LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA
Monday, June 1, 2026
The Speaker: O Eternal and Almighty God, from Whom all power and wisdom come, we are assembled here before Thee to frame such laws as may tend to the welfare and prosperity of our province. Grant, O merciful God, we pray Thee, that we may desire only that which is in accordance with Thy will, that we may seek it with wisdom, 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 acknowledge 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 partnership with First Nations, Inuit and Métis people in the spirit of truth, reconciliation and collaboration.
Please be seated.
MLA Robert Loiselle (St. Boniface): L'Honorable Président [Honourable Speaker], on a matter of privilege.
The Speaker: The member for St. Boniface, on a matter of privilege.
MLA Robert Loiselle (St. Boniface): L'Honorable Président [Honourable Speaker], last Thursday during question period, the member for La Vérendrye (Mr. Narth) took it upon himself to question my ability, the Premier's (Mr. Kinew) ability and, in fact, every member in this Chamber's ability to express themselves in either of Canada's two official languages.
Honourable Speaker, I bring this serious matter to your attention at my earliest occasion, having needed time to review the broadcast and Hansard on Thursday, May 28.
L'Honorable Président [Honourable Speaker], last Thursday, during question period, in an exchange between the member for La Vérendrye and the Premier, who exercised his constitutional right to answer in French, the member for La Vérendrye was heard by myself and many members heckling: Respect, respect, respect, I asked my question in English; to which I interjected with: The Premier speaks French, just put your earpiece on for the translation. The member for La Vérendrye did not do so and went on to say: I didn't ask my question in French, I asked my question in English.
Honourable Speaker, this shows another lack of respect by the member for La Vérendrye, not only for the Canadian Constitution of 1867, but also for The Manitoba Act of 1870 and, more specifically, section 23 of The Manitoba Act, which I would like to table at this point.
French spoken
Et l'Honorable Président, j'aimerais partager exactement et précisément ce que l'article 23 de l'Acte du Manitoba dit : « L'usage de la langue française ou de la langue anglaise sera facultatif dans les débats des Chambres de la législature; mais dans la rédaction des archives, procès‑verbaux et journaux respectifs de ces chambres, l'usage de ces deux langues sera obligatoire; et dans toute plaidoirie ou pièce de procédure par devant les tribunaux ou émanant des tribunaux du Canada, qui sont établis sous l'autorité de la Loi constitutionnelle de 1867, et par devant tous les tribunaux ou émanant des tribunaux de la province, il pourra être également faire usage, à faculté, de l'une ou de l'autre de ces langues ».
De plus, les actions du député de La Vérendrye (M. Narth) témoignent d'une haute incompréhension alarmante du caractère bilingue du Canada et du Manitoba, ainsi que des règles qui régissent le fonctionnement de cette Chambre, et cela de la part d'un député qui représente justement des milliers de francophones dans la circonscription de La Vérendrye, notamment dans les villages de La Broquerie, Saint-Malo et Saint-Pierre, où se trouve d'ailleurs un Centre de services bilingues de la Province du Manitoba.
En tant que député de Saint‑Boniface, en tant que métis de la rivière Rouge et en tant que francophone, je ne laisserai personne remettre en cause l'un des principes fondamentaux de notre pays ou de cette province, ainsi que de mon droit constitutionnel de m'exprimer dans la langue officielle de mon choix au sein de cette Assemblée.
Translation
And, Honourable Speaker, I would like to quote exactly and precisely what section 23 of The Manitoba Act states: "Either the English or the French language may be used by any person in the debates of the Houses of the Legislature, and both those languages shall be used in the respective Records and Journals of those Houses; and either of those languages may be used by any person, or in any Pleading or Process, in or issuing from any Court of Canada established under the Constitution Act, 1867, or in or from all or any of the Courts of the Province."
Furthermore, the actions of the member for La Vérendrye demonstrate an alarming and profound lack of understanding of the bilingual nature of Canada and Manitoba, as well as of the rules governing the operation of this House–and this from a member who represents thousands of francophones in the riding of La Vérendrye, particularly in the villages of La Broquerie, St. Malo, and St. Pierre, where, incidentally, there is a Bilingual Service Centre of the Province of Manitoba.
As the member elected to represent St. Boniface, as a Red River Métis, and as a francophone, I will not allow anyone to call into question one of the fundamental principles of our country or this province, nor my constitutional right to express myself in the official language of my choice within this Assembly.
English
Therefore, Honourable Speaker, I move a motion in the House that the audio recordings be retrieved and distributed publicly, recording last week's exchange during question period so that we can get to the truth of what was said by the member for La Vérendrye; and that the member for La Vérendrye apologize on the record to every member of this Chamber, to every francophone in Manitoba and every Manitoban for violating section 23 of The Manitoba Act and disrespecting the privilege given to all members of this House.
Miigwech, Thank you. Merci.
The Speaker: Before recognizing any other member to speak, I would remind all members that–keep your comments directly related to the matter of privilege.
Mr. Konrad Narth (La Vérendrye): Honourable Speaker, in response to the matter of privilege from the member for St. Boniface (MLA Loiselle), I don't believe that the member has a matter of privilege, but I will start by simply apologizing if my comments were taken by the francophone community or the Premier (Mr. Kinew) or anyone on the government benches, if they were taken in that way.
Honourable Speaker, my constituents throughout my constituency have been–have always been proud–before I even ran for the role of representing La Vérendrye–proud that that constituency represents the most amount of bilingual municipalities and communities across all of our province out of any other constituency.
And I've been a strong ally in protecting and promoting French language in our province. And I feel strongly the importance that in plays not only in the history of our province, but who we have become and the direction that we go.
Honourable Speaker, my comments had nothing to do with French language, promoting bilingualism and supporting bilingualism in the province; it was in the manner that the Premier had used his ability to answer in French.
* (13:40)
As much as I promote and protect and endorse French language use, the francophone community of our province, Honourable Speaker, I have never claimed to be bilingual or have the ability to interpret French language, especially in a 45‑second segment.
So, Honourable Speaker, the direction that the Premier chose to unfortunately use French language in question period with me had very little to do with promoting French language. I encourage the Premier in debate, when the opportunity arises, to debate in–and put his words on the record in French.
But in a conversation format, I would think that–any francophone Manitoban that I've ever had a conversation with throughout the communities that I represent, and in fact across all of Manitoba, have never engaged in conversation in that way. And that, we know, is the intent of question period.
So, Honourable Speaker, I'll–I started that way and I'll finish that way. I do apologize if it–my comment, which was not on the record, was taken in that way, but it was to showcase the political motive of the structuring of the response by the Premier instead of, unfortunately, representing French language. And I think the French community of Manitoba, I think those that protect French language, would appreciate the respect to not use it as a political pawn.
So, thank you, Honourable Speaker.
The Speaker: The honourable Opposition House Leader, on the same point of–or same matter of privilege?
Mr. Derek Johnson (Official Opposition House Leader): On the same matter of privilege, Honourable Speaker.
The Speaker: The honourable Opposition House Leader, on the same matter of privilege.
Mr. Johnson: Yes, I just want to point out this isn't the earliest opportunity for the member to bring this forward. I also want to point out that no rights or privileges were impugned at all by the member, as the member was able to choose their language of choice when they answered the question, which they did, and it was in French.
Thank you, Honourable Speaker.
The Speaker: I believe I will take this matter under advisement to consult whatever authorities I need to and come back to the House with an answer.
Routine proceedings.
An Honourable Member: Point of order.
Point of Order
The Speaker: The honourable First Minister, on a point of order.
Hon. Wab Kinew (Premier): Just in the previous response to our colleague from Saint-Boniface–
French spoken
– le député de Saint-Boniface (DAL Loiselle), qui a fait son commentaire. Dans la réponse, le membre – le député de La Vérendrye (M. Narth) – a dit qu'on est supposé de parler en anglais, quelque chose à cet effet. Ce n'est pas vrai. Les règles de cette Chambre nous donnent l'opportunité de parler soit en anglais, soit en français à n'importe quel quand.
Alors, il a violé une des règles en présenter ses commentaires de cette façon, et puis je pense que tous les Conservateurs ont fait une grande erreur en 'applaud' – en leur applaudissement de cet mauvais commentaire du député.
Translation
–the member for St. Boniface (MLA Loiselle), who made his comment. In response, the member–the member for La Vérendrye (Mr. Narth)–said that we are supposed to speak in English, or something to that effect. That is not true. The rules of this House give us the opportunity to speak in either English or French at any time.
So, he violated one of the rules by making his remarks in that manner, and I think all the Conservatives made a big mistake by applauding the member's inappropriate comment.
The Speaker: I thank the honourable First Minister for his comments, and I think I will take it under advisement, and I'll come back to the House with a combined response to both the matter of privilege and the point of order.
Mr. Derek Johnson (Official Opposition House Leader): Yes, you didn't openly offer the floor to have people respond to the point of order.
The Speaker: The honourable Opposition House Leader, on the same point of order.
Mr. Johnson: On the same point of order.
Obviously, no rules were violated, and the member got up and was able to speak in French as we encourage all Manitobans to exercise their bilingual abilities, and it showed here today. So there was no point of order.
Thank you.
The Speaker: I–as I previously stated–will take this under advisement and come back to the House with a ruling that hopefully will address both the matter of privilege and the point of order.
The Speaker: Introduction of bills? Introduction of bills? Tabling of reports? Committee reports–sorry.
Hon. Matt Wiebe (Minister of Justice and Attorney General): I'm pleased to table the 2024 annual report for the Manita [phonetic] human–Manitoba Human Rights Commission and Manitoba Human Rights Adjudication Panel.
Hon. Mike Moyes (Minister of Environment and Climate Change): I am tabling responses to written questions.
Hon. Lisa Naylor (Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure): I'm tabling responses to written questions.
The Speaker: No further tabling of reports?
Hon. Lisa Naylor (Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure): I am so proud to rise today to recognize June 2026 as Pride Month in Manitoba, the first time Pride Month has been officially recognized in this Chamber since legislation received royal assent last fall. I know all members will want to congratulate and thank my colleague, the MLA for Lagimodière, whose legislation made this possible.
Pride Month celebrates the history, culture, dignity and visibility of 2SLGBTQIA+ people. It is also a time to remember the protests and acts of resistance that challenged injustice and advanced human rights and to recognize that the fight for equality continues today.
Honourable Speaker, our government is proud to stand with queer, trans and two‑spirit Manitobans. Since forming government, we have taken meaningful action to advance inclusion, dignity and human rights. We passed legislation officially recognizing June as Pride Month in Manitoba and we established March 31 as Two‑Spirit and Transgender Day of Visibility.
We removed discriminatory barriers for trans, non‑binary and gender‑diverse Manitobans legally changing their name or gender markers on official documents. We also strengthened the Manitoba Human Rights Code by adding protections for gender expression. Our government is also proud to have expanded access to gender‑affirming care and to have introduced free PEP, PrEP and HIV treatment for uninsured Manitobans. These changes are not just policy; they are about people, about lives, about safety and belonging.
Beyond legislation, our government hosted the first annual Pride celebration inside the Manitoba Legislature, and we invite all members to the event this Friday, June 5, when we will be celebrating again. Every year, our members attend and support Pride events across the province.
Through our Minister of Families, Women and Gender Equity (MLA Fontaine), our government has also engaged with 2SLGBTQIA+ community members and service providers and is now developing an action plan to improve access to government services and address barriers community members face. Through Women and Gender Equity Manitoba, we're also proud to provide ongoing financial support to organizations, including Pride Winnipeg and 2Spirit Manitoba, whose work strengthens community, provides vital services and creates spaces for belonging.
Historically, Pride marches were a protest, and we must always continue to confront the harms caused by homophobia and transphobia, past and present. But today, Pride is also a celebration of resilience, of queer joy, community and progress. We celebrate not only 2SLGBTQIA+ inclusion in society but also that 2SLGBTQIA+ people make society better through our diverse relationships, diverse sexualities, diverse genders, through our leadership, through our resistance and through our love.
* (13:50)
Honourable Speaker, this month, Manitobans have the opportunity to learn, celebrate and stand together in support of our vision that everyone can live openly, safely and with pride. We are one Manitoba. I wish a happy Pride Month to every member of this House.
Thank you, Honourable Speaker.
MLA Jeff Bereza (Portage la Prairie): As we conclude Pride week and step into the month of June, it is my honour to celebrate Pride Month here in Manitoba.
Not only does this month allow for an opportunity to celebrate the contributions and the resilience of the 2SLGBTQIA+ Manitobans, it offers a chance to reflect on the values of equality and dignity for all people. It's also an opportunity to recognize the progress made and the brighter future that lies ahead of us.
This year, Portage la Prairie will be marking its 11th annual Pride festival. This fact speaks to the root of not only our city but of Manitoba as a whole, that we are diverse and growing province that is stronger when all Manitobans feel a sense of belonging.
For that reason, I'd like to thank the member of Lagimodière for introducing The Pride Month Act.
I had the honour of attending various Pride events in Portage and Long Plain First Nation and the Portage Collegiate last year, and I look forward to joining in once again this month.
Progressive Conservatives believe that all people deserve to live freely, safely and with dignity. We believe that ensuring the full participation of Manitobans in our society is essential to a thriving province.
This is proven through the everyday contributions of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community members, from business, to arts, to health care, to public service.
I invite all members of the Chamber to work together to ensure that Manitoba remains a province where everyone can prosper.
Thank you.
Hon. Mike Moyes (Minister of Environment and Climate Change): Today I rise not just for a formal recognition, but to celebrate the quiet, essential work of environment officers across Manitoba. I am proud to declare June 1, 2026, as environment officer recognition day in our province, coinciding with World Environment Day, a fitting moment to honour those who protect our air, water, land and communities.
Manitoba's environment officers are the people who make environmental protection real on the ground. They issue licences and permits, conduct inspections, monitor compliance and enforce environmental and drinking water safety legislation. They are scientists, investigators, educators and peace officers and, often, all at once.
Their work reaches every corner of this province, from our northern lakes and boreal forests to the Red River Valley, from small towns to Winnipeg's neighbourhoods.
When things go wrong, environment officers are the ones who step forward. They respond to spills and contamination incidents, quickly assessing risks to people, wildlife and water supplies.
They take samples, co‑ordinate with municipalities and Indigenous partners and work with first responders to contain hazards. They advise on immediate protective actions, from issuing drinking water advisories to arranging emergency treatment, and they oversee the cleanup and remediation that follows. That work can mean long hours in difficult conditions, complex technical decisions and careful co‑ordination with multiple agencies to protect public health and restore the environment.
They also play a critical role in preventing problems from becoming crises. Through inspections and compliance monitoring, they identify risks early: faulty storage tanks, improper waste handling or failing water systems. And they work with owners and operators to fix them.
When enforcement is required, they gather evidence, document incidents and support regulatory and legal processes that hold polluters accountable. Their diligence helps prevent long-term damage to our lakes, rivers, wetlands and drinking water sources.
Beyond emergencies and enforcement, environment officers are educators and partners. They provide guidance to municipalities, industry, farmers and homeowners on best practices for waste management, petroleum storage, contaminated site management and source water protection.
They build relationships with Indigenous communities, municipal leaders and local organizations so that responses are timely, culturally informed and effective. Those partnerships are how we turn rules into real, lasting improvements.
This is often unsung work. It means late‑night calls, winter road travel, careful sampling in the field and the steady application of science and judgment under pressure. It means showing up when a river is at risk, when illegal dumping is discovered or when a community faces a drinking water concern.
To every environment officer in Manitoba: thank you for your courage, your expertise and your unwavering commitment to public health and the environment.
Protecting our environment is a Manitoba effort. The officers we honour today are a vital part of that team.
As Minister of Environment and Climate Change, I want to reaffirm our commitment to support your work, to strengthen the partnerships you rely on and to ensure you have the tools and training needed to meet the challenges ahead.
I ask all members to rise and recognize the environment officers from the divisions of Water Stewardship and Environmental Stewardship who are able to be with us today and ask for their names to be added to Hansard.
Thank you, merci, miigwech, Honourable Speaker.
Andrew Benger, Mary Odere, Wajed Shah, Samantha St. Germain‑Silva, Sheffy Tom.
Introduction of Guests
The Speaker: Prior to the response, there are some guests in the gallery that I hope are still in the gallery. We have seated in the public gallery from River East Collegiate 25 grade 9 to 12 students under the direction of Duyen Chau and they are located in the constituency of the honourable member for Rossmere (MLA Schmidt).
And we welcome you here today.
* * *
Mr. Wayne Balcaen (Brandon West): Today I rise to recognize environment officer recognition day, observed each year on June the 1st. This day was formally recognized by legislation passed by our previous Progressive Conservative government in 2021 to honour the important and often underappreciated work of those dedicated professionals.
Environment officers are the quiet guardians of our province's health and natural beauty. They are responsible for the delivery of provincial, environmental and public health protection programs across Manitoba.
Their work touches many parts of our daily lives, from inspecting water systems and public facilities to ensuring that industries comply with environmental regulations. They diligently monitor and address potential hazards to protect both the environment and public health. Their commitment and attention to detail help prevent harm and promote safety in every community across Manitoba.
Their role is vital to maintaining the high quality of life we enjoy here in Manitoba. Because of their hard work, Manitoba remains a place where families can live, work and raise their children surrounded by clean air, safe water and beautiful landscapes. The work environmental officers do often goes unseen, but the impact is felt every day by all Manitobans.
On behalf of our PC caucus, I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to all environmental officers across the province. We acknowledge and appreciate your commitment and dedication to protecting Manitoba's environment and human health.
I've had the chance to understand the vital work they go through conserving our province and making sure that it is kept safe through the work of my older brother, Darin, who is actually retiring after 40 years working in various roles throughout the department here in Manitoba.
A shout‑out to my brother: he started as a conservation officer 40 years ago in 1986, becoming a natural resource officer, and in February 2019, becoming an environmental officer specialist. He's retiring on August 4 after giving tactical and operational advice for over–for 30 field officers. He liaises with management, writes policy and commits to training all of these officers.
* (14:00)
And I know that his plans are to thoroughly enjoy retirement and practice his golf game, which I know he really has to work on because I'm his golf partner.
Congratulations, Darin, enjoy your retirement, and thank you to all environment officers.
Introduction of Guests
The Speaker: Prior to member statements, there's some guests I'd like to introduce. I'd draw the attention of all honourable members to the public gallery where we have with us today law enforcement students from the University College of the North who are visiting southern Manitoba as part of their career exploration trip.
They're here visiting various police agencies and correctional centres in Winnipeg, Portage la Prairie and Brandon as well as a visit to the Manitoba Legislature to attend question period and for a visit to the Canadian Museum of human rights. They are Isacc Chartrand, Anthony Commodore-Schommer, Montgomery Primrose, Chastin Young; Darby Brown is their instructor.
The late member for The Pas-Kameesak (Ms. Amanda Lathlin) looked forward to hosting UCN students on their annual basis.
And on behalf of all honourable members, we welcome you here today.
And I would draw the attention of all honourable members to the Speaker's gallery, where we have with us today our six legislative interns. The interns have each written farewell statements, which I am pleased to share with the House.
Ahdieh Bimrew came into the internship without a single clue or expectation of what it would look like. He applied in part due to his fascination with the building's architecture, and in part because his good friend Silvia's suggestion, who was an intern the previous year. The first time he entered the building was for his interview, and every day since, has loved walking into the building and finding new details of the beauty within its walls.
Ahdieh has been grateful for many parts of the internship, first and foremost to his fellow interns–Hayden, Sidney, Ngozi, Fred and Emma, who have helped him foster feelings of joy, camaraderie that he will cherish going forward. He would also like to give thanks to all the caucus and legislative staff who have supported him throughout his novice understanding of the world of governance and politics. Most of all, he would like to thank Habesha maintenance and cleaning staff who have treated him like their own and provided him with a greater understanding of the opportunity that his own parents have provided for him.
Going forward, Ahdieh looks forward to the possibility of continuing with the government to enhance his perspectives on provincial affairs before moving on to grad school at either the University of Winnipeg or University of Manitoba.
Next, we have Sidney Burzynski. Sidney entered the internship eager to gain a better understanding of the political world and inner workings of the people's building. Much to her parents' surprise and perhaps slight relief, she was also able to discover that through the program, she could actually put her degree in political science to good use after all.
Sidney would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to all NDP members and caucus staff for their patience, kindness and constant willingness to answer thousands of questions. She's equally grateful to Andrea, Rick, Brandon for welcoming her so warmly to the Legislative Building.
What struck Sidney most during her internship was seeing all the places former interns ended up throughout the building and beyond. It quickly became clear to her and her peers that this program continues to leave lasting impact long after the internship comes to an end. Sidney feels incredibly lucky to have spent the last 10 months alongside her fellow interns: Ahdieh, Hayden, Emma, Fred and Ngozi–whether it was participating in her increasingly goofy video ideas for the intern Instagram account, or accepting a challenge to race up the Grand Staircase, their friendship made this experience unforgettable.
As the interns prepare for their next adventure, Sidney leaves with immense gratitude for everyone who made this program so meaningful.
Although she will soon be moving away to complete her master's degree, Sidney knows Manitoba will always remain close to her heart because no matter where life takes her, there really is no place like home.
Hayden Gilmour: Over the past 10 months, Hayden has had the privilege of working within the government caucus, gaining an inside perspective on the leadership of the province he was raised in and deeply loves. He had the opportunity to be involved in every part of the legislative process and is eternally grateful for the opportunity to be the first member of Brokenhead to be a part of the internship program and further infiltrate the system with more environmental, Indigenous and youth representation within politics.
