Manitoba Hansard — 27 April 2022 (Sitting 43, 42nd Legislature, 4th Session)

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Manitoba — Debates (Hansard)

Fourth Session – Forty-Second Legislature of the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba DEBATES and PROCEEDINGS Official Report (Hansard) Published under the authority of The Honourable Myrna Driedger Speaker Vol. LXXVI No. 43 - 1:30 p.m., Wednesday, April 27, 2022 ISSN 0542-5492

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

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

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

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

1653 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA Wednesday, April 27, 2022 The House met at 1:30 p.m. Madam Speaker: O Eternal and Almighty God, from Whom all power and wisdom come, we are assembled here before Thee to frame such laws as may tend to the welfare and prosperity of our province. Grant, O merciful God, we pray Thee, that we may desire only that which is in accordance with Thy will, that we may seek it with wisdom and know it with certainty and accomplish it perfectly for the glory and honour of Thy name and for the welfare of all our people. Amen.

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

Good afternoon, everybody. Please be seated. ROUTINE PROCEEDINGS INTRODUCTION OF BILLS Bill 235 – The Public Schools Amendment Act (Nutrition Programs) Mr. Nello Altomare (Transcona): I move, seconded by the member from The Maples, that Bill 235, The Public Schools Amendment Act (Nutrition Programs); Le modify de 'loir' sur l 'écoles publiques, be now read a first time. Motion presented. Mr. Altomare: I'm pleased to rise today to present Bill 235, The Public Schools Amendment Act (Nutrition Programs).

Educators know that beyond filling stomachs , school meal programs foster feelings of self -worth, community, belonging and lead to better outcomes. This bill will require the minister to report an - nually to this House each school division and district schools that are provi ding nutrition programs the previous fiscal year. This report must then be tabled to the Assembly and made publicly available. I look forward to unanimous support, Madam Speaker, in this House, on this issue. Thank you. Madam Speaker: Is it the pleasure of the House to adopt the motion? Agreed? [Agreed] Committee reports?

TABLING OF REPORTS Hon. Kelvin Goertzen (Government House Leader): I'm pleased to table the Estimates order for the upcoming Estimates process. Madam Speaker: We thank the minister for that tabling. Further tabling of reports? Hon. Wayne Ewasko (Minister of Educatio n and Early Childhood Learning): It gives me great pleasure to table the Supplement to the Estimates of Expenditure for the De partment of Manitoba Education and Early Childhood Learning for '22-23. Madam Speaker: And further tablings? Hon.

Alan Lagimodiere (Minister of Indigenous Reconciliation and Northern Relations): Madam Speaker, I am pleased to table the 2022-23 supplement Estimates of expenditure for the De partment of Indigenous Reconciliation and Northern Relations. MINISTERIAL STATEMENTS Madam Speaker: The honourable Minister of Sport, Culture and Heritage –and I would indicate that the required 90 minutes notice prior to routine pro - ceedings was provided in accordance with rule 26(2). Would the honour able minister please proceed with his statement. Asian Heritage Month Hon.

Andrew Smith (Minister of Sport, Culture and Heritage): Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize and celebrate Asian Heritage Month in Manitoba. The designation of May as Asian Heritage Month, by both the Government of Canada and the Province

1654 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA April 27, 2022 of Manitoba, recognizes the important role that the Asian communities played in our country and in our province. Asian Heritage Month is a valuable oppor - tunity to contemplate and remember the vital in - fluences that have shaped our communities nationally and locally. Asian culture is not a monolith, but rather a col - lective, and one that is the most diverse in Canada, encompassing more than 30 countries, each with their own varied languages, cultures, 'ethnities' and r eli- gious traditions.

The many distinct cultures, faiths and countries of origin of Manitoba residents enrich all aspects of life in our great province. Madam Speaker, for over a century and a half, Canadians of Asian descent have contributed to our collective success and well-being. From the first Sikh Canadians that joined the Canadian Expeditionary Force during the First World War, including Winnipeggers John Baboo and John Singh to Manitoba's distinguished Mr. Philip Lee, the former Lieutenant Governor of Manitoba. We honour all Asian Manitobans and their cultural, social and economic contributions.

Throughout the month, Manitobans will have the opportunity to take

part in the many events that de - monstrate the collaboration of cultures that constitute Asian culture here in our province, events such as the FascinAsian Film Festival, the national showcase and the 204 K -pop Dance Competition–to name a few. You can also join me this Sunday–the Asian Heritage Society as we commemorate the 20th year of cele - brations at the opening ceremonies to kick off Asian Heritage Month. Madam Speaker, I assure you this is something that everybody will enjoy.

I encourage all Manitobans to participate in the virtual and in-person activities scheduled throughout the month across the province. In recognizing our pro- vince's multicultural makeup, we're united in a com - mon purpose, driven by shared hopes and dreams for our children and for ourselves. Madam Speaker, for their tremendous efforts, I commend the Asian Heritag e Society of Manitoba who have joined us here in the gallery today for their vison, hard work and dedication in organizing the 2022 celebrations and intercultural learning events.

Madam Speaker, I ask that my colleagues to join me in congratulating the As ian Heritage Society on their 20th year anniversary. Happy Asian Heritage Month. Mr. Diljeet Brar (Burrows): Today this House stands together to celebrate Asian Heritage Month and recognize all the ways in which Asian communities contribute to our province. Asian Manitobans are our friends, our colleagues, our families and our loved ones. There are too many examples to list of Asian Manitobans who contribute to our province, but it's worth highlighting a few examples.

Japanese Canadian and Winnipegger Kenji Dyck recently directed the documentary Bitter Sweet Trail, bringing attention to the story of Asian Canadian ex- perience during the Second World War. Winnipeg actors Sheila Lotuaco and Rogelio Balagras recently starred in the Filipino Canadian film Islands, which is currently showing at Cinematheque. The artist–the Syrian-born artist Bistyek recently created a show called F War to document the horrors of war.

It showed in the Exchange District until mid - April. * (13:40) Vikas Sanger, who st arted a pay -it-forward pro- gram at his pizzeria after customers began to come in without money to buy food; Alan Wong, who is currently preparing for the Gimli International Film Festival as its new executive director; the board of directors of Asian Women of Winnipeg, which cele - brates and supports the work of Asian women and raises funds for worthy causes in the community. But, Madam Speaker, we also know that anti - Asian hate is on the rise.

We saw it when a minority of people inappropriately blamed t he Chinese com - munity for the COVID-19 pandemic, and when the car of the owner of the restaurant Pad Thai in St. James was vandalized with a hateful message last year. In a survey conducted by Angus Reid last year, over half of Asian Canadians reported experiencing discrimination in the past year, with 28 per cent say- ing that this happens all the time or often.

The Manitoban and Canadian governments have also his- torically contributed to anti -Asian discrimination through the Chinese head tax, by implement ing Japanese internment camps in WWII and much more. Today, we have a responsibility to take actions to raise awareness of anti-Asian hate and to combat it in all forms. On behalf of the Manitoba NDP– Madam Speaker: The member's time has expired. Some Honourable Members: Leave.

April 27, 2022 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 1655 Madam Speaker: Is there leave to allow the member to finish his statement? [Agreed] Mr. Brar: On behalf of the Manitoba NDP, I would like to reiterate our commitment to addressing and combatting this discrimination and hate. To all members of the Asian-Manitoban commu- nity: know that my door is always open to hear your concerns, experiences and ideas. Asian Heritage Month is an opportunity to cele - brate Asian Manitobans and Asian cultures through- out the province while also l earning about their history.

I look forward to celebrating with you all as we begin Asian Heritage Month next week. And, thanks, Asian Heritage Society, to be here in the gallery today. Thank you. Ms. Cindy Lamoureux (Tyndall Park): I seek leave to respond to the minister's statement. Madam Speaker: Does the member have leave to respond to the statement? [Agreed] Ms. Lamoureux: I rise today to talk about Asian Heritage Month. Asian Heritage Month has been celebrated for nearly 45 years, and this year marks 20 years since the Government of Canada signed an official declaration to designate May as Asian Heritage Month.

I think it's im portant that during this month of celebration that we take time to reflect upon and properly acknowledge the very r ich history of Asian Canadians and the many contributions they have made. When I reflect upon the hardships and the sac - rifices that so many have faced and continue to face in order to make our country a safer, more economic and culturally accepting place to live, I'm amazed by the work that has been done. Madam Speaker, every year, in recognition of Asian Heritage Month, I like to highlight different groups here in Manitoba.

This year, I want to talk about the Asian society of Manitoba and MAFTI, the Manitoba Association of Filipino Teachers. And I'm doing this for three reasons. Firstly, I want to thank my friend and colleague from Notre Dame, because she shared with me that MAFTI was going to be joining us today, per her invitation. Secondly, I woul d be remiss to share that the member from Waverley often speaks in this House about teaching he has received from Tita Gemma, who is up in the gallery, so I want to acknowledge her for that, as well, Madam Speaker.

Thirdly, MAFTI teachers, like many heal th-care workers, have gone above and beyond through the COVID pandemic and have impacted the lives of so many students during this time. Just a couple of weeks ago, I had breakfast with my Ate MJ, who is a MAFTI member at Jeepney, and my constituent, Genalyn–she is actually here, as well, so I want to give her a quick hello, too. So with –at breakfast with MJ, she shared a lot with me about isolation and mental health struggles, and so many –how so many students have been ex- periencing these things through the pandemic.

She talked about how, for some students, school has become their safe place to talk about real issues. MJ shared a story with me about going out of her way to hold a small birthday celebration for a student who was struggling a lot with fe elings of isolation and loneliness. Madam Speaker, these are the kind of positive and tangible actions that MAFTI teachers demonstrate and just one of the many reasons we celebrate Asian Heritage Month. Thank you, Madam Speaker.

Madam Speaker: The honour able Minister of Transportation and Infra structure–and I would indi - cate that the required 90 minutes notice prior to routine proceedings was provided, in accordance with rule 26(2). Would the honour able minister please proceed with his statement. Flooding Update Hon. Doyle Piwniuk (Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure): Madam Speaker, while our government mitigations and response efforts due to a previous weather event continue, the Hydrologic Forecast Centre is monitoring another s ystem that could bring high amounts of precipitation this weekend.

The greatest impact of the system is in southern Manitoba and is expected to affect the upcoming flood peak, in either duration or volume. Four municipalities remain on state of local emer- gencies, being that–the RM of Headingley, the RM of Cartier and the RM of Ritchot and the RM of Morris.

1656 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA April 27, 2022 There have also been some small -scale evacuations, in such cities–towns of Morris and the First Nation of O-Chi-Chak-Ko-Sipi. This morning, I had the opportunity to speak to the federal minister of emergency 'prepeparedness', Bill Blair, to keep him informed of the high -water situation. I also spoke to Chris Ewen, mayor of Ritchot; Lori Sellekekens [phonetic] , reeve of Woodlands; and Dave Carlson, re eve of Emerson - Franklin; and the –and Kam Bright [phonetic] , the reeve of Portage la Prairie and AMM president.

I will continue to ensure that the government will continue to assist local governments to the best of our ability. Our Manitoba Emergency Coordination Centre will continue to host daily conference calls with various levels of governments and communities. For Manitoba's residents listening in: if you are in need of assistance of any kind, please contact your RM, as they will have contact the mos t direct line to contact our EMO staff for the Province of Manitoba.

And staff–and our government is ready to assist where possible; where –however, our local government, though, EMO–will have the most active line of com- munication at their disposal. Our farmers are in –critical to the Manitoba –our farmers are critical to the Manitoba economy. EMO staff are working with the Department of Agriculture to assist farmers with any issues that may arise, such as loss of livestock due to weather events. Partial dike closures in Brunkird [phonetic] on P-H 3 and in Gretna are ongoing, and the full dike closure of St. Adolphe at PR 200 is now complete.

