Pallister lashes out at NDP over flood-fighting equipment issue

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This article was published 17/06/2015 (3792 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Opposition Leader Brian Pallister says allegations raised by a government whistleblower — that an attempt was made to rush a $5 million deal for flood-fighting equipment through the approval process — affirms the NDP has no respect for Manitobans.

“What we have here is a dysfunctional government,” Pallister said today.

“What is becoming more and more obvious is that the dysfunction didn’t just happen because of the rebellion, the dysfunction preceded the rebellion, and it’s following the rebellion.

“So the dysfunction of this government is placing Manitobans at risk.”

Officials for Premier Greg Selinger released this statement today on the matter:

“The government is committed to providing flood protection to Manitoba families, and we are also committed to ensuring ethical and transparent tendering of purchases.

“When First Nations in the Interlake came to us with an urgent request for flood protection, we acted. In negotiations to open the emergency channel, we agreed to ensure that these First Nations communities had the flood fighting equipment they needed to keep their community safe.

“In October, Treasury Board and Cabinet discussed the procurement of this flood protection equipment, and the Premier provided direction that the purchase be put out for tender.

“Appropriate tendering was conducted and the RFP remains open and online on the MERX website. There has been no purchase made of flood protection equipment for these First Nations or Interlake Tribal Council.

“In November, the Ombudsman looked into the allegations of incorrect tendering and through discussions with the Clerk of Executive Council found nothing to proceed on.

 “While ultimately, the Interlake Tribal Council received $5 million from the federal government for the equipment and made the purchase, we remain in discussions with the Interlake Tribal Council on what their flood protection needs are, and we remain committed to our investment into flood protection in the Interlake, including the First Nations whose lands and homes are severely flood prone.”

 bruce.owen@freepress.mb.ca