeant Major Osborne was awarded the highest honour for bravery, the Victoria Cross, as a result of throwing himself on a grenade to protect his fellow soldiers. There is a special memorial to this outstanding hero in Hong Kong, and I was honoured to visit it in September. The reason I mention these events is because today marks a very special day in history. As President Roosevelt said, December 7th is a day that will live in infamy.

It was on this date 69 years ago, in 1941, that Japan declared war on the United States with the attack on Pearl Harbour. What is not so widely known is that on the next day, December 8th, a force of over 60,000 Japanese soldiers also attacked and invaded Hong Kong. Mr. Speaker, a Manitoba battalion, the Winnipeg Grenadiers, were part of the 10,000 allied combat troops stationed in Hong Kong for its defence.

The allied forces surrendered on December 25th, and for almost four years, the surviving members of the Winnipeg Grenadiers and the Royal Regiment of Canada were prisoners of war under conditions that can only be described as horrific. Of the 1,976 Canadians who arrived in Hong Kong to assist with its defence, 290 died in the battle and 294 died in the prisoner of war camps in Hong Kong and Japan.

Today, of the two surviving members of that famous regiment, the Winnipeg Grenadiers, who live in Winnipeg and who fought in that battle in Hong Kong and who also spent over four years as prisoners of war, one is here with us as a guest in this Chamber, Mr. George Peterson. [Applause] Regrettably, Mr. Larry Stebbe is not able to attend due to his health, bu t we are very pleased that his daughter, Colleen Stebbe, is here to represent him. Mr.

Speaker, may I ask that after we hear from members of the other parties in the House, that we again rise and show our appreciation to both men for their courage, their dedication and for their service to Canada. Well done, gentlemen. This Chamber and province salute you. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Hugh McFadyen (Leader of the Official Opposition): Mr. Speaker, and I want to thank the Premier for his very appropriate and eloquent statement, and support his comments on the record today.

It is a great honour for me, on behalf of my colleagues, to recognize and welcome these–the families of these two brave Canadians, Mr. George Peterson, who's here in person, and representatives of the family of Larry Stebbe. Colleen Stebbe, his daughter, I had the pleasure of meeting in the hallway just before arriving here. I'd also like to welcome the Right Honourable Ed Schreyer, distinguished former premier and Governor General of Canada, who is with us today in the loge. Mr. Speaker, in 1941, Mr. Peterson was a 20-year-old corporal with the Winnipeg Grenadiers; Mr.

Stebbe was an 18-year-old private; and, along with nearly 2,000 other Canadians, these two gentlemen sailed to Hong Kong to defend the British Colony. The Grenadiers, together with Québec's Royal Rifles, fought valiantly in the Battle of Hong Kong in a battle group that was known as 'C' Force. Outnumbered by 10 to one, the soldiers of 'C' Force fought a fierce battle for 17 days; 290 members of that group died in that battle; 493 were wounded, and the survivors of that battle were taken prisoner.

In the prison camps they endured horrific conditions for almost four years before they were freed following the surrender of Japan. Sadly, 267 Canadians did not survive that ordeal. Today we honour the bravery of Mr. Peterson and Mr. Stebbe and the others who fought along side them. This year marks the 69th anniversary of that battle, which has not, Mr. Speaker, received the attention in our history books that it deserves; however, steps are being take n to rectify this. Last year a memorial was finally established in Ottawa. Mr.

Speaker, I also want to recognize the families who, themselves, have contributed to our province and our country in many ways, and who are justifiably proud of these brave men. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of my colleagues, I want to thank all past and presently serving members of Canada's Armed Forces. Their commitment to Canada in the cause of freedom is remarkable and deeply appreciated. Thank you.

526 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA December 7, 2010 Hon. Jon Gerrard (River Heights): Mr. Speaker, I ask leave to speak to the Premier's (Mr. Selinger) statement. Mr. Speaker: Does the honourable member have leave? Some Honourable Members: Leave. Mr. Speaker: Leave has been granted. Mr. Gerrard: Mr.

Speaker, I rise to join other members of the Chamber in recognizing the heroic efforts of George Peterson and Larry Stebbe, and the many others who served as part of the Winnipeg Grenadiers in the battle for Hong Kong, some 69 years ago. * (13:50) It is appropriate that we are gathered today to remember these events, in part because the Winnipeg Grenadiers were a major part of the activities, and in part because it has not been adequately recognized in the past and it needs to be better known and better recognized. And so I'm very pleased that Mr.

Peterson is here today and that Colleen Stebbe is here today, along with others, to commemorate this historic occasion and to try and bring more attention to the fact of the valour that was there, of the incredible battle that was–took place, and the fact that that was one of the important battles in the fight for freedom in the Second World War. Thank you. Mr. Speaker: May I ask members to please rise and show our appreciation and thanks to both men for their courage, their dedication and for their service to Canada. [Applause] Introduction of Guests Mr.

Speaker: I would like to draw the attention of all honourable members to the loge to my right where we have with us today His Excellency the Right Honourable Edward Schreyer. And I'd also like to introduce Mr. George Peterson, who served in 'C' Force, accompanied by his wife, Margaret; and Ms. Colleen Stebbe, representing her father, Mr. Larry Stebbe. Both men are members of the Winnipeg Grenadiers and the Royal Regiment of Canada still living in Manitoba and are veterans of the battle in Hong Kong. And also in the Speaker's Gallery we have with us today, we have Dr.

Michelle Jones, who is the US Consul; Brigadier General Robert Beletic, Deputy Commander, Canadian North American Aerospace Defence Region ; Chief Warrant Officer Guy St-John; Honorary Lieutenant Colonel Bob Vandewater, Chairman of the Canadian Forces Liaison Council; and Lieutenant Commander Paul Stiff, HMCS Chippawa. And also in the public gallery we have family and friends of the Peterson and Stebbe family, as well as members of their military family. All these guests are the guests of the honourable member for St. James (Ms. Korzeniowski).

And also in the public gallery we have with us, we have Alex Forrest, who is the president of the United Fire Fighters of Winnipeg; Dave Naaykens, president of the Manitoba Professional Fire Fighters Association; Wade Ritchie, president of the Brandon Professional Firefighter/Paramedic Association; Tim Rosentreter, president of the Pinawa firefighters; and Greg Kier, president of the Portage la Prairie firefighters, who are the guests of the honourable Minister of Labour and Immigration (Ms. Howard).

And also in the public gallery we have with us from Carberry Collegiate, we have 17 grade 9 students under the direction of Ms. Raegan Dyck. This school is located in the constituency of the honourable member for Turtle Mountain (Mr. Cullen). On behalf of all honourable members, I welcome you all here today. ORAL QUESTIONS Education System Student Test Scores Ranking Mr. Hugh McFadyen (Leader of the Official Opposition): One of the most important jobs of government is to ensure that our kids can read, do mathematics and understand science. Eleven years ago, Mr.

Speaker, this government promised that education would be a priority. I want to ask the Premier: Why has his government failed to deliver on this critical promise to Manitoba's children? Hon. Greg Selinger (Premier): It has been the view of this government since its very beginnings that an investment in education is an investment in the future of this province, not only in its young people but in their families and in their communities.

And that is why every single year we have worked to improve not only the funding for education, we have not only invested in schools, we have not only invested in new technology so that

December 7, 2010 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 527 young people can have access to the materials and the technologies they need to participate in a modern economy, but we have moved forward on all of those things at a time when others have suggested that we need to cut those budgets. We have not done that. We have continued to make education a priority, and we will continue to do so well into the future. Mr. McFadyen: Mr. Speaker, the numbers released by the OECD show very cl early that Manitoba and this government is failing compared to other provinces.

It's failing compared to the scores that students were getting in Manitoba 10 years ago. I want to ask this Premier: After 10 years, why are Manitoba students doing less well on those tests than they were 10 years ago? Why are we failing compared to other provinces? We started this the last decade in the top half of Canada; we're now at the bottom. How does he explain this complete failure? Mr. Selinger: Let's bear in mind more young people are now completing high school. When we came into office, 72 per cent of young people finished high school.

We have now moved that to 80 per cent, and that's exactly what we want, Mr. Speaker. We want more people continuing to complete high school, which is why we have brought in legislation to require young people to stay in school till 18 years old, which is something–it's the largest overhaul of our education act in the last 40 years. We need more young people completing high school. We need more young people entering the trades, going to colleges and universities, and we have seen increases at all three levels.

We have more people doing apprenticeships than any time in our history, more people in colleges than any time in our history and more people in university at any time in our history and completing high school. As we continue to widen the net and include more young people in our educational system, we will also improve the quality of the curriculum. Mr. McFadyen: Mr.

Speaker, the OECD indicates today that we're falling behind in the three areas that are the most important things that we can teach kids in our school system: we're falling behind in reading; we're falling behind in mathematics; we're falling behind in science, the three most important things that we can teach kids to be successful in today's world. We're falling behind where we were 10 years ago; we're falling behind every other province in Canada except PEI.

In fact, students in Manitoba, because of this government's policies, have fallen behind students in France, Ireland, Finland, New Zealand, Norway, Estonia, Iceland and even tiny Liechtenstein. I want to ask the Premier: Why is it that Manitoba students are falling behind? Will he admit that his no-fail policies are failing the students of Manitoba? Mr. Selinger: Mr. Speaker, when only 72 per cent of young people were graduating from high school, they scored higher on these OECD tests. Now that we have 80 per cent of kids staying in school, we have maintained a position around the OECD average or mean.

We are do ing better than students in places like Denmark and in the United Kingdom, but the reality is we need more young people–we need more young people–completing high school. We can go with a small slice of Manitobans and have them have better scores and then have the remainder being outside of the system entirely, or we can have a system that's a universal education system that brings everybody into the education system and then lifts them all up with a better performance, and that's where we're going to go. Some Honourable Members: Oh, oh. Mr. Speaker: I just want to remind members–order.