Water levels at the Assiniboine River and downstream to the Shellmouth Dam are increasing, which has resulted in floo d warnings to be issued in the Assiniboine River from St-Lazare to Griswold. The intersection of 204 on Henderson Highway and the North Perimeter is now open, thanks to our pumping operations and hard-working staff. Also, the provincial crew is working t o mitigate high -water levels on P-H 75 at Morris open as long as possible.

Our EMO staff are working in collaboration with Manitoba Hydro to restore power outages and to im - pact communities, specifically in the Dauphin region and some First Nation communities. Generators are being sent to assist wherever applicable. I want to thank staff across the levels of gov ern- ment as well as our general public of Manitoba for their continued preservation throughout this difficult time. It has been said that the d ifficult between a drought and a flood in Manitoba is the matter of inches.

I would like–would encourage Manitobans to lend their neighbour an inch of help today, as it might go a mile tomorrow. Thank you, Madam Speaker. Mr. Matt Wiebe (Concordia): Madam Speaker, thank you to the minister for these continued updates to the House. The message today is clear: it is im - portant that we stay vigilant, because even as the sun is shining outside, Manitobans must know that we're not in the clear yet. Farmers ar e still worried about their crops and homeowners are worried about prop- erty damage. With more rain expected tomorrow, many com - munities are preparing flood prevention measures.

For example, Pembina Valley Online reports that Christian Aid Ministries has set up a base in Altona to help with sandbagging efforts, in co- ordination with the local churches. Their co -ordinator, Conroy Plett, notes that they will be there for several weeks. Thank you to all the citizens who are stepping up, and we urge the government to continue to provide supports for communities such as Altona. At the same time, Manitobans are still dealing with power outages from this week's storm. Manitoba Hydro reported a power outage in Point Douglas and St.

Johns areas of Winnipeg that impacted 1,785 customers, and another in the Interlake last night that affected roughly 4,650 Manitobans. Ground crews are working with–around the clock to fix these issues before the rain that is on its way. We urge Manitobans to continue monitoring their property and prepare in case of flooding.

We also urge this government to continue to provide support for residents seeking shelter and those looking to prevent flooding damage to their properties and affected by flooding more broadly. * (13:50) I want to once again commend and thank all those who are working to restore power across our province and protect Manitobans from flooding. Our caucus commits to continue to listen to the concerns of local gov ernments, and the parti cular rural municipalities as they begin to brace for this weekend and rebuild after the damage caused by this upcoming weather storm. Thank you, Madam Speaker.

April 27, 2022 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 1657 Mr. Dougald Lamont (St. Boniface): I seek leave to speak in response to the minister's statement. Madam Speaker: Does the member have leave to respond to the ministerial statement? [Agreed] Mr. Lamont: I thank the minister for his fulsome update. There is, of course, still a risk of greater flooding. As you mentioned, the RM of Ritchot and others 'desclared' a l ocal state of emergency and there are ongoing concerns about the Red River Valley and the Assiniboine valley as well elsewhere that we are facing flooding and high waters.

I understand there is still uncertainty about a po- tential Colorado low headed our way, and while it might not be of the same magnitude as the previous two, it may still hit us. We can hope it will miss us entirely, but we have to wait. We are looking forward to the minister's briefing tomorrow. We do want to note, for the record, that when it comes to Manitobans' ability to react to these emergencies and to take long-term steps to prevent the damage from flooding, there are at least five things this government can and should be doing.

First, on the micro level, to restore the bas ement flooding protec tion program; second, to thaw the funding freeze to munici palities; third, to make sure that funding for federal infra structure projects is flowing to municipalities; fourth, investing in mitiga- tion from climate change, but als o fighting climate change. One of the–I'll note these extreme weather events are part and parcel of climate change.

As one scientist explained to me, for every degree in temperature, the air increases; the more water can hold in a warmer sky, and not just a warmer planet, means more energy, more water and more devastating storms. First–or, finally and fifth, we'd like to encourage the government to find better ways to hold back water to protect our lakes and streams from the impacts of chemical and phosphorus runoff.

It's hard, whenever I see a car stuck under –that's half underwater or a building that's been flooded, I think of all the toxic chemicals that are under people's sinks that are just ending up running into our lakes and streams and, ultimately, to Lake Winnipeg. Flooding is not new to Manitoba, but our know - ledge of the environmental impacts of human activity are–and we learn more all the time about the things we need to do change. We do need to change course to have a–leave a better province and a better planet to future generations. Thank you, Madam Speaker. MEMBERS' STATEMENTS St. James Jr.

Canucks Hockey Champions Hon. Scott Fielding (Minister of Natural Resources and Northern Development): Today, I rise and proudly recognize–with the member from Assiniboia, I'm sure, the member from St. James–the St. James Canucks, champions of the Manitoba Major Junior Hockey League, the first time in 24 years. Earlier this week on Monday, May 25th, the St. James Canucks beated the defending champ s for Pembina Valley Twisters in the best of seven series in game 5, ending in game 5–by 5 -nothing score at the Bell MTS centre which secured the first league title since 1998. The St.

James Canucks lost only four games throughout the regular season, two games in the play- offs on their way to winning the Jack McKenzie Trophy. The trophy is named in honour of the league founder and inaugural president of the league, is awarded to a playoff champion. This past fall, the team was saddened and deva- stated to announce the passing of their dear friend and equipment manager, Marc "Wanks" Wankling. Now, Marc, of course, was in his fifth year as equipment manager for the St. James Canucks. He spent countless hours volunteering in the community, Madam Speaker.

From the days where he spent at Woodhaven, to coaching and managing the teams for St. James AA, as well as sitting on the executive, Marc did it all. The St. James Canucks have dedicated this championship to Marc, and they carry on his spirit in terms of the volunteering that they do in the com mu- nity on an everyday basis, whether it be at the Sturgeon Heights carnival, the Assiniboia West community pancake breakfast, the Canucks fall hockey development camp, as well as the St. James hockey day. I also want to recognize Tom Miller, who, of course, was the president of the team from 1978 to 2015, is known in St.

James circles as Mr. Hockey, of course, and as well as a member of the Manitoba Hockey Hall of Fame.

1658 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA April 27, 2022 This, of course, is the second time, Madam Speaker, that the St. James Canucks have brought home the league championship trophy in their 44-year history of the franchise, and I'm pleased to have the team recognized today for their accomplishments both on and off of the ice. We're joined here today, and we'll get you to stand up: Justin Steeves, who's president; coaching team members Jerry Jones, Blair Mooney as well as Matt Levins. We also have a number of the team members here: Mack Whitely.

We've got Trent Haldarson, [phonetic] Trent Thorsteinson–sorry–Dylan Morden, Luke–Kurtis Luke, Kale Price, Rory Neill, as well as Matthew Mason-Vandel. So thank you very much, Madam Speaker. Met School Mr. Mintu Sandhu (The Maples): I'm pleased to rise in the House today to recognize the students and the staff of Seven Oaks School Division's Met School, who have joined us today in the gallery. Met School was the first of its kind in Canada when it opened in 2012, and now there are three locations.

Met School is a high school that limits class size to 15, tailors its curriculum to the needs and interests of its students, places learners in community -based internships two days a week and keeps the teacher with the same group of students from grade 9 through graduation. It is an environ ment where th e entire learning experience is personalized to each student's interests, talents and needs. Hands-on experience is best accomplished in the real world. We all know the importance of being able to apply what's learned in the school to outside in the classroom.

Met School prepares its students for ex - cellence inside, outside –inside and outside of their school. Academic is rigorous –academic rigour is built into the–each student's program, but it is not a tradi - tional approach to the learning. Instead, academic ac- countability is built into an inquiry -based learning approach that follows the students' interests and passions. The pandemic caused us an –caused an unprece- dented disruption to education, and I want to thank all educators for being–for goi ng above and beyond of their students.

The students and the staff –to the students and staff, thank you for your resiliency, continuing to teach and learn despite all the challenges thrown at you. Madam Speaker, I ask all the members to join me in recognizing Met School students and staff. Ruth and Wayne Reiner Hon. Eileen Clarke (Minister of Municipal Relations): Although the weather might tell a very different story, the spring–the season is spring, and we're all looking forward to warmer weather and the summer months ahead. For many, this means camping season.

Today, I want to acknowledge and recognize Ruth and Wayne Reiner for their many years of service managing Williams Park campground in Gladstone. This year, Reiners have retired as camp managers and have passed on the responsibility to another team. During the summer months, this couple would make their move from their –to their camper in the park, making it their summer home. For years they dedicated their summers to this space, providing a warm and friendly welcome to many campers who came to visit Gladstone.

They booked sites, main- tained the grounds and shelters and even saw some of the campgrounds expand during their time managing. They have been fantastic ambassadors not only for the park, the town of Gladstone and our province of Manitoba. Campers have planned family reunions, grads and other special events at this park because it's been known that the Reiners were always happy to accommodate most requests for any guests. Their outstanding service and kind demeanour to visitors welcomed many to the park and included many return visits from the Good Sam members over the years.

Camping has always been an adventure to bring friends and families together to holiday and enjoy the outdoor life. I encourage those that enjoy the camping season to get out and explore the parks and recreation areas that you have not visited before. You might just be surprised to find so much more in our own backyard. On behalf of all the members of the Assembly, I wanted to say thank you to Wayne and Ruth for the exceptional service in managing Williams Park. Thank you for promoting the community and always offering friendly hospitality; it encouraged many

April 27, 2022 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 1659 others to come back time and time again to camp and visit Happy Rock. When summer gets here and you all enjoy the outdoors and the many opportunities that camping experience can provide, come and check out the Happy Rock, stay at Williams Park, get a cinnamon bun at the bakery and visit the town of Gladstone this summer.

Thank you, Madam Speaker. * (14:00) Manitoba Association of Filipino Teachers MLA Malaya Marcelino (Notre Dame): Madam Speaker, today, it is my heartfelt honour to recognize the contributions of the Manitoba Association of Filipino Teache rs to the multicultural fabric of our great province. In 1977, Filipino educators in Winnipeg, in- cluding Jenny Arnaez, Linda Cantiveros, Julie Esteban, Cory Juan and Gemma Dalayoan, formed MAFTI with the original aim to preserve Filipino culture and fos ter intercultural understanding in our province.

Founder Tita Gemma is here in the audience today, along with many current board members. The group began supporting Filipino teachers acclimatize to Canadian civil and professional society and grew to include cultural and heritage program - ming that extends to the entire Canadian community. As a professional organization, MAFTI attracts educators at various stages in their career develop - ment. Many members are newcomers to Canada who are working to have their foreign -earned credentials recognized.

MAFTI provides opportunities for net - working, professional development and valuable teaching experience in a Canadian setting. As keepers of culture, MAFTI volunteers provide youth program ming, including an after-school heri - tage program that introduces the Filipino language, customs, arts and culture to students. MAFTI also provides adult language classes, which allows a more advanced study of the Filipino culture. This year, there are 118 students enrolled in five different classes, taught by 10 MAFTI-member teachers.

My family has been very fortunate to participate in MAFTI's language and heritage classes. I sincerely value MAFTI's intercultural learning approach, especially as it relates to Indigenous h istory and reconciliation. For the past 45 years, MAFTI's programming and advocacy continues to adapt to the changing needs of multi-ethnic teachers, students and Canadian society, and I invite this House to stand with me to thank this volunteer organization for their 45 years of commun- ity service and to wish them future success in years to come.

Mabunying pagbati sa inyong ika -apatnapu't limang taon ng paglilingkod sa ating komunidad. Salamat po. [In glorious recognition of your 45 years of service to the community. Thank you.] Thank you. Parkland Region–Fundraisers for Ukraine Mr. Rick Wowchuk (Swan River): I rise in the House today to recognize the many volunteers in the south end of my constituency who have organized events and raised tremendous sums of money to assist in aiding with the crisis in Ukraine. The Parkland region has a large Ukrainian descent, and this crisis is close to home.

