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Danielle Da Silva

Danielle Da Silva

Reporter

Danielle Da Silva is a general assignment reporter.

Recent articles by Danielle Da Silva

Province tabs $39M for The Pas health-care centre

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Preview

Province tabs $39M for The Pas health-care centre

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Yesterday at 6:26 PM CDT

A long-awaited expanded primary health clinic in The Pas is getting the green light from the Manitoba government.

Premier Heather Stefanson said the province will spend $39 million to expand and redevelop The Pas Primary Health Care Clinic.

“The Manitoba government is committed to making health care more accessible and equitable for patients, including those living in rural or remote communities across the province,” Stefanson said in a release.

She was in the northern community Monday morning to confirm the capital expansion would move forward as part of an overall $145-million spending program in the region.

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Yesterday at 6:26 PM CDT

Mike Deal / Winnipeg Free Press files

Premier Heather Stefanson said the province will spend $39 million to expand and redevelop The Pas Primary Health Care Clinic.

MPI chief info, tech officer resigns

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Preview

MPI chief info, tech officer resigns

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Friday, Jun. 2, 2023

Manitoba Public Insurance has lost another member of its executive.

Chief information and technology officer Siddhartha Parti resigned from the Crown corporation Friday, interim chief executive officer Marnie Kacher confirmed in a statement to the Free Press.

“With Mr. Parti’s departure, Shawn Campbell will serve as interim vice-president and chief information and technology officer, as the corporation conducts a search for a permanent replacement,” a statement issued later in the day reads.

No other information was provided.

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Friday, Jun. 2, 2023

MIKAELA MACKENZIE / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES

Chief information and technology officer Siddhartha Parti resigned from Manitoba Public Insurance Friday

Manitobans offered prizes to take better care of their health

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Preview

Manitobans offered prizes to take better care of their health

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Friday, Jun. 2, 2023

Manitoba physicians are encouraging people to take one simple step to improve their health this month, and offering prizes for people who pledge to catch up on routine screenings, eat healthier and get active.

Doctors Manitoba president Dr. Michael Boroditsky said many people put their health on hold during the COVID-19 pandemic as immunizations, disease screening and physical activity fell by the wayside over the past three years.

“This is a top concern for doctors,” Boroditsky said during an announcement at the Sport Manitoba Fitness Centre in downtown Winnipeg.

“With the worst of the pandemic behind us, hopefully, and summer just around the corner, now is a great time to focus on getting healthy, and it can start with one simple step.”

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Friday, Jun. 2, 2023

MIKE DEAL / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS

Doctors Manitoba president Dr. Michael Boroditsky

Hostile house: heated spring session of legislature ends on hot note

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Preview

Hostile house: heated spring session of legislature ends on hot note

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Friday, Jun. 2, 2023

Manitoba lawmakers growled, grappled and jeered their way through a tense spring sitting of the legislature, with accusations of shoving and bribery traded ahead of an expected contentious general election campaign.

On top of near-daily admonitions to demonstrate better behaviour, Speaker Myrna Driedger was forced to rule on five incidents over the past three months in which elected officials claimed another chamber member violated their rights.

The highest-profile incident centred around Sport Minister Obby Khan and Opposition Leader Wab Kinew, who shared a tense handshake at a New Democratic Party-sponsored event in April.

Khan alleged he received an earful of profanity and a shove to the stomach from Kinew, who was accused of refusing to release his grip on the Fort Whyte MLA’s hand in front of a crowd at a Turban Day cultural celebration.

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Friday, Jun. 2, 2023

ALEX LUPUL / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES

The Manitoba Legislative Building in Winnipeg.

Parties cap legislature session with parting shots

Danielle Da Silva 6 minute read Preview

Parties cap legislature session with parting shots

Danielle Da Silva 6 minute read Thursday, Jun. 1, 2023

Manitoba’s two main political party leaders got in one final dig before hitting the campaign trail Thursday afternoon, as the legislative session wrapped with a reminder to members to clear out their desks and say their goodbyes.