Hayden would like to thank the Clerk's office for their tireless effort to make this program the best it can be, being amazing leaders and examples to learn from. He would also like to thank the rest of the Assembly staff and all of the NDP staff that welcomed him into this crazy political world with open arms and made the office feel like home.
He looks forward to what's next. He will forever be grateful for this year's being a foundation chapter in the never‑ending story that is life. He is grateful for the amazing people he has met and friends he has made.
Miigwech, merci, thank you.
Fredrich McCracken: Fredrich–this internship program has far exceeded his expectations. The program broadened his horizons and deepened his interest in a multitude of fields. He found that every single day in the Manitoba Legislature is an opportunity to learn something new and unexpected.
This internship offers the opportunity to experience our political system first‑hand, and it more than delivers. Fredrich learned directly about the processes, procedures and traditions of our democracy. He and his colleagues also had the pleasure of speaking with leaders from many important sectors across Manitoba and acquiring invaluable insight into the process.
What Fredrich has gained from the program will stay with him forever–not just knowledge and skills, but relationships that will last a lifetime. From his experience, he can safely say that politics touches each and every aspect of our lives, and that is why it's so important to always stay interested and engaged.
It is with a tender heart that Fredrich bids farewell to his colleagues, fellow interns and all MLAs he had the honour and pleasure to work with. His final message for everyone is this: Knowing Manitoba, our paths will surely cross again.
Next, we have Ngozi Okose: When my internship began, it coincided with the 40th anniversary celebration of the internship program. It was an honour to meet and hear the stories and experience of those who had come before us. Their journey affirmed my own, and it reminded me that this opportunity represents more than personal achievement. I hope my presence here encouraged other Black, immigrant girls to pursue opportunities they may not initially see as accessible to them.
Stepping into this role was both eye‑opening and rewarding. I gained hands-on experience with administrative and legislative processes. From co-ordinating tasks and managing records to supporting the daily operations of the caucus, these responsibilities reveal the extensive work behind governance and deepened my appreciation for collaboration, professionalism and attention to detail.
This internship showed me the role is more than a title. It is growth, learning, reflection and service. I develop professional skills while deepening my understanding of humility, active listening and serving others, for which I am grateful.
Moving forward, I will carry the relationships and lessons gained. Thank you to Amy Karlinsky, Hanna Farris for your warmth; to Mark Moi for your support and listening to professor Brandon Task for academic guidance; and to Rick, the Clerk's office, MLAs, ministers and assembly staff for your mentorship and kindness throughout this experience, which will stay with me long term.
* (14:10)
Emma Winram: Emma–for Emma, this program was the one that will stick with her for a long time. She would never have been able to fully understand the realities, the nuances, the politics and the personalities that are here in the people's building without this program. There are many important lessons she learned that have helped shape her into a more well-rounded individual than before. She is now ready and eager to enter Manitoba's workforce with the program's knowledge under her belt.
She thanks all Legislative staff, caucus staff and MLAs for the experience and she says a special thank you to Rick, Andrea, Brandon and Amanda for the endless support throughout the program. Their guidance was so invaluable that she struggles to find words to express her gratitude. Suffice to say the program is in good hands.
Additionally, she cannot leave here without thanking her fellow interns. This cohort was filled with some fierce leaders that she was proud to work with alongside throughout the year. She cannot wait to see where they go next.
Joining the interns today in the internship program is the internship program academic director, professor Brandon Trask from the University of Manitoba law school.
Also joining the interns is Andrea Norlock from the Clerk's office, administrative assistant assigned to the internship program. The internship program operates under the direction of our Clerk, Rick Yarish, and the caucus representatives from the program are the member for Seine River (MLA Cross) and the member for La Vérendrye (Mr. Narth).
On behalf of all honourable members, I'd like to thank the interns for their hard work and dedication this year. I hope each of you will carry many fond memories with you from your experience at the Manitoba Legislature.
Congratulations, and we look forward to your future.
It's beginning to look like it will be all Speaker today.
So we have some more legislative pages that it's their last day today.
Kathryn Sacher: Kathryn will be graduating from Collège Jeanne-Sauvé this June. Her hard work and dedication towards her academics have paid off as she was offered spots in her top two universities, and she has made the decision to attend Canadian Mennonite University in the fall, focusing on the social sciences. As she prepares for this new chapter in her life, she is also grateful for the experience she has gained for the past two years as a page at the Legislature.
During her time here, she developed not only a greater understanding of how provincial governments operate but also a stronger appreciation for public service, leadership and the importance of civic engagement in shaping our communities and society.
More than anything, Kathryn is grateful for the people she met throughout her time at the Legislature. She would also like to extend her heartfelt gratitude to everyone who encouraged, supported and believed in her over the past two years. To those who took the time to mentor her, answer her questions, share their wisdom and help her grow, thank you. Your kindness, patience and guidance made her experience truly unforgettable, and the lessons and memories she gained will stay with her for years to come.
Karson Craven: Karson is set to graduate from Collége Churchill High School in the coming weeks. He's looking forward to continuing his academics at the University of Winnipeg, where he hopes to earn his bachelor of arts and education in the coming years.
As he moves on to the next stage of his life, he can't help but look back on this past year and his time working at the Legislature. He's learned so much about the inner workings of our provincial government and its impact on our communities.
He would like to thank everyone who helped through patience while he was learning and continues to learn, especially when mixing up the C names calling votes, and providing him with encouragement.
Karson would also like to give a special thanks to his parents and teachers for supporting him and helping him in making all of this possible. He will forever cherish the memories he has made during his time as a page and for the kindness he has been shown along the way.
He is confident that his experiences working at the Legislature will help him to better the world around him and hopes that the future will bring him back here at some point. Until then, he wishes everyone the very best.
Milena Zaiats: Milena will be graduating this June, marking the completion of an important chapter in her life. Throughout her high school journey, she has demonstrated a strong commitment to academic excellence, leadership and community involvement while adapting to a new life in Canada. She successfully balanced studying in both a Ukrainian and a Canadian school, graduating with honours.
Alongside her academics, she has been actively involved in her community, volunteering at an immigration service to support newcomers, as well as at her church, where she teaches catechism to younger students. She has also taken part in various leadership initiatives and projects, consistently striving not only for personal growth, but to use her skills as experiences to create a more meaningful impact on those around her.
Most notably, she founded her own initiative aimed at supporting teenagers in developing leadership skills, personal growth and creating positive change in the world. Through these experiences, she has developed a strong sense of purpose and a commitment to contributing to her community. Having moved to Canada from Ukraine just three years ago due to the war, she has shown resilience, determination and a deep appreciation for the opportunities she has been given.
Looking ahead, she plans to pursue a bachelor's degree in political science as a pathway toward her ultimate goal of studying law. Her passion for law is rooted in a desire to fight for justice, protect human rights and contribute to building a more equitable society.
She believes that understanding political systems is essential in order to create meaningful and lasting change, and she is committed to using her education to advocate for others.
Working in the Manitoba government alongside such inspiring individuals, learning from their example and drawing energy from their dedication, she's received offers to study political science at the University of Alberta, the University of Ottawa and even at Minerva University, recognized as one of the most innovative universities in the world. She ultimately chose to continue her journey at the University of Manitoba, where she can remain close to her community and the people she loves. This summer, she will also be participating in an academic program formerly known as the Harvard venture and technology summer program, focusing on business and law.
As she prepares for this next chapter, she's deeply grateful for her experience as a page at the Legislature. Being present in the Chamber has given her a deeper understanding of how government systems function and how they serve the people. More importantly, it has shown her that change is possible–that through belief in oneself and in others, meaningful progress can be achieved.
As a girl from Ukraine who could not have imagined standing here just a few years ago, this experience has been incredibly meaningful and has brought her closer to her dream of defending people and fighting for their rights.
She would like to express her heartfelt gratitude to her family in Ukraine, whose strength and love and unwavering belief in her continue to inspire her every day, especially during such a difficult time. She is deeply thankful for her parents for supporting her through every step of her journey.
She would also like to thank Dave and Rob for their guidance, patience and for always taking the time to answer her questions.
Finally, she extends her sincere appreciation to all the MLAs, whose kindness and encouragement made her experience in the Chamber truly special.
She will carry the lessons and memories from this experience with her as she continues to pursue her goals. She hopes that in the future, she'll be able to make meaningful contributions to society and have a positive impact on the lives of others.
And we thank each and every one of you for your service.
And we have some students in the gallery that have to leave before too much longer, so we have, seated in the public gallery, from Strathcona School, 35 grade 4 to 6 students under the direction of April Spence. This group is located in the constituency of the honourable member for Point Douglas (Ms. Smith).
* (14:20)
And we welcome you all here today.
MLA Jelynn Dela Cruz (Radisson): Maligayang Buwan ng Pamanang Pilipino. [Happy Filipino Heritage Month.] Happy Filipino Heritage Month, Honourable Speaker. On behalf of all of us in the Manitoba Legislature:
Tagalog spoken
Mabuhay mga Pilipino dito sa Manitoba. Mabuhay ang ating mahuhusay 'nang' mag-aaral at guro, ipinagmamalaki nating lahat.
Translation
Long live Filipinos here in Manitoba. Long live our excellent students and teachers who make all of us proud.
English
Honourable Speaker, I invite you to turn your attention to the gallery where we are joined by outstanding students and teachers from Radisson celebrating Filipino Heritage Month with pride, alongside the Manitoba Association of Filipino Teachers.
Founded in 1977, the Manitoba Association of Filipino Teachers Inc, otherwise known as MAFTI, has spent decades lifting students, families and educators up in Manitoba. Through the leadership of educators, educational assistants, child-care workers and community mentors, MAFTI has helped preserve and promote Tagalog heritage and culture while strengthening ties to the school communities.
I know how powerful it can be for young people to see educators who understand their stories, their families and the sacrifices that brought them here. Representation changes the way that students see themselves, what they believe is possible and how they choose to show up.
Brought to us by Ms. Shane Matabalan, we are honoured to recognize the students who've shown up for us here today: Janna Kaamino, Margaret Gonzales, Marjedd Alcantara, Vanessa Perejan, who join us from the grade 10 class at Transcona Collegiate.
And, Honourable Speaker, last but not least, have you ever met a 13-year-old volleyball and basketball coach? Today we all have. From John W. Gunn Middle School, we recognize Jhyanna Cadag as well: a multi-sport athlete, student leader, Folklorama volunteer and John W. Gunn's outstanding athlete of May 2026.
When I was Jhyanna's age, I was sitting in the front row on my first day of school next to my newest best friend, Jhyanna's teacher, Ms. Xyza Singcay. So this is your heads-up: time flies, so I implore each of you to keep soaring with it.
Honourable Speaker, today I invite the Chamber to rise to recognize these students, their teachers and the pride they bring sa aming kababayan [to our compatriots].
Mr. Obby Khan (Leader of the Official Opposition): Manitoban families deserve better: Manitobans deserve better than a junk food tax. They deserve better than what this Kinew government who takes more and more taxes from you and it only gives you pennies back.
I've spoken with many Manitobans over the years, and especially over the past three months during this session. Families, seniors, small businesses, students and more all share a similar story. They're working hard, harder than they've ever worked, doing everything they can, but they still can't get ahead. They can't even pay their bills. They want better. They deserve better.
This will change when our PC Party returns to government. We believe families should keep more of what they earn. We believe economic growth matters. We believe the government should create opportunity, not roadblocks, not division, not more red tape, not more excuses, not more blame, not picking winners and losers just like this Kinew government does time and time again.
That's why we, on this side of the House, are fighting to increase your basic personal exemption to $30,000, so you can keep up to $3,000 of your hard-earned money. Real savings, real affordability, real results.
We believe in Manitobans. We believe we can grow our economy, we can create better jobs, make our communities safer and make life more affordable.
If we face an election between now and the next sitting session, we know we will offer Manitobans a real choice: a choice between junk food savings or real savings; a choice between economic decline or opportunity and prosperity; a choice between self-satisfied government or a government that will work for the people.
We believe Manitoba can do better, we know Manitoba deserves better and we, the PC Party of Manitoba, will deliver better.
Hon. Tracy Schmidt (Minister of Education and Early Childhood Learning): With the arrival of June comes the end of the school year, a time to celebrate the year's accomplishments and look towards the summer break.
For many lucky Manitobans, summer break means summer camp, a place where young people can build skills, make lasting memories and learn what it means to be a part of something bigger than themselves. The same principles inspired C.A.M.P. Rossmere, a new initiative in our constituency office this summer. And as today marks the first day of camp, I welcome our 2026 campers to the people's building, their building.
Now, C.A.M.P. Rossmere is not your average summer camp, Honourable Speaker. C.A.M.P. stands for Constituency Assistance Mentorship Program, and it's designed to give young folks in Rossmere a hands-on experience in public service, community leadership and civic engagement. It is our hope that this is just the first of many camps to come in Rossmere and across Manitoba.
Honourable Speaker, democracy may live in this Chamber, but it is born on the doorstep. Ideas, policies and progress do not arrive here on their own. The work that we do is carried here by Manitobans. Neighbours listening to their neighbours, advocates speaking up for change and people across our province working hard to build stronger communities.
To our 2026 cohort: Mac, Addison, Ethan, Luke and Elliot, thank you for choosing to spend your summer in service to our community. Each of you brings your own strengths, your own perspective and your own gifts to this work, and we are stronger because of you. I hope that over the course of this summer you come to fully trust what our team already knows: that your voices matter, that your ideas matter and that your place in this building matters.
Honourable Speaker, I would like to acknowledge the work of our lead camp counsellor, Bethany, for all of her hard work in setting up C.A.M.P. Rossmere as a way of engaging young folks into our work of serving the good people of Rossmere.
I invite all members of this House to join me in welcoming the students of C.A.M.P. Rossmere here to the Manitoba Legislature and also in wishing all of the many students and educators across our beautiful province a warm, beautiful Manitoba summer.
Mrs. Carrie Hiebert (Morden-Winkler): I rise today to recognize and honour Dr. Chandy Jacob, whose dedication and vision have profoundly shaped the health care and touched countless lives in Winkler and across the southern Manitoba.
As the first medical specialist to establish a rural surgical program in southern Manitoba, Dr. Jacob brought advanced care closer to home for patients. Over an extraordinary 60-year career, he embodied the highest value of the medical profession: integrity, excellence and an unwavering commitment to patient care. Through his skills, kindness and self–selfless service, he earned the trust and gratitude of generations of Manitobans.
Dr. Jacob has advocated for rural health care, inspired colleagues and improved the lives of so many. He is also a visionary. Beginning in 1974, he championed the concept of regional health-care centres, helping lay the foundation for what would become the Boundary Trails health centre.
His contributions have been wildly recognized. He was named physician of the year by Doctors Manitoba in 1993, received honorary membership to the Canadian Medical Association and recognized as a physician emeritus by Southern Health.
Beyond this–beyond his medical practice, he's also helped established WC Wiebe community foundation and is an avid outdoorsman enjoying hunting, fishing and golfing with his friends and family.
Dr. Jacob could have chosen to practise anywhere in Canada, but he chose to stay in Winkler because of the relationships he built and the community he loves. On behalf of all of us at the Legislature and constituents of Morden-Winkler and all Manitobans, thank you. Mere words cannot express our sincere gratitude to you, Dr. Jacob, for your lifetime of service to us.
As you celebrate your 90th birthday today, we extend our deepest wish–warm wishes. Your legacy lives on in many lives you have touched through your service, your generosity and leadership and unwavering commitment to others. Your story will be forever recorded in history in the Manitoba Legislature.
I ask my colleagues to please rise and join me in honouring Dr. Jacob today.
Dr. Ganesan Abbu, Donald Elias, Lloyd Elias, Archie Heinrichs, Dr. Chandy Jacob, Indira Jacob, Dr. Mary V. Jacob, Betty Klassen, Dr. Donald H. Klassen, Dr. Eric Lane, Tena Lane, Ed Martens, Dr. Adashnee Pather, Alfred Peters, Gerald Suderman, Julia Suderman, Alisha Thiessen, Connor Thiessen, Ernie Wiebe, Jack Wiebe.
* (14:30)
Mr. Diljeet Brar (Burrows): Mabuhay [Live], Honourable Speaker.
Today, I rise to recognize and celebrate Filipino Heritage Month throughout our beautiful province. During this special month of June, we come together as Manitobans to honour the outstanding achievements, vibrant cultural traditions and sacrifices of our incredible Filipino community.
Filipino Manitobans are widely known for their helpful, warm and inviting nature. This spirit of genuine hospitality defines their community and forms the foundation for how they welcome everyone around them. Many support newcomers to settle and thrive in Manitoba, while many others are active members in their communities, often through local neighbourhood networks or organized volunteer groups.
Their vital, everyday contributions are also felt across every single sector of our province. From the front lines of health care and classrooms of education to essential roles in service and industry, their unwavering dedication keeps our economy moving forward, our neighbourhoods vibrant and our families safe.
Furthermore, numerous Filipino community organizations across Manitoba are proudly marking milestone anniversaries and decades of dedicated service this year. These volunteer leaders have invested decades into education–into educating and empowering Filipino youth, effectively preserving cultural heritage while guiding the next generation to dream big and work hard.
This special month gives us a wonderful opportunity to express our deep provincial gratitude to how they continually enrich our shared land and strengthen our collective future.
Happy Filipino Heritage Month, everyone. Please join me in celebrating these remarkable contributions and honouring this wonderful community today.
Salamat po. [Thank you.]
Mrs. Carrie Hiebert (Morden-Winkler): I ask for leave that my 20 guests' names are entered into Hansard directly behind my statement today.
The Speaker: Is there leave as requested? [Agreed]
Thank you.
Introduction of Guests
The Speaker: There are other guests in the gallery that I'd like to introduce.
We have from France Chanta Le Gal, mother of Fabienne Boulanger, who works with the MLA for St. Boniface.
And we welcome you here today.
We have guests seated in the public gallery. With us from Strathcona School: April Spence, teacher; Samantha Gilkes, teacher; Margaret Konteh, educational assistant; and students Xavier Bantog, Liam Beardy, Matt Francisco, Carter Johnson, Jaxson Kosc, April Pacifico, Yazmin [phonetic] Rumbaoa, Donovan Beardy, Gabriel Marero, Johnny Coates, James Lozada, Louies Andres, Shema Jean, Liam Vila, Mbo Huzaifa, Jazer Bocobo, Deijah Chartrande, Sofia Filoteo, Hailyn-Jade Mitchell, who are guests of the honourable Minister of Housing, Addictions and Homelessness (Ms. Smith).
And we welcome you all here today.
We also have from Transcona Collegiate Shane Matabanlan, Gia Manimbembo [phonetic], Hannah Fernandez, Sharlette Mendoza, Charlette Cunanan, Janna Kaamio [phonetic], Margaret Gonzales, Marjedd Alcantara, Vanessa Perejan; from M-F-T-I, Genalyn Tan, Victoria Cabrera, Maryjane Napolino [phonetic], Gloria Agravante. From John W. Gunn: Jhyanna Cadag, Xyza Singcay, who are teachers from Transcona Collegiate, and they're guests of the honourable member for Radisson (MLA Dela Cruz).
And we're pleased to welcome all of you here today.
Mr. Obby Khan (Leader of the Official Opposition): While the Premier is busy focused on building his national profile for his federal run, many Manitobans are focused on something far more immediate: paying their bills, putting food on their table and making ends meet during an affordability crisis.
Today is buy Manitoban, buy Canadian day, a day that should be supporting local workers, businesses, farmers and manufacturers. Yet despite the government's announcements and photo opportunities, Manitobans still have no clear buy Canadian strategy to review or follow, and that's one year after this NDP government promised they would have it.
The Premier was quick to embrace the slogan and generate headlines, but where is the long‑term plan to strengthen local supply chains and support Manitobans? If this part‑time patriot Premier wants to be taken seriously, why, after a full year, has he failed to proclaim the act and provide a strategy to support Manitoba?
Hon. Wab Kinew (Premier): Honourable Speaker, I wanted to take this opportunity on the last sitting day of the House to congratulate the members of our internship program, who did a lot of amazing work on both sides of the House over the past–of this past few sittings, I guess I'll say.
And also to thank the legislative pages for the amazing work that they do each and every day. I hope in both cases, these great young Manitobans learned a lot and I hope that they only take the positive things forward from this people's building.
When it comes to what the member opposite is selling, Manitobans aren't buying it. That's why we're going to keep working together to build up the most Canadian province of all: Manitoba.
The Speaker: The honourable Leader of the Official Opposition, on a supplementary question.
Mr. Obby Khan (Leader of the Official Opposition): If that wasn't the fakest answer out there, I don't know what is. The NDP government is full of contradictions and hypocrisy. They offer a headline catching statistics or announcement, but they refuse to validate or back it up. Freedom of information requests are going unanswered, and Manitobans have questions.
What Manitobans can clearly see is a Premier quick to say anything to catch the headlines, but nothing of substance behind the scenes. He says buy Canadian, yet this Kinew government just awarded a three‑year, $36‑million contract to an American-based company. The Premier increased government contracts to SpaceX and Starlink by five times and uses US-owned firms for polling and survey work.
Why is the Premier refusing to engage with local businesses and industry to help Manitoba's economy?
Hon. Wab Kinew (Premier): Each and every day, Manitobans get up and work hard. That's what inspires us to serve you as the deliverers of health care, as the people who bring the economy to life. It makes us so proud that we decided to hang a giant Canadian flag on the front of the Manitoba Legislature. Such is the nature of our patriotism.
While you're doing hard work, the opposition is light work. These folks on the other side thanked Donald Trump literally. The member for Fort Whyte, the leader of the PCs, went on a podcast the week after Trump levied the tariffs and he goes: I would thank–I would say thank you.