The Roblin fundraiser organized by concerned citizens raised almost $12,000; and the Rossburn fundraiser, pancake breakfast, organized by the Lions Club, $16,800; as well as a Rossburn fundraiser social hosted by the Rossburn recreation com mittee, $23,000; and the most recent Russell fundraiser dinner raised a whopping $90,000. The event that I had the opportunity to attend was organized by the Russell settlement services person - nel, members of the Filipino community of Russell, clergy members of the Russell area ministerial as - sociation and the many, many citizens.

With food service by the Russell Ukra inian Catholic Church Ladies' Aid, the Russell Filipino association and Old School Catering from Oakburn, 500 sit -down dinners and 160 takeout meals were served. There was a silent auction, straight-out cash dona- tions and a live auction and performances by the Russell Yachminka Ukrainian dance troupe and local vocalists were also a highlight of the evening. Over 200 people made the evening a success.

A very touching part of the evening was when First Nation councillor and Elder Jim Cote from Waywayseecappo presented a star blanket to Olga Stranko and her two children who escaped the war in Ukraine. Star blankets are among the highest honour

1660 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA April 27, 2022 in the Indigenous culture and given as a sign of respect, friendship and protection. Thank you, Roblin, Rossburn and Russell and the amazing volunteers who plan to continue with fund - raising efforts to support humanitarian efforts in Ukraine through the Canadian Ukrainian foundation of Manitoba. You are all so awesome. Thank you. ORAL QUESTIONS Infrastructure Spending Funding for Road Repairs Mr. Wab Kinew (Leader of the Official Opposition): Potholes, potholes, potholes; am I right, Madam Speaker?

Seems like you can't drive any - where these days without hitting a pothole, knocking your bumper off, maybe even catching a flat tire. Dangerous on the highways, too, Madam Speaker. Semis are having to swerve around the potholes on provincial highways. This is dangerous. Now, the Province–[interjection] Madam Speaker: Order. Mr. Kinew: –should be stepping up to fix roads. We should see action. Instead, we see cuts to road budgets and we see freezes to funding for municipalities. Will the Premier stop the cuts and invest in our roads? Hon.

Heather Stefanson (Premier): Well, Madam Speaker, there's –speaking of potholes, there's a big pothole in the middle of his question. I will say that the litany of false accusations continues by the Leader of the Op position. He con- tinues to criticize. He has no plan or vision for the future, Madam Speaker. Well, we have a plan and a vision for the future, Madam Speaker, outlined in our budget. We're–more than $578 million in capital projects have been in - vested this year alone. We will continue. We, obviously, take this very seriously, Madam Speaker. We know there's some work to do. It's been a harsh winter.

We will get out there and get the job done. [interjection] Madam Speaker: Order, please. The honourable Leader of the Official Opposition, on a supplementary question. Mr. Kinew: Some work to do? Madam Speaker, it's worse than it's ever been. There's more potholes than we've ever seen. That's inside the city. That's on prov- incial highways. That's in other municipalities. Yes, there's some work to do, Madam Speaker, and that work begins with this provincial government, who need to stop their cuts to the road budgets and who need to stop the freeze to municipalities.

I really hope that people across the province are starting to connect the dots, that the things that they cut in their budgets here in this Chamber end up cutting–costing you more money out there: more in the form of vehicle repairs, more in the form of poor gas mileage and more in the form of stress. Will the Premier please stop the cuts and start fixing some roads? Mrs. Stefanson: Well, the Leader of the Op position needs to connect the dots in his litany of false accusations and in– particularly in this area, Madam Speaker.

I will tell you, Madam Speaker, the facts are that we are investing more than $578 million more in infrastructure–[interjection] Madam Speaker: Order. Mrs. Stefanson: –on capital projects. We are in - vesting more. That's more, not less, like the Leader of the Opposition says. We will continue to make those invest ments on behalf of Manitobans. Madam Speaker: The honourable Leader of the Official Opposition, on a final supplementary. Mr. Kinew: Sure, Madam Speaker, I'll connect the dots. It's a straight line: they cut the funding for road repairs, now we got more potholes than ever.

We know that the Province could take immediate action. They could bring in an emergency fund to at least bring about temporary road repairs, but they won't even do that, Madam Speaker. They're clinging to that Brian Pallister approach of austerity, of cutting budgets. Manitobans want better. Manitobans want their roads to get fixed. After everything we've been through these past few years, can the PCs at least get one thing right? Can they try and fix some roads in Manitoba?

April 27, 2022 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 1661 Mrs. Stefanson: Well, again, Madam Speaker, the Leader of the Opposition continues to put false infor- mation on the record. We are spending more in infra- structure, not less. But all he does is criticize because he has no plan, Madam Speaker–no plan or vision for the future of Manitoba. Madam Speaker, we do have a plan and vision for Manitoba. We're looking to strengthen health care. We are making life more affordable for Manitobans.

And we're going to build our economy here in Manitoba so there's a better, brighter future for all Manitobans. [interjection] Madam Speaker: Order, please. I think you've heard me say before that when there are, particularly, students in the gallery, this is not the time for this kind of behaviour. * (14:10) They're–are looking to all of you as leaders in the community. They are future leaders in the community, and I really do think that they want to see some better dialogue going on in this House and no heckling, so that they can hear, actually, what is being asked and answered.

The honour able Leader of the Off icial Op posi- tion, on a new question. Surgical and Diagnostic Services Timeline to Clear Backlog Mr. Wab Kinew (Leader of the Official Opposition): Well, it's going to be a bumpy road ahead under the PCs, Madam Speaker. When it comes to health car e, we know that this Premier is spending a quarter of a million dollars just to try and convince Manitobans with advertising that their gov ernment isn't a complete failure when it comes to surgeries–$250,000 for billboards right now, saying Budget 2022 is fixing the surgical backlog. But guess what, Madam Speaker?

The surgical backlog is getting worse and worse and worse. More Manitobans are waiting for a surgery than ever before, and they're waiting longer than ever before. Is that what the members are applauding for? I would certainly hope not. Budget 2022 ends on the day March 31st coming up. Is the Premier committing that the surgical back- log will be cleared by March 31st or is this campaign– Madam Speaker: The member's time has expired. [interjection] Order. Hon. Heather Stefanson (Premier): Again, the litany of false accusations by the member opposite.

The fact of the matter is that we have invested and–in our budget this year of –$110 million towards surgical and diag nostic backlogs. Ma dam Speaker, I know the surgical and diagnostic backlog task force is working diligently to ensure that we tackle that. We want to ensure that each and every Manitoban gets the surgeries and diagnostics that they need when they need it, Madam Speaker. That's why we are making these significant investments in health care in this budget–a budget, I will remind members opposite, that they voted against.

Madam Speaker: The honourable Leader of the Official Opposition, on a supplementary question. Mr. Kinew: Well, we know it's a fact that more Manitobans than ever are waiting for a surgery or for a diag nostic test. We also know that it's a fact that those Manitobans are waiting longer –more people waiting, more people waiting for longer. We know tha t this gov ernment likes, in budget season, to come out and make all sorts of promises, all sorts of an nouncements, and yet every year since they've taken office, what happens?

They cut health care, and it's patients in Manitoba hospitals who end up shouldering the burden, Madam Speaker. Again, they're making some commit ments about Budget 2022, but that budget ends on next March 31st. So is the Premier committing that the surgery backlog will be cleared by March 31st, or is this ad campaign simply false advertising? Mrs. Stefanson: Well, once again the Leader of the Opposition is not putting facts on the record, Madam Speaker, in this Chamber.

And the facts are that we are investing: an ad di- tional $110 million to deal with the surgical and – backlogs, that's in this budget; $812 million in capital funding as identified in the CPSP projects; an increase of $9 million for 28 addi tional ICU beds; over $11 million to increase nursing enrolment in Manitoba's post-secondary institutions. The list goes on and on and on of all the wonderful things that we have introduced in this budget, Madam Speaker. These are good things for

1662 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA April 27, 2022 Manitobans. These are things that will strengthen health care in the province of Manitoba. And the members opposite vote d against every one of those initiatives. Madam Speaker: The honourable Leader of the Official Opposition, on a final supplementary. Mr. Kinew: Well, Madam Speaker, just like Brian Pallister, the Premier comes into question period with a long list of things that they want to announce. And yet, what has happened every single year since the PCs took office in 2016?

Every year they come in here and they wave around that list of an- nouncements, and then what happens outside of the Chamber in the real world? Health care keeps getting worse and worse and worse. What's the situation in health care right now? Emergency room wait times in Winnipeg are longer than they've ever been. Surgery wait times are longer than they've ever been, and there's more people wait- ing for their surgeries than ever before. Will the Premier finally commit to stopping the cuts, and will they take that 250 grand they're spend- ing on billboards and use it to hire some nurses instead? Mrs.

Stefanson: Madam Speaker, the long list of things that we have announced are ways that we're taking action on strengthening health care in the province. And I will remind the member opposite that he and all of his colleagues on that side of the House have voted against each and every one of thes e initiatives. That includes more training of nurses. That includes steps towards getting our internationally educated nurses trained and into the workforce, Madam Speaker. We are taking action on behalf of Manitobans. The NDP has no plan, no vision what soever, for the future of Manitoba.

Surgical and Diagnostic Backlog Government Billboard Campaign Ms. Nahanni Fontaine (St. Johns): The PC govern- ment is spending hundreds of thousands of dollars on misleading ads. This government has done nothing on the surgical and diagnostic backlog; it grows day after day, month after month. The PC billboards are the exact opposite of actually what's going on here in Manitoba. The minis- ter can't fix health care with simple billboards. It requires real commitments that should've been done long ago. Why is this PC government spending a quarter of a million dollars on fake advertising? Hon.

Audrey Gordon (Minister of Health): Madam Speaker, I thank the member for standing in the House today. It gives me the opportunity to thank the public health officials that I'll have the opportunity, later this afternoon, to thank in person for the incred ible work that they did throughout the various phases of the pandemic to keep Manitobans safe, including the Vaccine Implementation Task Force. And the billboards and the advertising that the member for St.

Johns says is useless and has done nothing for Manitobans has helped to ensure 83.1 per cent of Manitobans have received –70 and older have received the third dose; 78.9 per cent over 60 years, third dose; 72.1 per cent Manitobans age 50 and older– Madam Speaker: The honourable member's time has expired. The honourable member for St. Johns, on a supplementary question. Ms. Fontaine: The Premier (Mrs. Stefanson) told Manitobans that they would have to fundraise hun- dreds of thousands of dollars to increase surgeries at Concordia Hospital.

Then the Premier turned around and spent a quarter of a million dollars to try and fool Manitobans the surgery backlog is done. The Premier's plan makes Manitobans pay out of pocket for health care while she spends hundreds of thousands of dollars on ridiculous billboards, Madam Speaker. And because of her choices, not one new surgery has been done at Concordia Hospital. Why is the Premier choosing to spend money on advertising instead of surgeries for Manitobans? Ms. Gordon: I thank the member for St.

Johns for asking about surgeries because, as of April 19th, 10,263 non- emergent surgeries completed since January, 2,943 emergent surgeries completed since January–total of 13,206 surgeries, Madam Speaker. I think the 13,206 individuals who received those surgeries would be very disappointed to hear the member for St. Johns say that they didn't receive any care. Madam Speaker: The honourable member for St. Johns, on a final supplementary.

April 27, 2022 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 1663 Ms. Fontaine: Here's something that the government can advertise that Manitobans really want to know: a date when the surgical backlog will actually be clear- ed. They can also announce when they will pay for all the surgeries at Concordia and not force Manitobans to pay out of pocket. That's what they should be doing, Madam Speaker, instead of spending a quarter of a million dollars on useless billboards across our province.