I just want to remind members that we have a lot of guests in here and we just honoured two gentlemen that put their life on the line for us to enjoy the democratic process that we're allowed to practise. And I think we need to respect our rules and procedures in this House a little better than what we're doing. So I'm asking the co-operation of all honourable members, please, for the person that has the floor should have the right to be heard. I'm asking the co-operation of all honourable members, please. Education System Student Test Scores Ranking Mr.

Cliff Cullen (Turtle Mountain): After 11 years in office, the bottom line on education is that this government is failing our children. The OECD report clearly compares results on reading proficiency from 2000 to 2009. After being in office for–over those years, our reading proficiency has dropped to second last in Canada, just ahead of Prince Edward Island and only ahead of Prince Edward Island. Why has this government failed our children? Hon. Nancy Allan (Minister of Education): I think it would be appropriate to remind members opposite

528 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA December 7, 2010 about the investments that we have made in our public education. We have invested in our public education every year to the rate of economic growth since we got into government, Mr. Speaker. It is 15 times the investment that was made when they were in government. * (14:00) We have also streng thened our assessment policy and we've changed the 1997 Tory assessment policy that said that students could hand in their assignments late, Mr. Speaker.

We have changed that policy so that we can have students handing in their assignments and being accountable so that they can succeed in the real world. We will continue to make changes so that our students can achieve academic success, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Cullen: Mr. Speaker, the reality is Manitoba has the second worst dropout rate in Canada. Mr. Speaker, this government has failed to make children a priority.

As the OECD report points out, strong reading skills are not only a foundation for achievement in other subject areas within the educational system but are also a prerequisite for successful participation in most areas of adult life. So, Mr. Speaker, it's quite alarming that this report shows Manitoba had the greatest drop in reading proficiency of any province over that last nine years. Why has this government failed to provide the fundamentals to our children? Ms. Allan: Well, Mr.

Speaker, the fundamentals in our public education are important to us and that's why we've made significant investments in our public education system. We also provide funding to school divisions all across this province in regards to literacy, in regards to reading, and we will continue to work with our education partners, with our parents, with our public school trustees, with our educators in regards to what programs work best for our students in our public education system so that they can be successful.

We will continue to work with them, unlike the '90s when the members opposite decreased funding to the public education system. They claim they will take $500 million out of our budget, and I think if they're going to take $500 million out of our budget– Mr. Speaker: Order. Mr. Cullen: Well, Mr. Speaker, the reality is it gets much worse. Not only did we have the largest drop in reading levels, but we also suffered the biggest drops in math and science proficiency as well. Eleven years of NDP policy is not preparing our children for the future. Why has this government failed our children? Ms. Allan: Well, Mr.

Speaker, I find it curious strange that this is the first question that I'm actually getting from the Education critic in regards to Education since this session started. We believe we have a vision for our public education system. We're going to continue to invest in it. We're not going to do what the Leader of the Opposition (Mr. McFadyen) said in 2007 when he said, you know, I don't think the public education system needs any more money because enrolment is declining, Mr. Speaker. That was his vision. We're going to continue to work with our educators.

We're implementing a report card that is going to be a plain language report card, Mr. Speaker, so that parents and teachers are going to collaborate on what their students are learning in school so we can continue to have students succeed in our public education system. That's our vision. Waverley West Cost of Acreage for School Construction Mr. Hugh McFadyen (Leader of the Official Opposition): And following up on their failure when it comes to reading, mathematics and science, Mr.

Speaker, families throughout southwest Winnipeg, as Waverley West is being developed, were looking forward to the construction of a high school to provide a good quality of education to kids in that part of the city. Mr. Speaker, we have been shocked to find–to learn in the last short while that Manitoba Housing, which is the developer of Waverley West, has increased the cost of land tenfold to the school board in order to move ahead on a high school, from $25,000 to close to $300,000 an acre for that land for a school.

I want to ask the government: Why are they so intent on penalizing Winnipeg families and their kids when it comes to this needed high school? Hon. Greg Selinger (Premier): Mr. Speaker, it's the government that provides the money to school divisions to purchase the land. The reality is that we buy the land as part of our capital allocation to

December 7, 2010 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 529 schools, and we have a record allocation to schools for capital, $310 million, the highest number–amount of capital ever available for the purchase and repair and renovation of schools, all of which the members have voted against. The reality is we're building new schools in this province, over 17. We're building and renovating new schools in this province, and when Waverley West needs a new school the resources will be provided to have it. Mr.

McFadyen: Six months ago the Pembina Trails School Board was under the–operating on the assumption that they could acquire the land for $25,000 an acre. Within the last couple of months, they were told, after meeting with the developer, Manitoba Housing, that that price had increased tenfold to almost $300,000 an acre which they would have to front, Mr. Speaker , before recovering those funds at some point down the road if a school gets built. It's clear, their agenda is either to derail the construction of a school or to have a massive property tax increase for people who live within Pembina Trails School Board.

I want to ask the government: Why is the Minister of Housing (Ms. Irvin-Ross) so intent on punishing her own constituents? Mr. Selinger: Mr. Speaker, the Government of Manitoba, through the Public Schools Finance Board, compensates the school division for the acquisition of land for a school. The land is normally acquired at market value. The market value is what is the reality of the development of Waverley West out there, where, for the first time in a decade, we're making available land to build new housing in Winnipeg. And I can tell you, the real estate market in Winnipeg is red hot. We know that.

It's doing very well in this city contrary to what's happening in many other jurisdictions throughout North America. When the school is needed, the school division acquires the land, we co mpensate them for the acquisition of the land, we provide the capital for the new school and we ensure that families purchasing homes in that area have access to good education. Mr. McFadyen: Well, Mr. Speaker, the way it works is that the school board fronts the money to acquire an option in the land. If a high school is approved, that money then comes back from the provincial government.

They're saying they won't even build high schools in Seven Oaks until 2013 where they're bursting at the seams. In Pembina Trails, Mr. Speaker, the agenda is very clear. The agenda is very clear. It's to penalize families who live in places like St. Norbert, Fort Richmond, Fort Garry, Linden Woods and other communities in the southwest part of Winnipeg. To penalize taxpayers in the city of Winnipeg through their policies, even as they hold out to residents, who are buying land in that area, that a new high school is coming, Mr. Speaker. That's the agenda of the Department of Housing.

I want to ask the Premier very clearly: Why is his Housing Minister attempting to penalize her own constituents when it comes to education and education taxes? Mr. Selinger: Again, Mr. Speaker, the member from Fort Whyte is missing the point. The point is this: The government compensates the school division for the acquisition of land for a new school. The Public Schools Finance Board, which we finance 100 per cent, provides the resources for land acquisition and new schools, and that is a policy that we've had in this government for many years.

In addition, the bill that we brought forward just a couple of days ago, now requires daycares to be built in schools when new schools are built as well. Something the members opposite refused to do during their term in office. We have an early-learning curriculum for daycare. We expand daycares in those neighbourhoods. We build new schools in those neighbourhoods. We acquire the land in those neighbourhoods so that we can have a facility for young children and school-aged children, and the members opposite have consistently voted against each of those initiatives.

We'll see if they support this bill that we put in front of the Legislature just this week. Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reduction Targets Mr. Speaker: The honourable Leader of the Official Opposition, on a new question. Mr. Hugh McFadyen (Leader of the Official Opposition): Mr. Speaker, speaking of broken promises, in April of 2008, the then-elected premier, Mr. Doer, introduced new c limate change targets. What he said is that the government was absolutely

530 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA December 7, 2010 committed to meeting those targets for the reduction of greenhouse gases and greenhouse gas equivalents. I want to ask the Premier: Are they going to keep that promise or will that be added to the list of broken NDP promises? Hon. Greg Selinger (Premier): I'm pleased to say that we chose an ambitious target to reduce greenhouse gases in Manitoba.

And, unlike the members opposite who haven't even let us know yet whether they think climate change is a real issue–they're still in denial about that, we have moved very aggressively on reducing greenhouse gases in Manitoba. * (14:10) Two coal-fired generating stations for Hydro–Selkirk was removed, no longer operates providing–using coal as a source of energy. The coal plant that provided electricity in Brandon has been put on backup so it doesn't provide greenhouse gas inside this province. We've moved on landfill, methane gas removal. We've moved on geothermal.

We've moved on more funding for public transit within Manitoba. We've taken Manitoba Hydro, that under the members opposite was No. 10 on energy efficiency, and moved it to No. 1 for the last several years. Manitoba is moving forward on greenhouse gas reduction and I'll give other examples in my next question, Mr. Speaker. Mr. McFadyen: Well, Mr. Speaker, they said they were going to end hallway medicine. They said that they were going to improve educational outcomes. They said that Crocus was strong.

I think they also said they were going to balance the budget, if I recall correctly– An Honourable Member: Reduce crime. Mr. McFadyen: Oh, yes, they were going to reduce crime as well, Mr. Speaker. I remember all those promises. And another promise they made two and a half years ago is, we're going to meet these targets. And, in fact, they were so serious about meeting those targets that the premier at the time said, if we don't achieve it, I suggest the ultimate penalty in 2011 will be defeating the government. Mr.

Speaker, I want to ask the current Premier whether he agrees with Canada's Ambassador to the United States that the ultimate penalty ought to be the defeat of his tired government. Mr. Selinger: Mr. Speaker, just last week we provided protection for two additional areas of boreal and tundra forest in Manitoba, 640,000 hectares. In the last year we have protected a million hectares of boreal forest and tundra in this province worth 126 million tonnes of carbon emissions. The members opposite don't support that.