Following a question period dominated by the Opposition blaming the Tory government for the Manitoba Association of Health Care Professionals setting a June 15 strike date, NDP Leader Wab Kinew offered a few surprise words of thanks to Premier Heather Stefanson.

“Serving as the leader of the official Opposition has been the great honour of my life and there’s no opportunity to serve as Opposition leader unless there is a government to oppose,” Kinew said, acknowledging Stefanson made history by being the first woman premier in Manitoba.

“It’s always nice to end on a good, positive note… It sets the tone as we move into a wonderful summer, as we’re going to be out on the campaign trail,” Stefanson replied.

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Thursday, Jun. 1, 2023

JESSICA LEE / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS

“It’s always nice to end on a good, positive note… It sets the tone as we move into a wonderful summer, as we’re going to be out on the campaign trail,” Premier Heather Stefanson said.

Province commits half of $1.4M cost for Route 90 expansion design study

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Province commits half of $1.4M cost for Route 90 expansion design study

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Thursday, Jun. 1, 2023

Manitoba taxpayers will foot half of the $1.4-million bill to conduct a design study for an expanded Route 90.

Premier Heather Stefanson announced Thursday that the Manitoba government will contribute $700,000 to the City of Winnipeg to move the proposed project into its next phase.

“Infrastructure corridors like Route 90 support new housing and business development in Winnipeg and promotes industry and trade, allowing for quicker access to business areas, such as CentrePort and the Winnipeg airport,” Stefanson told reporters gathered in a field just west of Kenaston Boulevard.

The funding covers 50 per cent of the city’s identified costs for the project’s next phase, the province said.

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Thursday, Jun. 1, 2023

Premier Heather Stefanson (above) along with Municipal Relations Minister Andrew Smith, Minister of Sport, Culture and Heritage Obby Khan, and Winnipeg Mayor Scott Gillingham announce funding to study the expansion of Kenaston Boulevard. (Mike Deal / Winnipeg Free Press)

Tories reject NDP demand all MLAs march in Pride parades

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Preview

Tories reject NDP demand all MLAs march in Pride parades

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Wednesday, May. 31, 2023

Manitoba’s minister for gender equity says it would be wrong to compel MLAs to participate in Pride parades because it would be contrary to the spirit of the movement.

“(I) believe that people should march if they feel that they wish to march, and that compelling people to march is probably contrary to the spirit of pride,” Rochelle Squires said in response to the NDP promising that its entire caucus would march in at least one event this season.

On Wednesday, the NDP pledged its 18 MLAs and roster of candidates will march in a Pride parade this year. It called on the Progressive Conservatives to require the same commitment from its MLAs.

“Will the premier do the right thing and will she commit that 100 per cent of the PC caucus will walk in a Pride parade in Manitoba this year?” NDP MLA Lisa Naylor asked in question period.

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Wednesday, May. 31, 2023

MIKAELA MACKENZIE / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS

Families Minister and minister responsible for gender equity Rochelle Squires: ‘Compelling people to march is probably contrary to the spirit of pride.’

Biz group wants minister to scrap proposed Hydro increases

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Preview

Biz group wants minister to scrap proposed Hydro increases

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Tuesday, May. 30, 2023

Manitoba independent businesses want government relief from rising energy bills while warning electricity rate hikes could devastate operators struggling with pandemic debt.

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Tuesday, May. 30, 2023

RUTH BONNEVILLE / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES

The Manitoba chapter of the Canadian Federation of Independent Business is urging Finance Minister Cliff Cullen to cancel Manitoba Hydro’s plans to raise electricity rates.

Ewasko reprimanded in house over Kinew, Beach comments

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Preview

Ewasko reprimanded in house over Kinew, Beach comments

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Monday, May. 29, 2023

Education Minister Wayne Ewasko got a hard lesson in racial sensitivity from Speaker Myrna Driedger, who reprimanded the Tory MLA for concerning remarks made towards Opposition Leader Wab Kinew.