Why is the Premier spending hundreds of thou- sands of dollars on misleading, false advertising in - stead of funding surgeries at Concordia? * (14:20) Ms. Gordon: Madam Speaker, $110 million invested in the backlog in Budget 2022. That is monies that will go towards reducing the backlog of diagnostics and surgeries; 4.9 –over $4.9 million for the Concordia fifth OR that is being funded by our government. Madam Speaker, we're going to continue to put accurate information out in the public sphere, whic h is the opposite of what members from the opposi tion are doing.

Health-Care System Management Concerns MLA Uzoma Asagwara (Union Station): Madam Speaker, this government broke health care. Now they want others to fix it, and that's not accountability, that's simply not right. Health care is a mess. HSC has reported a 10-hour wait to be seen. Doctors and nurses are reporting horrific conditions that they're working in. The CEO of the WRHA says they're having trouble getting patients out of the R–out of the ER and into hospital beds. This government cut 124 hospital beds, Madam Speaker. Why won't the minister accept respon sibility?

Why is she blaming others for what she and her gov - ernment broke? Hon. Audrey Gordon (Minister of Health): Madam Speaker, I thank the member for Union Station for raising this at a time when we have several young people in our gallery to hear the deplorable state of our health system under their leadership. Members opposite would do well to remember their own record on wait times. When they were in government, they ran the health- care system into the ground. We had the worst emergency de partment– [interjection] Madam Speaker: Order. Ms.

Gordon: –wait times in Canada for years, and that was without a two-and-a-half-year pandemic. And the NDP-led health–[interjection] Madam Speaker: Order. Ms. Gordon: –system had the highest wait times. Again, they don't want the young people in the gallery to hear what I have to say, or for Manitobans to know that they destroyed the health system and our govern- ment has been– Madam Speaker: The member's time has expired. [interjection] Order. The honourable member for Union Station, on a supplementary question. MLA Asagwara: Madam Speaker, Manitobans do not trust this government with their health care.

This gov ernment has made promises year after year after year and has never delivered. They pro - mised to address the surgical backlog two years ago; it's now longer than it's ever been. The minister has offered Manitobans–this is a direct quote –her thoughts and prayers, and the backlog has only since grown. Now the minister won't even reset –accept responsibility–[interjection] Madam Speaker: Order. MLA Asagwara: –for the long wait times in emer - gency rooms, and she's demanding that others fix it.

Madam Speaker, why is this minister demanding that others broke what she and her government–sorry, that others fix what she and her government broke? Ms. Gordon: I don't know what to expect from one day to the next from the members opposite. One week they're asking me to require staff in the Thompson General Hospital and the northern regional health author ity to fix the hot water, then they're suggesting that I physically get on a flight and fly to Thompson to fix the hot water. And then they say, don't require the leadership of the WRHA or Shared Health to work with–[interjection] Madam Speaker: Order. Ms.

Gordon: –officials in health facilities to generate ideas to address the ED wait times. One week they want things fixed, the next week they don't want it fixed.

1664 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA April 27, 2022 Madam Speaker, Manitobans just don't know what to expect from the members opposite. Madam Speaker: The honourable member for Union Station, on a final supplementary. MLA Asagwara: Madam Speaker, this gov ernment broke health care, and it's clear that we need an NDP government to start fixing it. Madam Speaker, this minister thinks health- care needs can be addressed with billboards or with a front- page ad or a press release, but this min ister and this government cut 124 hospital beds; they cut 56 surgical beds; they cut 18 ICU beds.

And now they're calling on other people to fix it? Where's the account ability, Madam Speaker? Where's the respon sibility to own up to their own mistakes? Why is this gov ernment demanding that others should fix what they broke? Ms. Gordon: I understand the member for Union Station's lack of knowledge and awareness of what took place under the previous NDP government. They've kept the member in the dark, but, Madam Speaker, we know the health -care system was – [interjection] Madam Speaker: Order. Ms. Gordon: –broken by their gov ernment: longest wait times in the country.

And we have been slowly working towards fixing that with many initiatives. Over the last two years, I–[interjection] Madam Speaker: Order. Ms. Gordon: –again, I want the young people in the gallery to hear their deplorable actions, in terms of the breaking and running into the ground of our health system. Two–over the last two years we've been working on online assessments, Madam Speaker, virtual con- sultations with physicians, the development of– Madam Speaker: The member's time has expired. Drug Overdose Deaths Request for Support for Bill 234 Mrs.

Bernadette Smith (Point Douglas): In the past four years, 1,200 Manitobans have lost their lives to a drug overdose or lack of services. These are friends, siblings, children, parents and loved ones who are missed every day. We must reduce the stigma around drug use. Yesterday, I introduced Bill 234, which would make the Sunday before Mother's Day a day to reflect on the impacts of drug use and to grieve those who have lost their lives. This is the least we can do. Will the minister support Bill 234 today? Hon.

Sarah Gu illemard (Minister of Mental Health and Community Wellness): I do appreciate the question coming from the member opposite. I know how this issue and this topic is very close to the member's heart, as it is to many of our hearts, as well.

Anyone who has experience with a loved one who has dealt with substance abuse issues, and cer - tainly who has passed away, unfortunately, with these issues, knows that it's im portant to not only speak often about our loved ones but to remember them and to teach the next generation of the dangers and harms of substance use, but also where the resources and help is that they can access. Madam Speaker: The honourable member for Point Douglas, on a supplementary question. Mrs. Smith: Much more can be done to address the addictions crisis in Manitoba.

We want to make sure that those who have lost their lives due to substance abuse will be remembered and that the ap propriate actions are taken to honour them. Bill 234 is a first step in raising awareness about the imp acts of drugs in Manitoba and reducing the stigma that exists. It would provide space for us, as families, to grieve those who have been lost to drugs, including my own father and recently my brother -in- law. Will this gov ernment commit to passing 234 today? Mrs. Guillemard: I offer my condolences once again to the member opposite.

It's a very tough road to walk, the grief of any loved ones who are lost but let alone those who have struggled, especially with substance use. And I do look forward to b eing able to speak to the member's bill tomorrow and to learn from others who have walked the same path and journey. We know that healing is when we connect with others who have similar experiences and also those celebrations of those who have been able to address some of their substance use issues and had success, to give hope to the next generation.

April 27, 2022 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 1665 Madam Speaker: The honourable member for Point Douglas, on a final supplementary. Mrs. Smith: Victims of overdoses and drug- related suicides deserve to be remembered and grieved. In their honour, action should be taken to prevent future overdoses and reduce addictions. * (14:30) Bill 234 will designate the Sunday before Mother's Day as a day to raise awareness about the impacts of drugs and the stigma, and help those grieve those that have been lost.

This gov ernment can sup - port this initiative by committing to passing Bill 234, a bill that I am bringing forward on behalf of families who have lost their loved ones and deserve a day to be–to grieve. Will this minister do so today and pass Bill 234? Mrs. Guillemard: I–again, I want to reiterate that I do look forward to speaking to the member's bill to - morrow morning during private members' busi ness. We look forward to learning from the member, from other members and their experiences and advice that can come forward.

Madam Speaker, our gov ernment absolutely recognizes the need to invest in mental health ser - vices, which is why in this year's budget we have $500,000 to add six crisis stabilization unit beds at the Crisis Response Centre, $830,000 to support expan- sion of the Winnipeg RAAM clinics and others. And, Madam Speaker, I look forward to sitting down with the member opposite and talking about future harm reduction initiatives. International Student Health Care Request to Reinstate Coverage Mr. Jamie Moses (St.

Vital): Madam Speaker, many international students are being forced to pay massive bills when they seek health care that they need. We've heard stories from students who had to pay tens of thousands of dollars when seeking health-care services or mental health treatment. These costs are a direct result of this gov ernment's cuts to health care for international students in 2018. No one in Manitoba should have to choose be - tween health care and finances. Will the minister do the right thing and reinstate health-care services for international students today? Hon.

Jon Reyes (Minister of Advanced Education, Skills and Immigration): I'm proud of Budget 2022 and making life more affordable for all Manitobans, including international students and new comers, that the members opposite voted against. We on this side of the House are proud that many international students have chosen to study and stay in Manitoba. It is one of the top destinations for inter - national students due to our low tuition and one of Canada's best post-secondary educations.

Madam Speaker, we want our students to study and stay in Manitoba, including our international stu- dents, and that is why we introduced the Immigration Advisory Council to redesign the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program based on the labour market needs for newcomers and international students to get good jobs once they graduate. Thank you, Madam Speaker. Madam Speaker: The honourable member for St. Vital, on a supplementary question. Mr. Moses: Madam Speaker, this government makes more–life more difficult and more expensive for inter- national students.

Madam Speaker, $40,000, $120,000–these are some of the bills that in ternational students and their families face and are being forced to pay because of health-care services in Manitoba. That is simply unacceptable. We know that many students fall between the cracks and are left without insurance while they're in- between studies. This deters people from accessing health care. This gov ernment can easily solve the problem by reinstating health care for inter national students. Will they actually make that commitment today? Mr.

Reyes: Madam Speaker, as outlined in Budget 2022, and which the NDP voted against, our government is making a record amount of investments in the post -secondary sector and making life more affordable for all Manitobans, including international students and newcomers. In a recent speaking eng agement with students from Bangladesh, I asked them why they all had decided to come to Manito [phonetic] to live, study and stay. What I heard was: the quality post-secondary education, the low tuition relative to other provinces and the highly suc cessful Man itoba Prov incial Nominee Program.

Those reasons –those are the reasons why they choose to study and stay in Manitoba.

1666 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA April 27, 2022 We will continue–welcome many 'internash' stu- dents to our wonderful province. Thank you, Madam Speaker. Madam Speaker: The honourable member for St. Vital, on a final supplementary. Mr. Moses: Madam Speaker, while this minister avoids to answer the question and avoids international students, they still suffer. International students in Canada pay up to five times more for tuition than domestic students. Private health-care insurance costs up to $900 per year. And students pay out of pocket and up front for many of these costs.

It's extremely burdensome for inter - national students. The government can actually do the right thing this time. Today, they could forgive outstanding medical bills and they could reinstate health care for international students. I ask the minister again: Will he reinstate inter - national students' health-care services today? Mr. Reyes: Madam Speaker, in Budget 2022, which the N-D-T–the NDP did vote against, our government will build and strengthen the post-secondary sector by investing more than $1 billion every year in post - secondary education.

This year's funding announcement includes over $11 million to increase nursing enrolment as well at Manitoba's post-secondary institutions. Madam Speaker, for years, the previous NDP government operated without a plan for post - secondary and taxed our students to the max, making it unattractive to stay in Manitoba. Our government is taking action by making life more affordable for our students, including international students. Thank you, Madam Speaker. Abuse of Non-Disclosure Agreements Request for Support for Bill 225 Mr. Dougald Lamont (St.

Boniface): Yesterday, we introduced Bill 225, a bill to reform the abuse of non- disclosure agreements, which have been wrongly used for decades to permanently silence people. We worked together with UWindsor law professor Dr. Julie Macfarlane of Can't B uy My Silence, who has partnered with Zelda Perkins in the UK, the first person to ever break an NDA relating to the abuses of Harvey Weinstein. We all know that Peter Nygård is facing a class - action suit in New York, extradition from Canada, criminal cha rges in Toronto and Montreal.

The 'allegedegations' against him span decades and were kept under wraps in part due his company's routine use of NDAs to gag people. We don't think NDAs and the law should be used to suppress the truth in this way. Will the government support our Bill 225? Hon. Kelvin Goertzen (Minister of Justice and Attorney General): While the member opposite would know that it's inappropriate for me to speak as the Attorney General of a case that's currently before a court, I did see the bill that he introduced yesterday, and I will have the department review it. Madam Speaker: The honourable member for St.