They don't support a UNESCO designation on the east side, which will also protect an enormous carbon sink, which does not emit carbon dioxide but actually emits clean oxygen, and provides clean water, and protects unique species on that side. If they're serious about climate change, I tell them–I challenge them to support the UNESCO World Heritage designation, to support the protected areas and to support Manitoba Hydro, continued to be a high quality exporter of clean energy, seven million tonnes a year to foreign markets, Mr. Speaker. Mr. McFadyen: Mr. Speaker, we support getting results for Manitobans.

We support actually doing what you said you were going to do, Mr. Speaker. We support ideas like when you say the stadium is going to cost $115 million, that the stadium actually costs $115 million. We support when you say you're going to end hallway medicine, that you actually end hallway medicine. We support when you say you're going to reduce violent crime, that you actually reduce violent crime. And when–what we support is when you say you're going to meet your GHG reduction targets, that you actually meet your GHG reduction targets. Mr.

Speaker, does he agree with the last elected premier of Manitoba, Canada's current Ambassador to Washington, who said, if we don't achieve these goals, the ultimate penalty will be defeating this government? Does he agree with him, yes or no? Mr. Selinger: If the member opposite really supports– Some Honourable Members: Oh, oh. Mr. Speaker: Order. We need to be able to hear the questions and the answers, please. The honourable First Minister has the floor. Mr. Selinger: Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

December 7, 2010 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 531 If the member from Fort Whyte really supports the climate change objective of this government, why does he oppose us removing logging in provincial parks? If the member opposite really supports climate change objectives, why does he want to rip up the boreal forest? If the member opposite really supports climate change objectives, why has he never supported us when we took coal plants off-line that produced electricity inside this province?

And if the member opposite really supports climate change, why has he never supported the resources we made available for biodiesel and ethanol within this province? The facts are clear, Mr. Speaker. The member is chasing headlines. He's chasing after the Auditor General's report. We have a plan that will move Manitoba forward on climate change, protecting our forest, providing cleaner fuels and building Hydro so that they can export electricity into markets where they're using coal. And those objectives will make a difference on the planet, not the rhetoric we get from the member opposite.

Phoenix Sinclair Death Public Inquiry Mrs. Bonnie Mitche lson (River East): Mr. Speaker, it's been more than 185 days since the deadline expired for an appeal application from the convicted killer of Phoenix Sinclair. Can the Minister of Family Services (Mr. Mackintosh) indicate how much longer he is going to allow this convicted killer to hijack the start of the inquiry into the tragic murder of Phoenix Sinclair? Hon.

Andrew Swan (Min ister of Justice and Attorney General): Of course, in light of this tragedy, there's been a promise by this government there will be a full judicial inquiry called to deal with this issue, to deal with how we can continue to improve child welfare in the province of Manitoba. And the concern had been, of course, that the idea of moving ahead with an inquiry before all avenues of appeal are completed could actually prejudice the successful prosecution of that case.

I am very pleased we've been working with Legal Aid Manitoba, and we expect that very soon we will have greater certainty on whether or not an appeal will proceed, and if there is to be no appeal, we will move swiftly to call the inquiry so we can continue to improve child welfare in the province of Manitoba, Mr. Speaker. Mrs. Mitchelson: Over 185 days since the deadline for the appeal, Mr. Speaker, and there's still no justice served for Phoeni x Sinclair, and former Premier Gary Doer promised a public inquiry four years ago.

In desperation, this NDP government continues to stall with lame excuses and political rhetoric on why justice can't be served for Phoenix Sinclair. Phoenix Sinclair could not protect herself, and Phoenix Sinclair was murdered. When will this government be accountable for their failed policies and have the courage to call the inquiry? Mr. Swan: Mr. Speaker, the member from River East is wrong on the facts. There is not a firm deadline with the Supreme Court of Canada. The Supreme Court of Canada can grant leave for an individual to move ahead and file an appeal.

The result of an appeal to the Supreme Court of Canada–and this has happened before with cases that have come out of Manitoba, from cases that have come out of every other province in Canada–one of the results of that appeal can be the ordering of a new trial. And I understand everybody in this House wants to move ahead with this inquiry. Everyone in this House wants to move ahead to improve the child welfare system in Manitoba.

But we are not going to roll the dice, and we are not going to be reckless in terms of potentially affecting the successful prosecution of someone who may very well–and we believe–has committed this terrible act. We are not going to put politics ahead of supporting our Crown attorneys and suppor ting our justice system, Mr. Speaker. Mrs. Mitchelson: While this government continues to drag its feet on the public inquiry, more children continue to be killed in the hands of this government's failed policies that put children in unsafe situations.

Five years after Phoenix Sinclair was murdered, children continue to be killed in the care of a system that's supposed to protect them but has failed them. Mr. Speaker, will the Minister of Family Services not have the courage to stand up in this House today and demand that the inquiry take place for Phoenix Sinclair so justice can be served? Hon. Gord Mackintosh (Minister of Family Services and Consumer Affairs): Well, that member was the minister, I believe, for about six years, and listening to her now, I think, you'd figure

532 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA December 7, 2010 there were no foster child deaths under her watch, Mr. Speaker, while, by the time she left office, after cuts to foster children, after years of refusing to comply with recommendation after recommendation from a commission of inquiry, an inquest–I believe 12 in all–after formal warnings all the way from front-line staff to the o ffice of the Children's Advocate, foster children, unfortunately, tragically, did die under her watch from suicide, from accidents and from homicide at a rate 33 per cent higher than last year.

We don't need lessons from Conservatives on child welfare. * (14:20) Protection for Persons in Care Office Reporting of Abuse Investigations Mrs. Myrna Driedger (Charleswood): Mr. Speaker, five months ago, two former staff of the Protection for Persons in Care office made some very disturbing allegations about that office. I sent these concerns to the Minister of Health and to the Ombudsman. The allegations arose after this Minister of Health took control of that office and stripped it of its independ ence.

These two employees said that the NDP-appointed director had issued a gag order on reporting criminal activity to the police, including two sexual assaults, that this director became the only person to decide if a case was founded or unfounded and that she overturned investigators' decisions. Can the Minister of Health tell us why this director told her staff that their first job was to, and I quote, protect this Minister of Health? Hon. Theresa Oswald (Minister of Health): Mr.

Speaker, the Protection for Persons in Care office, which was created under this government after considerable advocacy and work and, I might dare say, pleading from the Health critic at the time, now the member for Kildonan (Mr. Chomiak). Opposition members, when they were government, wouldn't consider the idea. The Protection for Persons in Care office–as its chief, primary and singular goal–is to protect people. Mrs. Driedger: Mr. Speaker, after this Minister of Health took away the indepe ndence of the office, the number of founded cases of patient abuse dropped by 70 per cent.

We were told that these numbers were being manipulated in an effort to keep the numbers of founded abuse cases low. Considering that the independent Ombudsman never responded to my letter of five months ago, considering that this Minister of Health never addressed my concerns, can she tell us: Is this how she is controlling patient abuse numbers by deliberately not reporting cases or by having the director change the information? Ms. Oswald: Well, Mr.

Speaker, evidence to the contrary, in Manitoba, for the first time this year on the issue of patient safety, we've published a patient safety report–again, first time ever–showing the number of critical incidents that have occurred in the system. Not because it is a comfortable thing to talk publicly about, when mistakes happen and there are serious consequences, but because when you speak about errors, that's how you learn from them. That's how you can potentially prevent them from happening again. That is why that we are not only increasing investigations; we're not entrenching in legislation.

The errors mu st be discussed with the patients and with families, but we are creating a culture of openness, a culture far different from a time during the pediatric cardiac deaths of the 1990s. The errors were swept un der the rug and no one talked about them. Mrs. Driedger: Mr. Speaker, we know that this Minister of Health is desperately into spin and rhetoric; in fact, she's even doubled the political staff in her office from three to six in order to manipulate their message.

It's stooping pretty low, though, to take away the independen ce of the Protection of Persons in Care office in order to control the spin about patient abuse in the health-care system. According to the staff, that office is now politicized. It's protect the system first and patients come second. So I'd like to ask the Minister of Health to commit today: Will she return the independence to that office so that patients are always No. 1? Ms. Oswald: Well, stooping so low, Mr. Speaker, if I'm not mistaken, I believe that she criticized the Ombudsman in her previous question.

I can let the member know that the concerns that have been brought forward–any concerns that have to do with the treatment of people in care–are being investigated. Concerns ab out the process are being investigated. And as for the issue of politicizing, it was this government that created the office of the Protection for Persons in Care in the first place. Newborn Screening Government Priority Hon. Jon Gerrard (River Heights): Mr. Speaker, universal newborn screening for many needed

December 7, 2010 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 533 conditions is now the normally accepted standard for developed countries because such screening can prevent suffering, can prevent disability and slow development, and can prevent death. Manitoba is unfortunately very backward in this respect; it's like a Third World country. I table the Canadian Organization for Rare Disorders November 2010 national report card. I ask the Premier why Manitoba is not screening newborns for 50 or more life-threatening conditions.

I ask the Premier, in the last 11 years, how many Manitoba children have become disabled or died because of this government's indifference to the need for newborn screening. Mr. Speaker, will the Premier end this government's indifference to the health of children and act immediately to provide up-to-date, universal newborn screening for Manitoba children? Hon. Greg Selinger (Premier): First of all, I thank the member for the question on screening. We do screening now. We will continue to expand that screening and we welcome suggestions from the member on how that screening can be improved.

I note here that there are some areas where screening is done on this report, and I think the member is aware of that as well, and where additional screening can be done as we move forward to protect, from li fe-threatening risks, the young children, we will do that. Mr. Gerrard: Mr. Speaker, John Adams, who's an authority nationally in this area, has declared Manitoba one of the worst in Canada. We screen very few compared to the large number that many provinces like Ontario and Saskatchewan screen. Indeed, this is vital to improving the lives of children in Manitoba.