That's a verbatim quote of how he–then, it's bad enough–Borderlands, Spruce Woods, how many other of them are in love with Donald Trump? On this side of the House, we're getting sued by Elon Musk because we love Canada so much. I'll put that lawsuit down in front of them any day.
* (14:40)
We'll keep working for you to build up–
The Speaker: Member's time has expired.
The honourable Leader of the Official Opposition, on a new question.
Mr. Obby Khan (Leader of the Official Opposition): Boy, oh boy, oh boy. Hanging a Canadian flag outside the Legislature does not make up for sending $36 million to the United States. You know who's thanking this Premier is Donald Trump. This Premier has sent tens of millions of dollars to the United States, betraying Manitobans. He has done nothing to grow our economy or support local, other than a catchy slogan, Honourable Speaker.
Manitobans want contracts to be awarded through open and fair transparent competition. Yet, time and time again, this government is sole-sourcing contracts. Whether it's lucrative contracts to political appointments, highly paid positions, this government continues to make decisions behind closed doors. Manitobans are left wondering why this government is so reluctant to embrace transparency.
If the 'tremier' truly believes in accountability and fairness, will he commit today to reducing sole-source contracting, increasing transparency and ensuring Manitobans–
The Speaker: Member's time has expired.
Hon. Wab Kinew (Premier): You know, there was a business during COVID. I can't remember if it was GoodLocal or bad local. Something about that. I don't recall a procurement process, a tender. I don't recall a call for proposals going out. And yet there he was, the member for Fort Whyte, jumping in to collect his $500,000 cheque.
Don't come in here, Honourable Speaker, and try to lecture us about procurement, whether it's the member for Red River North (Mr. Wharton) breaking the law, the member for Springfield-Ritchot (Mr. Schuler) building roads without contracts, or the Leader of the PCs himself, they've got their grubby hands lined up at the trough, and we are setting it free.
A better example for kids and a stronger economy for you.
The Speaker: The honourable Leader of the Official Opposition, on a supplementary question.
Mr. Obby Khan (Leader of the Official Opposition): There you have it, the true colours of the Premier: personal attacks on myself and my team when we we're standing up, talking about–
Some Honourable Members: Oh, oh.
The Speaker: Order.
Mr. Khan: –Manitoba's affordability crisis.
You know what's most alarming is the fact that this Premier has hand-chosen his own friend and former colleague from CBC to make over $700,000. Here are the details: between October and April, Richard Madan was paid $380,000. If you extrapolate that over the year, that's $700,000 being paid to this Premier's close personal friend.
At a time when families can't pay the bills, this Premier has awarded Richard Madan, the trade commissioner for Washington, DC and Manitoba, $700,000, and he's brought zero dollars into Manitoba.
How can the Premier stand up and justify paying his friend $700,000 when he has done nothing to grow Manitoba's economy?
Hon. Wab Kinew (Premier): Honourable Speaker, Donald Trump has launched a trade war against our country. Now, what would the PCs have us do? They closed our presence in Washington, DC, and their leader bows down before Donald Trump and says thank you in the face of tariffs. There's no spine in that. There's no pride in that. There's no patriotism in that.
Yes, we have retained a trade embassy, a trade ambassador for Washington, DC. He is not my friend. He is an employee, and he is working on behalf of you, the people of Manitoba, to ensure that Donald Trump's tariff war will stop at the border and we can get back to a good relationship.
The members opposite, however, continue to be a mess.
The Speaker: The honourable Leader of the Official Opposition, on a final supplementary question.
Mr. Khan: Donald Trump is thanking this Premier for sending him tens of millions of dollars to the United States, out of Manitoba's economy, into the American economy.
Now, the Premier, you can clearly see, did not deny paying his friend $700,000 for a job that was done behind closed doors, Honourable Speaker. Manitobans have a right to know how this Premier can justify that.
Also, Manitobans have a right to know, this Premier paying him $700,000, what has he delivered for Manitoba? Nothing. No results, no contracts, nothing for Manitobans to hang their hat on.
Why will the Premier–or, will the Premier stand up and apologize to Manitobans for betraying their trust, and will he do the right thing and fire Richard Madan today and start growing Manitoba's economy?
Mr. Kinew: You know that meme with the guy and all the red yarn behind him? It's a bit like watching the member opposite in question period.
On the one hand, he wants us to strengthen the economy, which would mean fighting Donald Trump and his tariffs. Then he goes and runs off and he's on a podcast where he's thanking Donald Trump. And then he comes in here and says that somehow my pushing back, taking American booze off the shelves, is in some way leading Donald Trump to thank me. Nobody knows what the PCs are up to. Nobody knows what is going on in their heads.
When it comes to us, one thing is clear: We build health care, we build buildings, we build the economy and we work hard for you each and every day. We'll continue to do that every single day and, of course, have some fun owning the Conservatives.
Introduction of Guests
The Speaker: Order, please.
If we could get the clock stopped. There's some more guests in the gallery.
I would like to draw the attention of all honourable members to the public gallery where we have with us 30 people who are watching proceedings as part of the normal Monday public tour.
And we welcome you all here today.
Mr. Konrad Narth (La Vérendrye): Honourable Speaker, this session should have been about making life more affordable, growing our economy and keeping jobs here in Manitoba.
Instead, this government rejected real tax relief, ignored warning signs from businesses and passed a budget that does nothing to improve affordability or Manitoba's long-term competitiveness. We offered solutions, raising the basic personal exemption, eliminating land transfer tax for first-time homebuyers and implementing a single-desk permitting system. This out-of-touch Premier rejected all of them.
As members return to their constituencies this summer, will the Premier finally start listening to Manitobans or does he still believe he knows better than the people that have elected him? And I welcome his answer–
The Speaker: Member's time has expired.
French spoken
Hon. Wab Kinew (Premier): Cet membre, ce député a fait une faute très grave, très, très grave. Et puis son chef aussi, qui a applaudi ce qu'il a dit. Mais leur commentaire dans les médias a dit que j'étais en train de mentir, alors pourquoi est‑ce qu'il a à s'excuser si j't'ai menti?
Translation
That member–that MLA–made a very serious mistake–a very, very serious one. And so did his leader, who applauded what he said. But their comments in the media claimed that I was lying, so why does he have to apologize if I lied?
Mrs. Lauren Stone (Midland): Let's look at this NDP's record since they've been elected: worst economic growth in Canada, six straight quarters of business excess, 50 per cent of Manitobans within $200 of insolvency, the highest property taxes in Canada and among the highest provincial income taxes in Canada. And the NDP has now made Manitoba the inflation capital of Canada. That's their record since they've been elected, despite the fact that Canada has now entered a technical recession and Manitobans deeply need more affordability relief.
So why is this Premier and this Kinew government ignoring the very real struggles that Manitoba families are facing?
Hon. Adrien Sala (Minister of Finance): Let's take a look at our record, Honourable Speaker. We just passed a bill that's going to take the PST off all food in grocery stores in Manitoba.
And let's dig deeper into our record. We came in–what do we do? We got rid of the gas tax for an entire year. Then we brought in a permanent 10 per cent gas tax cut. Then we brought in a hydro rate freeze. Then we continued to do the work of making owning a home more affordable with increasing homeowner education property tax credits, the biggest cheques that have ever gone out before, supporting Manitobans with their costs of education property taxes.
And, of course, renters. We're helping renters more than ever before. After the PCs raised taxes on renters we're doing the work of restoring that credit with that last BITSA bill that we just passed. We are going to continue–
The Speaker: Member's time has expired.
Mr. Josh Guenter (Borderland): I've heard from parents of children with disabilities about the gap in support services in southern Manitoba. These parents tell me that there are no government programs in their area to provide support to families who have children with autism.
To fill this need, a local businessman, John Loewen and his family, along with the support of the community, have spearheaded an effort to set up a non-profit called Clover Creek Learning Centre to help families and children with ASD. This organization does great work, and will soon be opening a second location in Gretna.
* (14:50)
Can the minister commit to fixing the gap in the resources and the support that families in southern Manitoba are looking for?
Hon. Nahanni Fontaine (Minister of Families): Our government understands and is committed to supporting children and their families that are struggling with autism and ensuring that they get the supports that they need. That's why our government also raised the Children's disABILITY Services program by $900,000 in Budget 2025, but we also announced an additional $5 million in increased spending in autism. And we are also, right now, looking and working with partners to create a centre of excellence in respect of autism.
Our government is committed to working with families and committed to continuing that important support for children with autism.
Mrs. Kathleen Cook (Roblin): Nurse practitioners are autonomous, highly trained clinicians who provide comprehensive patient care in every part of Manitoba. British Columbia, Saskatchewan, Alberta, Ontario and PEI have all implemented new funding models that enable nurse practitioners to work independently, serve patients better and ensure those provinces are in compliance with the Canada Health Act.
When will the Minister of Health get on board with the rest of Canada and commit to implementing an alternative public funding model for nurse practitioners in Manitoba so that they no longer have to bill patients directly for services?
Hon. Uzoma Asagwara (Minister of Health, Seniors and Long-Term Care): Honourable Speaker, our government respects and appreciates the work–the invaluable work–that nurse practitioners do across our province each and every day, which is why we've met on many occasions with the nurse practitioners, and that's why we'll continue to meet with them, work with them and our partners to make sure that Manitobans have more access to the essential care they provide, not less.
We have worked also with post-secondary to make sure that nurse practitioners can actually specialize now, moving forward in our province.
So there's a lot of work we're doing with our partners, including nurse practitioners, to move the profession in the direction they've asked; didn't happen for seven and a half years under the PCs.
MLA Carla Compton (Tuxedo): Honourable Speaker, families affected by dementia deserve support they can count on. After years of uncertainty under the PCs, we're ensuring Manitobans living with dementia and their loved ones have access to the services they need.
This weekend, the minister joined hundreds of Manitobans at the Alzheimer Society of Manitoba walk.
Can the Minister of Health, Seniors and Long-Term Care please tell Manitobans about the exciting announcement that they gave at the walk?
Hon. Uzoma Asagwara (Minister of Health, Seniors and Long-Term Care): Honourable Speaker, great question from my friend from Tuxedo. Unlike the previous government, we're providing stable and long-term support for Manitobans living with dementia and the families who care for them.
This past Saturday, I was so proud to stand with my colleague and friend, the MLA for Kildonan-River East, to announce that our government is permanently increasing the annual funding for the Alzheimer Society of Manitoba to $525,000. And, on top of that, we are providing an additional $50,000 to support the caregivers of those with dementia across Manitoba.
We know there's much more work to do, but we also know that we get good things done by working together, so let's keep doing that across Manitoba.
Mr. Wayne Balcaen (Brandon West): This Minister of Infrastructure is truly uninformed on her file.
Last week, a 49-year-old woman died in a crash at the known-to-be-unsafe intersection of Highway 110 and Richmond Avenue East. This minister says the intersection is safe and appropriate. She said that after a woman died, and she said that after multiple Brandonites have raised concerns with this intersection.
This is the second fatality at this intersection in five years, the fourth collision this year and the 11th in the last year and a half. This was a preventable tragedy.
No intersections in Winnipeg are brought down by a single part on backorder, so why is the safety of my community an afterthought?
Hon. Lisa Naylor (Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure): There is a number of erroneous remarks in that question, but I'm going to first start with my first public opportunity to give my condolences to the family that was affected by this terrible tragedy.
And I want to say here what I've also been trying to say in the media and at every conversation with federal ministers–three federal ministers over the last two and a half years–the crux of this collision, the fault for this collision rests on the driver, an inexperienced driver operating with a company that have their licence, their operating ability taken away in Manitoba.
But we have a problem across the country where operators are allowed to then get a fitness–a safety certificate in another province and be allowed to keep operating. That needs to stop.
The Speaker: Member's time has expired.
MLA Bob Lagassé (Dawson Trail): Residents living near the proposed silica sand mining project have raised concerns that drilling and groundwater disturbances could mobilize naturally occurring uranium and increase radon levels in nearby homes.
Can the minister explain what assessment has been conducted on the potential for uranium mobilization and elevated radon 'exposion'–exposure for neighbouring homes and what mitigation and compensation program will be put in place if radon levels exceed Health Canada guidelines?
Hon. Mike Moyes (Minister of Environment and Climate Change): Quite frankly, we care about water and we care about the environment and Manitobans know who they can trust when it comes to this and everything else.
The same can't be said for all of the members opposite in the PC caucus. They tried to ram through a controversial project that had a lot of questions that remained on the aquifer in southeast Manitoba. This attempted backroom deal was an absolute affront to our democracy.
We're always going to protect our water. We're always going to protect our environment. And we stand for democracy.
The Speaker: The honourable member for Dawson Trail, on a supplementary question.
Environmental Review Process
MLA Lagassé: Manitobans were previously told that the proposed Sio Silica project required a higher level of environmental review under a class 3 designation. Now concerns have been raised that the project is being advanced under a class 2 process, which less scrutiny and fewer opportunities for public input.
Can the minister explain why this project is no longer being subjected to the more rigorous review process that was previously deemed necessary, and what assurances can he provide that the environment protection has not been compromised?
MLA Moyes: Honourable Speaker, we know that we can build up our economy as well as protect the environment. This project is going through the normal process just like any other project that gets applied for. We're going to always ensure that the highest levels of environmental standards are applied to any project as well as the evaluation process.
Now when it comes to the record of the PCs, they tried to ram through a controversial mining project and this is why three members were fined by the Ethics Commissioner. We're not going to do that. We're going to ensure that all projects go through a rigorous process and I recommend the members of the PCs get on board.
The Speaker: The honourable member for Dawson Trail, on a final supplementary question.
Drinking Water Contamination Concerns
MLA Lagassé: The Sio Silica proposal involves drilling into aquifer systems that supply drinking water to thousands of Manitobans. Residents continue to express concerns about the potential risk to groundwater quality and long-term water security.
If there is a failure, contamination event or other environmental disaster affecting the aquifer, who will be responsible for the cleanup costs and what contingency plans has the government put in place to protect Manitoba families, communities and my constituents of Dawson Trail?
MLA Moyes: To be perfectly clear, there's been no project that have been approved. In fact, the previous project that was applied for was denied by this government. We will always protect the environment; we will always protect the water. And we will always listen to Manitobans.
Now it's clear that the PCs only work for themselves and their high-rolling friends. Their corrupt behaviour is why the Ethics Commissioner fined three members of their party, including the member for Red River North (Mr. Wharton). We'll never do that. We're always going to protect our environment and the water.
* (15:00)
MLA Robert Loiselle (St. Boniface): L'Honorable Président [Honourable Speaker], after eight years of cuts, closures and chaos under the failed PC government, Manitobans were left with staffing shortages across the entire health-care system. But instead of firing nurses, our government has been focused on rebuilding the front lines and strengthening patient care across the province.
Can the Minister of Health, Seniors and Long-Term Care please tell Manitobans how many net-new health-care workers have been hired since our government took office?
Hon. Uzoma Asagwara (Minister of Health, Seniors and Long-Term Care): I thank my friend from St. Boniface for that fantastic question. When the PCs were busy at working hard to fire nurses, we made a commitment to rebuild the front lines, and that's exactly what we're doing. And today, our government is proud to say that we've added over 4,000 net-new health-care workers to the front lines of Manitoba's health-care system.
We've added over 350 doctors, bringing our total to a historic, a record-breaking 3,700 doctors practising here in Manitoba, helping families every single day; over 500 allied healthcare professionals, over 1,400 nurses–almost 1,500 nurses as of now–and over 1,700 health-care aides. Honourable Speaker, we are just getting started. We're going to keep fixing–
The Speaker: Member's time has expired.
Mr. Wayne Ewasko (Lac du Bonnet): Association for Community Living organizations who support our community members living with disabilities are now being forced by this minister to sell their group homes, shut down supportive employment options and to stop taking new community members because of her cuts to services by this Kinew government. I will table the Minister of Accessibility's own document that proves that her so-called increase is only inflationary.
Will she stand up and apologize to all those com-munity members all across this great province of ours, Honourable Speaker?
Hon. Nahanni Fontaine (Minister responsible for Accessibility): The member for Lac du Bonnet continues to get up in this Chamber and put up erroneous facts to try and peddle some narrative of his and the PCs. We know that we have investments in disabilities, more than has ever been in the history of Manitoba. We are committed to folks that are on the front lines working with Manitobans with disabilities and supporting their families. It is a sacred responsibility that our government takes incredibly seriously.
And I would ask the member for Lac du Bonnet to stop peddling whatever he's trying to peddle and actually just get out of the way and allow us to continue the good work that we're doing, fixing the damage that they did for seven and a half years.
Ms. Jodie Byram (Agassiz): Summer has arrived and residents of Agassiz and right across rural Manitoba continue to experience an alarming rise in crime, including break-ins, thefts and trespassing on farm properties. Many Manitoba residents feel vulnerable and the NDP camera rebates doesn't stop the crime.
What measures is the Minister of Justice implementing to address rural crime ensuring the safety and security of our communities? What concrete steps is the minister administering to prevent such incidents?
Hon. Matt Wiebe (Minister of Justice and Attorney General): Honourable Speaker, the concrete steps were in our budget document, the budget that members opposite voted against; an $8-million increase to the RCMP in communities all across this province.
And because we've invested in the RCMP, because we've partnered with community, we've been able to bring the vacancy rate, left at 30 per cent under members opposite, down below 10 per cent in this province. That's real officers on the street, in communities from the north to the south to the east to the west, Honourable Speaker.
Mrs. Carrie Hiebert (Morden-Winkler): Honourable Speaker, Boundary Trails health centre sits on a high-traffic corridor and serves thousands of Manitobans daily. Despite this, the road leading to the hospital is riddled with large potholes, forcing oncoming traffic to avoid damage–going into–'torming'–sorry–forcing drivers into oncoming traffic to avoid damage.
Will the minister commit to repairing this dangerous stretch of highway immediately–not just a patch job, but actually repairing all of the intersections in my constituency of Morden-Winkler?
Hon. Lisa Naylor (Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure): Certainly, whenever I get a question on highways in this Legislature, the theme that emerges is how frustrated all the new PC MLAs are with the previous government and the fact that they underspent their budget year after year after year: they left these roads in disarray.
And, you know, I have been very committed to raising the budget for our department, spending the full budget for our department. And I'm very excited that Budget 2026 has an additional $10 million so that we can continue to repair the damage done to the infrastructure by the PC government before us.
Thank you.
Mr. Greg Nesbitt (Riding Mountain): Bill 211, allowing for Manitoba Parks specialty licence plates, received royal assent in June of 2024. Two years later and Manitobans still can't show their love of our provincial park system or help sustain projects in these amazing parks.
Clearly, this Minister of Environment and Climate Change seems more interested in credit than doing the work. We FIPPA'd the delays, and it turns out they all lead back to this minister's office.
Is this minister so ashamed that the PC caucus beat him to such a good idea that he would needlessly delay the availability of Parks plates for all Manitobans?
Hon. Mike Moyes (Minister of Environment and Climate Change): Honourable Speaker, I appreciate that the member opposite finally got up on his feet and asked a question. I know that the Parks plate is the most pressing issue in our environment. I–actually, no, I've never heard that from any environmental group, anywhere, or any Manitoban; although we do love our parks and so, you know, sure, we'll bring the plate forward.
But I do want to talk about our record. What have we done in two and a half years? Started up an EV rebate, started the first wind–[interjection]
The Speaker: Order.
MLA Moyes: –farms, restored funding to environmental groups that they cut, supporting families with heat pumps, saved the Lemay Forest, started the–or, created the Path to Net Zero, had free park entry for over a year, created an efficiency power plant. We did so much, and yet what does he focus on?
The Speaker: Member's time has expired.
MLA Jeff Bereza (Portage la Prairie): Portage la Prairie farmers are fed up with the theft that they're–that now they're offering rewards of $10,000 to catch criminals stealing copper from equipment. That stolen copper can be turned into drug money. While this NDP government pours resources into drug-enabling policies, hard-working Manitobans are left paying the price through more theft, more disorder and less safety. Farmers shouldn't have to police their own communities.
Honourable Speaker, when will this government properly protect rural Manitobans?
Hon. Matt Wiebe (Minister of Justice and Attorney General): Well, Honourable Speaker, we're mere moments away from the House rising and all of us returning back to our constituencies. I would encourage the member opposite to spend some time in Portage. Spend some time with the people there. Talk to them about the incredible initiatives that community has brought forward that they've partnered with us on, including the community safety officer program, coupled with the First Nation Safety Officer Program from Long Plain.
These are two shining examples for everyone in the province to see how municipalities can work with the Province. Funding those programs, funding the people on the street, making sure that crime's going down, that's what our government committed to, and that's what we're accomplishing.
Mr. Rick Wowchuk (Swan River): Now, the only thing with more holes in it than the roads in rural Manitoba is this Infrastructure Minister's failed plan. I table some photos sent from my constituents. Provincial roads such as PTH 486, PR 363, PR 275 are riddled with massive potholes, some measuring up to 7 inches deep, 4 feet wide and 10 feet long. And Provincial Road 487 washboards are shaking your dentures out. Enough is enough.
If the minister isn't willing to do her job and maintain these roads, can my constituents at least expense their next alignments to her office?
* (15:10)
Hon. Lisa Naylor (Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure): I thank the member opposite for that question, and I'm sincerely sorry about the state of his dentures.
What I would like to say is that it's clear that it's not just the new members of the government, but also previous members of the government who sat next to Transportation ministers year after year and allowed them to underinvest in the Transportation Department. Year after year, $300-million, $400-million budgets that went underspent.
So we're continuing to invest. We're investing in highways and infrastructure across the province. And I'll ask folks that are struggling with spring potholes–
The Speaker: Member's time has expired.