Boniface, on a supplementary question. Mr. Lamont: We all know that NDAs impact people who've been mistreated at work or s chool teachers, nurses, students, people working in health care, edu- cation, the public and private sector alike. At the Univer sity of Manitoba, professor Steve Kirby faced multiple allegations of sexual misconduct towards students and, despite years of warnings and even being arrested, it was kept quiet and he was of - fered a glowing recom mendation for his next job in another country.

While complainants were denied any justice, the U of M was ordered to pay the professor $286,000 for violating his confidentiality in an NDA. That's how our tax dollars and students' tuition was spent. We should all be able to agree that, when NDAs can permanently silence complainants while protect - ing powerful abusers, it's the opposite of justice. Does the Premier (Mrs. Stefanson) agree, and can we count on her for our–for her support? Mr.

Goertzen: Again, Madam Speaker, while this government has taken extra ordinary lengths to add measures to ensure that, whether –students or others are protected from those who might cause them harm or act inappropriately, when it comes to the particular bill that the member brought forward to the House only yesterday, I will have my department review it. Ukrainian Refugees Settlement Supports Ms. Cindy Lamoureux (Tyndall Park): Many Ukrainians fleeing their war -'torm'–torn homes are arriving in Manitoba, and the gov ernment needs to

April 27, 2022 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 1667 ensure they have proper supports as many are arriving with just the clothes on their backs. To date, there is still so much more our Province could be doing to help these refugees settle, and it's not fair to leave all the heavy lifting to private spon - sorship and non-profits. What is this government doing to ensure refugees in Manitoba have proper resources, like living sup- ports and access to food? Hon.

Jon Reyes (Minister of Advanced Education, Skills and Immigration): First of all, I want to thank the many organi zations that have con tributed to humanitarian aid. I want to thank the member from Swan River for provi ding that i nformation that all those organizations are doing for the people of Ukraine. Madam Speaker, I want to thank the member for Tyndall Park for the question.

It gives me an oppor - tunity to remind the member opposite, her party that voted against Budget 2022 meant saying no to helping newcomers and immigrants settle to Manitoba –over $5.1 million to support new comers and immigrants wanting to settle in Manitoba so that they can have a better quality of life, including $3 million to Manitoba Start. Our government is taking action to making life more affordable for all Manitobans, including new - comers and immigrants.

I wish the member for Tyndall Park would call Ottawa to get them to fix the federal backlog and capacity issue so that we can even welcome m ore new comers to Manitoba as soon as possible. Thank you, Madam Speaker. Funding for Disability Services Supports in Budget 2022 Mr. Dennis Smook (La Vérendrye): With the an - nouncement of Budget 2022 on Tuesday, April the 12th, the gov ernment revealed historic invest - ments in order to support the most vul nerable Manitobans. * (14:40) Could the minister inform the House on how is Budget 2022 going to support those living with dis - abilities? Hon.

Rochelle Squires (Minister responsible for Accessibility): I'd like to thank my colleague for that wonderful question. Earlier today, I was honoured to make an an- nouncement alongside our Premier (Mrs. Stefanson) of $26.4 million more for the Community Living disABILITY Services program, which includes $10 million to increase wages for the front -line staff employed by service providers across the country. We also announced an additional $12 million in– for the new income support program that will help people living with dis abilities. We also announced $5 million for Children's disABILITY Services.

These combined initiatives will help people of all abilities in Manitoba achieve a better destiny, and I'd like to thank all of our community partners for helping enrich the lives of people with dis abilities in Manitoba. Thank you, Madam Speaker. Education System Funding Concerns Mr. Nello Altomare (Transcona): The government spent thousands on focus groups for their failed edu- cation plan. And what did the survey say, Madam Speaker? What did Manitobans tell them? They were worried this government was going to do to education what they did to health care. They're laughing over there. They know it's the truth.

And look around. All we see are cuts, cuts and more cuts. And it's not surprising that fam ilies com- pletely don't trust what they're hearing from this gov- ernment. Will the minister listen to Manitobans, listen to families and stop these cuts to our education system? Hon. Wayne Ewasko (Minister of Education and Early Childhood Learning) : Madam Speaker, it's unfortunate that my friend from Transcona–the MLA for Transcona–stands up today and puts some false information on the record and continues those self - serving talking points, like his Leader of the Opposition.

Madam Speaker, the m ember knows that, this year alone, we have funded education to the tune of $327 million over the last two years. That's a 17.2 per cent increase. In this coming year alone, we're looking at well over $127,000–or, $127 million, sorry. And there's many more–[interjection] Madam Speaker: Order.

1668 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA April 27, 2022 Mr. Ewasko: –announcements coming, Madam Speaker, to support our students. Tune in for tomorrow as well. Madam Speaker: The honourable member for Transcona, on a supplementary question. Mr. Altomare: Madam Speaker, I'll make it clear again: no Manitoban trusts this gov ernment when it comes to funding our schools; not a single one. And their survey said it itself. It was clear. And that's because of their chronic underfunding to the system since 2016.

Read i t in the FRAME, it's right there, and it chronically shows how this govern- ment not only underfunds but totally, totally dis - respects the people working in the system. And what do we see? Fewer supports in the class- room, fewer teachers, fewer EAs, fewer things that our kids need. Will the minister listen to what Manitobans are saying and stop the cuts? Mr. Ewasko: Madam Speaker, this member knows that our government collaborates and works with our education partners on a day-to-day basis.

Matter of fact, Madam Speaker, I've got a quote for you: It's said if you want to go somewhere fast, go alone; if you want to go far, go together. And I view the shift in policy of the Province as, I quote, we'd like to go far and we'd like to go together. Who said that, Madam Speaker? Mr. Brian O'Leary, super intendent of Seven Oaks School Division. [interjection] Madam Speaker: Order. Order. The honourable member for Transcona, on a final supplementary. Mr. Altomare: I'll remind this member what he said in the Lac du Bonnet register, or whatever that thing is called–the Whiteshell reporter? Something like that.

He called them the vocal minority, misinformed, fear mongers. That's what he said, and he has yet to apologize, Madam Speaker–[interjection] Madam Speaker: Order. Mr. Altomare: –for those comments. Not a –one piece that's come out of there. And it's similar – [interjection] Madam Speaker: Order. Mr. Altomare: What do we see? More cuts across entire divisions in this province, and has yet, Madam Speaker, to apologize to the people working on our front lines and our classrooms. So, I will ask one more time: Will they reverse the cuts and stop with their chronic underfunding of our education system?

Some Honourable Members: Oh, oh. Madam Speaker: Order. Order. Order. Mr. Ewasko: I guess, Madam Speaker, I'm going to stand and ask the member–I thought, my friend from– the MLA for Transcona, to stand up and apologize for his shameful comment, his inappropriate comments and shameful comments, to not only the Lac du Bonnet Clipper and the Beausejour clipper – [interjection] Madam Speaker: Order. Mr. Ewasko: –but also to the residents of the Lac du Bonnet constituency. I'm asking the–[interjection] Madam Speaker: Order, please. Mr. Ewasko: –member to stand up and apologize – [interjection] Madam Speaker: Order.

Order. The table could maybe stop the clock for this one, although I'll stop my clock. I don't need members going out like this with their hands to me. I am doing my job and I know what my job is. And my job actually should have more respect from members in this House. And there have been a lot of noise coming from both sides of the House, but when I'm standing doing my job I expect respect to this position and to the–this institution, and what this has stood for a long time. So I don't need members–I can hear who's heck - ling.

I know very well who's heckling–on both sides– and I'm asking everybody for some co-operation here so that we can actually demonstrate that we have a de- mocracy. So I'm asking for everybody's co-operation, please. I don't need to do this every day and I don't have to read the Uni versity Women's Club letter, but I would again if I have to because I think we need to have more respect. And I take great offence when members are sitting there like this, to me, when they're

April 27, 2022 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 1669 turning around and heckling, you know, right after that. So, I'm asking for everybody's respect and co-operation so that I can do my job, and I think treat- ing people better would be probably a wiser decision by all of you. The honourable Minister of Edu cation, to com - plete his response. Mr. Ewasko: We, on this side of the House, respect our com munity newspapers all across this great province of ours, Madam Speaker.

It is, again, shameful and upsetting to me, as a member of the gov ernment, that the member from Transcona would belittle some of the community– Madam Speaker: The member's time has expired. The time for oral questions has expired. PETITIONS Madam Speaker: The honourable member for Transcona? Mr. Nello Altomare (Transcona): Yes. Madam Speaker: On a petition. Foot-Care Services Mr. Altomare: I wish to present the following petition to the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba. To the Assembly: The background of this petition is as follows:

(1) The population of those aged 55- plus has grown to approximately 2,500 in the city of Thompson.

(2) The large percentage of people in this age group require necessary medical foot care and treatment.

(3) A large percentag e of those who are elderly and/or diabetic are also living on low incomes.

(4) The northern regional health author ity previously provided essential medical foot -care services to seniors and those living with diabetes until 2019, then subsequently cut the program after the last two nurses filling those positions retired.

(5) The number of seniors and those with diabetes has only continued to grow in Thompson and surrounding areas.

(6) There is no adequate medical care available in the city and region,

whereas the city of Winnipeg has 14 medical foot-care centres. * (14:50)

(7) The implications of inadequate or lack of podiatric care can lead to amputations; and

(8) The city of Thompson also serves as a regional health-care service provider, and the need for foot care extends beyond just those served in the capital city of this province. We petition the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba as follows: To urge the provincial government to provide the services of two nurses to restore essential medical foot-care treatment to the city of Thompson effective April 1st, 2022. This petition is been signed by Jen Hutsul, Alison Slaney, Wayne Hickey and many, many Manitobans. Thank you.

Madam Speaker: In accordance with our rule 132(6), when petitions are r ead they are deemed to be received by the House. MLA Tom Lindsey (Flin Flon): I wish to present the following petition to the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba. The background of this petition is as follows:

(1) The population of those aged 55- plus has grown to approximately 2,500 in the city of Thompson.

(2) A large percentage of people in this age group require necessary medical foot care and treatment.

(3) A large percentage of those who are elderly and/or diabetic are also living on low incomes.

(4) The northern regional health author ity, N-R-H-A, previously provided essential medical foot- care for seniors and those living with diabetes until 2019, then subsequently cut the program after the last two nurses filling those positions retired.

(5) The number of seniors and those with diabetes has only continued to grow in Thompson and sur - rounding areas.

(6) There is no adequate medical care available in the city and region,

whereas the city of Winnipeg has 14 medical foot-care centres.

1670 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA April 27, 2022

(7) The implications of inadequate and/or–excuse me–or a lack of podiatric care can lead to amputations.

(8) The city of Thompson also serves as a regional health-care service provider, and the need for foot care extends beyond just those served in the capital city of the province. We petition the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba as follows: To urge the provincial government to provide the services of two nurses to restore essential medical foot-care treatment to the city of Thompson effective April 1, 2022. And this petition, Madam Speaker, has been signed by Darlene Beardy, June MacIntosh [phonetic], David Spence and many other Manitobans. Mr.

Diljeet Brar (Burrows): I wish to present the following petition to the Legislative Assembly. To the Legis lative Assembly of Manitoba, the background to this petition is as follows: The population of those aged 55- plus has grown to approximately 2,500 in the city of Thompson. A large percentage of people in this age group require necessary medical foot care and treatment. A large percentage of those who are elderly and/or diabetic are also living on low incomes.