From newborn screening–newborn hearing screening to cystic fibrosis, hemoglobinopathies, many metabolic conditions, some of which are fatal often when they're not screened for, Manitoba is far behind. Indeed, by comparison with the report of the Ontario Ombudsman, we probably have two to three deaths and two to three children with disabilities each year because of this failure of screening. I ask the Premier why he has not implemented adequate universal newborn screening in Manitoba. Mr. Selinger: Again, Mr. Speaker, the member will know that we have a Healthy Child program in this province.

We, for example, provide a prenatal benefit to young women who are pregnant. We provide home visiting to those people and we provide support to them after they're born. And we make a big investment in young families getting off to a healthy start.

With respect to screen ing, I note from the report that there are areas where we do screening and some of those areas have universal screening techniques, some of them have targeted techniques, and our view is is that as we continue to move forward on maternal health and children's health, newborn health, we are very open to the idea of increasing the range of screening tests that we do to ensure that children are detected–these conditions are detected as early as possible in young children in order that they can be prevented and addressed before they get any older.

So we welcome the report, and we welcome offered suggestions from the member opposite on how we can improve our ability to screen children for these kinds of conditions. Mr. Gerrard: Mr. Speaker, five years ago in 2005, when the state of newborn screening in Ontario was in the same sorry state as Manitoba's newborn screening is today, the Ontario Ombudsman produced his shocking report, The Right to Be Impatient, an inquiry into whether the Ontario government has failed to properly administer newborn screening. The Ontario Ombudsman reported correctly that children had needlessly died and been rendered disabled.

Yesterday, I wrote to the Manitoba Ombudsman to ask her to undertake a similar report in Manitoba. I ask the Premier, will he act today to implement adequate newborn screening or will it wait for the Manitoba Ombudsman report on the fact that inaction, indifference and poor management by this government has led to the death and the disability of Manitoba children? Mr. Selinger: I thank the member for the question.

I was just reminded by the Deputy Premier that when we visited up in the Island Lakes region, they were appreciative of the fact that this Province has extended support programs for young children and families onto First Nations communities,

whereas other provinces don't necessarily do that, and we've included the Prenatal Benefit for families on First Nations communities as well.

534 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA December 7, 2010 * (14:30) And we–as the member knows, we're also proceeding with the new women's hospital in Winnipeg. We are open to looking at all ideas to improve both maternal and young children's health in this province, because–and that's why we've taken initiatives on things like FASD, fetal alcohol spectrum disorder, and we look for a range of opportunities to improve the health of young children and prevent conditions from developing.

I was recently on a mission with some of my colleagues in this room in Israel, including members of the opposition, where we're doing a very unique research project with Hebrew University on FASD and the role that vitamin A can play in preventing the development of FASD. That research is actually being done here in Manitoba, but it's being engaged in by quality scientists from all around the world, including Israel. So we will do those kinds of investments to make a long-term– Mr. Speaker: Order. Notre Dame de Lourdes New Hospital Construction Ms.

Sharon Blady (Kirkfield Park): Monsieur le Président, c'est ce gouvernement qui a investi dans la première IRM, imagerie par résonance magnétique, à l'extérieur de Winnipeg, deux à Brandon et une à Boundary Trails. Monsieur le Président, c'est ce gouvernement qui a ajouté des tomodensitomètres à Brandon, Steinbach, Thompson, Le Pas, Selkirk, Morden-Winkler, et Portage la Prairie.

Monsieur le Président, c'est ce gouvernement qui a « renouvé » ou a ajouté des nouveaux hôpitaux à Brandon, à Swan River, Thompson, Le Pas, Morden, Beausejour, Pinawa, Gimli, Winkler, Sainte-Anne, Steinbach et de Shoal Lake, et un hôpital qui sera bientôt construit à Selkirk. En résumé, Monsieur le Président, c'est un gouvernement qui croit que tous les Manitobains ont le droit d'accès aux soins de santé modernes en temps opportune. En prenant compte de ceci, je demande au ministre de la Santé pour une mise à jour des nouveaux investissements dans les soins de santé au milieux ruraux. Translation Mr.

Speaker, it is this government that invested in the first MRI or magnetic resonance imaging machine outside of Winnipeg, two in Brandon and one in Boundary Trails. Mr. Speaker, it is this government that added CT scanners in Brandon, Steinbach, Thompson, The Pas, Selkirk, Morden-Winkler and Portage la Prairie. Mr. Speaker, It is this government that renovated or added new hospitals in Brandon, Swan River, Thompson, The Pas, Morden, Beausejour, Pinawa, Gimli, Winkler, Ste. Anne, Steinbach and Shoal Lake, with another hospital soon to be built in Selkirk. In short, Mr.

Speaker, this is a government that believes that all Manitobans are entitled to modern and timely health-care services. With that in mind, I ask the Minister of Health for an update on the new investments in rural health care. Hon. Theresa Oswald (Minister of Health): Merci beaucoup, Monsieur le Président. Je suis très heureuse d'avoir été à Notre-Dame-de-Lourdes ce matin afin d'annoncer un nouvel hôpital de 10 lits, ce qui permettra d'améliorer davantage la qualité de soins de santé offerts aux patients de la région et de fournir un meilleur environnement de travail.

En plus d'offrir des services pour les patients non hospitalisés, le nouveau établissement fournira des services d'urgences dans des installations modernes et un plus grand confort aux femmes pendant le travaille à l'accouchement. Merci beaucoup. Translation Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. I was very pleased to be in Notre Dame de Lourdes this morning to announce a new 10-bed hospital, which will allow for even better health-care services for patients in that region and foster a better work environment.

In addition to providing out-patient services, the new hospital will offer emergency services in modern facilities and a more comfortable setting for women in labour. Thank you very much. Rural Personal Care Homes Lack of Spaces Mr. Stuart Briese (Ste. Rose): Mr. Speaker, two years ago the personal care home beds in Neepawa were reduced from 124 spaces to 100 spaces. We are now informed there are 35 seniors panelled and waiting for personal care home spaces. Another

December 7, 2010 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 535 personal care home in western Manitoba has 18 people panelled and waiting for a 20-bed facility. Why has this NDP government failed so miserably when it comes to providing personal care home spaces for our senior citizens? Hon. Theresa Oswald (Minister of Health): In fact, it is our government that has increased the number of personal care home beds and supportive housing units across Manitoba. It was my privilege, just last week, to be in–not last week, last month–to be in Morden-Winkler to announce an expansion in that region. But we also know, Mr.

Speaker, that there is more that we can do. We know that the Manitoba Centre for Health Policy is completing a report just now on projecting needs for Manitoba, and we have signalled in the Throne Speech that, indeed, we will be coming forward with a revised long-term care plan that will include a new capital plan for personal care home beds, increased s upport of housing units and, most importantly , increased home care, undoubtedly Manitoba's jewel across Canada. Mr. Speaker: Time for oral questions has expired. MEMBERS' STATEMENTS Elm Creek Curling Club 100th Anniversary Mr.

Blaine Pedersen (Carman): On December 4, 2010, the Elm Creek Curling Club celebrated the 100th anniversary of the sport of curling in the community of Elm Creek. In 1910 a one-sheet indoor curling rink was built for the enjoyment of the community. During the mid-1920s, a two-sheet rink was built to replace the original structure. In 1953, the community upgraded to a three-sheet rink. Members of the community club built the rink with volunteer labour. In fact, the rafters were made by laminating one-by-two boards together.

The glue was mixed with a Mixmaster blender which was then cleaned up and sold as part of a fundraising auction. In the 1950s, week-long community bonspiels were held which routinely had 40-plus rinks entered, curling throughout the day. The cost was $10 per rink and 32 rinks was considered a full bonspiel, so the Haywood and Fannystelle rinks were quite often used to handle the overflow. In 1981, the community once again came together to build a steel structure with four sheets of artificial ice to replace the aging structure which needed major upgrades.

The curling rink relied entirely on volunteer help to erect the building, install the refrigeration pipes, and do the finishing work for the club room. This past Saturday night, December 4th, 150 current and past club members gathered for some curling and a delicious roast beef supper in celebrating a century of curling in the community. As part of the celebrations a number of life memberships were given ou t. Included were life memberships to past members who gave endlessly for the maintenance and upkeep of the curling club as well as enjoying and promoting the sport itself.

I had the honour to present a life membership to Marge Dueck, in memory of her husband Bernie, my good friend and former neighbour who passed away on November 8th, 2010. The 100th anniversary of the Elm Creek Curling Club was an event enjoyed by all those in attendance. Congratulations to the Elm Creek Curling Club on providing 100 years of recreation in their community and we look forward to the next 100 years of curling in the community. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Nutrition North Canada Federal Program Mr. Gerard Jennissen (Flin Flon): Mr.

Speaker, food security is a pressing issue, especially in the areas–in areas of northern Manitoba. Food security means having access to sufficient, safe, nutritious food to maintain a healthy and active life. Proper nutrition is the key to healthy families and children's success in school. With diet-related diseases on the rise in the north, and the loss of traditional food practices in favour of cheap, processed foods, affordable healthy food alternatives are esse ntial. Food insecurity affects the person's ability to thrive and contribute to the larger community.

This is especially true in remote northern communities that rely on air, rail or winter road. Fresh fruit, milk and vegetables are extremely costly in remote communities. As part of the Northern Healthy Foods Initiative the Revolving Loan Freezer Purchase Program has funded over 500 freezers in 18 communities. We supported 600 gardens this past growing season. Additionally, we provided food preservation and poultry production training supports.

536 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA December 7, 2010 This May, the federal government announced a new northern food retail subsidy program called Nutrition North Canada. It will replace the old Food Mail Program. I participated in one of the meetings in Winnipeg. The new program aims to make healthy food more accessible and affordable for isolated communities. The most nutritious perishable foods will receive the highest rate of subsidy. Ten communities in northern Manitoba are eligible. However, the program excludes six remote access Manitoba communities . I'm concerned by the delay in implementation.