Mrs. Colleen Robbins (Spruce Woods): Honourable Speaker, Highway 34 has been named Manitoba's worst road for the second consecutive year in CAA's annual campaign to find the worst roadways in Manitoba.
Highway 34 is an important corridor in my constituency of Spruce Woods and central Manitoba that connects the US border and Trans-Canada and the Yellowhead Highway.
Unfortunately, potholes, deteriorating pavement and inadequate maintenance are putting motorists, truck drivers and families at risk every day.
When will the Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure finally commit the necessary funding and begin repairs on Highway 34 to ensure the safety of the Manitobans who rely on it?
Hon. Wab Kinew (Premier): Honourable Speaker, as it turns out, it's hard to fix all the roads that the PCs left to decay under their watch for us under one term. I guess we'll need a second, if Manitobans will have one.
Mrs. Lauren Stone (Midland): Things for Manitoba families here in Manitoba are getting worse under this NDP government. The NDP has made Manitoba the inflation capital of Canada. And what's even worse is Manitoba is also the food inflation capital of Canada. Over 50 per cent of Manitobans are within $200 of insolvency. And yet this NDP government offered them nothing in their budget to help with this very real cost-of-living crisis.
So how can this Premier and the Kinew government justify denying Manitobans $3,000 a year, which is money that Manitobans desperately need right now?
Hon. Adrien Sala (Minister of Finance): Honourable Speaker, what about no PST on food? What about free transit for youth? And what about free child care for the lowest income families in Manitoba? We're going to go–we're going to keep going to work every single day.
Mrs. Kathleen Cook (Roblin): Phoenix School in Headingley is overcrowded and in desperate need of expansion. It is, in fact, the No. 1 capital priority of the St. James-Assiniboia School Division.
The previous government approved the expansion and renovation project that students, teachers and families in Headingley have been asking for for years, but when the NDP took power, they cancelled the project.
When is this NDP government finally going to prioritize the teachers, students and families in Headingley and move forward with the Phoenix School expansion and renovation project?
Hon. Tracy Schmidt (Minister of Education and Early Childhood Learning): Honourable Speaker, the member speaks of priority, but the PCs waited 'til, like, question 25 today to ask a question about education. So I'm happy to speak about education. If the member opposite would have–we're going to work with the members in Charleswood. We're going to work with constituents all across the province.
In our beautiful budget, which we just passed last week, we announced four schools: Devonshire Park, we have a school in Brandon, we have a school in Waverley, we have a school in McPhillips. But that wasn't enough, Honourable Speaker.
We had to build a school with–
French spoken
– la DSFM in Saint-Boniface. Pourquoi, Honourable Speaker? Pour qui ? C'est pour les étudiants et les étudiantes, pour les éducateurs et les éducatrices. Ça –
Translation
–the DSFM in St. Boniface. Why, Honourable Speaker? For whom? It's for the students, for the educators. That–
English
–that's who we work for in this province, Honourable Speaker. The member opposite needs to get on board. [interjection]
The Speaker: Order.
Mr. Obby Khan (Leader of the Official Opposition): The Minister of Education, the Minister of Families (MLA Fontaine) and the Minister of Justice (Mr. Wiebe) love to yell from their seats but don't have any interest in actually doing their job. Maybe they're simply too busy watching The Matrix when they're supposed to be working.
The Minister of Education, according to Manitoba Teachers' Society, quote: Violence in Manitoba public schools has reached overwhelming levels, with educators reporting increases in both the frequency and severity of incidences. End quote.
The Minister of Education swears she has all the data, but when we filed the freedom of information request, what came back? No data found.
Violence in schools is spiking. It's impacting the teachers' ability to teach. It's impacting students' ability to learn. And it undermines the entire education system under this failing Kinew government.
Will the minister admit she does not have the data, admit her failures and listen to Manitoba Teachers' Society, or will she tell Manitoba teachers how to do their job just like the Premier does?
Hon. Wab Kinew (Premier): Honourable Speaker, we know that the issue of violence in schools is a major concern. We know that teachers and educational assistants and, really, everybody involved–parents, students–identify this as a top priority. And that's why our government is working together with them as partners.
And so we'll continue to do that over the course of the summer break so–ensure that when students and teachers go back in the fall, that everybody will be able to learn safely.
When it comes to the PCs, though, they never seem to learn. Started question period today by trying to ask about dropping the writ. There's no election coming. He just wants to get out of here because he doesn't know how many more of his MLAs are going to drop out this summer.
The Speaker: Order, please.
The time for oral questions has expired.
The Speaker: And I have a statement for the House.
As the House is expected to adjourn later today for our summer break, I'm encouraging all members to remove the contents of their desks today. I would encourage everyone to please recycle as much of the material as possible. Any material you would like to recycle may be placed in the larger recycling containers in both message rooms located just outside of the Chamber. The big blue bins inside the Chamber are designed for–or, designated for recycling copies of Hansard only as these can be reused by Hansard and the Legislative Library.
Thank you.
Petitions? Grievances?
Hon. Nahanni Fontaine (Government House Leader): Could you please canvass the House for leave to consider a government resolution regarding the hiring of the Chief Electoral Officer, despite the fact the resolution is not on the Order Paper?
The Speaker: Is there leave, as requested by–is there leave to consider a government resolution regarding the hiring of the Chief Electoral Officer, despite the fact that the resolution is not on the Order Paper?
Is there leave? [Agreed]
Hon. Nahanni Fontaine (Government House Leader): I move, seconded by the Minister for Justice,
WHEREAS a Sub-Committee of the Standing Committee on Legislative Affairs was struck to manage the hiring process of the Chief Electoral Officer; and–
Let me begin again, Honourable Speaker.
WHEREAS a Sub-Committee of the Standing Committee on Legislative Affairs was struck to manage the hiring process for the Chief Electoral Officer; and
WHEREAS the Sub-Committee, following an open competition and consideration of applicants, recommended to the Standing Committee on Legislative Affairs that Josh Watt be appointed Chief Electoral Officer; and
WHEREAS the Standing Committee on Legislative Affairs recommends the same to the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba.
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that, pursuant to section 23(1) of The Elections Act, Josh Watt will be appointed as the Chief Electoral Officer effective July 15, 2026.
* (15:20)
The Speaker: So it's been moved by the honourable Minister of Families (MLA Fontaine), seconded by the honourable Minister of Justice (Mr. Wiebe), that
THEREFORE be it resolved that pursuant to section 23(1)–
Some Honourable Members: Dispense.
The Speaker: Dispense.
Is it the pleasure of the House to adopt–[interjection]
The honourable Government House Leader.
MLA Fontaine: On behalf of our NDP caucus and our NDP government, we want to welcome you to your new position as the Chief Electoral Officer. We have all confidence that you will do your duties with amazing resolve. And welcome to your new role.
The Speaker: Is it the pleasure of the House to adopt the motion? [Agreed]
The motion is accordingly passed.
* * *
MLA Fontaine: Honourable Speaker, please call the government motion in respect to Bill 300, followed by the government motion with respect to Bill 301.
I now would also like to table the specified government bills–apologies–for the third session of the 43rd Legislature; and then, Honourable Speaker, can you please call concurrence and third reading of Bills 3, 4, 8, 9, 31, 34, 40, 42, 44, 5, 6, 36, 11, 15, 16, 18, 37, 19, 26, 27, 28, 32, 50, 29, 35, 45, 33, 38, 41 and 43.
The Speaker: So it has been announced that we will now proceed to government motion in respect to Bill 300; followed by the government motion with respect to Bill 301; followed by the specified government bills, Bill 3, 4, 8, 9, 31, 34, 40, 42, 44, 5, 6, 36, 11, 15, 16, 18, 37, 19, 26, 27, 28, 32, 50, 29, 35, 45, 33, 38, 41 and 43.
The Speaker: So now we will consider the government motion that fees paid with respect to Bill 300, The Winnipeg Foundation Amendment Act, be refunded, less the cost–okay.
Hon. Nahanni Fontaine (Government House Leader): I move, seconded by the Minister for Education,
THAT the fees paid with respect to Bill 300, The Winnipeg Foundation Amendment Act, be refunded, less the cost of printing.
Motion agreed to.
MLA Fontaine: I move, seconded by the Minister for Natural Resources and Indigenous Futures,
THAT the fees paid with respect to Bill 301, The Westminster United Church Foundation Incorporation Amendment Act, be refunded, less the cost of printing.
Motion agreed to.
The Speaker: So now we'll move on to concurrence and third reading of the bills as laid out earlier, starting with Bill 3.
Hon. Matt Wiebe (Minister responsible for the Manitoba Public Insurance Corporation): I move, seconded by the Minister of Housing, Addictions and Homelessness (Ms. Smith), that Bill 3, The Manitoba Public Insurance Corporation Amendment Act, reported from the Standing Committee on Justice, be concurred in and be now read for a third time and passed.
Motion presented.
Mr. Wiebe: I'm pleased to rise in the House today for third reading of Bill 3, The Manitoba Public Insurance Corporation Amendment Act. This bill is about keeping insurance rates affordable for Manitobans by preserving MPI's current registered owner insurance model.
Manitobans already benefit from some of the lowest auto insurance rates in Canada, and this bill keeps it that way. Our system uses a simple and fair driver safety rating where drivers with a good driving record play–pay less and drivers with a poor driving record pay more. Manitobans are overwhelmingly supportive of the current registered driver model. In fact, at public committee, several Manitobans came in to voice their support for this legislation.
If members opposite really do care about affordability for Manitobans, I expect that they might actually support this bill here in the Legislature this evening. I urge all members to pass Bill 3, The Manitoba Public Insurance Corporation Amendment Act, to ensure that Manitobans can continue to enjoy some of the most affordable auto insurance rates in the country.
Thank you, Honourable Speaker.
Mr. Trevor King (Lakeside): I rise today to speak to third reading of Bill 3. And let me begin with something and make it very clear that every member in this House can agree on affordability and how much it matters: Manitoba families are dealing with rising costs everywhere they turn. They expect us to protect affordability wherever we can, and they expect us to ensure that public insurance remains stable, fair and financially responsible for the long term.
That is exactly why we on this side cannot support Bill 3. Because despite all of the government's talking points, despite all of the slogans about protecting affordability, there is one central problem with this legislation: there is no evidence proving this bill will actually make insurance more affordable for Manitobans.
It's not my opinion, Honourable Speaker; it is a reality established through the Public Utilities Board process itself. The Public Utilities Board, the independent regulator created to protect ratepayers, ordered MPI to study and evaluate a primary-driver module because evidence presented during hearings suggested the current registered owner model may distort risk and force safer drivers to subsidize higher risk drivers. The PUB did not make that direction casually. It came after years of hearings, actuarial review, evidence, expert testimony and public participation.
* (15:30)
When MPI challenged the PUB authority in court, the Manitoba Court of Appeal rejected that appeal. Justice Freda Steel was very clear, the court confirmed that the PUB has jurisdiction over the methodology underlying the driver safety rating system. In other words, the regulator responsible for protecting Manitoba's ratepayers has the legal authority to examine whether MPI risk model is fair, accurate and actuarily sound.
After losing in court to MPI, it publicly stated it would work collaboratively with the PUB toward a model that provides the greatest value for Manitobans, but instead of allowing that evidence‑based process to continue, this government has introduced Bill 3 to legislate the current registered‑owner model directly into statute.
Honourable Speaker, that is a problem before us today. The government is not bringing forward completed evidence, the government is not bringing forward a finished pricing study, the government is not bringing forward actuarial proof. Instead, it is legislating first and asking questions later. And even MPI's own CEO acknowledged during the PUB proceedings that MPI does not yet have the data necessary to determine which model is actually more affordable. And that point matters because if MPI itself cannot say which system costs less, how can this government claim Bill 3 is an affordability measure?
How can the minister repeatedly say this bill protects affordability when the underlying analysis has not even been completed? The answer is, Honourable Speaker, that they cannot. Insurance pricing is not supposed to be based on politics. It is supposed to be based on actuarial science. It is supposed to reflect measurable risk. That is how you protect fairness, that is how you maintain stability and that is how you avoid sudden rate shocks in the future.
When governments out–override evidence‑based regulatory processes, there are no consequences. Blocking a single desk–single risk model permanently into legislation removes flexibility from MPI systems; driving behaviour changes, technology changes, claims pattern change, risk profiles change. And when the governments tie the hands of regulators and actuaries, corrections eventually become unavoidable. That means bigger adjustments later. That means larger premium increases in the future. That is not long-term affordability, that is short‑term politics.
Consumer advocates have also raised serious concerns about this legislation. The Consumers' Association of Canada (Manitoba) and the Manitoba Seniors Equity Action Coalition have both warned against proceeding without evidence. Importantly, they have not endorsed either model outright. Instead, they have said the same thing we are saying right here today: collect the data, complete the analysis, allow the independent regulator to do its job.
Those organizations warn that this current system can create distortions where safer drivers–excuse me–safer drivers pay more than their fair share because the actual primary driver of the vehicle may be someone entirely different from the registered owner, and MPI's own data appears to support concerns about that distortion.
We know that a significant number of collisions involve someone other than the registered owner driving the vehicle. We know that many claims occur when the registered owner is not the primary operator. Those are exactly the kinds of issues the PUB wanted studied through an evidence‑based review. Instead of completing that work, this government is shutting the door before the evidence is even gathered.
What makes this situation even more striking is the inconsistency from members opposite regarding independent oversight. For years, the NDP members passionately defended the authority of the Public Utilities Board when discussing Manitoba Hydro, they warned repeatedly about governments setting rates at the Cabinet table, they accused previous governments of circumventing the PUB, they said removing independent oversight would weaken transparency and accountability.
Those were not isolated comments. Those arguments were repeated over and over again by members opposite, including senior ministers and even the Premier (Mr. Kinew) himself. Independent oversight either matters or it doesn't. You cannot defend the PUB when it is politically convenient and dismiss it when its findings become uncomfortable.
Our position is straightforward: if the government has a credible actuarial evidence providing that the registered‑owner model clearly more affordable and more sustainable, then let Manitobans see it. Table the study, release the data, allow the PUB to review it publicly. That is how independent regulation is supposed to work.
But that–but today, that evidence doesn't exist, and because of it doesn't exist, this House is being asked to pass legislation based on assumptions instead of facts. That is not responsible governance, it is not evidence‑based policy making and it is certainly not how we should manage a public insurance system relied upon by hundreds of thousands of Manitobans.
At report stage, we 'reprosed'–proposed reasonable amendments. Not radical amendments, not ideological amendments–reasonable amendments. We've proposed requiring MPI to complete a comprehensive actuarial comparison between the registered-owner model and a primary-driver model. We proposed requiring analysis of impacts on young drivers, seniors, rural Manitobans and multi-driver households. We proposed independent review of the driver safety rating system itself to ensure fairness and actuarial soundness. And we proposed that those reports be tabled publicly in this Legislature so Manitobans could see the evidence for themselves. Those are common sense proposals.
If the government is truly confident this model is superior, then why oppose independent analysis? Why oppose transparency? Why oppose evidence?
Affordability cannot simply be declared; it must be demonstrated. And the role of the Public Utilities Board is to ensure that rates remain fair, transparent and actuarially sound for everyone. Bill 3 weakens that process. It limits the regulator's ability to examine methodology, it overrides years of PUB direction and it bypasses the very evidence the government claims supports its position.
We believe Manitobans deserve better than that. They deserve transparency, they deserve evidence, they deserve independent oversight, and they deserve insurance policy built on actuarial reality, not political messaging. For those reasons, Honourable Speaker, we cannot support Bill 3.
Thank you.
The Speaker: Is the House ready for the question?
Some Honourable Members: Question.
The Speaker: The question before the House is concurrence and third reading of Bill 3, The Manitoba Public Insurance Corporation Amendment Act.
Is it the pleasure of the House to adopt the motion?
Some Honourable Members: Agreed.
Some Honourable Members: No.
The Speaker: I hear a no.
Voice Vote
The Speaker: All those in favour, please say aye.
Some Honourable Members: Aye.
The Speaker: All those opposed, please say nay.
Some Honourable Members: Nay.
The Speaker: In my opinion, the Ayes have it.
Mr. King: On division, Honourable Speaker.
The Speaker: The motion is accordingly passed, on division.
The Speaker: As previously announced, we will now move on to Bill 4, The Constitutional Questions Amendment Act.
Hon. Matt Wiebe (Minister of Justice and Attorney General): I move, seconded by the Minister of Education, that Bill 4, The Constitutional Questions Amendment Act, reported from the Standing Committee on Justice, be concurred in and now be–and be now read a third time and passed.
Motion presented.
Mr. Wiebe: I'm pleased to rise to third reading on Bill 4. At its core, this bill is about holding governments accountable to protect the rights of citizens. Bill 4 requires that whenever the notwithstanding clause is used, the government must automatically refer that decision to the Court of Appeal for review. If a Manitoba government does invoke the notwithstanding clause, we just want to make sure that Manitobans have the information that they need when they then go to vote.
We've seen how certain right‑wing governments in other jurisdictions have used the notwithstanding clause to attack the rights of minorities and vulnerable people in communities. And we want to make it clear here in Manitoba that these hateful human rights violations have no place in this province.
* (15:40)
While members opposite campaigned against the rights of LGBTQIA+ Manitobans, on this side of the House, we're committed to protecting the rights of vulnerable Manitobans. We are building one Manitoba, a Manitoba where everyone feels valued and protected, and Manitobans deserve a government that they can trust to do this. They deserve a government that's accountable, and that they deserve a government that stands against hate and discrimination.
I'm proud that Bill 4 has the support of many community groups, including the National Council of Canadian Muslims, the Rainbow Resource Centre, the Criminal Defence Lawyers Association of Manitoba, the Public Service Alliance of Canada, Manitoba Federation of Labour, the Manitoba Federation of Union Retirees, who have all advocated for this bill at public committee.
I urge all members of this House to support the government's accountability–to support a government accountability, pardon me, by passing Bill 4, The Constitutional Questions Amendment Act, today.
Thank you, Honourable Speaker.
Mr. Wayne Balcaen (Brandon West): Bill 4 adds yet another procedural layer, but no new legal safeguards. That is very typical of what we've seen by this NDP government, is increasing red tape. It does not strengthen Charter protection since judicial and political checks already exist throughout section 1, litigation and public accountability at election time.
Section 33 already balances the legislative supremacy and judicial oversight. This bill's mandatory reference process adds costs and delays without altering rights protection. The rights most fundamental to democracy, equality and Indigenous peoples remain untouchable under section 33 of our Charter. True accountability rises from open legislative debate and public consent, not repetitive legal procedures, which this NDP government is trying to rely upon.
Bill 4 does not confer any new protection of the Charter of Rights in the Constitution. The Constitution was created by democratically elected representatives from the provinces and federal government. They came to a compromise that balanced the powers of the federal government, provincial government and the judiciary. The Charter, through sections 1 and 33, gives the final say to the electorate, not the judiciary, thus entrenching the supremacy of democracy.
Manitoba has never invoked section 33. The NDP government has stated it never intends to do so, nor does the PC Party. Section 33 already contains strong democratic safeguards: express declaration is required, five‑year sunset and public renewal. All Manitobans continue to enjoy absolute protection of democratic mobility, equality, language and Indigenous rights, regardless of section 33 of the Charter.
The proposal may be seen as more political theatre than constitutional reform. Something that this Justice Minister and the NDP are famous for is that political theatre. To say that this bill protects democratic rights is inaccurate; section 33 cannot override democratic rights. Bill 4 formalizes this principle. Any future invocation must be automatically referred to the Manitoba charter–or Court of Appeal for an advisory opinion. This would make Manitoba the first province in Canada with a mandatory judicial review mechanism tied to section 33. This, again, ties up the courts and is costly for Manitobans, not required and is not a protection of Manitobans.
Under the national content, the federal government, the Parliament of Canada, has never invoked section 33. Successive Justice ministers have rejected its use as inconsistent with federal leadership on Charter of Rights. Presently, there is a case before the Supreme Court, Hak v. Quebec, in which Manitoba and many other provinces have intervener status.
It would have been wise for this government and for this Minister of Justice to await the ruling of the Supreme Court of Canada on this very topic before entering legislation that will become either inept or, at worst, hitting the garbage can. Premier Kinew and–sorry, the Premier (Mr. Kinew)–
The Speaker: Order, please.
I'd remind members that we're not allowed to use members' names. You have constituency or their ministerial title.
Mr. Balcaen: My apologies, Honourable Speaker.
The Kinew government and the Minister of Justice has presented Bill 4 as a transparency measure, arguing it would guarantee Manitobans' visibility into the future attempts to override Charter rights.
There is no particular urgency to this bill, as there is no pressing matter of public concern that would make the passage of this bill important. Any bill that may alter the application of the Constitution, especially when it impacts Charter rights, requires thorough consultation. Again, that has not happened.
Given the relevant–given that relevant matters are currently before the Supreme Court, this bill seems premature and may be rendered moot by the ruling. I brought forward a report stage amendment that actually said: but the court may decline to consider the matter if the court has already decided the issue set out in subsection 2 at the end of the proposed subsection 1.1. Bill 4 should not force the Court of Appeal to re‑hear issues that have already been decided by a court.
Our amendment was a practical safeguard to prevent duplication, unnecessary delay and the misuse of judicial resources. Unfortunately, those were all turned down by this NDP government.
We simply cannot support political theatre when it comes to our democracy and our Charter.
Thank you, Honourable Speaker.
The Speaker: Is the House ready for the question?
The question before the House is concurrence and third reading of Bill 4, The Constitutional Questions Amendment Act.