The northern regional health authority previously provided essential medical foot -care services to seniors and those living with diabetes until 2019, then subsequently cut the program after the last two nurses filling those positions retired. The number of seniors and those with diabetes has only continued to grow in Thompson and sur - rounding areas. There is no adequate medical care available in the city and region,

whereas the city of Winnipeg has 14 medical foot-care centres. The implications of inadequate or lack of podiatric care can lead to amputations. The city of Thompson also serves as a regional health-care service provider, and the need for foot care extends beyond just those served in the capital city of the province. We petition the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba as follows: To urge the provincial government to provide the services of two nurses to restore essential medi cal foot-care treatment to the city of Thompson effective April 1st, 2022. This has been signed by many Manitobans. Ms.

Amanda Lathlin (The Pas-Kameesak): I wish to present the following petition to the Legis lative Assembly. The background of this petition is as follows:

(1) The population of those aged 55- plus has grown to approximately 2,500 in the city of Thompson.

(2) A large percentage of people in this age group require necessary medical foot care and treatment.

(3) A large percentage o f those who are elderly and/or diabetic are also living on–who are also living on low incomes.

(4) The northern regional health author ity previously provided essential medical foot -care services to seniors and those living with diabetes until 2019, then subsequently cut the program after the last two nurses filling those positions retired.

(5) The number of seniors and those with diabetes has only continued to grow in Thompson and sur - rounding areas.

(6) There is no adequate medical care available in the city and region,

whereas the city is–Winnipeg has 14 medical foot-care centres.

(7) The implications of inadequate or lack of care can lead to amputations.

(8) The city of Thompson also serves as a regional health-care service provider, and the need for foot care extends beyond just those served in the capital city of the province. We petition the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba as follows: To urge the provincial government to provide the services of two nurses to restore essential medical foot-care treatment to the city of Thompson effective April 1st, 2022. Ekosi. Louise Bridge Mr. Jim Maloway (Elmwood): I wish to present the following petition to the Legislative Assembly. The background of this petition is as follows:

April 27, 2022 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 1671

(1) Over 25,000 vehicles per day cross the Louise Bridge, which has served as a vital link for vehicular traffic between northeast Winnipeg and the downtown for the last 110 years.

(2) The current structure will undoubtedly be declared unsafe in a few years as it has deteriorated extensively, becoming functionally obsolete, subject to more frequent unplanned repairs and cannot be widened to accommodate future traffic capacity.

(3) As far back as 2008, the City of Winnipeg– City has studied where the new re placement bridge should be situated.

(4) After including the bridge replacement in the City's five-year capital budget forecast in 2009, the new bridge became a short-term construction priority in the City's transportation master plan, 2011.

(5) City capital a nd budget plans identified re - placement of the Louise Bridge on a site just east of the bridge and expropriated homes there in the south side of Nairn Avenue in anticipation of a 2015 start.

(6) In 2014, the new City adminis tration did not make use of available federal infrastructure funds.

(7) The new Louise Bridge Com mittee began its campaign to demand a new bridge and its surveys confirmed residents wanted a new bridge beside the current bridge, with the old bridge kept open for local traffic.

(8) The NDP provincial government signalled its firm commitment to partner with the City on replacing the Louise Bridge in its 2015 Throne Speech. Unfor - tunately, provincial infrastructure initiatives, such as the new Louise bridge, came to a halt with the election of the Progressive Conservative government in 2016.

(9) Most recently, the City tethered the Louise Bridge replacement issue to its new trans portation master plan and eastern corridor project. Its recom- mendations have now identifie d the location of the new Louise bridge to be placed just to the west of the current bridge, not to the east as originally proposed. The City expropriation process has begun.

(10) The provincial budget due in mid-April 2022 is the Province's oppor tunity to announce its portion of funding for this long overdue vital link to northeast Winnipeg and Transcona. We petition the Legis lative Assembly of Manitoba as follows:

(1) To urge the Premier to financially assist the City of Winnipeg in her new 2022 prov incial budget to build this three -lane bridge in each direction to maintain this vital link between northeast Winnipeg, Transcona and the downtown.

(2) To urge the provincial government to recom- mend that the City of Winnipeg keep the old bridge open–fully open to traffic while the new bridge is under construction.

(3) To urge the provincial government to consider the feasibility of keeping the old bridge –old 'louige' bridge open for active transportation in the future. And this petition is signed by many, many Manitobans. Foot-Care Services MLA Malaya Marcelino (Notre Dame): Madam Speaker, I wish to present the following petition to the Legislative Assembly. The background of this petition is as follows: * (15:00)

(1) The population of those aged 55- plus has grown to approximately 2,500 in the city of Thompson.

(2) A large percentage of people in this age group require necessary medical foot care and treatment.

(3) A large percentage of those who are elderly and/or diabetic are also living on low incomes.

(4) The northern regional health author ity previously provided essential medical foot -care services to seniors and those living with diabetes until 2019, then subsequently cut the program after the last two nurses filling those positions retired.

(5) The number of seniors and those with diabetes has only continued to grow in Thompson and surrounding areas.

(6) There is no adequate medical care available in the city and region,

whereas the city of Winnipeg has 14 medical foot-care centres.

(7) The implications of inadequate or a lack of podiatric care can lead to amputations; and

(8) The city of Thompson also serves as a regional health-care service provider, and the need for foot care extends beyond just those served in the capital city of the province. We petition the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba as follows:

1672 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA April 27, 2022 To urge the provincial government to provide the services of two nurses to restore essential medical foot-care treatment to the city of Thompson effective April 1st, 2022. And this has been signed by Natale Bloomfield, Charlotte Sloan, Brian Taylor and many other Manitobans. Ms. Lisa Naylor (Wolseley): I wish to present the following petition to the Legislative Assembly. To the Legis lative Assembly of Manitob a, the background of this petition is as follows: The population of those aged 55- plus has grown to approximately 2,500 in the city of Thompson.

A large percentage of people in this age group require necessary medical foot care and treatment. A large percentage of those who are elderly and/or diabetic are also living on low incomes. The northern regional health authority previously provided essential medical foot -care services to seniors and those living with diabetes until 2019, and then subsequently cut the program after the last two nurses filling those positions retired. The number of seniors and those with diabetes has only continued to grow in Thompson and sur - rounding areas. There is no adequate medical care available in the city and regio n,

whereas the city of Winnipeg has 14 medical foot-care centres. The implications of inadequate or lack of podiatric care can lead to amputations. The city of Thompson also serves as a regional health-care service provider, and the need for foot care extends beyond just those served in the capital city of the province. We petition the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba as follows: To urge the provincial government to provide the services of two nurses to restore essential medical foot-care treatment to the city of Thompson effective April 1st, 2022.

This has been signed by Bobbi Moncten [phonetic], Adrien [phonetic] Dumas and Brian Champagne and many other Manitobans. Mrs. Bernadette Smith (Point Douglas): I wish to present the following petition t o the Legislative Assembly. The background to this petition is as follows: The population of those aged 55- plus has grown to approximately 2,500 in the city of Thompson.

(2) A large percentage of people in this age group require necessary medical foot care and treatment.

(3) A large percentage of those who are elderly and/or diabetic are also living on low incomes.

(4) The northern regional health author ity previously provided essential medical foot -care services to seniors and those living with diabetes until 2019, then subsequently cut the program after the last two nurses filling those positions retired; the–

(5) The number of seniors and those with diabetes has only continued to grow in Thompson and surrounding areas.

(6) There is no adequate medical care available in the city and region,

whereas the city of Winnipeg has 14 medical foot-care centres.

(7) The implications of inadequate or lack of podiatric care can lead to amputations.

(8) The city of Thompson also serves as a regional health-care service provider, and the need for foot care extends beyond just those served in the capital city of the province. We petition the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba as follows: To urge the provincial government to provide the services of two nurses to restore the essential medical foot-care treatment to the city of Thompson effective April 1st, 2020. And this is signed by many, many Manitobans. Mr. Matt Wiebe (Concordia): I wish to present the following petition to the Legislative Assembly. And the background to this petition is as follows:

(1) The population of those aged 55- plus has grown to approximately 2,500 in the city of Thompson.

(2) A large percentage of people in this age group require necessary medical foot care and treatment.

(3) A large percentage of those who are elderly and/or diabetic are also living on low incomes.

(4) The northern regional health author ity, the N-R-H-A, previously provided essential medical foot- care services to seniors and those living with diabetes

April 27, 2022 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 1673 until 2019, then subsequently cut the program after the last two nurses filling those positions retired.

(5) The number of seniors and those with diabetes has only continued to grow in Thompson and surrounding areas.

(6) There is no adequate medical care available in the city and region,

whereas the city of Winnipeg has 14 medical foot-care centres.

(7) The implications of inadequate or lack of podiatric care can lead to amputations.

(8) The city of Thompson also serves as a regional health-care service provider, and the need for foot care extends beyond just those living–sorry, those served in the capital city of the province. We petition the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba as follows: To urge the provincial government to provide the services of two nurses to restore essential medical foot-care treatment to the city of Thompson effective April 1st, 2022. And this petition, Madam Speaker, is signed by many Manitobans. Ms. Nahanni Fontaine (St. Johns): Madam Speaker, I wish to present the foll owing petition to the Legislative Assembly. The background of this petition is as follows:

(1) The population of those aged 55- plus has grown to approximately 2,500 in the city of Thompson.

(2) A large percentage of people in this age group require necessary medical foot care and treatment.

(3) A large percentage of those who are elderly and/or diabetic are also living on low incomes.

(4) The northern regional health author ity, N-R-H-A, previously provided essential medical foot- care services to seniors and those living with diabetes until 2019, then subsequently cut the program after the last two nurses filling those positions retired.

(5) The number of seniors and those with diabetes has only grown–continued to grow in Thompson and surrounding areas.

(6) There is no adequate medical care available in the city and region,

whereas the city of Winnipeg has 14 medical foot-care centres.

(7) The implications of inadequate or lack of podiatric care can lead to amputations.

(8) The city of Thompson also serves as a regional health-care service provider, and the need for foot care extends beyond just those served in the capital city of the province. We petition the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba as follows: To urge the provincial government to provide the services of two nurses to restore essential medical foot-care treatment to the city of Thompson affected– effective April 1st, 2022. And signed by many Manitobans. Miigwech. Thank you. Madam Speaker: Grievances? ORDERS OF THE DAY GOVERNMENT BUSINESS House Business Hon.

Kelvin Goertzen (Government House Leader): I'd like to announce that in addition to the reports and witnesses previously announced, the Standing Com mittee on Public Accounts meeting on May 16th, 2022 at 6:30 p.m. will also be con sid- ering the following: The Auditor General's report, Follow -up of Previously Issued Recom mendations, May 2015:

section 9, Taxation Division, Audit Branch;

section 18, Senior Management Expense Policies. * (15:10) Auditor General's report follow-up of recommen- dations, May 2016: food and safety; taxation division, auditor branch; Senior Management Expense Policies. Auditor General's report follow-up of recommen- dations, March 2017: Office of the Fire Com mis- sioner; Senior Management Expense Policies. Auditor General's report follow-up of recommen- dations, March 2018: rural munici pality of Lac du Bonnet. The additional witnesses to be called are: Shared Health CEO, Adam Topp; head of Shared Health diagnostic imaging, John French; and the provincial clinical specialty lead of diag nostic imaging, Dr. Marco Essig.

1674 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA April 27, 2022 Madam Speaker: It has been announced that in ad- dition to the reports and witnesses previously announced, the Standing Com mittee on Public Accounts meeting on May 16th, 2022, at 6:30 p.m. will also be considering the following: Auditor General's report follow-up of previously issued recom mendations, May 2015:

section 9, Taxation Division, Audit Branch;

section 18, Senior Management Expense Policies. Auditor General's report follow-up of recommen- dations, May 2016: Food Safety; Taxation Division, Audit Branch; Senior Management Expense Policies. Auditor General's report follow-up of recommen- dations, March 2017: Office of the Fire Com mis- sioner; Senior Management Expense Policies. Auditor General's report follow-up of recommen- dations, March 2018: rural munici pality of Lac du Bonnet.