The federal program has now been pushed back one year from the original launch date, leaving access to affordable healthy foods for some northern communities in the interim unclear. Mr. Speaker, I encourage all members of this House to urge the federal government to review the communities eligible for the Nutrition North Canada program. The six following remote communities should also be included: Brochet, Granville Lake, Pukatawagan, South Indian Lake, Tadoule Lake, and York Landing. We all know the importance of proper nutrition. This is the 21st century.

Remote communities deserve better access to healthy food. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Langford Community Pasture Protected Area Mr. Stuart Briese (Ste. Rose): Mr. Speaker, last fall a conservation agreement was signed with the Manitoba Habitat Heritage Corporation to designate the Langford Community Pasture as a protected area. All three levels of government signed the agreement, along with the MHHC and a Manitoba Crown corporation. Their agreement protects the pasture from being altered in any way that may affect the ecosystem and from any commercial, residential, and any kind of development on the property.

With over 9,500 acres in total, the Langford Pasture is the largest donated conservation agreement in Manitoba and fourth largest donated or sold in Canada. Langford Pasture is split between two municipalities, with 7,261 acres falling in the RM of Langford, 2,561 acres in the RM of Lansdowne. Although some areas of the pasture are owned by the federal and provincial governments, other areas have never been registered to any owner. For many years the land has been reserved for public pasture. As well, much of the land has never been cultivated and, thanks to this agreement, it never will be.

It is also an important habitat for the Prairie Skink, Manitoba's only lizard. Rick Donaldson, Langford's economic development officer, began looking for ways to protect the pasture over a year ago. Since the surrounding area–since then the surrounding area has begun to be developed in new ways. Concerns about the future of the pasture began to arise and spurred the collaboration of the two municipalities with Manitoba Habitat Heritage to officially designate the pasture as a protected area. As part of the agreement, the municipalities had to sell their land to the Manitoba Habitat Heritage for a dollar.

The land will still belong to the respective municipalities but will be protected from future human development even if the land changes ownership. * (14:40) The conservation agreement was signed by Langford on August 25th, by Lansdowne on September the 8th. Then on October the 1st, representatives from the two rural municipalities, the Town of Neepawa, Agriculture and Agrifood Canada, Agri-Environment Branch, as well as MHHC, met to ratify the historic document. The conservation agreement is timely as the Town of Neepawa will soon be getting its water from an aquifer directly below the Langford pasture.

The water source is now protected from contamination as a result of surface activities. I would like to extend my congratulations to the rural municipalities of Langford and Lansdowne for their efforts to preserve one of Manitoba's unique treasures, the Langford Community Pasture. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Wesley and Shirley Flett Mr. Frank Whitehead (The Pas): Mr. Speaker, Wesley and Shirley Flett are two people from The Pas who are an inspiration to me and all those around them. While there are many pressing issues in today's world that require attention, some issues require ongoing attention and action.

There are many missing murdered women in this province and across Canada, women whose disappearances go largely unnoticed. These women are the mothers, daughters and sisters and our friends. Many are Aboriginal.

December 7, 2010 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 537 Wesley and Shirley have been outspoken in creating awareness of these missing women. Tragically, it was Wesley's own experience with his sister Mildred, gone missing this year, that motivated him to get involved in this important cause. But thanks to his and Shirley's tireless efforts, more action is being taken. They recognized the need to educate neighbours, leaders and people beyond their own community about these missing women, and make sure people know that these women have lives and families and do not deserve to be forgotten.

With every woman that goes missing, it brings sadness and fear to their communities. Wesley and Shirley organize a group of people that have been pushing for awareness, pushing leaders to do more for these women and their families. Whether it is organizing awareness walks or memorial ceremonies, Wesley and Shirley call on others to take action to make a difference. These efforts have inspired other citizens, young and old alike, to take an interest and get directly involved in raising awareness and, most importantly, preventing more women from going missing.

We want answers, we want closure and we all want a safe community for everyone. Mr. Speaker, I am proud that on e of these individuals are advocating for these women, who often have no voice. On behalf of the members of this House and on behalf of the families and loved ones of these missing women, thank you Wesley and Shirley for charging ahead with this cause. It is people like you that make things happen and you are an example for all of us. Thank you. Luke Fritz Mrs.

Myrna Driedger (Charleswood): I rise today to offer congratulations to Luke Fritz of the Winnipeg Blue Bombers and CJOB and Corus Radio Winnipeg on winning $50,000 for Winnipeg Harvest's Hunger for Hope program in the Pepsi Refresh Project CFL Challenge. The Kinsmen Club also donated $10,000 making a total donation of $60,000 for Hunger for Hope. CJOB and Corus Radio Winnipeg have raised over $300 over the past two and a half years for Hunger for Hope in support of Winnipeg Harvest.

They have teamed up with Winnipeg Harvest in a province-wide fundraising initiative dedicated to ending child hunger in Manitoba to ensure that no child goes to bed hungry. Mr. Speaker, HungerCount 2010 showed a 21 per cent increase in the use of food banks across Manitoba. Children, seniors and immigrants seem to be the ones that were particularly hard hit. The proportion of children usi ng food banks in Manitoba was 50.5 per cent, up from 48.7 per cent last year. This is the first time that the proportion of children has risen over 50 per cent.

Here are the facts: Winnipeg Harvest feeds over 19,000 children a month compared to 5,500 10 years ago; in March, 2009 over 13,000 school-aged children used the food bank compared to over 16,000 school-aged children this past March, 2010; there's a staggering 23.8 per cent increase in school-aged food bank use; 1,600 infants require emergency baby formula from Winnipeg Harvest each month; Winnipeg Harvest spends $100,000 for baby food and formula; along with BC, Manitoba continues to experience the worst child poverty rates in Canada with one in five children living in poverty; in the last six years, almost 40 per cent of children have lived in poverty for at least one year.

Mr. Speaker, we appreciate the support and dedication to the cause on behalf of all Manitobans and all voters who made this possible. The enthusiastic and tireless campaigning was instrumental in winning this contest for Winnipeg. Once again, congratulations to CJOB and to Luke Fritz. All of you truly made a difference. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. ORDERS OF THE DAY (Continued) GOVERNMENT BUSINESS House Business Mr. Speaker: The honourable Government House leader, on House business. Hon. Jennifer Howard (Government House Leader): Yes, Mr. Speaker, on House business, a couple items of House business.

On–pursuant to rule 31(8), I'm announcing that the private member's resolution to be considered on the next sitting Tuesday will be one put forward by the honourable member for Wolseley (Mr. Altemeyer). The title of the resolution is Provincial Parks. Mr. Speaker: Okay, pursuant to rule 31(8), it's been announced that the private member's resolution to be

538 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA December 7, 2010 considered on the next sitting Tuesday will be one that will be put forward by the honourable member for Wolseley. The title of the resolution is Provincial Parks. The honourable Government House Leader, on further House business. Ms. Howard: Yes, Mr. Speaker, I'd ask you to call second reading of Bill 13. SECOND READINGS Bill 13–The Preparing Students for Success Act (Various Acts Amended) Mr. Speaker: Okay, the business for orders of the day will be second reading on Bill 13, The Preparing Students for Success Act (Various Acts Amended). Hon.

Nancy Allan (Minister of Education): Mr. Speaker–[interjection] You have to be in your seat; you're going to second it. I move, seconded by the Minister of Labour and Immigration (Ms. Howard ) , t h a t B i l l 1 3 , T h e Preparing Students for Success Act (Various Acts Amended); Loi visant la réussite scolaire (modification de diverses dispositions législatives), be now read a second time and be referred to a committee of this House. Motion presented. Mr. Speaker: His Honour the Lieutenant-Governor has been advised of this bill, and the message has been tabled– [interjection] It hasn't been tabled yet? Okay.

Ms. Allan: Mr. Speaker, I'd like to table the bill. I'd like to table the message from the Lieutenant-Governor. Mr. Speaker: Okay, the honourable minister has tabled the message from the Lieutenant-Governor, and this message has been tabled. Ms. Allan: Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to put a few words on the record in regards to this very exciting piece of legislation, Bill 13, The Preparing Students for Success Act,

an act that will amend The Public Schools Act as well as various other acts. With Bill 13, Mr. Speaker, our goal is to work with students, parents, school boards and educators to develop a new way of looking at the importance of high school completion. We now require young Manitobans to remain in school, an adult learning centre or a recognized wo rkforce training program until they have reached 18 y ears of age or until they have graduated from high school. Nothing is more important than an education for the future of Manitoba, for our children and our youth.

Over the past decade, we have made a lot of progress with improved high school graduation rates, a one-third increase in post-secondary enrolment, expanded skills training opportunities in our colleges and a doubling of the number of registered apprentices. Our most recent education funding announcement brought the total increase over the last past nine school budgets to a record $276 million, which is 15 times, Mr. Speaker, the increase over the same period in 1990. We have invested over $568 million in new funding in public schools capital projects this decade, more than double the amount from the 1990s.

In 2009-10, our government launched an ambitious, historic, four-year, $310-million capital program to build and renovate Manitoba schools. * (14:50) And we have a strong record, Mr. Speaker, on property tax relief. According to Statistics Canada, we are the only province in Canada to see property taxes stay flat over the past decade. In the classroom, we are targeting our supports to where they are most n eeded, such as Aboriginal students and students that are at risk.

And special needs funding has been a priority with a new appropriate educational programming act and a 50 per cent increase in funding since 1999. Our Safe Schools Charter has helped to make schools safer because we know that kids can't learn if they're worried about being bullied or harassed. We are encouraging kids to make healthy choices and be physically active because we know physically fit kids will be more successful at school. We're helping students build the skills they need to enter the workforce and start their careers here in Manitoba. But now it is time to move forward again, Mr.