Is it the pleasure of the House to adopt the motion?
Some Honourable Members: Agreed.
The Speaker: Agreed and so ordered–
Some Honourable Members: No.
The Speaker: Oh, there was a no.
Voice Vote
The Speaker: So, all those in House in favour, please say aye.
Some Honourable Members: Aye.
The Speaker: All those opposed, please say nay.
Some Honourable Members: Nay.
The Speaker: The Ayes have it, in my opinion.
Mr. Balcaen: On division, Honourable Speaker.
The Speaker: The motion is accordingly passed, on division.
The Speaker: And we will now move on to Bill 8, The Long‑Bladed Weapon Control Amendment Act.
Hon. Matt Wiebe (Minister of Justice and Attorney General): I move, seconded by the Minister of Agriculture (Mr. Kostyshyn), that Bill 8, The Long‑Bladed Weapon Control Amendment Act, reported from the Standing Committee on Justice, be concurred in and be now read for a third time and passed.
Motion presented.
Mr. Wiebe: I'm pleased to rise in the House today for the third reading of Bill 8, The Long-Bladed Weapon Control Amendment Act. This bill is about keeping Manitobans safe by keeping dangerous long‑bladed weapons out of the hands of youth and criminals.
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In 2024, we introduced The Long‑Bladed Weapon Control Act, which banned the sale of machetes and long‑bladed weapons to minors. As a direct result of this legislation, Winnipeg saw a 24.1 per cent decrease in youth weapon offences in 2025. This brings us to a total of 41 per cent decrease in youth violent crime with a weapon as compared to the previous government.
Our government has greatly reduced the number of dangerous weapons in the hands of youth over the last year. But we know that online sellers and resale platforms are still selling these weapons without proper age checks. Bill 8 puts an end to that by banning online and secondary sellers from selling long‑bladed weapons to minors.
While the members opposite fired 55 Winnipeg police officers and cut front-line safety resources, our government is choosing targeted and evidence‑based action to make our communities safer and reduce the rate of violent crime. This bill has strong support from law enforcement, municipalities, Indigenous leadership, the retail sector and Manitobans who have voiced their support for this legislation at public committee.
Manitobans, they want safer streets, and that's what this bill delivers. Honourable Speaker, I urge all members to support Bill 8 to keep long‑bladed weapons out of the hands of young people and criminals.
Thank you, Honourable Speaker.
The Speaker: No further speakers?
Is the House ready for the question then?
Some Honourable Members: Question.
The Speaker: Question before the House is concurrence and third reading of Bill 8, The Long-Bladed Weapon Control Amendment Act.
Is it the pleasure of the House to adopt the motion? [Agreed]
The motion is accordingly passed.
The Speaker: We will now move on to Bill 9, The Street Weapons Control Act.
Hon. Matt Wiebe (Minister of Justice and Attorney General): I move that Bill 9, The Street Weapons Control Act, reported from the Standing Committee on Justice, be concurred in and now be read for a third time and passed.
The Speaker: The honourable Minister of Justice.
Mr. Wiebe: I move, seconded by the Minister of Municipal and Northern Relations (Mr. Simard), that Bill 9, The Street Weapons Control Act, reported from the Standing Committee on Justice, be concurred in and be now read for a third time and passed.
Motion presented.
Mr. Wiebe: I'm pleased to rise in the House today for third reading of Bill 9, The Street Weapons Control Act. Unlike members opposite who front–who cut front‑line safety resources and fired 55 Winnipeg police officers, our government is committed to making our communities safer. This NDP government has increased funding to municipal police by now 32 per cent over our short time in office, and we have massively expanded the community safety officer program as compared to the previous government.
Our government's work is paying off. In 2025, Winnipeg saw one of the largest decreases in crime severity on record, Honourable Speaker. Specifically, in 2025, knife crime in Winnipeg was down 15.7 per cent, which the Winnipeg police directly attributed to our government's Long Bladed Weapon Control Act.
We've made progress, clearly, but we also know that there's more work to do. Bill 9 continues the work of keeping our communities safe by making it illegal to carry street weapons like machetes, axes and pepper spray in public spaces. It will allow police and safety officers to step in and seize the weapon before someone gets hurt.
I'm proud to inform the House that this legislation has the support of law enforcement and community leaders throughout our province, including the Association of Manitoba Municipalities, Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak, Southern Chiefs' Organization and the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs.
I want to thank these valued stakeholders for their advocacy and support at public committee.
Honourable Speaker, I urge all members of this House to support the common sense legislation embodied in Bill 9, which will make communities safer for all Manitobans.
Thank you, Honourable Speaker.
The Speaker: Seeing no further speakers, is the House ready for the question?
Some Honourable Members: Question.
The Speaker: The question before the House is concurrence and third reading of Bill 9, The Street Weapons Control Act.
Is it the pleasure of the House to adopt the motion? [Agreed]
The motion is accordingly passed.
The Speaker: We'll now move on to Bill 31, The Highway Traffic Amendment Act.
Hon. Matt Wiebe (Minister of Justice and Attorney General): I move, seconded by the Minister of Infrastructure and Transportation, that Bill 31, The Highway Traffic Amendment Act, reported from the Standing Committee on Justice, be concurred in and be now read for a third time and passed.
Motion presented.
Mr. Wiebe: I'm pleased to rise in the House today for the third reading of Bill 31, The Highway Traffic Amendment Act.
Manitoba has become, once again, a national leader on impaired driving reforms. Every single session, our NDP government has brought forward stronger and stronger impaired legislation to ensure that our roads are safe and to prevent the tragic consequences of impaired driving. At the same time, we recognize there is always more work to do. Impaired driving continues to be a serious threat to public safety, and its consequences are entirely preventable.
Bill 31 sends a clear message to Manitobans that impaired driving is completely unacceptable here in this province. Bill 31 increases immediate roadside licence suspensions for impaired drivers, it expands mandatory Ignition Interlock participation and it adds a stricter zero per cent blood alcohol content prohibitions, including requiring zero per cent blood alcohol content for all class 1 to 4 drivers.
These changes were developed in collaboration with our partners at MADD Canada and MADD Winnipeg, as well as law enforcement and Manitoba Public Insurance. I want to thank these valued partners for their committed advocacy against impaired driving. Our government is committed to working with you and continuing the fight against impaired driving.
I'm also proud that this bill received support from so many Manitobans at public committee. Manitobans, they expect safer roads, and they want a government that stands with the victims and survivors of impaired driving to create meaningful change.
I urge all members to support Bill 31 and support our fight against impaired driving.
Thank you, Honourable Speaker.
Mr. Wayne Balcaen (Brandon West): Just a few words on the record regarding this bill, The Highway Traffic Amendment Act. In my opinion and in the opinion of our PC caucus, this bill does not go far enough in protecting Manitobans. Manitobans are asking more. We've seen so many deadly crashes on our highways involving impairment.
I've spoke at length in this House and we've heard at committee from the Reimer family and from many other victims of impaired driving that want to see so much more from Manitoba when it comes to this legislation. Unfortunately, any time amendments are brought forward–and I will say very reasonable, very enforceable amendments are brought forward–this Minister of Justice and the entire NDP government turns those down, and unfortunately the victims are the ones that lose in these cases.
Manitobans want us to work together when it comes to the safety of our roads and when it comes to impaired driving. And, again, I know that the Reimer family has sent letters to this minister. I've spoken with him. I've spoke at committee about working together and making sure that we can bring forward legislation that is more impactful for all Manitobans and ensure the safety of vulnerable street users and all street users out there so that they are not subject to impaired driving.
Thank you, Honourable Speaker.
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The Speaker: Order, please.
The hour being 4 o'clock, I'm now interrupting debate to put the question on the remaining concurrence and third reading motions on the specified bills without further debate or amendment except for the debate provisions allowed for under rule 2(16).
For each such bill, the minister, critic from the opposition and each independent member may speak for a maximum of 10 minutes per bill. The House will not adjourn until all applicable questions have been put and royal assent has been granted. In accordance with our rules, all matters of privilege and points of order are deferred until after these actions have concluded.
We will now consider the bills in the order listed earlier this afternoon.
Now, the question before the House is concurrence and third reading of Bill 31, The Highway Traffic Amendment Act.
Is it the pleasure of the House to adopt the motion? [Agreed]
The motion is accordingly passed.
The Speaker: We will now move on to Bill 34, The Interprovincial Subpoena Amendment Act.
Hon. Matt Wiebe (Minister of Justice and Attorney General): I move, seconded by the Minister of Families (MLA Fontaine), that Bill 34, The Interprovincial Subpoena Amendment Act, reported from the Standing Committee on Justice, be concurred in and be now read for a third time and passed.
Motion presented.
Mr. Wiebe: I'm pleased to rise in the House today for third reading of Bill 34, The Interprovincial Subpoena Amendment Act. This bill amends The Interprovincial Subpoena Amendment Act to apply to boards, commissions and tribunals, allowing them to require witnesses from outside Manitoba to give evidence. Bill 34 improves accountability in our justice system, making sure that all cases have complete evidence.
Members opposite should be on board with increased accountability, especially with their record of having a premier who was fined for violating the Constitution.
Honourable Speaker, I encourage all members of this House to support more accountability by passing Bill 34, which will strengthen the ability of boards, commissions and tribunals to carry out their important mandates.
Thank you, Honourable Speaker.
The Speaker: No further speakers?
Is the House ready for the question?
Some Honourable Members: Question.
The Speaker: The question before the House is concurrence and third reading of Bill 34, The Interprovincial Subpoena Amendment Act.
Is it the pleasure of the House to adopt the motion? [Agreed]
The motion is accordingly passed.
The Speaker: We will now move on to Bill 40, The Elections Amendment Act.
Hon. Matt Wiebe (Minister of Justice and Attorney General): I move, seconded by the Minister of Sport, Culture, Heritage and Tourism (MLA Kennedy), that Bill 40, The Elections Amendment Act, reported from the Standing Committee on Justice, be concurred in and be now read for a third time and passed.
Motion presented.
Mr. Wiebe: I'm pleased to rise in the House today for third reading of Bill 40, The Elections Amendment Act. Manitobans deserve to trust their electoral system. They deserve to know who they are voting for and whether those individuals have respected the rules that are meant to protect the public.
Members opposite have broken that trust, from unethical campaigning practices to the former premier of this province being fined for violating the Constitution in the Sio Silica scandal. The previous PC failed government has damaged public confidence in our democracy.
On this side of the House, we are committed to restoring that confidence. Bill 40 is a necessary measure to increase government transparency and accountability. The bill requires candidates to tell voters if they have been found to have broken the conflict of interest rules as an MLA when serious penalties were imposed, like fines, suspensions or even if they've lost their seat.
This common sense legislation restores trust by putting more information in the hands of voters. Given their shameful record of violating conflict of interest rules, I would expect members opposite to just get on board with this legislation and begin to repair the damage that was left by the previous PC government.
I urge all members to support greater accountability in our electoral system, support Bill 40 and let's move on with repairing democracy in our province.
Thank you, Honourable Speaker.
Mr. Wayne Balcaen (Brandon West): At the outset, I want to be clear that transparency and accountability matter. If a member of this House is found to have violated The Conflict of Interest Act, that should and ought to be taken seriously.
What is important to understand is that those Ethics Commissioner reports are already publicly available to anyone in Manitoba. They can go online and read them today should they choose. So Bill 40 doesn't really create any new transparency. It simply republishes information that is already available to all voters.
If this government truly wanted to improve transparency, it could have drafted a much broader and more principled bill. Instead, this legislation is very selective. It captures only certain ethics outcomes while deliberately excluding others. For example, the bill excludes cases where the Assembly imposed a reprimand. It also excludes cases where the Ethics Commissioner found a contravention, but no penalty was imposed.
If the goal is truly transparency, it's fair to ask why those situations are being left out by this NDP government. Manitoba already has nomination disclosure rules for certain criminal and financial dishonesty offences. Those disclosures are published by Ethics Manitoba so voters can see them. Bill 40 creates a second disclosure stream tied not–or, tied only to a narrow set of ethical findings.
Another question worth asking is why the government chose to amend The Elections Act rather than the ethics law itself. If these are concerns about ethics compliance, the logical place to address that is the conflict of interest act.
There is also a broader issue about what real transparency would look like. If the government is serious about giving voters more information, then disclosure rules should be comprehensive and consistent, not selective. For example, a more complete disclosure model could include cases where criminal offences occurred, but a pardon or record suspension was later granted. Voters deserve a full picture when they are evaluating candidates, not a system where certain things are disclosed and others are left out purposefully.
What makes this bill particularly troubling is that it appears to be very narrowly targeted. It has been drafted in a way that excludes violations that involve members of the government's own caucus. At the end of the day, legislation dealing with ethics and elections should be about improving the integrity of our democratic institutions. It should be written to target individual members–it should not be written to target individual members or to create partisan politic narratives. Manitobans expect us to strengthen the rules in a fair and consistent way, not to write laws that selectively apply to members while shielding others.
I was proud to bring forward report stage amendments on this bill which, again, improved transparency for all Manitobans. But, again, that report stage amendment was voted down by this NDP government that touts being transparent, but when the legislation is put before them, is quick to vote that down.
As a result of that, Honourable Speaker, I cannot support this bill as it is more window dressing and does not take into consideration all of what Manitobans deserve.
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The Speaker: Seeing no further speakers, is the House ready for the question?
Some Honourable Members: Question.
The Speaker: Question before the House is concurrence and third reading of Bill 40, The Elections Amendment Act.
Is it the pleasure of the House to adopt the motion?
Some Honourable Members: Agreed.
Some Honourable Members: No.
The Speaker: I hear a no.
Voice Vote
The Speaker: All those in the House in favour, please say aye.
Some Honourable Members: Aye.
The Speaker: All those opposed, please say nay.
Some Honourable Members: Nay.
The Speaker: In my opinion, the Ayes have it.
Mr. Balcaen: On division.
The Speaker: The motion is accordingly passed, on division.
The Speaker: As previously announced, we will now go on to Bill 42, The Motor Vehicle Statutes Amendment Act.
Hon. Matt Wiebe (Minister of Justice and Attorney General): I move, seconded by the Minister of Labour and Immigration (MLA Marcelino), that Bill 42, The Motor Vehicle Statutes Amendment Act, reported from the Standing Committee on Justice, be concurred in and be now read for a third time and passed.
Motion presented.
Mr. Wiebe: I'm pleased to rise to speak to third reading of Bill 42, The Motor Vehicle Statutes Amendment Act. Bill 42 makes improvements to MPI products and services to strengthen supports for Manitobans to make roads safer and to reduce red tape. This bill expands counselling benefits from MPI, reduces red tape in driver–truck driver training regulation, modernizes the definition of antique vehicles and allows farm trucks to be used for personal purposes.
Unlike members opposite who never modernized the antique vehicle legislation, we are committed to improving efficiency and making life easier for Manitobans. I am proud that this bill has the support of the Manitoba Beef Producers, who advocated for this expanded use of farm trucks at public committee.
I urge all members to vote in favour of road safety and reducing red tape by passing Bill 42, The Motor Vehicle Statutes Amendment Act, today.
Thank you, Honourable Speaker.
Mr. Trevor King (Lakeside): I'm pleased to have the opportunity to rise today to put a few words on record in regards to Bill 42 here at third reading. This bill contains a number of practical and reasonable changes affecting driver training, farm vehicle use and Manitoba Public Insurance benefits and, for that reason, we will be supporting its passage.
Perhaps the most significant change is the expansion of MPI counselling benefits to family members of those who have suffered catastrophic injuries or loss of life in a motor vehicle accident, as well as individuals who witness these traumatic events. Trauma does not stop with the direct victim. Serious accidents can have lasting impacts on families and witnesses, and recognizing those mental health challenges is an important step forward.
This bill also modernizes oversight of driver training schools by introducing written contracts, greater transparency requirements, annual reporting and a public registry. Manitobans who invest their time and money into driver training deserve clear expectations and accountability from these providers.
For rural Manitobans, the changes to farm truck usage reflect the realities of modern farm life. Allowing greater flexibility for personal use recognizes how farm vehicles are actually used by farm families each and every day.
While we support this legislation, there are still important questions that the government will need to answer as these changes are implemented. Much of the detail surrounding driver training oversight will be contained in regulation rather than in the legislation itself. We will be watching closely to ensure that those regulations are fair, practical and appropriately tailored to different types of driver training programs.
There are also unanswered questions regarding the expanded counselling benefits, including how eligibility will be determined and what the long‑term financial impact will be on MPI. During briefing, government officials were unable to provide a cost estimate for those changes. Manitobans once again deserve transparency regarding both the benefits and the costs associated with new programs.
Overall, Bill 42, however, represents a sensible modernization of several areas of Manitoba law. We support its passage and will continue to hold the government accountable for ensuring these changes are implemented effectively, fairly and in the best interests of Manitobans.
Thank you, Honourable Speaker.
The Speaker: The question before the House is concurrence and third reading of Bill 42, The Motor Vehicle Statutes Amendment Act.
Is it the pleasure of the House to adopt the motion? [Agreed]
The motion is accordingly passed.
The Speaker: We'll now move on to concurrence and third reading of Bill 44, The Minor Amendments and Corrections Act, 2026.
Hon. Matt Wiebe (Minister of Justice and Attorney General): I move, seconded by the Minister for Advanced Education and Training, that Bill 44, The Minor Amendments and Corrections Act, 2026, be concurred in and be now read for a third time and passed.
Motion presented.
Mr. Wiebe: I can feel the excitement in the room as we rise for third reading of Bill 44, The Minor Amendments and Corrections Act, 2026.
This annual omnibus bill corrects drafting, typographical and numbering errors in Manitoba statutes. It also makes other minor amendments to various acts to provide clarity and consistency in Manitoba's statute book. The bill is about keeping our legislation current and clear and is a necessary part of the legislative process. I encourage all members to get on board and to support Bill 44, The Minor Amendments and Corrections Act, 2026, today.
Thank you, Honourable Speaker.
The Speaker: Seeing no further speakers, is the House ready for the question?
Some Honourable Members: Question.
The Speaker: The question before the House is concurrence and third reading of Bill 44, The Minor Amendments and Corrections Act, 2026.
Is it the pleasure of the House to adopt the motion? [Agreed]
The motion is accordingly passed.
The Speaker: We will now move on to concurrence and third reading of Bill 5, The Accessibility for Manitobans Amendment Act and The Commemoration of Days, Weeks, and Months Amendment Act (Access Awareness Week).
Hon. Nahanni Fontaine (Minister responsible for Accessibility): I move, seconded by the Minister for Sport, Culture, Heritage and Tourism, that Bill 5, The Accessibility for Manitobans Amendment Act and The Commemoration of Days, Weeks and Months Amendment Act (Access Awareness Week), reported from the Standing Committee on Justice and subsequently amended, be concurred in and now read for a third time and passed.
Motion presented.
MLA Fontaine: I'd like to start by saying miigwech to the Manitobans who took time to address the Standing Committee on Social and Economic Development on Wednesday, March 18, 2026. I appreciate the thoughtful comments on Bill 5, particularly those informed by lived experience. Our government is a listening government. We heard this feedback and made adjustments accordingly to the planned draft changes to The Accessibility for Manitobans Act.
Once Bill 5 is in force, and after a transition period comes to an end, four‑year accessibility plans will be required starting in 2032. The first plans will cover the four‑year period, 2032 to 2035. I proposed and passed amendments on Bill 5 in response to the suggestion we require progress reports on four‑year accessibility plans.
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These amendments add a requirement for public- sector bodies to submit progress reports on the implementation of their four‑year accessibility plans halfway through their completion. And that's within the first two years of the four‑year plan. This will allow public sector bodies to benefit from longer periods to execute their plans while also ensuring there is accountability and transparency throughout the extended four‑year period.
Under legislation, accessibility plans must be made available to the public, something members of the disability community let us know was critical for transparency and accountability. These amendments reflect feedback from both the public and sector bodies and members of the disability community, supporting a sustainable impact and collaborative path to a more accessible Manitoba for everyone. Again, miigwech for those folks that came and gave their presentations. We did listen and we heard you and we made those changes.
Miigwech.
The Speaker: No further speakers?
So just for the information of the House, the bill was reported from the Standing Committee on economic–Social and Economic Development, not the Standing Committee on Justice.
So the question before the House then is concurrence and third reading of Bill 5, The Accessibility for Manitobans Amendment Act–and so the whole motion is Bill 5, The Accessibility for Manitobans Amendment Act and The Commemoration of Days, Weeks and Months Amendment Act (Access Awareness Week), reported on from the Standing Committee on Social and Economic Development and subsequently amended, be concurred in and be now read for a third time and passed.
Is it the pleasure of the House to adopt the motion? [Agreed]
The motion is accordingly passed.
The Speaker: We now move on to Bill 6, The Sign Languages Recognition Act.
Hon. Nahanni Fontaine (Minister responsible for Accessibility): I move, seconded by the Minister for Labour and Immigration, that Bill 6, The Sign Languages Recognition Act, reported from the Standing Committee on Social and Economic Development and subsequently amended, be concurred in and now read for a third time and passed.
Motion presented.
MLA Fontaine: I want to say miigwech to the Manitobans who took time to address the Standing Committee on Social and Economic Development on Wednesday, May 7, 2026. I very much appreciate the thoughtful comments and the lived experience these Manitobans brought to our committee.
Amendments were made to Bill 6 based on that–those presentations from folks with lived experience and those amendments add more specific recognition of deafblind and hard-of-hearing Manitobans who also use sign languages, including tactile sign languages, as primary languages.
This amended wording was developed through additional consultation directly with members of these communities. And I just want to say a profound miigwech to all of the folks that we've met with in the last many years to bring us to this really important day of third reading and concurrence on The Sign Languages Recognition Act.