The additional witnesses to be called are: Shared Health CEO, Adam Topp; head of Shared Health diagnostic imaging, John French; provincial clinical specialty lead for diag nostic imaging, Dr. Marco Essig. * * * Mr. Goertzen: Could you please call for debate this afternoon on second reading, Bill 35 and 28 and then for third reading and concurrence, Bill 31? Madam Speaker: It has been announced that the House will consider this afternoon second readings of Bill 35 and 28 and concurrence and third readings of Bill 31.

SECOND READINGS Bill 35–The Commemoration of Days, Weeks and Months and Related Repeals and Amendments Act Madam Spe aker: I will therefore call second reading, Bill 35, The Com memoration of Days, Weeks and Months and Related Repeals and Amendments Act. Hon. Kelvin Goertzen (Minister of Justice and Attorney General): I move, seconded by the Minister of Education, that Bill 35, The Com memoration of Days, Weeks and Months and Related Repeals and Amendments Act, be now read a second time and referred to a committee of this House. Motion presented. Mr. Goertzen: Thank you–[interjection] It's like being a Liber al.

Thank you, Madam Speaker. I'm pleased to rise in the House to speak to second reading on this bill, The Com memoration of Days, Weeks and Months and Related Repeals and Amendments Act. I would consider this to be a good housekeeping bill, Madam Speaker, when it comes to how statutes are organized and how they are displayed and accessed by the public. Mr. Andrew Micklefield, Deputy Speaker, in the Chair The bill will bring together in one statute 36 pieces of legislation that designate a commemora- tive day, week or month to recognize a sig nificant event, issue or a person.

Manitoba currently designates 38 such periods as awareness, recognition or commemoration occasions. These occasions highlight sig nificant issues and people that ar e important to Manitobans and vary in length from a single day to a month. The proposed bill that amalgamates all of these awareness, recognition or commemoration occasions currently set out in individual statutes into a single act in order to increase public transparency, but more im- portantly, I think, to potentially create more awareness and accessibility for the public.

So just in laypersons' terms, if you were going to go on to the consolidated list of statutes in Manitoba– which are all online–you could find a variety of these different bills recognizing days or weeks in a variety of different places, depending on what they're named, because I believe that they're listed alphabetically. But it would be difficult for someone if they didn't–if they simply wanted to know what the different days are that are recog nized in Manitoba, to be able to find them because they'd have to read each one of the bills and then try to determine if that's a bill that recognizes the day or week.

This bill will put under one umbrella, if you will, Mr. Deputy Speaker, all of the bills and so if a person wants to see, like, is there a day that commemorates whatever they're looking for, they'd click on the bill and they'd see them all listed there and they could make a quick determination. It's probably a good time at this moment to con- gratulate and commend all the different members of this Legislature, but of past Legislatures as well, over the past, I guess, more than 100 years now who

April 27, 2022 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 1675 brought forward thes e ideas. And they often come forward from opposition members. They're not –they're certainly almost –they're mostly independent members who bring them forward because they hear from constituents or there's a parti- cular group that raises or wants t o raise awareness. And we heard, you know, the member today raise such an issue in question period today. And those are good things and I commend members who bring forward ideas and suggestions.

And so–but now we have quite a number of them and there's a good reason, I think, to order them in a more orderly way so that folks can see them. In the future then, if a member was looking to add a day–and, again, there are members who are already looking to add a different day or months or weeks of commemoration, they would simply amend this bill and then it would get added to the list. And again, a person then–any Manitoban or any- body anywhere in the world could go online, quickly click onto that bill and see all of the bills that are listed. It doesn't change any of the bills or the different descriptors or

preambles in bills. Those just simply get incorporated under the broad umbrella, so it maintains what members have done. Now, there are times when those

preambles might get a little dated and members them selves may want to amend that. And they would just do that by amend- ing this act, but that's up to members if they chose to do that in the future. The one thing that it does do–it also, in terms of the

preambles, it ensures that we have descriptive lan- guage when it comes to the Manitoba tartan. And so the Manitoba tartan, which we all know and recognize and I think love generally in this Assembly. And we have a Manitoba Tartan Day but there's not a descriptive analysis of it in the bill, so it'd add that. And then one other thing which I think is im por- tant that I want to highlight, the bill will also formally designate May 12th as Manitoba Day.

Since 1970, the year of Manitoba's centenary, the founding of the Province of Manitoba has traditionall y been com - memorated on May 12th to mark the enactment of the Manitoba Act, 1870. This has grown into an annual province-wide event celebrating Manitoba and its people but it's not a specific day in Manitoba legis - lation. Of course, there was a federal act that was passed, the Manitoba Act that made Manitoba a province and such, we recog nize May 12th as Manitoba Day, the day that the act passed in Parliament, but this would put into Manitoba law the Manitoba Day.

So it only adds one new day, and that's Manitoba Day, which I thought would not be controversial for members. But, of course, members might look at this list now–if the bill passes–and go, there's other things that should be added. And I would encourage members –all members– to bring those ide as forward because it's often ways we can celebrate things and recognize the good work of individuals or groups or recognize a solemn day, but that also reflects on the good work of members when they bring forward those ideas. So thank you very much, Mr . Deputy Speaker. I look forward to the questions. Questions Mr.

Deputy Speaker: Okay. A question period of up to 15 minutes will be held. Questions may be ad- dressed to the minister by any member in the follow- ing sequence: first question by the official opposition critic or designate; subsequent questions asked by critics or designates from other recognized opposition parties; subsequent questions asked by each indepen- dent member; remaining questions asked by any op- position members. And no que stion or answer shall exceed 45 seconds. The floor is open for questions. Ms. Nahanni Fontaine (St.

Johns): I would ask the minister: does this bill limit any specific awareness day already listed in this bill from potentially becoming a recognized holiday? Hon. Kelvin Goertzen (Minister of Justice and Attorney General): I think I understood the mem - ber's question. It does not alter the former nature–form or nature of any of the current bills that have been passed in the Legislature that make a day or a week of commemoration. So, it all remains exactly the same, it is just housed in a different place. * (15:20) Ms.

Cindy Lamoureux (Tyndall Park): I'd like to thank the minister for bringing forward this legis - lation. [interjection] Mr. Deputy Speaker: Order. Ms. Lamoureux: I, too, feel like a Liberal today. And, my question for the minister is, I understand the process if a new piece of legislation is introduced

1676 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA April 27, 2022 it would amend this bill. What happens to the current pieces of legislation on the docket, like turban day and Filipino heritage day, that are currently between second and third reading? Mr. Goertzen: So, it's a good question, and I suppose it depends, you know, what passes first or what doesn't pass. I don't want to presume passage of this bill, but let's presume that this bill does pass and then, also in this session, turban day passes, which I expect that it will.

I believe that we would have to amend this bill to bring 'turman' day within it, and then all future sug- gestions from members would be amendments to the main bill. But we would simply fold the turban day and others that pass in the session–and there will be others, I believe, that'll pass –would come under this bill. Ms. Fontaine: I guess spe cifically what I'm askin g the minister is, if we look at Orange Shirt Day on

schedule 32, I know that there's been discussion–we would like to see it as a statutory holiday. And so that was what my previous question is, right. So, again, you know, does this bill limit any spe- cific awareness day to –from potentially becoming a recognized holiday? Mr. Goertzen: No. Mr. Deputy Speaker: Are there any other questions? Ms. Fontaine: What prompted the minister to make these changes and include all days, weeks and months into one bill? Mr.

Goertzen: I think I'm one of those rare in- dividuals–and there's probably a few else in the House and Clerk's Office, I would say, contains some of them–who are just sort of interested in how gov ern- ment functions and forms, and I just thought that this was a cleaner way to be able to present bills if they weren't scattered all over the consolidated acts and they were all easily to be seen and acces sible in one place. So, I think it's just because of my odd curiosity and interest in the legislative process. Ms.

Fontaine: Does the minister, or does the PC gov- ernment, have any plans to, in fact, make Orange Shirt Day a statutory holiday? Mr. Goertzen: Those plans would not be contained within this bill. This bill is simply about putting into place–into a different place the commemoration days that currently exist. Any other sort of discussions about ad ditional com memoration days or statutory holidays would be in a different sort of debate or forum. Mr. Deputy Speaker: Are there any other questions? Debate Mr. Deputy Speaker: Seeing no further questions, the floor is open for debate. Ms. Nahanni Fontaine (St.

Johns): Miigwech, Deputy Speaker. [interjection] Thank you. [interjection] Okay. Okey-doke, miigwech. Miigwech for that. So, you know, I'm pleased to put some words on the record in respect of Bill 35, the com memoration of days, weeks and months and related appeals – repeals and amendments. You know, I would agree with the minister and my colleague earlier in his commen ts when he ac- knowledged that, you know, we have several members currently sitting in this Chamber who have brought forward really important awareness days.

And, you know, I think that awareness days, re - cognition days, are, you know, among the few t imes that we are actually able to agree on something in this Chamber. And I would suggest, I would hope, that it's an opportunity that all of us as legis lators recognize the role that we play in honouring Manitobans and the variety of different communities and peoples that we represent. And, you know, I think that that's something that we can all agree on and quite often, we have aware- ness days and recognition days that I would suggest– and I've seen in the past–that bring us pride to be able to be a part of.

I know that, you know, afterwards, often when an awareness day bill gets passed, you know, we all go outside the Chamber and we take pictures with dif - ferent Manitobans. And it is quite special to be a part of–and again, collectively, all of us–to be a part of something that makes Manitobans genuinely so happy and filled with so much pride that they're recognized. And it's quite special to see the smiles on faces of Manitobans to be recognized in this Chamber, and to have an official day.

And so, you know, I want to start my comments by that, because I think that it is something that we can all be proud of, that we're a part of that. And some - thing that, long after any of us are, you know, gone, those bills, those days, still live on reg ardless of

April 27, 2022 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 1677 whether or not we're here; and still live on in recog- nizing Manitobans that come even after us. And so I am grateful to be a part of those days. I think those are important moments in this Legislative Assembly. Sometimes days can be very, very tough in this Legislative Assembly, but those days make –you know, they give you a little reprieve from what are very difficult days in here, and it's something that we can all be proud of.

I wanted to talk a little bit about some of the acts that we've–on this side of the House –been blessed to be a part of and grateful that, you know, our working relationship in some respects has allowed these bills to go forward. And I'm –you know, I'm –I'll actually put it on the record that I'm actually really grateful for the working relationship that I have with the Government House Leader (Mr. Goertzen).

We don't always agree on things, obviously, but I am grateful for the working relationship that we have where we can agree, and there's a willingness to allow bills that are brought forward from our members to receive, you know, royal assent. And so, to him I say miigwech for that partnership and that working relationship. One of those bills was Spirit Bear Day Act that was passed by the member for–or brought forward by the member for Point Douglas (Mrs. Smith).

And I think that that's really such an im portant bill, you know, not only for the member for Point Douglas, or for, you know, the NDP caucus, but for all of us. Because I think what that did in that m oment when Spirit Bear Day received royal assent, what it effect - ively did was it acknowledged the life of little Jordan, and acknowledged what was a pretty grotesque situa- tion. You know, a little boy spending all of his life in a hospital while gov ernments decided who was sup- posed to pay for his care is unconscionable.

I don't care what side of the aisle we all stand, it is un - conscionable that there were gov ernments that were fighting on–to pay for the bills –the hospital bills, the medical bills of a little baby.

And so, you know, yes–you know, I know that the member for Point Douglas was very proud to bring that forward, but it was a moment that the family could be assured that we recognize, you know, those mistakes and we recog nize how worthy and valued and special their son Jordan's life was, and how we all should've done better in respect of little Jordan. * (15:30) Not only did –when Spirit Bear Day received royal assent, did it recog nize little Jordan and his family and his com munity but it also recog nized the hands-down phenomenal work of Cindy Blackstock, who has been doing advocacy for many, many years in respect of Indigenous children within the child and family–or child welfare services across our territories.