Driedger delivered a stern warning to Ewasko following question period Monday, while ruling on a matter of privilege raised by Union Station MLA Uzoma Asagwara in late April.

The NDP had complained Ewasko violated Kinew’s rights as an MLA, and the rights of others, when the minister likened the Opposition leader to famous, Manitoba-born actor Adam Beach.

During debate, Ewasko said Kinew stands in the chamber “on a day-to-day basis, pretending to be some kind of actor. He’s no Adam Beach.”

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Monday, May. 29, 2023

MIKE DEAL / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES

The NDP had complained Education Minister Wayne Ewasko violated Kinew’s rights as an MLA, and the rights of others, when the minister likened the Opposition leader to famous, Manitoba-born actor Adam Beach.

NDP MLA’s bill mandating anti-racism training for provincial workers gets government backing

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Preview

NDP MLA’s bill mandating anti-racism training for provincial workers gets government backing

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Monday, May. 29, 2023

Manitoba lawmakers are poised to mandate annual anti-racism training for more than 12,000 people on the provincial government’s payroll.

NDP MLA Jamie Moses’s Bill 241 is on deck to receive third reading and royal assent before the legislature rises on June 1, after receiving support from the Progressive Conservative government.

If passed, the legislation would require all government employees to take training “that aims to eliminate systemic racism and to advance understanding of human rights” each year.

The training must address implicit bias, how to challenge racism, and the discriminatory and unequal treatment of people based on ancestry or ethnicity.

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Monday, May. 29, 2023

MIKAELA MACKENZIE / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES

NDP MLA Jamie Moses said anti-racism training must be mandated in law so it does not “fall by the wayside.” The proposed legislation does not stipulate penalties if an employee refuses to participate in the training.

Tory campaign co-chair Bergen bemoans ‘brainwashed’ youth

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Preview

Tory campaign co-chair Bergen bemoans ‘brainwashed’ youth

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Thursday, May. 25, 2023

Progressive Conservative election campaign co-chair Candice Bergen lamented the entitlement and disengagement of young people, some of whom she described as brainwashed by the education system, while praising a group of young Tory supporters at the Manitoba legislature.

Bergen, the former member of Parliament for Portage—Lisgar and interim Conservative Party of Canada leader, made the remarks during a reception Wednesday evening.

A 78-second audio recording of Bergen’s speech was released Thursday by the Manitoba NDP.

“I want to thank you for being willing to be involved, especially in this day and age, when so many young people are either disengaged, they’re entitled, they think they don’t need to do anything, they think whatever they will do won’t matter anyway,” Bergen told the crowd, which included at least a half-dozen Tory MLAs and Premier Heather Stefanson.

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Thursday, May. 25, 2023

THE CANADIAN PRESS FILES/Adrian Wyld

Candice Bergen, former member of Parliament for Portage—Lisgar and interim Conservative Party of Canada leader.

NDP reveals Shared Health data showing rural paramedic numbers shrinking

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Preview

NDP reveals Shared Health data showing rural paramedic numbers shrinking

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Wednesday, May. 24, 2023

Manitoba’s roster of rural paramedics shrank by more than 80 workers in under three years, according to statistics released by the New Democrats.

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Wednesday, May. 24, 2023

JOHN WOODS / THE CANADIAN PRESS FILES

Opposition Leader Wab Kinew tabled figures from Shared Health during question period Wednesday showing the health authority had an average of 617 paramedics on its payroll in the 2022-23 fiscal year.

‘I was not prepared to delay taking action’: MPI board chair

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Preview

‘I was not prepared to delay taking action’: MPI board chair

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Tuesday, May. 23, 2023

Manitoba Public Insurance’s board of directors voted unanimously to oust former chief executive officer Eric Herbelin from the Crown corporation after reviewing the findings of an internal investigation into his conduct.