Miigwech to each and every one of you.
The Speaker: No further speakers.
Is the House ready for the question?
Some Honourable Members: Question.
The Speaker: The question before the House is concurrence and third reading of Bill 6, The Sign Languages Recognition Act.
Is it the pleasure of the House to adopt the motion? [Agreed]
The motion is accordingly passed.
The Speaker: We will now move on to Bill 36, The Child and Family Services Amendment Act.
Hon. Nahanni Fontaine (Minister of Families): I move, seconded by the Minister for Education, that Bill 36, The Child and Family Services Amendment Act, reported from the Standing Committee on Social and Economic Development, be concurred in and be now read for a third time and passed.
Motion presented.
MLA Fontaine: I'm pleased to just put up a couple of words in respect of Bill 36.
As folks know, we are having a lot of amendments to our CFS acts and our authorities acts to ensure that Manitoba is moving towards the path of jurisdiction, and Bill 36 creates the conditions for smoother transitions to Indigenous‑led service delivery. It affirms the inherent right of Indigenous governments to care for our children according to our own laws and our governance and cultural practices.
Bill 36 also reflects the input of Indigenous partners in helping ensure provincial processes don't impede on the exercise of that jurisdiction. As well, it addresses long‑standing gaps by extending post‑majority supports to young adults in a broader range of care arrangements. This change helps ensure that all youth in care can transition to adulthood with the supports that they need and they are entitled to.
It also 'recognides'–recognizes the self-government agreement of Sioux Valley Dakota First Nation. I appreciate Chief Bone and the meeting that we had with chief and council mere days after they won their election, and their support of Bill 36 reaffirms our commitment towards jurisdiction.
So, again, this bill strengthens our collective efforts to build a Child and Family Services rooted in respect, partnership and reconciliation. I'm so proud to have this third reading and concurrence of Bill 36.
Miigwech.
The Speaker: No further speakers?
Then the question before the House is concurrence and third reading of Bill 36, The Child and Family Services Amendment Act.
Is it the pleasure of the House to adopt the motion? [Agreed]
The motion is accordingly passed.
The Speaker: We'll now move on to Bill 11, The Employment Standards Code Amendment Act (Sick Notes for Employee Absences).
Hon. Malaya Marcelino (Minister of Labour and Immigration): I move, seconded by the Minister of Sport, Culture, Heritage and Tourism (MLA Kennedy), that Bill 11, The Employment Standards Code Amendment Act (Sick Notes for Employee Absences); Loi modifiant le Code des normes d'emploi (notes du médecin en cas d'absence d'un employé), reported from the Standing Committee on Legislative Affairs and subsequently amended, be concurred in and be now read for a third time and passed.
Motion presented.
MLA Marcelino: I'm pleased to rise for the third reading of Bill 11.
* (16:30)
The bill limits when an employer may require a sick note from an employee who is absent from work due to illness or injury. With these measures, employers may only require a sick note if an employee's absence continues for more than a week or if the employee has been absent for more than 10 working days in a calendar year. When a sick note can be requested, it may be issued by a variety of health professionals. Also, where an employer requests an employee to provide a sick note after the restricted period, the employee will be entitled to reimbursement from their employer for costs of the sick note, if incurred.
This bill also provides clarity to verification requirements for long‑term protected leaves provided under the code. These measures ensure that employees can focus on rest and recovery at home from shorter term illnesses, employers can better plan for longer term leave requests, and will free up to 36,000 hours of physician time per year, which can be redirected to better meet the needs of Manitobans.
I would also like to extend my thanks to the Labour Management Review Committee for their joint recommendation, and Doctors Manitoba and the Canadian Medical Association for their advocacy for these changes. I would also like to thank all the presenters at the standing committee meeting who provided their support and feedback on the bill.
Following discussions at the standing committee meeting, we moved to report stage amendment to Bill 11 that will have these amendments come into force on October 1, 2026. This shortens the implementation from the previously proposed 180 days or six‑month period. This will balance Doctors Manitoba's recommendation to expedite the changes with the need for a transition period for employers.
I look forward to this bill passing third reading today.
Thank you, Honourable Speaker.
The Speaker: Further speakers?
And the question before the House is concurrence and third reading of Bill 11, The Employment Standards Code Amendment Act (Sick Notes for Employee Absences).
Is it the pleasure of the House to adopt the motion? [Agreed]
The motion is accordingly passed.
The Speaker: We will now move on to Bill 15, The Consumer Protection Amendment Act.
Hon. Mintu Sandhu (Minister of Public Service Delivery): I move, seconded by the Minister of Agriculture (Mr. Kostyshyn), that Bill 15, The Consumer Protection Amendment Act, reported from the Standing Committee on Legislative Affairs, be concurred in and be now read for the third time and passed.
Motion presented.
MLA Sandhu: I'm pleased to rise today for the third reading of Bill 15, which would establish a right to repair for designated consumer goods. Often, we hear that consumers have a hard time fixing and maintaining their product. Repair today can require specialized tools, hard‑to‑find parts and access to software and information such as manuals. With this legislation, consumers will have greater choice and better access to information about their repair options.
This legislation would require sellers and manufacturers of the designated consumer goods to provide buyers with the parts, tools, software and manuals needed to maintain or repair their goods. Bill 15 strengthens consumer protection, supports affordability for Manitobans and reduces unnecessary waste by making repair a practical option.
I look forward to the support of all members in passing this important bill.
Thank you, Honourable Speaker.
Mr. Josh Guenter (Borderland): This side of the House, the PC–this PC team certainly supports the concept of right to repair. However, our concern is that this bill lacks the necessary detail and lacks definitions. And we have asked the minister questions.
We've tried to get some more details. We've gone through the committee process and heard from Manitobans and a wide variety of–wide range of stakeholders, many of whom share those concerns as well. They've raised them at committee that this bill really has no detail in it.
And that's a huge concern because this House is about to pass a bill that gives the government considerable power to later on develop the regulations, and I guess we're just supposed to take it for granted that they're going to do the work of consulting with Manitobans and industries and stakeholders and everyone that's impacted by this broad, far‑reaching bill, and we're supposed to support it.
So, you know, I would again just take this opportunity to register those concerns that were raised by Manitobans that this bill lacks detail, and it's unfortunate that our amendments to try to bring some clarity and some definition to the bill were shot down by the government.
And so we're going to continue to do our job as best we can to hold this government to account, especially when it comes to Bill 15, but we certainly do support the concept of right to repair and certainly wish this government had done its due diligence and put a little more effort into the development of this bill.
So with that, I close my remarks. Thank you, Honourable Speaker.
The Speaker: The question before the House is concurrence and third reading of Bill 15, The Consumer Protection Amendment Act.
Is it the pleasure of the House to adopt the motion? [Agreed]
The motion is accordingly passed.
The Speaker: We'll now move on to Bill 16, The Mental Health Amendment Act.
Hon. Bernadette Smith (Minister responsible for Mental Health): I move, seconded by the Minister of Health, Seniors and Long-Term Care (MLA Asagwara), that Bill 16, The Mental Health Amendment Act, reported from the Standing Committee on Social and Economic Development, be concurred and now be read a third time and passed.
Motion presented.
Ms. Smith: I'm pleased to rise on third reading of Bill 16. Bill 16 will strengthen the access to urgent psychiatric assessment and treatment to ensure that all individuals are provided with the mental health care that they need to live the best quality of life possible in Manitoba.
Bill 16 is a first step in modernizing The Mental Health Act by expanding the authority of qualified health professionals, including physician assistants, clinical assistants and nurse practitioners, to complete involuntary psychiatric assessments for individuals that may be high risk of harming themselves or others due to a mental health disorder. This bill also establishes authority to authorize other qualified health professionals in regulation at a future time, such as registered psychiatric nurses.
Currently, only physicians may apply for involuntary psychiatric assessment under The Mental Health Act. This creates challenges and bottlenecks due to significant resource restraints with the limited number of physicians and psychiatrists in Manitoba. Based on the strong recommendations of the Chief Provincial Psychiatrist and Shared Health psychic–psychiatric leadership, this expansion is about improving access and reducing delays in urgent psychiatric assessment and treatment across Manitoba, including crisis response settings, emergency departments and rural remote health settings.
Manitoba joins eight other Canadian jurisdictions in expanding this authority beyond physicians to other qualified health professionals. Since the last major review of The Mental Health Act in 1998‑99, the education and scope of practice of qualified health professionals has expanded to enable them to complete applications for a psychiatric assessment and other functions.
Honourable Speaker, the health professions regulatory colleges responsible for these qualified health professionals unanimously supported Bill 16. The college and–College of Physicians and Surgeons of Manitoba, the College of Registered Nurses of Manitoba and the College of Registered Psychiatric Nurses of Manitoba were all consulted and confirm that their members have the knowledge, skills, competencies and standards of practice to place under the regulated health professionals act and regulation.
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And while The Mental Health Act does not prohibit the use of virtual technology, this amendment will confirm the authority of health–qualified health professionals to conduct virtual assessments for patients in rural and remote Manitoba. It will also confirm the authority of the Mental Health Review Board to conduct remote hearings.
I look forward to the unanimous support of this bill passing today.
Miigwech.
The Speaker: No further speakers?
Then the question before the House is concurrence and third reading of Bill 16, The Mental Health Amendment Act.
Is it the pleasure of the House to adopt the motion? [Agreed]
The motion is accordingly passed.
The Speaker: We'll now move on to Bill 18, the Waste Reduction and Prevention Amendment Act (Strengthening Enforcement).
Hon. Mike Moyes (Minister of Environment and Climate Change): I move, seconded by the Minister of Business, Mining, Trade and Job Creation (Mr. Moses), that Bill 18, The Waste Reduction and Prevention Amendment Act (Strengthening Enforcement), reported from the Standing Committee on Social and Economic Development, be concurred in and now read for a third time and passed.
Motion presented.
MLA Moyes: I'm pleased to rise for a third reading of Bill 18. This bill strengthens the framework under The Waste Reduction and Prevention Act. It ensures Manitoba has contemporary compliance tools and helps ensure stewards and stewardship program operators, landfill owners and operators meet their responsibilities. This bill strengthens compliance as well as provides progressive enforcement tools.
This includes applying interest on overdue WRARS Levy payments, introduces administrative monetary penalties, ensures environment officers have clear authority to issue necessary orders, clarifies offence provisions including failure to comply with orders, providing false and misleading information and obstructing officers.
Bill 18 also ensures greater transparency by ensuring the publication of compliance orders, stewardship plans, suspensions and cancellations. These amendments are a practical and important step forward in the modernization of this bill. It strengthens reinforcement tools, clarifies responsibilities and supports better environmental protection for our great province.
And I look forward to the unanimous support in passing this legislation.
Mr. Greg Nesbitt (Riding Mountain): Bill 18 is mostly about improving how the system is enforced. It adds new tools that may make enforcement more effective, but it also raises questions about fairness, clarity and how it will affect smaller and rural communities. The key will be making sure these new powers are used in a fair, clear and balanced way across the province.
Thank you, Honourable Speaker.
The Speaker: The question before the House is concurrence and third reading of Bill 18, The Waste Reduction and Prevention Amendment Act (Strengthening Enforcement).
Is it the pleasure of the House to adopt the motion? [Agreed]
The motion is accordingly passed.
The Speaker: We'll now move on to Bill 37, The Environmental Statutes Amendment Act.
Hon. Mike Moyes (Minister of Environment and Climate Change): I move, seconded by the Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure (MLA Naylor), that Bill 37, The Environmental Statutes Amendment Act, reported from the Standing Committee on Social and Economic Development, be concurred in and now read for a third time and passed.
Her Honour the Lieutenant Governor has been advised of the bill, and I table the message.
The Speaker: Been moved by the honourable Minister of Environment and Climate Change, seconded by the honourable Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure, that Bill 37, The Environmental Statutes Amendment Act, reported on from the Standing Committee on Social and Economic Development, be concurred in and be now read a third time and passed.
And Her Honour the Lieutenant Governor has been advised of the bill, and the message has been tabled.
MLA Moyes: I'm happy to rise for third reading of Bill 37, The Environmental Statutes Amendment Act. This bill ensures that the Manitoba government can better protect our environment now and for generations to come. Bill 37 enhances transparency, strengthens enforcement and puts the onus for costs on those creating environmental risk rather than citizens.
This bill builds on past amendments to ensure Manitobans have access to environmental information and that we can enforce our regulations better while protecting the land, water and air. Specifically, this bill will improve communication with the public by modernizing how environmental information, proposals and decisions are shared.
It enhances reporting and transparency so that Manitobans have consistent access to environmental information that matters to their communities. It also ensures those who violate environmental laws face meaningful consequences and it holds polluters accountable.
The bill also expands the public registry so that all Manitobans have access to the information about the environmental compliance, monitoring and enforcement of licensed developments under The Environment Act and The Dangerous Goods Handling and Transportation Act.
Information about appeals related to licensing decisions and appeal–about–sorry, about–information about appeals related to licensing decisions will be shared through the public registry, something that we heard a lot–or have heard from stakeholders and the Manitoba Law Reform Commission. Together these changes in Bill 37 help protect our environment, improve public accountability and strengthens regulatory oversight.
And I look forward to the support of all members and that we can continue to do the good work on protecting the environment.
Thank you.
Mr. Greg Nesbitt (Riding Mountain): Bill 37 contains some positive steps, especially around enforcement and information sharing. At the same time, it raises real questions about costs, transparency, oversight and fairness. Those questions need careful consideration as this bill moves forward to royal assent.
As opposition members, our responsibility is to make sure laws are fair, clear and accountable. We will be watching to make sure northern and smaller communities are not left at a disadvantage and that the impacts of new rules are shared fairly across the province.
Thank you, Honourable Speaker.
The Speaker: The question before the House is concurrence and third reading of Bill 37, The Environmental Statutes Amendment Act.
Is it the pleasure of the House to adopt the motion? [Agreed]
The motion is accordingly passed.
The Speaker: We will now move on to Bill 19, The Animal Care Amendment Act.
Hon. Ron Kostyshyn (Minister of Agriculture): I so move, seconded by Minister of Housing, Addictions and Homelessness (Ms. Smith), that Bill 19, The Animal Care Amendment Act, reported from the standing committee as Legislative Affairs, be concurred in and now read for the third time to pass.
The Speaker: It has been moved by the honourable Minister of Agriculture, seconded by the honourable Minister of Housing, Addictions and Homelessness, that Bill 19, The Animal Care Amendment Act, reported from the Standing Committee on Legislative Affairs, be concurred in and be now read a third time and passed.
Mr. Kostyshyn: On behalf of Manitoba Agriculture, I'm pleased again to bring forward Bill 19 for passage. We are serious about the ethical treatment of animals and we saw at the committee there is support for these amendments.
With this bill, fines will now double from $10,000 to $20,000 for the first offence and from $20,000 to $100,000 for a subsequent offence. Prison terms for serious offenders also increased. Bill 19 will establish a new licensing regime for those selling and transferring pet animals in Manitoba.
Our intent is to first focus on the sale and the transfer of dogs in their efforts to address puppy mills. The intent is to capture ongoing commercial activities. The licensing approach we are pursuing replaces one that has not been in use for many–more than a decade. The intent is not to require individuals acting in good faith, whether due to circumstances and other one‑off situations to hold a licence.
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We also intend to develop other exceptions for licensing fees. Examples include municipal rescues that are registered charities and organizations like the Winnipeg Humane Society.
With the passage of the bill, Agriculture looks forward to working–monitoring online advertisements of pet animals for sale. And there are other elements of this bill. The bill allows us to adopt animal health welfare codes and standardize by regulations. The standards are supported by animal industry quality assurance programs. This allows our auctions–actions to be timely in response to industry. It benefits animals and assists Manitobans who care for animals. It allows for immediate incorporation of current industry‑approved animal‑care standards.
The bill also addressed some procedural matters that Manitoba pursues in court orders with individuals who are no longer able to care for their animals. We need to ensure people have access to justice while also preserving a strong system of animal protection.
Lastly, it is our intent to bring forward regulatory changes to support this bill. I've mentioned some elements include exemptions to licensing. We also intend to make it an offence for abandoning pet animals.
The bill supports Manitoba Agriculture's ongoing mandate to animal care and welfare.
Thank you, Honourable Speaker.
Mr. Konrad Narth (La Vérendrye): Thank you for the opportunity to speak to Bill 19.
Honourable Speaker, I've made it clear through second reading and committee our stance on protecting the rights and the safety of all animals on this side of the House, but especially as the focus is on puppy mills, as the minister has stated, as well as dogs and dog breeding.
Honourable Speaker, we both share the strong opinion of the importance that we need to promote through legislation in this House. Unfortunately, some concern that–has been brought up, and right now, all that we can do is hope that the regulations within this legislation are drafted with the proper intent and consideration of the potential negative effects.
Honourable Speaker, the original permitting system and licensing system has been now repealed, or will now be repealed, bringing in a new system that does not have a clear permitting system, no–the legislation does not provide any clarity on who will be issuing the permits or the timelines for approval of the permits. What we do see is a drastic increase in fines, but no clarity.
The minister, in his remarks just before mine, has once again reiterated that exceptions will be considered. But, Honourable Speaker, you know, other than the vague response that we had heard and the exception potentially for the Humane Society, we haven't heard the extent of exceptions that will be made.
A concern from an agriculture perspective that I need to put on the record is comments that were made that those that obtain these licences as breeders would need to have the involvement of veterinarians, which I don't disagree with. I think it's important that there is oversight by the professionals that are able to state the health of an animal.
But my concern, Honourable Speaker, is that we are seeing a severe shortage of veterinarians in the province–large animal veterinarians–the agriculture sector, livestock producers are struggling with those shortages. And what we would not want to see is a further burden on that system.
So, Honourable Speaker, with that, I hope that regulation within this legislation will be well thought out and drafted to be a benefit to the animals it intends to protect, as well as being mindful of the effects that it could have on the broader agriculture sector.
So, with that, I thank you, Honourable Speaker.
The Speaker: So the question before the House is concurrence and third reading of Bill 19, The Animal Care Amendment Act.
Is it the pleasure of the House to adopt the motion? [Agreed]
The motion is accordingly passed.
The Speaker: We will now move on to Bill 26, The Health System Governance and Accountability Amendment Act (Eliminating Mandatory Overtime for Nurses).
Hon. Uzoma Asagwara (Minister of Health, Seniors and Long‑Term Care): I move, seconded by the Minister of Sport, Culture, Heritage and Tourism (MLA Kennedy), that Bill 26, The Health System Governance and Accountability Amendment Act (Eliminating Mandatory Overtime for Nurses), reported from the Standing Committee on Social and Economic Development, be concurred in and be now read a third time and passed.
Motion presented.
MLA Asagwara: Honourable Speaker, this bill declares that it is a provincial objective and priority that health services are provided in a manner that does not require nurses to work mandatory overtime. It enables the minister to establish benchmarks for eliminating the use of mandatory overtime for nurses and requires operators in the health system to develop plans to ensure compliance with these benchmarks.
Thank you, Honourable Speaker.
Mrs. Kathleen Cook (Roblin): Certainly, this is something that nurses have been asking for and something that we, on this side of the House, are supportive of.
However, we had proposed an amendment that I think really would have strengthened the bill. We had proposed requiring that the minister publish a report on the use of mandatory overtime for nurses in the province each year that would include the total number of times and hours that nurses were required to work mandatory overtime; the reasons for that, including the extent to which unfilled nursing positions contributed to that; the measures taken by the authority to eliminate the use of mandatory overtime; and the authority's progress toward meeting benchmarks.
Unfortunately, the NDP chose not to accept or adopt that amendment, and I really think it would have added a measure of accountability to this bill. We think that's unfortunate. Regardless, we're prepared to see the bill pass third reading today.
The Speaker: So the question before the House is concurrence and third reading of Bill 26, The Health System Governance and Accountability Amendment Act (Eliminating Mandatory Overtime for Nurses).
Is it the pleasure of the House to adopt the motion? [Agreed]
The motion is accordingly passed.
The Speaker: Now I'll move on to Bill 27, The Declaration of Principles for Patient Health Care Act and Amendments to The Health System Governance and Accountability Act.
Hon. Uzoma Asagwara (Minister of Health, Seniors and Long-Term Care): I move, seconded by the Minister of Health–Minister of Sport, Culture, Heritage and Tourism (MLA Kennedy), rather, that Bill 27, The Declaration of Principles for Patient Health Care Act and Amendments to The Health System Governance and Accountability Act, reported from the Standing Committee on Social and Economic Development, be concurred in and be now read for a third time and passed.
Motion presented.
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MLA Asagwara: This bill will create a new act that establishes guiding principles for our government and future governments in making decisions about Manitoba's health system, and will outline what patients can expect when accessing health care. The additional amendments to The Health System Governance and Accountability Act will enhance the sharing of information about critical incidents within Manitoba's health system for the purpose of improving our health system province wide.
Thank you, Honourable Speaker.
Mrs. Kathleen Cook (Roblin): I do want to put a couple of words on the record with respect to Bill 27. I mentioned this during second reading debate, but I think it bears repeating. The Premier (Mr. Kinew) and the NDP promised a patient safety charter. This is not a patient safety charter. It has no teeth and no accountability mechanisms, and there are some issues with the bill that we tried to address, again, through amendments that the NDP chose not to adopt.
One of the issues with this bill is that some of the key provisions in the bill are very unclear, in particular the provisions around, quote, reasonably timely access. And that's not defined anywhere. It says in the bill that reasonably timely access will be in accordance with clinical guidelines, but it's not clear what those clinical guidelines are or where a patient could find them.