Speaker, to help ensure that all students share in these successes. This bill , Preparing Students for Success, is about giving young people every possible opportunity to succeed. In the modern economy, nothing is more important than keeping young people engaged in schools and in their education. And parents, educators and communities all have a part to play in building a stronger education system. Currently, the law requires young people in Manitoba to stay in school until they are 16. This

December 7, 2010 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 539 new legislation will require that students remain in school or in a recognized training program until they are 18 years of age, unless they graduate sooner. The requirement will be effective beginning in the 2011-12 school year and will apply to students who are in school as of the beginning of the fall term in 2011. It will not be retroactive to students who have already left school although there are always opportunities for those students who have left school to return and participate in the public education system. How important is this, Mr. Speaker?

My duty as a minister, the task of schools and school divisions, and our responsibility as a society is to equip students with the best skills and qualifications possible. We don't want to close doors on students. We want all students to have the opportunity to graduate from high school or a good workforce training program. And we need to recognize the modern world requires mo re education and skills. What was sufficient decades ago is no longer good enough. The requirements for entering most occupations have become more demanding. Most apprenticeship programs at colleges no w require grade 12 for admission.

A young person with less than a high school education is very limited in the careers and occupations that he or she can pursue. A high school diploma or the equivalent is the key to post-secondary education and further training. And all the statistics clearly show a strong link between dropping out and unemployment, poverty and crime. So we need to give our young people here in Manitoba every opportunity to succeed. We need to make sure that students are adequately prepared for work or further education.

And we also need to realize that the education system itself must also face modern realities and be flexible and creative in its approaches to improving high school completion and graduation. That is why we are placing more of an emphasis on a mix of alternatives rather than simply trying to force young people to stay in situations that aren't working. The graduation rate has risen substantially in recent years, from 72 per cent in 2002 to 80.9 per cent in 2009.

This is a great improvement, and I want to congratulate all of the educators out there, the parents, the students who are working hard because this is a historic change and we–this bill will complement what is happening out there. It is an essential part of the foundation for our shared goals of increasing graduation rates and equipping students for our modern economy. These goals can be accomplished as we all work together. And we anticipate that this multiyear process, because we are trying to affect a culture change here, Mr.

Speaker, in that a change in the expectations that we have, both of students and ourselves. And I know that some people may object, saying that keeping kids in school when they won't–don't want to be there will just accomplish nothing and won't be fair. But, you know, we want to be fair to all students. We want to be fair to their families. The expectations for appropriate classroom behaviour have not changed. Teachers and principals will still have the authority to maintain proper discipline and academic expectations in the classroom and the school.

And we are not saying that 16- and 17-year-olds must stay in the school or program that is simply not working for them or for others. Many students want to go to education and training programs that are more appropriate for them rather than simply being kept in a traditional classroom. Also, this is not about punishment, Mr. Speaker. I believe the challenge before us for our schools, for our workforce training programs is to engage students better so they want to show up. We can't write them off, and we don't want to be creating and maintaining educational dead ends for our young people.

This legislation would require school boards to establish policies and procedures to support students remaining engaged in school or in activities and programs which provide educational benefits. Policies and procedures would be established to assist pupils with difficulties attending school, and regulations under the act would outline the format and timing of absence reporting from schools to parents and school attendance officers.

Our goal with this legislation is to help produce an environment where students who are having difficulty can be more engaged with what they are doing in their school or training program. In the long run, this will make classrooms more productive. And we already do have many great alternative approaches for students right now in many school divisions, in adult learning centres and in the high school apprenticeship program. We all know about the success that Brandon is having, and it's just one

540 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA December 7, 2010 of the many success stories in the province of Manitoba. Neelin High school is an incredible example of an alternative program that serves all three high schools in the area of Brandon. A few years ago the Brandon School Division realized that they had a problem with young people graduating, and they did a study of the students that had dropped out of school, and talked to them about why they dropped out of school. And they were surprised, Mr. Speaker, because they realized that what the students were telling them, that there was a lack of academic support.

And so when they set up the Neelin High school, that high school, that alternative high school program, it's not a traditional school where students move from classroom to classroom and they have different school teachers throughout the day. That school has an opportunity for those students to be in a classroom with a teacher who knows them on a first-name basis, knows some of the struggles that they've had throughout their lifetime and they have a closer relationship with those teachers, and they connect with those teachers.

And they have a teacher who works with them in regards to some of the concerns and the alienation that they have felt with the public education system. And that alternative program at Neelin High school has graduated more than 200 students since th ey put that alternative program in place for their students. So I just want to congratulate, not just Brandon, but a lot of the other school divisions here in the province of Manitoba and schools and educators who have done a lot of great work on this.

And I know that when we all start working together that we're going to have a lot of success in helping students move on to careers, move on to post-secondary training, move into the workforce so that they can participate in our economy, Mr. Speaker. In response to the concerns of parents, we are moving to make certain aspects of the school system more parent friendly. We are committed to developing a parent-friendl y report card written in plain language for use in all public schools so that parents get the information they need to be full partners in their children's education.

In co-operation and collaboration with school divisions, we are in the process of implementing common in-service days across school divisions to help families co-ordinate work and care schedules. * (15:00) We are also taking steps to maintain the academic integrity of our school system and make sure that our students learn good work habits and the lessons of accountability and responsibility.

The measures in this bill will supplement the work we are already doing with divisions and teachers on a policy on late marks which gives teachers the authority they need while being clear that there should absolutely be consequences for inappropriate behaviour such as handing in assignments after the deadline. We are also working to clarify our expectation that decisions around the promotion or retention of a student are made at the local level in consultation with parents, with students, and the appropriate professionals, so that st udents have access to the supports that they need whether they pass or fail.

I anticipate that these legislative changes will reassure parents and communities that schools are responsive and that high academic standards are being maintained and enhanced in the education system. In addition, the bill will require government to include child-care facilities in any new schools that are being constructed. This supports the government's commitment under our Family Choices plan to invest in converting surplus school space into child-care centres. We want to build a seamless education system from early learning to post-secondary education and careers.

Having child-care centres in schools helps our young people get an early start on their education while making it easier for parents to balance family needs. In closing, I'd like to say I am pleased to introduce this historic legislation. I believe it is critical for the future success of our children, and I ask all Manitobans to help make it a success and to work with us. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Cliff Cullen (Turtle Mountain): Well, Mr. Speaker, and it's–I want to thank you for the opportunity to put a few comments on the record today in regard to bill three, the preparing students for success act.

It's always nice when the government's sort of creative coming up with names for these particular pieces of legislation and, you know, after 11 years in government, it's good to see there's still a little creativity somewhere within the Department of Education. It's ironic, quite frankly, that we're discussing and debating this particular bill dealing with

December 7, 2010 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 541 education today at the same day that the OECD report came out today talking about the Program for International Student Assessment, and I want to reference that particular report in a few minutes. But, you know, we're certainly happy to move this particular legislation on to committee because we're interested in hearing what Manitobans want to say about this particular legislation that the minister has brought forward. You know, the minister does talk about stakeholders, and we do have a lot of stakeholders involved in education.

You know, we have a lot of, you know, about 11,000 teachers throughout Manitoba that are in the classroom on a daily basis working their best to give the students the assets that they need to develop. We also have, of course, the school boards and the administration that play an important role in terms of determining, you know, funding and–as well as some of the protocols within the school and some of the special areas and special education that the local schools require. You know, obviously, I think we–it's important that we engage the parents in this process.

Obviously, they have a very vested interest in our education system, and I think it's important that we make sure that we engage the parents in the discussions and especially in terms of changing legislation going forward. And, obviously. the students have a–are impacted significantly by legislation and by this particular legislation, so I'm hoping once this bill gets to committee in the very near future that we will be hearing from many students across the province as well and get their perception on what we require in the education system to help move it forward. Mr.

Speaker, I was happy to be asked to attend a meeting–this would be last spring–where the principal of our local school, Mr. Newton, invited a number of students who had just graduated in the last few years from the collegiate to come back and talk a little bit about the programming within the school, what they thought worked, what they thought didn't work, and where we should be putting some more emphasis on the schooling in the high school. And I thought it was a very good dialogue with those young Manitobans, and I think it's something that we should be doing more often as a government is looking for results.

We have to–you know, the government is big on saying that they're spending money here, they're spending money there, but at the end of the day we have to have results, and, Mr. Speaker, that's what it's about. And, if we engage our communities and we want to make sure that we are offering what students require and what we as taxpayers should be anticipating and what we should have, as far as results are concerned–and I think that's the thing that the government is missing. You know, they're keen to write cheques, but they're not as good at assessing the results of the money they've spent.

And I think, clearly, when we look at the report that was released today, the downward trend in terms of what's happened to our students in Manitoba is quite alarming. It's pretty clear when we look at the results of the reading analysis from 2000 to 2009. It was–Manitoba dropped the most of any province across the country. So now, in terms of reading proficiency, we are second-last in the–across Canada, next to Prince Edward Island, and it's been a very dramatic drop. And it's quite alarming to see that, Mr. Speaker.

In fact, the report says, in contrast, as a result of its decrease in performance, Manitoba went from performing above the OECD average in 2000 to performing at the OECD average in 2009. So we've really dropped down in terms of our reading proficiency. And the same thing can be said, too, for the math and science in terms of the analysis that was undertaken over the last few years. We've fallen behind in those two categories as well.

So, obviously, there's a lot of work to do in education here in the province of Manitoba, and we certainly look forward to meeting with those stakeholders that I menti oned earlier from across the province, getting their input into what we can do as Manitobans and as legislators to improve education here across the province of Manitoba. So having said that, I think there's opportunities also to engage other jurisdictions, whether it be other provinces or other countries, who are doing good things in education, who are providing what students need. Mr. Speaker, you know, I do agree with the first

WHEREAS in this particular legislation, and it says: "WHEREAS all young people deserve a strong education system that provides them with the opportunity to achieve a good outcome and prepares them for a successful future, whether that is in the workplace, a training or apprenticeship program, or a college, or university." Mr. Speaker, we'll watch closely to see the results of this legislation, and we certainly will be monitoring this legislation as it moves forward to see

542 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA December 7, 2010 if it is–will be a benefit for the stakeholders that I talked about before. We certainly, on this side of the House, want to see this particular legislation get to committee as soon as possible so that we can have that consultation period and do what's best for the students across our great province. Thank you very much. Hon. Stan Struthers (Min ister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Initiatives): I'm really pleased to stand and speak in support of this bill.