I actually met Cindy –when did I –I probably would have met Cindy back in 1997. I actually happened to be in Geneva at le Palais des Nations. I was there for the working group on the draft declaration on the rights of Indigenous peoples. And I happened to be at the cafeteria in the Palais des Nations and she was sitting at the next table, and that was the first time that I got to meet Cindy Blackstock. And she is just a phenomenal leader within the Indigenous community and just a phenomenal leader within Canada.

And she shows, you know, the ability to effect change and transformative change that will impact on the lives of little children when you are genuine, when you are unapologetic, when you are willing to fight long -term; like, that is commit ment– what we've seen from Cin dy Blackstock for the last 20 years is real commit ment to change on behalf of the lives of Indigenous children. And so this bill, in many ways, also honours the work that Cindy Blackstock has done for the last 20 years and continues to do up until this v ery moment.

And so I'm proud to say that we were able to do this in the Manitoba Legislature. I think that that is something that we can all be proud of. I want to acknowledge my colleague, the member for St. James (Mr. Sala), who just recently had his first bill passed, The Emancipation Day Act. And again, another really important day where we, as a Manitoba Legislature, can acknowl edge the history of slavery and though–The Emancipation Day and, you know, the role that this played here in Canada, and our own history in Canada of slavery.

And I'm really proud and I know that I can imagine that I'm–I can say the same for the PC caucus, that we are very proud to have among the first cohorts of Black Manitobans to be elected to the Manitoba Legislature in 2019. That's something that we can all be proud of. It's some thing that we can all celebrate, and certainly it's something that Manitobans can celebrate. And it is, you know, a moment where Manitobans' electorates see them selves reflected in the Manitoba Legislature; where they were never re - flected for almost 150 years. And so that's something to be very proud of.

1678 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA April 27, 2022 And as a testament to that representation, we have the member for St. James' Emancipation Day bill, and that's the power of repre sentation. That's what hap- pens when we elect people that look like –oh, St. Vital–sorry. I kept saying St. James. Thank you to my colleague here. But that's what happens when we elect folks that look like and are from a variety of different com mu- nities in Manitoba. So, again, I acknowl edge my colleague from St.

Vital for his first -ever bill, The Emancipation Day Act, and for everyone supporting such an im portant day to recog nize the history of slavery and the end of slavery here in Manitoba and Canada, everywhere. The Somali Heritage Week Act–again, you know, a bill brought forward from our colleague, the member for Union Station (MLA Asagwara). Again, a really– another historic election with the member for Union Station.

And actually, just yesterday, I was doing an inter- view with a student that was asking about –I can't – things in the House, and talking about how we change the culture in the House and to ensure that there's more representation. And as I have said since 2016, it is im portant– like, who we elect to this Legislature is im portant. Who we elect affects change in this Legislature. If we keep electing the same old, same old that have been reflected in this space for the last 150 years, you get the same old, same old.

And I was saying that, with the election of the member for Union Station, simply by virtue of the member for Union Station being in this space, they have already dismantled certain things in this space, and one of them is language. And I was sharing with this student how, because of the member for Union Station, the Manitoba Legislative Assembly never had to really grapple with or question the language that we use in this Chamber, in respect of gender.

And I was mentioning how the Clerk's Office was so accommodating, and so quick and willing and able to shift language to ensure that the member for Union Station, that they were–that their identity, their gender identity, was respected and honoured in this Chamber. And so much so that we have just looked at rules that will potentially change the language in the rules and procedures to be more gender neutral. That's what happens when you elect people that look like other Manitobans, and we have a semblance of diversity in this Chamber.

And so we have the member for Uni on Station's first bill that they've ever received royal assent, The Somali Heritage Week Act. And I know that the member for Union Station met with many different folks in the Somali commu nity who wanted this bill in respect of, you know, being acknowledged for their heritage here in Manitoba and, of course, across the diaspora. And I remember that the first year–I think that this would've passed in– I don't know what year that passed, but –2021? The Somali Heritage Week Act. So, either June of 2020 or June of 2021–I think it was 2020.

And very soon after that, there was, on July 1st, a celebration at Central Park that was organized by a group of Somalian women. And they organized a celebration in Central Park, and this bill had already passed. And so, this celebration was extra special be- cause here was, you know, only weeks earlier, a bill had received royal assent to recog nize their history and their heritage. And I remember going to attend that event. I think the member for Union Station was also organizing in part or helping to organize alongside some of the Somalian citizens. And it was a beautiful day. It was so beautiful.

There was food and dance, and every - body was so happy and people were so proud. And so that's a very special moment as well, that, you know, all of us in this Chamber had an opportun- ity to be part of history and be a part of a bill that gave Somalian Manitobans some thing to feel proudful about. And so I'm grateful for that as well.

Just–you know, we have another bill that we've all in this House agreed and received royal assent, The Sikh Heritage Month Act –which again, I know that folks in –on both sides of the aisles will remember when that day received royal assent and how happy Sikh Manitobans were to receive that recognition. * (15:40) And it–you know, recognizing the important con- tributions to Manitobans' social, economic, political and cultural life and, you know, supporting Sikh heri- tage here in Manitoba, art and culture and all of the organizations that operate here in Manitoba to uphold and support Sikh culture here in Manitoba.

I know that that was really im portant. We're very happy to be a

April 27, 2022 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA 1679 part of that and, again, that's one of those opportunities for us here in Manitoba to recognize all Manitoba ns, including Sikh Manitobans. I'll talk a little bit–a couple about–I was going to try and save mine for the–for last. I was going to say that something that goes–is very special to me and will always be some thing that I'm in credibly proud of. I know that one of my–or my first bill that ever received royal assent in this Legislature was the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls Honouring and Awareness Day.

And that bill was predicated upon work that's been across the country for many, many ye ars prior to that bill receiving royal assent here in the Chamber. You know, for years and years –there are several days across Canada that –[interjection]–miigwech–in December of 2022, yes, The Somali Heritage Week Act was passed in December of 2022. So in July, then, of twenty–2020, that was when that celebration would have been. Miigwech for that. Some thing I – December–no, twenty –July 1st of 2021–holy heck. These last two years–I apologize, Deputy Speaker.

At any rate, there's several days across the country that take place honouring missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls. One of them, for years and years has been October 4th. And those–that was a day to recog nize MMIWG across the country. And prior to this bill receiving royal assent, I think it had been going on for probably about 10 years. You know, another day is Mother's Day. Usually, typically, there's a march or a rally, a walk, in honour of MMIWG2S, because there are so many mothers who have been killed or are stolen. And then a third day is Valentine's Day, a memor- ial day.

And so those take place all across the country. In fact, I was actually able to go to my first–and that, I think the –February 14th memorial march, I –if I'm correct, actually started out in Vancouver, on Vancouver's Downtown Eastside. And I've always wanted to go, but I've always been here partici pating in our Valentine's Day, February 14th memorial march. And I actually just had an opportunity this past February, just a couple of months ago, to actually attend for my first time after, like, 22 years I've never had the opportunity, and I actually went this year.

And so there are several days that recog nize and pay honour to MMIWG2S. And so I got elected in 2016 and, you know, my first bill was this awareness day, recog nizing and officially creating an awareness day for MMIWG2S. And I remember when–in fact, I think the Deputy Speaker was the House leader at the time. And I remember having a conversation trying to ask the House leader at the time whether or not they were going to support Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls Honouring and Awareness Day. And I remember that when we had had a debate in the House for second reading, and it wasn't spoken out.

And we had our second reading vote on it and I remember just crying because I was so happy. And then I remember when it received royal assent, and that was something that I was incred ibly proud and I–of–and I was more so not because of, you know, whatever having to do with me, but I was proud that I was, in some small way, hopefully able to give something to Manitoba MMIWG family members, something that –something tangible that recognizes their loved ones who are stolen or murdered.

You know, one of the closest –you know, often people will say, you know, what's the thing that you're most proud of in your–you know, your whole career, not only as a politician but the work that I did before, and the thing that I'm most proud of is the MMIWG monument at The Forks. And I call her her, or she. She was e rected in August of 2014. And that –2014, yes –that was a project that I had been working on with MMIWG family members for two years. It took two years from those first conversations with MMIWG until she was erected and we had an official unveiling. And that's what I'm most proud of.

And I'm most proud of that –her–that monument because she will stand there for years and years to come, long after I'm gone. You know, my children will be able to take my grandchildren to go to this monument. And Manitoba's MMIWG family members will be able to take their children and their grandchildren to some - thing physical in a physical space that represents their loved ones, represents Manitoba citizens who were here, who lived and breathed and were loved and that were here.

If you were to ask me what my second thing that I'm most proud of in my long career, it would be this bill, which was, as I said, my first bill in this Chamber as an elected official, as an Indigenous woman elected to this space. This is the thing t hat I'm second -most proud of in my career because, again, long after I'm gone from this Chamber and long gone from here, this bill–this day that, again, honours and recognizes Manitoba citizens–Indigenous women and girls and

1680 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA April 27, 2022 two-spirited who were here, they will continue to get recognized and continue to get honoured. And that's one of the blessings of being a public servant, is to be able to do that kind of work. You know, there's all this other stuff that we do in this Chamber, but that is one of the blessings that I will take with me for the longest time, to be a part of these really special movements and special moments in our history. And so, for that, I am always grateful.

And I've posted videos when the bill was passed that I'm always–I'm forever grateful to members op- posite that they supported this bill. And I will– I always say it, but I will say it publicly again today that I am grateful that they supported this bill. I will say –I think this was my third bill that received royal assent, but it was on animal shelter and animal awareness day, April 10th. And that also received royal assent here.

And I'm proud of that bill, and I think that we can all be proud of that bill because there's–you know, whether or not all Manitobans recognize, there is phenomenal work that goes on across the province, in respect of animal welfare. I mean, things that I didn't even know –and, you know, most people know, you know, I am an animal rights advocate. I'm a vegetarian. I, you know, love my Chilly Dog–like, all of these different things. And, you know, I–when–my first degree, I used to take all these animal rights courses.

And in this job, again, the blessing about being an MLA is the different Manitobans that you get to meet –people that you would never get to meet. * (15:50) And so I have met just phenomenal Manitobans that are advocating for animal welfare on things that I never even knew existed. And, you know, I'm, in some respect, embarrassed to say that, like, I–you know, I'm an animal rights activis t. So many things that, you know, we –I didn't know and I would suggest that many, many Manitobans don't know. And so this day recognizes all those folks that are on the front line doing this animal rescue and advocacy work.

And I often say this: like, you know, Manitoba – we have an overpopulation of dogs, parti cularly in rural and northern com munities, and that is only a consequence of the lack of veterinarian access in the North. That's it, it's nothing more. It's not that people don't love their dogs, it's not that they don't–they want to breed, it's not that. It's that there is not enough access to veterinary care. And so we have Manitobans that go into commu- nities and will round up dogs or work with com mu- nities, will go in, they will do spay an d neuter clinics for free for communities.

Citizens can bring their dogs in and get their dog spay or neuters, their cat spay or neutered. And then if there are dogs that are, you know, are just kind of roaming around or are feral, they will–you know, they will round up those dogs and they'll re-home them. And they don't re -home them in Manitoba be - cause there's actually other provinces that don't have the same issue of us as –in overpopul

Document details

Collection	Manitoba — Debates (Hansard)
Citation	42-4-43
Type	hansard
Volume / chapter	42nd 4th hansardpdf 43.pdf
Language	en
Format	pdf
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Identifier	febd3c0197558753076d7adad7c188ebd8942566

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