To that end, we attempted to amend the bill that would require statements respecting expectations to include clear and understandable information setting out what patients can generally expect regarding reasonably timely access to health care, including an explanation of how clinical guidelines are used to determine whether access is reasonably timely.
This is for the public, because if this is supposed to be what the NDP are trying to pass off as a pacing–patient safety charter, then patients should be able to understand what's in it. Again, the NDP chose not to incorporate that amendment.
There are also other ways that this bill could be improved that we tried to address through amendments. One of those was incorporating many of the principles outlined in Debbie's law, which, of course, is intended to ensure that patients receive the care they need before they die on a wait-list.
To that end, we introduced an amendment requiring a health-care delivery organization to determine whether access to health care will be reasonably timely. And, if it is not going to be reasonably timely, it would've required the health-care delivery organization, namely, the RHA, to give the patient a written statement that sets out a description of the health care the patient is waiting for, the time frame that is considered reasonably timely–because a layperson isn't going to know what's considered reasonably timely in any given case.
It would also require the statement to include what–when the health-care delivery organization reasonably expects to be able to provide that care, i.e., this is when you should get the care, and this is when we can provide it, and, if applicable, options for a patient to get that care elsewhere, if Manitoba can't provide it in a timely manner. That would have added an additional layer of accountability for patients in Manitoba. Again, disappointing to see that the NDP chose to reject that amendment.
The Speaker: The question before the House is concurrence and third reading of Bill 27, the declaration of principles for patient health care and amendments to The Health System Governance and Accountability Act.
Is it the pleasure of the House to adopt the motion? [Agreed]
The motion is accordingly passed.
The Speaker: We'll now move on to Bill 28, The Health System Governance and Accountability Amendment Act (Nurse-to-Patient Ratios).
Hon. Uzoma Asagwara (Minister of Health, Seniors and Long-Term Care): I move, seconded by the Minister of Sport, Culture, Heritage and Tourism (MLA Kennedy), that Bill 28, the health system governance and accountability act, nurse-to-patient ratios, reported from the Standing Committee on Social and Economic Development, be concurred in and be now read for a third time and passed.
The Speaker: It has been moved by the honourable Minister of Health, Seniors and Long-Term Care, seconded by the honourable Minister of Sport, Culture, Heritage and Tourism, that Bill 28, The Health System Governance and Accountability Amendment Act (Nurse-to-Patient Ratios), reported on from the Standing Committee on Social and Economic Development, be concurred in and be now read a third time and passed.
MLA Asagwara: I am thrilled that we have gotten to this stage. Our government is the only government in all of Canada to be bringing forward legislation that not only establishes, but protects nurse-to-patient ratios in our province.
Mrs. Rachelle Schott, Acting Speaker, in the Chair
By establishing nurse-to-patient ratios in regulation for health-care operators, Manitoba will promote safe–patient safety, reduce medical errors and support the delivery of quality health care. Through operators, compliance plans and regular reporting to the minister, the department will be able to efficiently monitor trends and identify facilities and health-care settings where there are nursing shortages or challenges. This is the direct result of nurses advocating. This is the direct result of working with our partners, employers, unions and nurses themselves.
I look forward to this passing and us getting on to doing the good work of implementing these ratios for nurses across Manitoba.
Thank you, honourable Speaker.
The Acting Speaker (Rachelle Schott): Seeing no further speakers, the question for the House is Bill 28, The Health System Governance and Accountability Amendment Act (Nurse-to-Patient Ratios).
Is it the pleasure of the House to adopt the bill? [Agreed]
The motion is accordingly passed.
The Acting Speaker (Rachelle Schott): Bill–next bill before the House, Bill 32, The Improving Access to Breast Cancer Screening Act.
Hon. Uzoma Asagwara (Minister of Health, Seniors and Long-Term Care): I move, seconded by the Minister of Sport, Culture, Heritage and Tourism, that Bill 32, The Improving Access to Breast Cancer Screening Act, reported from the Standing Committee on Social and Economic Development, be concurred in and be now read for a third time and passed.
Motion presented.
MLA Asagwara: This bill will require CancerCare Manitoba to develop a plan to increase routine breast cancer screening across Manitoba and to increase screening for all individuals at increased risk of breast cancer. These plans must be reviewed at least every five years.
Furthermore, the bill will ensure CancerCare Manitoba and the provincial health authority report annually to the public to help strengthen accountability and transparency as we work to improve access to screening province-wide.
Honourable Speaker, I want to take a moment to thank the countless women–countless women across Manitoba who have shared their stories and their journey with myself and with our government. It is your advocacy, it is your effort, it is your voices that have brought this legislation to this point in Manitoba. And it is your voices and your advocacy and your expertise that is going to carry us forward in making sure that more Manitoba women get screened and have better outcomes as a result.
I want to thank all the organizations we partner with in order to bring this legislation forward, in order to lower the breast cancer screening age to 40 by the end of this year, and I want to reassure women across Manitoba, you finally have a government that is not only investing in improving the services that you deserve, but is listening to you because women's health care does not take a back seat here in Manitoba. It is a top priority under our government.
Thank you so much, honourable Speaker.
Mrs. Kathleen Cook (Roblin): Well, when it comes to this bill, you know, there is no doubt that some populations face both an increased risk of developing breast cancer as well as barriers to screening access. But if that's what this bill is trying to address, then it's a mystery as to why it completely ignores one of the main risk factors for breast cancer and the type of screening tools that are necessary to detect breast cancer in those individuals, and that is women with dense breasts tissue.
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And the minister made reference to the many advocates and groups that have raised their voices about this issue. One of those groups is Dense Breasts Canada, and they will tell you that more needs to be done to improve access to screening for women with dense breast tissue.
And to that end, we, on this side of the House, tried to strengthen this bill and amend it to incorporate the concerns raised by women with dense breasts. One of those amendments would have, under the bill, required the criteria that are laid out in the bill for determining whether an individual has an increased risk of developing breast cancer must include dense breast tissue and that's because that is a clear risk factor for developing breast cancer.
Another amendment would have required that the cancer authority identify any barriers to accessing supplemental breast cancer screening for people who have dense breast tissue and proposing methods to mitigate those barriers.
I see the Minister of Health is laughing about this right now, but it's actually a very serious issue.
The Speaker in the Chair
The bill makes reference to mammography only, but the fact is that to effectively screen for breast cancer in women with dense breast tissue, other tools are required like ultrasound or, in some cases, MRIs.
And a further amendment that we had proposed to the bill would have acknowledged in the preamble that dense breast tissue is a risk factor for developing breast cancer and presents challenges for effective screening. That's just a fact. I'm really not sure why the NDP chose to reject that amendment.
I think these were amendments that would have strengthened the bill. It seems entirely for political reasons that the government chose not to work with us to strengthen the bill or to work with the groups that came to present to committee to strengthen the bill. I think that's really unfortunate.
With that being said, I think there's a lot more work to do to improve breast cancer screening in Manitoba, including lowering the breast cancer screening age to 40 to keep Manitoba up to the same standard as other provinces. That hasn't happened yet. The government's got a few more months to meet their deadline for that, and we'll be holding the government to account on that as well as improving access to screening tools for women with dense breast tissue.
The Speaker: The question before the House is concurrence and third reading of Bill 32, The Improving Access to Breast Cancer Screening Act.
Is it the pleasure of the House to adopt the motion? [Agreed]
The motion is accordingly passed.
The Speaker: Now move on to Bill 50, The Pharmaceutical Amendment, Regulated Health Professions Amendment and Public Health Amendment Act.
Hon. Uzoma Asagwara (Minister of Health, Seniors and Long-Term Care): Honourable Speaker, I move, seconded by the Minister of Sport, Culture, Heritage and Tourism (MLA Kennedy), that Bill 50, The Pharmaceutical Amendment, Regulated Health Professions Amendment and Public Health Amendment Act, reported from the Standing Committee on Social and Economic Development, be concurred in and be now read for a third time and passed.
Thank you.
Motion presented.
MLA Asagwara: This bill does a number of things and all great things for Manitobans.
This bill makes amendments to multiple acts. It amends The Pharmaceutical Act so as to allow pharmacists to perform therapeutic substitutions without the authorization of the original prescriber. The amendments to The Regulated Health Professions Act will allow regulated health colleges or associations to amalgamate when it is in the best interest of the public or public interest.
And, finally, the proposed amendments to The Public Health Act build on the changes made to The Public Health Act in 2025 that ensured individuals detained under the act are not being held in correctional facilities.
Looking forward to all of these amendments changing and being passed and looking forward to our ongoing great work to fix the damage the PCs did to health care and make health care stronger in Manitoba for generations to come.
Thank you, Honourable Speaker.
Mrs. Kathleen Cook (Roblin): I think there was a real missed opportunity here with Bill 50, and that's to increase the–expand the scope of practice for pharmacists here in Manitoba.
We know that there are a number of Manitobans who would benefit from the ability to go to their local pharmacy to assess–to have minor conditions assessed and treated and medications prescribed accordingly. For some reason, that seems to be something that the current government seems entirely unwilling to move on. And I think that was a significant missed opportunity within this bill.
I hope that that's something the government's willing to move on–
An Honourable Member: It's already being done, Kathleen. Pay attention.
Mrs. Cook: –and consider on moving forward.
The minister is heckling me and says that it's already being done, but there's about 30 minor ailments and conditions that pharmacists in other provinces that–can assess and treat that they can't here in Manitoba, which is really a detriment to Manitoba patients.
With that being said, we're ready to move Bill 50–pardon me–forward and see it pass third reading today.
Thank you.
The Speaker: So the question before the House is Bill 50–concurrence and third reading of Bill 50, The Pharmaceutical Amendment, Regulated Health Professions Amendment and Public Health Amendment Act.
Is it the pleasure of the House to adopt the motion? [Agreed]
The motion is accordingly passed.
The Speaker: We'll now move on to Bill 29, The University of Winnipeg Amendment Act.
Hon. Renée Cable (Minister of Advanced Education and Training): I move, seconded by the honourable Minister of Health, Seniors and Long-Term Care, that Bill 29, The University of Winnipeg Amendment Act; Loi modifiant la Loi sur l'Université de Winnipeg, reported from the Standing Committee on Legislative Affairs, be concurred in and be now read for a third time and passed.
Motion presented.
MLA Cable: Honourable Speaker, I am so pleased to rise today for the third reading of Bill 29, The University of Winnipeg Amendment Act. As a graduate of this great institution, I am distinctly honoured to bring forward these changes.
This bill will modernize the governance framework of the University of Winnipeg by strengthening accountability, transparency and effectiveness, while respecting institutional autonomy and academic freedom. Honourable Speaker, we believe that good governance strengthens institutional autonomy and is the foundation on which our public institutes operate and make decisions.
The University of Winnipeg was prioritized for governance modernization as part of a broader set of work to strengthen oversight and accountability across Manitoba, and it addresses the recommendations from the office of the Auditor General. It was informed by extensive consultations and departmental reviews, which identified gaps in the legislative framework affecting governance and decision making of the institution.
Bill 29 improves the effectiveness of the board by reducing the board from 36 to 21, creating a more manageable board that supports effective governance and timely decision making. And, Honourable Speaker, it ensures diverse representation by embedding diversity, equity and inclusion and accessibility expectations into the act, which supports Indigenous representation directly within the governance structure.
The bill authorizes the board to make bylaws with respect to the conduct of in camera meetings–I know this is very boring for the members opposite as they continue to talk through my speech–which supports transparency and consistency around confidentiality and the handling of decision records.
Honourable Speaker, this bill will strengthen the governance at University of Winnipeg and help ensure that it continues to educate the next generation of Manitobans just as well as it has this generation and the ones previous.
Thank you, Honourable Speaker.
The Speaker: Seeing no further speakers, the question before the House is concurrence and third reading of Bill 29, The University of Winnipeg Amendment Act.
Pleasure of the House to adopt the motion? [Agreed]
The motion is accordingly passed.
The Speaker: Now Bill 35, The Adult Learning Centres Amendment Act.
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Hon. Renée Cable (Minister of Advanced Education and Training): Honourable Speaker, I move, seconded by the Minister of Natural Resources and Indigenous Futures (Mr. Bushie), that–I'm so sorry; I've lost the sheet here–Bill 45, The Yellowquill University College Act and Amendments to The Advanced Education Administration Act–I don't–I'm so sorry.
Thank you for your patience, Honourable Speaker.
I move, seconded by the Minister of Natural Resources and Indigenous Futures, that Bill 35, The Adult Learning Centres Amendment Act; Loi modifiant la Loi sur les centres d'apprentissage pour adultes, reported from the Standing Committee on Legislative Affairs, be concurred in and be now read for a third time and passed.
Motion presented.
MLA Cable: Honourable Speaker, I am so pleased to rise today for the third reading of Bill 35, The Adult Learning Centres Amendment Act.
This bill eliminates the requirement for First Nations to partner with a registered educational institution for three years before operating an adult learning centre independently. Some First Nations will choose to continue to engage in this partnership and this will continue to remain an option.
Honourable Speaker, this bill advances our commitment to truth and reconciliation by recognizing the autonomy of First Nations and their right to determine the adult education model that best aligns with their community priorities, governance structures and capacity.
For providing this office–or this option–we're reducing barriers for First Nations that are already well positioned to meet the learning needs of their communities. We are enabling First Nations to respond more quickly to local learner needs and we are supporting Manitoba's economic growth, particularly in the North, by preparing learners for further training and employment opportunities.
In some communities, such as those in the North, Indigenous individuals account for nearly all learners, the vast majority of whom identify as First Nations. This amendment does not change the act's existing registration, accountability or operational requirements. First Nations band councils, like all operators, must follow the established application process and meet program and quality standards to ensure learners receive recognized education.
Bill 35 marks meaningful progress in fulfilling our commitment to truth and reconciliation by promoting greater First Nations self-determination in education and eliminating outdated barriers that do not reflect the current reality, strengths and priorities of First Nations communities.
I look forward to the passage of this bill.
Thank you, Honourable Speaker.
The Speaker: No further speakers?
The question before the House is concurrence and third reading of Bill 35, The Adult Learning Centres Amendment Act.
Is it the pleasure of the House to adopt the motion? [Agreed]
The motion is accordingly passed.
The Speaker: We'll now move on to Bill 45, The Yellowquill University College Act and Amendments to The Advanced Education Administration Act.
Hon. Renée Cable (Minister of Advanced Education and Training): I move, seconded by the Minister of Families (MLA Fontaine), that Bill 45, The Yellowquill University College Act and Amendments to The Advanced Education Administration Act; Loi sur le Yellowquill University College et modification de la Loi sur l'administration de l'enseignement postsecondaire, as amended and reported from the Standing Committee on Legislative Affairs, be concurred in and be now read for a third time and passed.
Motion presented.
MLA Cable: Honourable Speaker, it's my distinct pleasure to rise today for the third reading of Bill 45, the Yellowquill University College Act and the amendment of the advanced education administration act.
Today, maybe more than any other day during this session, I miss our late colleague, Nello Altomare. I know that he is here to–here is–he's here with us to see this, but I offer my sincere gratitude to Nello for helping to move this forward.
This bill formally recognizes Yellowquill University College as the first fully recognized First Nations owned-and-operated, degree-granting institution in Manitoba. For more than forty years, Yellowquill has delivered culturally grounded programming in Manitoba and has played a vital role as an Indigenous-governed post-secondary institution. And while that role has not previously been formally recognized in legislation, this bill will provide that recognition.
Our department has worked together with Yellowquill to co-develop this legislation through a respectful nation-to-nation approach that affirms First Nations leadership, reflects shared priorities and supports a strong path forward. This bill recognizes Yellowquill alongside other public, private religious and private vocational post-secondary institutions in Manitoba's post-secondary system.
This reaffirms First Nations governance and advances the Province's commitments to truth and reconciliation. It responds to TRC Calls to Action 10 and 11 by supporting culturally appropriate curricula, protecting language rights and eliminating barriers for First Nations students pursuing post-secondary education.
Indigenous adult learners have benefited from Yellowquill's commitment, leadership and contributions in higher education, and this bill strengthens that commitment and supports our goals to work together.
I would once again like to 'exprect' my deep gratitude to everyone at Yellowquill College for trusting us with this incredibly important initiative, for your patience, for your thoughtfulness and for moving forward in true partnership. This will be transformational for so many students.
Thank you, Honourable Speaker.
The Speaker: Seeing no further speakers, the question before the House is concurrence and third reading of Bill 45, The Yellowquill University College Act and Amendments to The Advanced Education Administration Act.
Is it the pleasure of the House to adopt the motion? [Agreed]
The motion is accordingly passed.
The Speaker: We'll now move on to Bill 33, The Planning Amendment and City of Winnipeg Charter Amendment Act.
* (17:30)
Hon. Glen Simard (Minister of Municipal and Northern Relations): I move, seconded by the Minister of Natural Resources and Indigenous Futures (Mr. Bushie), that Bill 33, The Planning Amendment and City of Winnipeg Charter Amendment Act; Loi modifiant la Loi sur l'aménagement du territoire et la Charte de la ville de Winnipeg, reported from the Standing Committee on Legislative Affairs, be concurred in and be now read for a third time and passed.
Motion presented.
Mr. Simard: Honourable Speaker, I am pleased to once again rise for the third reading of Bill 33. This bell–this bill amends The Planning Act in the City of Winnipeg Charter to deliver on our government's Throne Speech commitment to respect the freedom and autonomy of municipalities and through implementing the recommendations from the independent review of the previous government's bill 37.
I'm very happy to see this legislation move through the approval process. We heard municipalities loud and clear. They want to build and keep growing, but the top-down, heavy-handed approach was not working. In fact, it delayed projects in these communities.
When municipalities said there was room for improvement, we listened. We're making good on our commitment to continue resetting Manitoba's land use planning framework, following the same spirit of last session's bills 3 and 4, which strengthened municipal autonomy and reduced red tape.
Reducing the frequency of delays to local zoning amendments and speeding up development approvals process will make it easier for municipalities to build new housing faster and address housing shortages. We have been listening to stakeholders. The input we received from mayors, reeves and many local affected–elected officials has helped shape this legislation in a way that resets the relationship between the Province and municipalities.
Finally, Honourable Speaker, I just wanted to say that Bill 33 demonstrates another step of our government's commitment to continuing to advance smart, strategic and significant improvements through Manitoba's Land Use Planning Action Plan.
Thank you.
Mr. Trevor King (Lakeside): I am pleased to rise today to speak to Bill 33, The Planning Amendment and City of Winnipeg Charter Amendment Act, today, here, at third reading. This legislation represents a positive step toward improving Manitoba's planning system by providing greater certainty, clearer timelines and a more predictable process for municipalities, developers, agriculture producers and residents.
Throughout debate on this bill, we've acknowledged the concerns that municipalities and stakeholders have raised regarding delays and complexity within Manitoba's planning framework. Bill 33 responds to many of those concerns by establishing timelines for Municipal Board hearings, reviews, recommendations and decisions, while also clarifying objection processes and updating several administrative provisions within planning legislation.
We have consistently said that the Braid review provided Manitoba with a valuable road map for planning reform. This bill begins the process of implementing some of those recommendations, particularly those focused on improving procedures and reducing uncertainty within the system.
For that reason, Honourable Speaker, we will support Bill 33. At the same time, our support comes with an expectation that the government will follow through on the commitments it is making through this legislation. The success of this bill will depend not simply on what is written in the act, but on whether the government provides the Municipal Board with the resources necessary to meet these new requirements. Establishing timelines is one thing; ensuring they can be achieved is another.
Manitobans will expect results, and the government must be prepared to demonstrate that the staffing, funding and technology are in place to deliver on the promises contained in this legislation. We also expect the government to continue the work that remains unfinished. Many of the broader recommendations identified throughout the Braid review, including municipal planning capacity, improved provincial co-ordination, digital planning systems and additional support for local governments have yet to be addressed.
Municipalities continue to face significant financial pressures while managing growth, housing development, infrastructure demands and economic development opportunities. Planning reform must be accompanied by practical support that helps municipalities succeed. Ultimately, strong communities require planning systems that are efficient, transparent and predictable. When approvals are handled effectively and decisions are made in a timely manner, communities are better positioned to attract investment, support housing development, create jobs and build the infrastructure Manitobans need.
Bill 33 moves us in that direction. We support its passage and we will continue to hold the government accountable for ensuring these reforms are properly implemented and for completing the broader work of modernized Manitoba planning system.
Thank you, Honourable Speaker.
The Speaker: So the question before the House is concurrence and third reading of Bill 33, The Planning Amendment and City of Winnipeg Charter Amendment Act.
Is it the pleasure of the House to adopt the motion? [Agreed]
The motion is accordingly passed.
The Speaker: Now I'll move on to Bill 38, The Public Schools Amendment and Manitoba School Boards Association Amendment Act.
Hon. Tracy Schmidt (Minister of Education and Early Childhood Learning): I move, seconded by the Minister of Housing, Addictions and Homelessness (Ms. Smith), that Bill 38, The Public Schools Amendment and Manitoba School Boards Association Amendment Act; Loi modifiant la Loi sur les écoles publiques et la Loi sur l'Association des commissions scolaires du Manitoba, as amended and reported from the Standing Committee on Justice, be concurred in and now read for a third time and passed.
Motion presented.
MLA Schmidt: I am pleased to introduce Bill 38–or we're pleased to introduce Bill 38 for third reading, the public schools and Manitoba school boards association amendment act.
This bill broadens the definition of bullying in The Public Schools Act to include harm to individuals, groups and the wider school community and to include bullying through new technologies such as artificial intelligence. It also adds the requirement for school boards to hire a superintendent and that a superintendent must hold a valid teaching certificate.