I'm very much wanting to congratulate the minister for bringing it forth and providing it here for the–not just here for the Legislature but the kind of leadership that it takes, I think, here in Manitoba to produce a sound, 21st-century public school system, Mr. Speaker. I was really interested to hear at the beginning of the statement that the member across the way made about being, you know, this side of the House being creative and, after 11 years in power, still having that ability to be creative. He was referring, of course, Mr. Speaker, to the title of this bill.

I–one can only imagine, though, that if he had his way, what the titles of some of these education bills would be: Squash the future of our students bill; throw our–back to the future for our education system; the 1950s weren't that bad. Let's go back to those kind of policies. I have no doubt that the member across the way could be creative, as well, and also have the kind of titles for their education bills that would reflect their horse-and-buggy approach to education, Mr.

Speaker. * (15:10) I do though want to say–speaking of the member across the way who just spoke, I was really very pleased that the school from Carberry, which I believe is in his constituency, was here today to witness an occasion in this Legislature when we actually do rise above the usual din. I think that was a very worthwhile learni ng experience for those students.

I would commend the teachers at Carberry and administrators and parents for getting their students here to this Legislative Building, and I was really glad that they got to see us pay tribute to Hong Kong vets and to firefighters and to so many people who were here today for question period. Those are the kind of experiences, I think, that those students will remember the rest of their lives, and the kind of learning opportunities that I think our public schools, Mr. Speaker, in my experience, at least, try to make the most of.

I really think that that, today, was a exceptional experience for the students and for all of us here. Mr. Speaker, we are pr oducts of our learning experiences. All of us in this Legislature reflect the background that we bring to this place. Part of my experience was being a public school principal during a time when members opposite, unfortunately, had their hands on the levers of power in this province. Now, I know what it was like to try to deliver public school education, public school experience in Manitoba with the backwards approach of members across the way. I remember that very well.

I remember, as a school principal, having to, actually, I suppose, in a way, implement the cuts that members opposite came up with back in the early '90s. Very much a backwards approach, not only to education, but to handling an economic downturn that did occur in the early part of the '90s. And their response was to exacerbate that economic downturn with some of their own tough medicine, with some of their own out-of-date policies, with some of their own backwards decisions that they made at that time.

I was a school principal at the Rorketon Collegiate, a great little K-to-12 school in Rorketon, which is still today part of my constituency, Mr. Speaker. I remember sitting trying to figure out how it was that I was going to offer courses to a small high school, have enough staff to offer courses so that students in my class could actually graduate, let alone get an education. We were scrambling just to get enough courses to graduate back in the early '90s, and we looked for ways in which we could do that, and I remember–I've spoken to the member for Russell (Mr.

Derkach) about this because he was the Education Minister at the time, that didn't increase the amount of funding to schools. You know, I hear the Tories in the House laughing about it's not all about the money. Well, when you have a -2 and a -2 and a -2, and then, election year, they zip–they go up to zero–up to zero–and then return to -2 af ter that, it's pretty easy for them, in opposition, to blab about how it's not about the money when they know that part of the problem is that they u nderfunded education year after year after year when they had the chance to do it. And, Mr.

Speaker, let there be no doubt they would return to that if we let them. They would go back to that if we let them. Absolutely, they would. We would return to those days where the funding, to them, just wouldn't matter. Their attitude at the time was, we'll do the cutting here, and you, at the school

December 7, 2010 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 543 division, you can jump up and you can bump up–you can bump up the kind of local taxation that has to be there in order to make up for the cuts that the members across the way were doing back in the early '90s. This bill that we are speaking about today deserves the support from all members of this House that I think it deserves. The primary purpose of this bill is to raise the compulsory school age in Manitoba from 16 to 18 years of age. And the, you know, the–we heard the Premier (Mr.

Selinger) today in question period, I think, make a very good point, and that point was that in the first decade of the 21st century–this is the 21st century, and I would invite members opposite to figure that out and get into it–but, Mr. Speaker, over the first decade of this century, you can see a huge increase–[interjection]–in the–I'm glad the member for Turtle Moun tain (Mr.

Cu llen) enjoyed that one–but the first decade of this 21st century saw a very significant increase in a very important, very important statistic, and that was the number of students who are continuing their education right through until they get that grade 12 diploma. Now, it seems, given the reaction of some of the members across the way, that that doesn't fit into their elitist, very narrow view of what our public schools should be.

They seem to believe that what we need is a concentration on fewer and fewer students and narrow that focus down to a smaller number and concentrate on getting that smaller number, that–their scores, of that smaller number, up a little bit higher. Well, that's fine if that's how you see the world. That's okay, Mr. Speaker. It's not the way I see the world. It's not the way members on this side of the House see the world. We see the world as inclusive. We see public education as something that needs to be inclusive, not leaving people out if they–just because they can't produce a certain score on a test.

And that was the other hallmark of the members opposite. Thinking back to when I was a school principal, very much a reliance on centrally administered, very rigid, very narrow, standardized tests that did no one any good, except maybe it fit into a political approach of members opposite who aren't above using politics over education, Mr. Speaker. But that was a policy that didn't work. That was a policy that set education back.

That was a policy where there was no, absolutely no–the member from–for Turtle Mountain quite rightly talked about stakeholders, but there was no talk of stakeholders back in the early '90s when the minister of the day then sprung upon the public schools this out-of-touch idea of rigid, narrow, standardized exams. Mr. Speaker, the–there is a much better approach. There is a much better approach to this. It involves teachers. It involv es parents. It involves trustees. It involves parent advisory councils.

It involves the people who think and believe that one of the best tools for a economic recovery, one of the best planks of an economic plan would be a strong public school system. You can't have an economic strategy without an educational strategy. And that's what this is about. That's why our minister has brought this bill forward. I think, although we know that one of the main planks of this education strategy is the–is moving the compulsory school age from 16 years old to 18 years old, there are other aspects of this bill that are worth mentioning and are worth the support of all members of this Legislature.

The one that jumped out at me that I thought was quite, I think, quite useful is the part of the bill that–it's an existing provision that we strengthen, and it ensures that the principal is responsible for the evaluation and promotion of pupils. I don't want–I don't want–some arbitrary third party from a far distance making up decisions having to do with the students in our schools. I want those decisions to be made by people who know those students, who have a variety of avenues by which they can evaluate a student, where they can get to know the student.

That means the educational leader in the school, which is the school principal, bringing together teachers and parents and others. * (15:20) And I think it makes sense that the policies of the school board need to be taken into consideration. And I think this does put some pressure on school board trustees to take a good look at the evaluations of their students. I think it does make it incumbent on stakeholders of–in our public schools to get involved and to make sure good decisions are made. Mr. Speaker, one of the things that I noticed today, and it was brought forward by the member for Fort Whyte (Mr.

McFadyen), talking about a no-fail policy–that's politics. That's putting politics ahead of making good educational decisions. I can tell you there was no such thing as a no-fail policy when I was a school principal and today. There needs to be

544 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA December 7, 2010 some common sense when you deal with passing and failing students in a classroom. I can remember, in a school that I taught at, a teacher coming forward and suggesting that 24 of the 28 kids in that class should fail. That's irresponsible. We can't have that kind of an attitude. That's out of touch. Now, that particular teacher is long retired. The–but, you know, we had a principal at the time who was an educational leader who did ensure, who did become responsible for the evaluation of and promotion of the pupils in that school.

And that principal brought together all of the stakeholders, brought together teachers. A number of us in that school taught those students, and we worked collaboratively rather than simply treated as if it was Dancing with the Stars and there was thumbs up and thumbs down and that sort of thing. We actually did an evaluation of the strengths and the challenges that these students faced, and, in the end, none of these students that were under question failed. None of them did and none of them deserved to. None of them deserved to.

Those parents in that situation had no prior contact at the parent-teacher interviews that were conducted throughout the course of that school year. No mention was made that maybe at the end of the year we would fail the student. There was nothing like that. Parents were taken by surprise. More importantly, Mr. Speaker, do you know what else was absent in th is, was a plan for how you were going to deal with this student next year. Let's imagine that the student has–we've–the school has decided to hold back the student in grade 3, not promote to grade 4 but hold in grade 3.

What's going to be done differently for that student second time around in grade 3 different than the first time around in grade 3? That's always a key question for me in this. If you just present the same material in the same way to the same student you're probably going to get the same result. Mr. Speaker, it puts–this puts a lot of pressure, puts a lot of responsibility on teachers and trustees, school principals, parents to be involved in that student's education, to take seriously the job of evaluating, assessing and promoting students.

It means that people have to be involved in this–the life of the student, and that's not a bad thing. I would suggest that that's a good thing. We also in this bill give power to the Education Minister to make regulations around the scheduling of non-instructional days, admin days or PD days. I hear from parents a lot that it's quite the job if you have a–especially with a larger family–to juggle when different school divisions and, in some cases, different schools have diffe rent schedules when it comes to these days. But these in-service days, I think, is a good idea to have these together.

And I'm sure the member for Carman (Mr. Pedersen) agrees with me on this, to reschedule–to set the

schedule so that it actually works for the families involved. It makes a lot of sense to me, Mr. Speaker. The other thing that I hear about is comments having to do with report cards, and making report cards useful for the student and useful for the parents, so that that can only enhance the communication that we have between the school, the principal and the teacher, and the parents and the students. That to me make s a lot of sense. That's common sense. And we talk about how we need to introduce common sense to different things all the time. Well, here's a good example of that.