At the committee stage, we also amended the bill to change the wording in the duties of a superintendent that said, acting as the liaison between the minister and the school board, to a liaison between the minister and the school board. This amendment was made after presenters cautioned that this language could be used by a future government to limit the role of democratically elected school boards, which we know the members opposite have tried to do in the past through bill 64.
I want to thank those who advocated for this change because we know that we work best when we work collaboratively.
Finally, this bill also allows Indigenous educational organizations, such as the Manitoba First Nations resource education centre, the right to become a full member with the Manitoba School Boards Association, which is yet another way our government is working towards creating one Manitoba.
I would like to just, finally, express some gratitude to all of the presenters that came to committee, to all of the work of our education partners and the many Manitobans who we are consulting with on Bill 38.
Thank you very much. Merci. Miigwech.
Mr. Wayne Ewasko (Lac du Bonnet): It gives me great pleasure to stand up and put just a few words on the record in regards to Bill 38.
Again, I'd like to thank all the presenters for coming out that evening and, again, bringing forward a little bit of a caution to this Education Minister, considering it didn't seem that there was enough consultation prior to. But, definitely, we, on this side of the House, are looking forward to the passage of Bill 38 because Manitoba association for school superintendents and Manitoba School Boards Association have been asking for this as well.
In regards to some questions that were brought up not only that evening but during second reading debate, the minister still hasn't come clean with Manitobans on the fact that the number of Manitoba superintendents that do or do not have–
* (17:40)
The Speaker: Order, please. Order, please.
So I would ask the honourable member for Lac du Bonnet (Mr. Ewasko) to please be seated while the Speaker is standing. And I would ask him to withdraw the comment that he made about coming clean. That's been cautioned in the past, several times. The honourable member should know that by now. So would he please withdraw that.
Mr. Ewasko: Withdrawn, Honourable Speaker.
So, in regard to the questions that I was asking in regard to school superintendents in the province that currently do not hold a valid teacher certificate, the minister couldn't answer it, and unfortunately, to this date, still hasn't answered it.
But I look forward to seeing Bill 38 pass, and I guess sometime between today and the future, the minister will come up with some of those answers and hopefully do a little bit more collaborating with the various different education partners throughout the province.
Thank you, Honourable Speaker.
The Speaker: So the question before the House is concurrence and third reading of Bill 38, The Public Schools Amendment and Manitoba School Boards Association Amendment Act.
Is it the pleasure of the House to adopt the motion? [Agreed]
The motion is accordingly passed.
The Speaker: We'll now move on to Bill 41, The Promoting Inclusion in Amateur Sport Act.
Hon. Nellie Kennedy (Minister of Sport, Culture, Heritage and Tourism): I move, seconded by the Minister of Health, Seniors and Long-Term Care (MLA Asagwara), that Bill 41, The Promoting Inclusion in Amateur Sport Act; Loi sur la promotion de l'inclusion dans le sport amateur, reported from the Standing Committee on Legislative Affairs, be concurred in and be now read for a third time and passed.
Motion presented.
MLA Kennedy: Honourable Speaker, I am pleased to once again speak in the House today about Bill 41, The Promoting Inclusion in Amateur Sport Act. We all know how important it is to make everyone feel welcomed, respected and valued in sport. Inclusion sport enhances the lives of all who participate and ensures all children know they have the right to play in Manitoba.
This bill supports a more inclusive sport environment by requiring provincial sports organizations to adopt an inclusion policy and implement initiatives to enhance inclusion in their sport. We know that many provincial sport organizations are already doing meaningful work to improve inclusion.
However, we also know that those efforts are uneven across the sport system. Some organizations already have policies and initiatives in place to help enhance inclusion in their sport, while others lack the capacity, consistency or clarity to move beyond good intentions.
This bill provides a formal, consistent framework that will move inclusion from best practice to a shared responsibility and provide long-term stability, regardless of leadership or other changes within a sport. These efforts will result in reduced barriers for Manitobans accessing amateur sport.
This bill recognizes the important work already happening in amateur sport and builds on those efforts by providing clarity, consistency and accountability. Ultimately, it is about ensuring that everyone in Manitoba who wants to participate in amateur sport has a fair opportunity to do so, and that our sport system reflects the diversity and values of this province.
With this, I ask that my colleagues on all sides of the House support this bill to strengthen the inclusion in amateur sport.
Thank you, Honourable Speaker.
Mr. Wayne Ewasko (Lac du Bonnet): I'd like to thank and congratulate the minister on bringing forward Bill 41, The Promoting Inclusion in Amateur Sport Act. I know that during those presenters that evening when–during committee, I know some of the presenters had some suggestions in regards to some amendments.
And we, on this side of the House, brought forward three report stage amendments, which I don't even believe, Honourable Speaker, that the amendments were fully read out before the Government House Leader (MLA Fontaine) was busy shouting them down.
But with that, Honourable Speaker, again, congratulations to the honourable minister, and hopefully they will be watching to see that this–these suggestions, this law being implemented and put on the backs of amateur sports all across this great province of ours. Hopefully, they will keep track of exactly what is happening with the topic of inclusion in amateur sport.
I think that amateur sports organizations within this great province of ours are doing a great job. Of course, there's always more work to do, but it's, you know, typical of the Kinew government to then offload and put this down on other organizations and just form laws to then make other people do some more work, sort of the government's dirty work.
So, with that, Honourable Speaker, it's unfortunate that the three report stage amendments were not moved forward, because they were coming from a good place as far as some of the presenters had brought forward some suggestions.
But with that, we look–we'll see that Bill 41 receives royal assent, and we'll wait for some results of this legislation happening sometime between royal assent and the future.
Thank you, Honourable Speaker.
The Speaker: The question before the House is concurrence and third reading of Bill 41, The Promoting Inclusion in Amateur Sport Act.
Is it the pleasure of the House to adopt the motion? [Agreed]
The motion is accordingly passed.
The Speaker: We'll now move on to Bill 43, the highway traffic amendment and drivers vehicle amendment act.
Hon. Lisa Naylor (Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure): I move, seconded by the Minister of Justice (Mr. Wiebe), that Bill 43, The Highway Traffic Amendment and Drivers and Vehicles Amendment Act, reported from the Standing Committee on Legislative Affairs, be concurred in and be now read for a third time and passed.
Motion presented.
MLA Naylor: I'm pleased to rise today for third reading of Bill 43, The Highway Traffic Amendment and Drivers and Vehicles Amendment Act. This bill strengthens our government's commitment to safer roads by setting clear rules for the operation of automated personal electric, three-wheeled and other regulated vehicles on Manitoba highways. These amendments support our shared goal of protecting all road users and improving road safety across the province.
I was pleased to hear during debate on second reading that all parties expressed support for this important legislation. I would also like to thank everyone who contributed through submissions and presentations at the committee stage.
I look forward to the passage of this bill as we continue our work to ensure clear, consistent rules for the safe operation of automated driving systems, personal electric, three-wheeled and regulated vehicles across Manitoba. We will remain engaged with municipalities, industry partners and road safety organizations as we finalize the regulatory work and implement these amendments, ensuring a safer driving environment for all road users throughout the year.
Thank you.
The Speaker: Then the question before the House is concurrence and third reading of Bill 43, the highway traffic amendment and driver vehicles amendment act.
Is it the pleasure of the House to adopt the motion? [Agreed]
* (17:50)
The motion is accordingly passed.
The Speaker: Before we move on to royal assent, I have a statement for the House. First, I'd ask the Clerk to come up here for a second.
So earlier today–[interjection]
Order, please.
Earlier today, there was a point of order raised and I'm going to address just that point of order this evening.
I think it is much too important to not address, to leave it hanging for the future. Clearly, the laws of the land recognize two official languages, and people have the right to speak in either of those languages. And by practices of this Assembly, people have not just the privilege, but the right to speak in either of those languages.
To suggest that a member has to reply in English just because the question was asked in English is just plain wrong and even though those comments were made off the record, I heard most of it.
Therefore, I'm ruling that the honourable First Minister does have a valid point of order. As such, I would ask the honourable member for La Vérendrye to please unequivocally apologize for those comments.
Mr. Konrad Narth (La Vérendrye): I unequivocally apologize for my comments.
The Speaker: Thank you.
* * *
The Speaker: We will now prepare for royal assent.
Deputy Sergeant-at-Arms (Mr. Rob Lockhart): Her Honour the Lieutenant Governor.
Her Honour Anita R. Neville, Lieutenant Governor of the Province of Manitoba, having entered the House and being seated on the throne, The Honourable Speaker addressed Her Honour the Lieutenant Governor in the following words:
The Speaker: Your Honour:
At this sitting of the Legislative Assembly–has passed certain bills that I ask Your Honour to give assent to.
Clerk Assistant (Ms. Vanessa Gregg):
Bill 2 – The Non-Consensual Distribution of Intimate Images Amendment Act; Loi modifiant la Loi sur la distribution non consensuelle des images intimes
Bill 3 – The Manitoba Public Insurance Corporation Amendment Act; Loi modifiant la Loi sur la Société d'assurance publique du Manitoba
Bill 4 – The Constitutional Questions Amendment Act; Loi modifiant la Loi sur les questions constitutionnelles
Bill 5 – The Accessibility for Manitobans Amendment Act and The Commemoration of Days, Weeks and Months Amendment Act (Access Awareness Week); Loi modifiant la Loi sur l'accessibilité pour les Manitobains et la Loi sur les journées, les semaines et les mois commémoratifs (Semaine de sensibilisation à l'accessibilité)
Bill 6 – The Sign Languages Recognition Act; Loi sur la reconnaissance des langues des signes
Bill 8 – The Long-Bladed Weapon Control Amendment Act; Loi modifiant la Loi sur la réglementation des armes à lame longue
Bill 9 – The Street Weapons Control Act; Loi sur la réglementation des armes de rue
Bill 10 – The Employment Standards Code Amendment Act (Attachment Leave for Adoption and Surrogacy); Loi modifiant le Code des normes d'emploi (congé d'attachement en cas d'adoption ou de recours à la gestation pour autrui)
Bill 11 – The Employment Standards Code Amendment Act (Sick Notes for Employee Absences); Loi modifiant le Code des normes d'emploi (notes du médecin en cas d'absence d'un employé)
Bill 14 – The Public Interest Disclosure (Whistleblower Protection) Amendment Act; Loi modifiant la Loi sur les divulgations faites dans l'intérêt public (protection des divulgateurs d'actes répréhensibles)
Bill 15 – The Consumer Protection Amendment Act; Loi modifiant la Loi sur la protection du consommateur
* (18:00)
Bill 16 – The Mental Health Amendment Act; Loi modifiant la Loi sur la santé mentale
Bill 17 – The Adult Abuse Registry Amendment Act; Loi modifiant la Loi sur le registre des mauvais traitements infligés aux adultes
Bill 18 – The Waste Reduction and Prevention Amendment Act (Strengthening Enforcement); Loi modifiant la Loi sur la réduction du volume et de la production des déchets (renforcement de l'application de la Loi)
Bill 19 – The Animal Care Amendment Act; Loi modifiant la Loi sur le soin des animaux
Bill 20 – The Manitoba Hydro Amendment Act; Loi modifiant la Loi sur l'Hydro-Manitoba
Bill 23 – The Advocate for Children and Youth Amendment Act; Loi modifiant la Loi sur le protecteur des enfants et des jeunes
Bill 26 – The Health System Governance and Accountability Amendment Act (Eliminating Mandatory Overtime for Nurses); Loi modifiant la Loi sur la gouvernance et l'obligation redditionnelle au sein du système de santé (fin de l'imposition d'heures supplémentaires aux infirmiers)
Bill 27 – The Declaration of Principles for Patient Health Care Act and Amendments to The Health System Governance and Accountability Act; Loi sur la déclaration de principes sur les soins de santé offerts aux patients et modification de la Loi sur la gouvernance et l'obligation redditionnelle au sein du système de santé
Bill 28 – The Health System Governance and Accountability Amendment Act (Nurse-to-Patient Ratios); Loi modifiant la Loi sur la gouvernance et l'obligation redditionnelle au sein du système de santé (ratios infirmier-malade)
Bill 29 – The University of Winnipeg Amendment Act; Loi modifiant la Loi sur l'Université de Winnipeg
Bill 30 – The Intimate Partner Violence Death Review Committee Act; Loi sur le Comité d'examen des décès causés par de la violence de la part d'un partenaire intime
Bill 31 – The Highway Traffic Amendment Act; Loi modifiant le Code de la route
Bill 32 – The Improving Access to Breast Cancer Screening Act; Loi visant à améliorer l'accès au dépistage du cancer du sein
Bill 33 – The Planning Amendment and City of Winnipeg Charter Amendment Act; Loi modifiant la Loi sur l'aménagement du territoire et la Charte de la ville de Winnipeg
Bill 34 – The Interprovincial Subpoena Amendment Act; Loi modifiant la Loi sur les subpoenas interprovinciaux
Bill 35 – The Adult Learning Centres Amendment Act; Loi modifiant la Loi sur les centres d'apprentissage pour adultes
Bill 36 – The Child and Family Services Amendment Act; Loi modifiant la Loi sur les services à l'enfant et à la famille
Bill 37 – The Environmental Statutes Amendment Act; Loi modifiant diverses lois en matière d'environnement
Bill 38 – The Public Schools Amendment and Manitoba School Boards Association Amendment Act; Loi modifiant la Loi sur les écoles publiques et la Loi sur l'Association des commissions scolaires du Manitoba
Bill 39 – The Manitoba Hydro Amendment and Tax Administration and Miscellaneous Taxes Amendment Act; Loi modifiant la Loi sur l'Hydro-Manitoba et la Loi sur l'administration des impôts et des taxes et divers impôts et taxes
Bill 40 – The Elections Amendment Act; Loi modifiant la Loi électorale
Bill 41 – The Promoting Inclusion in Amateur Sport Act; Loi sur la promotion de l'inclusion dans le sport amateur
Bill 42 – The Motor Vehicle Statutes Amendment Act; Loi modifiant diverses lois en matière de véhicules automobiles
Bill 43 – The Highway Traffic Amendment and Drivers and Vehicles Amendment Act; Loi modifiant le Code de la route et la Loi sur les conducteurs et les véhicules
Bill 44 – The Minor Amendments and Corrections Act, 2026; Loi corrective de 2026
Bill 45 – The Yellowquill University College Act and Amendments to The Advanced Education Administration Act; Loi sur le Yellowquill University College et modification de la Loi sur l'administration de l'enseignement postsecondaire
Bill 46 – The Securities Amendment Act; Loi modifiant la Loi sur les valeurs mobilières
Bill 48 – The Real Property Amendment and Planning Amendment Act (Land Conveyed for Public Purposes); Loi modifiant la Loi sur les biens réels et la Loi sur l'aménagement du territoire (biens-fonds cédés à des fins publiques)
Bill 49 – The Business Practices Amendment Act; Loi modifiant la Loi sur les pratiques commerciales
Bill 50 – The Pharmaceutical Amendment, Regulated Health Professions Amendment and Public Health Amendment Act; Loi modifiant la Loi sur les pharmacies, la Loi sur les professions de la santé réglementées et la Loi sur la santé publique
Bill 51 – The Public Sector Artificial Intelligence and Cybersecurity Governance Act; Loi sur la gouvernance de l'intelligence artificielle et de la cybersécurité au sein du secteur public
Bill 53 – The Budget Implementation and Tax Statutes Amendment Act, 2026; Loi d'exécution du budget de 2026 et modifiant diverses dispositions législatives en matière de fiscalité
Bill 234 – The Registered Landscape Architects Act; Loi sur les architectes paysagistes
Bill 300 – The Winnipeg Foundation Amendment Act; Loi modifiant la Loi sur la Fondation dénommée « The Winnipeg Foundation »
Bill 301 – The Westminster United Church Foundation Incorporation Amendment Act; Loi modifiant la Loi constituant en corporation la « Westminster United Church Foundation »
Clerk (Mr. Rick Yarish): In His Majesty's name, Her Honour assents to these bills.
Her Honour was then pleased to retire.
God Save the King was sung.
O Canada was sung.
* * *
* (18:10)
The Speaker: Before we rise, I would once again remind members, if you have not already done so, to remove the contents of your desk before you leave the Chamber.
The hour being well past 5 p.m., this House is adjourned and stands adjourned until Tuesday, September 29, at 10 a.m., or at the call of the Speaker.
Have a great summer, everyone.
LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA
Monday, June 1, 2026
CONTENTS
Environment Officer Recognition Day
Manitoba Association of Filipino Teachers
Cost of Living, Taxes and the Economy
Procurement Contracts Awarded to US Companies
Sole-Sourced Procurement Contracts
Manitoba's Washington Trade Representative
Nurse Practitioners Working in Manitoba
Highway 110 and Richmond Avenue East
Proposed Silica Sand Mine Project
Association for Community Living
Appointment of the Chief Electoral Officer
Concurrence and Third Readings
Bill 3–The Manitoba Public Insurance Corporation Amendment Act
Bill 4–The Constitutional Questions Amendment Act
Bill 8–The Long-Bladed Weapon Control Amendment Act
Bill 9–The Street Weapons Control Act
Bill 31–The Highway Traffic Amendment Act
Bill 34–The Interprovincial Subpoena Amendment Act
Bill 40–The Elections Amendment Act
Bill 42–The Motor Vehicle Statutes Amendment Act
Bill 44–The Minor Amendments and Corrections Act, 2026
Concurrence and Third Readings–Amended Bills
Bill 6–The Sign Languages Recognition Act
Concurrence and Third Readings
Bill 36–The Child and Family Services Amendment Act
Concurrence and Third Readings–Amended Bills
Bill 11–The Employment Standards Code Amendment Act (Sick Notes for Employee Absences)
Concurrence and Third Readings
Bill 15–The Consumer Protection Amendment Act
Bill 16–The Mental Health Amendment Act
Bill 18–The Waste Reduction and Prevention Amendment Act (Strengthening Enforcement)
Bill 37–The Environmental Statutes Amendment Act
Bill 19–The Animal Care Amendment Act
Bill 28–The Health System Governance and Accountability Amendment Act (Nurse-to-Patient Ratios)
Bill 32–The Improving Access to Breast Cancer Screening Act
Bill 29–The University of Winnipeg Amendment Act
Bill 35–The Adult Learning Centres Amendment Act
Concurrence and Third Readings–Amended Bills
Concurrence and Third Readings
Bill 33–The Planning Amendment and City of Winnipeg Charter Amendment Act
Concurrence and Third Readings–Amended Bills
Bill 38–The Public Schools Amendment and Manitoba School Boards Association Amendment Act
Concurrence and Third Readings
Bill 41–The Promoting Inclusion in Amateur Sport Act
Bill 43–The Highway Traffic Amendment and Drivers and Vehicles Amendment Act
Bill 2 – The Non-Consensual Distribution of Intimate Images Amendment Act
Bill 3 – The Manitoba Public Insurance Corporation Amendment Act
Bill 4 – The Constitutional Questions Amendment Act
Bill 6 – The Sign Languages Recognition Act
Bill 8 – The Long-Bladed Weapon Control Amendment Act
Bill 9 – The Street Weapons Control Act
Bill 10 – The Employment Standards Code Amendment Act (Attachment Leave for Adoption and Surrogacy)
Bill 11 – The Employment Standards Code Amendment Act (Sick Notes for Employee Absences)
Bill 14 – The Public Interest Disclosure (Whistleblower Protection) Amendment Act
Bill 15 – The Consumer Protection Amendment Act
Bill 16 – The Mental Health Amendment Act
Bill 17 – The Adult Abuse Registry Amendment Act
Bill 18 – The Waste Reduction and Prevention Amendment Act (Strengthening Enforcement)
Bill 19 – The Animal Care Amendment Act
Bill 20 – The Manitoba Hydro Amendment Act
Bill 23 – The Advocate for Children and Youth Amendment Act
Bill 28 – The Health System Governance and Accountability Amendment Act (Nurse-to-Patient Ratios)
Bill 29 – The University of Winnipeg Amendment Act
Bill 30 – The Intimate Partner Violence Death Review Committee Act
Bill 31 – The Highway Traffic Amendment Act
Bill 32 – The Improving Access to Breast Cancer Screening Act
Bill 33 – The Planning Amendment and City of Winnipeg Charter Amendment Act
Bill 34 – The Interprovincial Subpoena Amendment Act
Bill 35 – The Adult Learning Centres Amendment Act
Bill 36 – The Child and Family Services Amendment Act
Bill 37 – The Environmental Statutes Amendment Act
Bill 38 – The Public Schools Amendment and Manitoba School Boards Association Amendment Act
Bill 39 – The Manitoba Hydro Amendment and Tax Administration and Miscellaneous Taxes Amendment Act
Bill 40 – The Elections Amendment Act
Bill 41 – The Promoting Inclusion in Amateur Sport Act
Bill 42 – The Motor Vehicle Statutes Amendment Act
Bill 43 – The Highway Traffic Amendment and Drivers and Vehicles Amendment Act
Bill 44 – The Minor Amendments and Corrections Act, 2026
Bill 46 – The Securities Amendment Act
Bill 48 – The Real Property Amendment and Planning Amendment Act (Land Conveyed for Public Purposes)
Bill 49 – The Business Practices Amendment Act
Bill 51 – The Public Sector Artificial Intelligence and Cybersecurity Governance Act
Bill 53 – The Budget Implementation and Tax Statutes Amendment Act, 2026
Bill 234 – The Registered Landscape Architects Act
Bill 300 – The Winnipeg Foundation Amendment Act
Bill 301 – The Westminster United Church Foundation Incorporation Amendment Act