It's a good example of common sense; have a report card that actually talks about the strengths of the student, actually talks about the challenges that student faces, have a report card that can help the parent help the student. That's, I believe, where we need to head with this. And this bill and that part of this bill, gets us a long way down that road, Mr. Speaker.

I wanted to wrap up my comments just by spending a couple minutes talking about something else that I think is very important in this bill, and that is an amendment that would require early learning or child-care facilities be included in all new schools and in major renovations. Mr. Speaker, I think this is one of the most positive steps a provincial government has taken in education in a long while. I read one time, not that long ago, that every human, by the time they're three years old, have learned 70 per cent of what we're going to learn over the course of our lifetime.

By the time you're three, you've learned 70 per cent. And yet our school system, for years, was skewed towards the high school part of our learning experience and then we assumed that we stop learning after we turned 17 or 18 years old. Mr. Rob Altemeyer, Acting Speaker, in the Chair Mr. Acting Speaker, the learning benefits that we can gain by incorporating early childhood education into our schools, actually attaching them to our K-to-12 schools, I think, in the end, is going to pay off huge dividends for the individual kids and their families. They're going to pay off dividends for our communities.

And, in the end, I think, it pays off

December 7, 2010 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 545 in terms of a strong economy with a young population that is productive and good citizens. So I think that there's no way that we can overstate the importance of attaching early childhood education to our public schools and providing that in our construction and in our curriculum.

And I think with the help of our stakeholders, in particular, the parents and parent advisory councils, who I think have been at the forefront of advocating for kids who are younger, that–having kids in that preschool–those preschool–sorry, in those preschool years, attached to the rest of the school. So, Mr. Acting Speaker, with those comments I would very much recommend this legislation to the House and I would hope that members opposite can see past the desperate politics that they have been playing and support something as positive as these amendments. So, thank you very much, Mr.

Acting Speaker. * (15:30) Hon. Peter Bjornson (M inister of Entrepreneur- ship, Training and Trade): I thought the opposition might like to stand up and speak to this, but I guess that's not the case. But I'm sure I'll hear a lot from the chairs as I'm giving my presentation, Mr. Acting Speaker, because I usually do. [interjection] The member from Brandon West just loves to yell down contrary opinions, so I'm looking forward to his heckling this afternoon as I always do. Just to put things in perspective, Mr.

Acting Speaker, when I had the privilege as serving as Manitoba's Minister of Education for six years, I had the opportunity to represent Canada, in the absence a federal minister of education, at the Organization of American States summit in Trinidad, Tobago. It sounds really exotic and wonderful, and it was, only when it's 95 degrees and 95 per cent humidity and you're in a suit, there's something lost in that. But it was really interesting to hear the perspectives of different member nations of the OAS in terms of what their cha llenges were in education.

It was almost like that scene from Jaws where the characters were comparing scars–and I'm sure many members in the Chamber are old enough to remember that particular scene where you were comparing some of the scars that you had–and we were talking about the scars that we had in our education systems per se, and that's how it felt at first when I heard the discussion but it got to be something a little bit more than that, a little deeper than that, when we heard what some of those challenges other jurisdictions faced.

For example, one South American jurisdiction said: We would love to have the same education system you have in Canada because our system in South America, we're only funded publicly till grade 9, few kids go on to high school, fewer still go on to post-secondary and university. We would love to have the system you have in Canada. And that's their biggest challenge. Then another jurisdiction–one of the islands in the Caribbean–their Education minister said: We have a challenge with infrastructure. Every year we–in the hurricane season, our infrastructure is wiped out.

We deliver a lot of our education to the islands through distance ed ucation initiatives that require satellite transmission, satellite receivers. Every year the satellite dishes are wiped out, the technology is wiped out, and we can't afford to keep rebuilding, so half of our kids go without an education. And then another jurisdiction said, 25 per cent of our students and 25 per cent of our teachers are going to die from AIDS. And then they turned to me and said: What's your biggest challenge in Canada?

And it made me think about what our challenges are here in Canada, and our challenges in our education system certainly are not insurmountable when you consider the challenges that these other jurisdictions face in our neighbouring jurisdictions to the south. But we do have challenges, Mr. Acting Speaker, and certainly we recognize those challenges. One of the challenges has been the fact that, for the longest time, students were allowed to drop out of school after 16 years of age. That might have made sense in an economy 30 years ago; it doesn't make sense today.

And that's why I'm very pleased to stand in this Chamber and speak to this bill which will ensure that students must go to school until 18 years of age. And, of course, we know and I know, as a teacher, that there are students who don't want to be there. They might not have the academic bent, if you will; they might not have the ability to perform in the academic stream, but what this bill is saying is if the system doesn't fit the child–or if the child doesn't fit the system, we'll make the system fit the child. That's what this bill is saying.

This bill is saying we're going to give you more opportunities to succeed and we're going to give you those opportunities to

546 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA December 7, 2010 succeed in a stream other than the academic, whether it's through the apprenticeship program, whether it's through technical-vocational initiatives, co-op and job sharing initiatives, whatever the model that will fit the child that will help that child succeed and become a successful contributor to society. And this is a very important bill to bring that to fruition.

Now, you know, it's–again, I'll go back to my initial comments that I thought the members opposite would stand up and have something to say about this but–especially when I think this is the one thing that the member from Carman said that they were going to win an election on was education. I think that's the one–one of the things that he said they would win it on. But then our–the Education critic stood up and he had an opportunity to put their platform on the stage and put it in Hansard and let people know what they stand for in education, and I think his speech was less than 10 minutes.

So I'm glad we have the opportunity and we'll certainly take advantage of that opportunity. But they don't have much to say, but let's look at what they did say–let's look at what they did say. I remember in the 2003 election campaign when I was right out of the high school classroom in Gimli High School, and I'm on the campaign trail and I heard the announcement of the Tory Education critic on what they were going to do for the public school system: less emphasis on frivolous things like phys. ed., arts and music.

And that was the member from Russell, who was an Education minister, saying: We don't need to emphasize phys. ed.; we don't need to emphasize music; we don't need to emphasize art. I was waiting for him to announce that their policy included a chalkboard slate and chalk for all students, taking us back to the Stone Age, essentially, in education, because we believe that our education system should give every student an opportunity to succeed. And not every student is going to succeed in the academic stream.

They need to explore the skills and the gifts that they have when they walk into that classroom every day, and that's what our system should be–giving every student an opportunity to succeed. So, yes, we value the academic stream and we've done incredible work in developing curriculum and redeveloping curriculum that had been largely ignored during the 1990s, unless you were looking at curriculum for standardized testing and teaching to the test and that type of focus that the opposition was putting on it at the time.

But we developed one of the best music education curriculums in the country and that's been recognized by third-party validators. We've developed one of the best citizenship education curriculums; that's been held up nationally as an example. We've developed one of the best curriculum and support sy stems for education for sustainable development, which members opposite might not think is important, but we think that's important to educate our students on sustainability of this planet of ours. We've developed a number of new curricula to support physical education.

So it's interesting today, you know–in 2003, they're saying, ah, we're not going to emphasize phys. ed. In fact, at one point, they even wanted to cancel recess. I remember the members opposite talking about doing that. So– [interjection] That's right. Shorter summer as well. But 2003, they're talking about limiting the options in physical education, and then this morning, I heard one of the members going on and on about the obesity epidemic with our children, and we need to get our children more active.

Well, that's why our curriculum example is being held up nationwide on what you can do to get children more active in school. So, Mr. Acting Speaker, to hear them talk about their education policy is really quite–it's a gift that keeps giving, quite frankly, as a teacher who became a politician because of what they did to the education system in the 1990s. Now, the other thing–this morning on the radio, it was absolutely fabulous listening to the members opposite. Their leader was on the radio this morning, and they said: Well, what are you going to do about these PISA results?

He said: Well, for one thing, we're going to make sure we have percentages on report cards for high school students. Where has he been? There's a lot of report cards that give percentages for high school students, and for him to say that, I thought, they really don't know what's going in the education system. And he said: Oh, and we're going to have a parent-friendly report card. That's their commitment. Hello. I believe our Education Minister announced that just this session, that we're moving forward with a–[interjection] Yes, they're stealing our ideas because they have none wh en it comes to education.

They have none. And then what else did he say? His third platform: We're going to consult with stakeholders. We're going to consult. Now, how refreshing is that?

December 7, 2010 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 547 Because as a teacher teaching in our education system under the Tory government in the 1990s, no consultation–none. In fact, when we came to the government of the day in the 1990s with a number of issues, we were largely ignored, and how did they treat us for being vocal about the education system? They stripped us of our collective bargaining rights with Bill 72. They cut our salaries and locked people out from the classroom so they wouldn't get any professional development. They announced funding of -2, -2, 0, 0 and -2.

They butchered the education system in the 1990s, and what are they talking about today? They're talking about a half-billion-dollar cut to the budget, and who's going to be cut? Our education system is going to be cut. Our education arts programs will be cut. Our education music programs will be cut. Our education–well, phys. ed. probably will be cut as well, because that's what they said they'd do in 2003. But I digress–I digress. I did say about the consultation, I do recall in 1993, we sent–we, being the teachers of Manitoba, sent a survey back to the government of the day and said: You know what?

We have concerns with safety in our schools for our students and for teachers, because kids are getting a little more violent, a little more aggressive. And a couple of years ago, when we started the Safe Schools initiative in this province, I remember the member from Charleswood sta

Document details

Collection	Manitoba — Debates (Hansard)
Citation	39-5-15b
Type	hansard
Volume / chapter	39th 5th hansardpdf 15b.pdf
Language	en
Format	pdf
Source	PROVINCIAL
Identifier	dfcc14d63f1214053e9cc443afbe6fbe8adbb130

Source file is stored in the law ingest library (pdf).