On Tuesday, MPI board chair Ward Keith said he makes no apologies for calling an emergency meeting of the auto insurer’s governance committee over the long weekend.

The board voted to dismiss Herbelin with cause Sunday and his departure was announced that afternoon. MPI chief operating officer Marnie Kacher was appointed interim CEO.

“As chair of the board, I was not prepared to delay taking action until after the long weekend,” Keith said in an interview. “The board took what I believe to be the necessary and appropriate action and in as timely a manner as possible, considering the necessary due process.”

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Tuesday, May. 23, 2023

RUTH BONNEVILLE / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES

MPI board chair Ward Keith says he makes no apologies for calling an emergency meeting of the auto insurer’s governance committee over the long weekend.

Province quietly adds foot, ankle, shoulder surgeries to out-of-town medical menu options

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Preview

Province quietly adds foot, ankle, shoulder surgeries to out-of-town medical menu options

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Friday, May. 19, 2023

Manitoba is offering to send people who need foot, ankle or shoulder surgery to Toronto and Vancouver in a bid to shrink pandemic-backlogged wait lists.

The province quietly updated its website to reflect the changes, but its diagnostic and surgical recovery task force did not widely publicize the cost-free service patients can voluntarily sign up to receive.

The two new clinics accepting patient referrals from Manitoba are the Cambie Surgical Centre in Vancouver and the Clearpoint Don Mills Surgical Unit in Toronto.

No patients have been sent to either facility yet, but the potential exists for 200 surgeries to be completed at each site over the next two years, a task force spokesperson said Friday.

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Friday, May. 19, 2023

Manitoba is offering to send people who need foot, ankle or shoulder surgery to Toronto and Vancouver in a bid to shrink pandemic-backlogged wait lists. (Mark Teske / University of Maryland School of Medicine via AP)

Manitoba personal care homes secure air quality funds, seek election platform

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Preview

Manitoba personal care homes secure air quality funds, seek election platform

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Friday, May. 19, 2023

Manitoba’s long-term care sector deserves a spot in the provincial election spotlight, as nursing homes struggle with frozen operating grants and rising costs post-pandemic, personal care home operators say.

“It absolutely needs to be an election issue,” Saul and Claribel Simkin Centre chief executive officer Laurie Cerqueti said Friday. “We’ve been underfunded for years.”

The provincial government announced the 200-bed personal care home in the Winnipeg neighbourhood of Linden Ridge would receive $90,000 to replace its kitchen condenser unit via the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program’s COVID-19 resilience stream.

The Simkin Centre was one of 32 Manitoba personal care homes, schools and hospitals to receive cash for projects to improve ventilation and air quality as part of a $13.1-million funding announcement, the majority of which was federal money.

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Friday, May. 19, 2023

MIKAELA MACKENZIE / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES

Laurie Cerqueti, CEO of Saul and Claribel Simkin Centre.

NDP pushes MPI connection to beleaguered consultant

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Preview

NDP pushes MPI connection to beleaguered consultant

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Thursday, May. 18, 2023

NDP Leader Wab Kinew called on the Progressive Conservative government to withhold money potentially owed by Manitoba Public Insurance to consultant McKinsey and Co., which is accused of deceptive marketing to promote opioid sales in a class-action lawsuit by the B.C. government.

The Crown corporation’s relationship with the global consulting giant came under fire again in question period Thursday.

MPI hired McKinsey in September 2021 to help deliver its $290-million information technology project through multiple, untendered contracts valued at more than $12 million.

“McKinsey is accused of marketing opioids in a way that made the drug crisis worse,” Kinew said in the chamber. “It’s costing lives across our country.”

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Thursday, May. 18, 2023

JOHN WOODS / THE CANADIAN PRESS FILES

NDP Leader Wab Kinew called on the PC government to withhold money potentially owed by Manitoba Public Insurance to consultant McKinsey and Co.

MPI dissatisfied with consultant on IT project, NDP says

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Preview

MPI dissatisfied with consultant on IT project, NDP says

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Wednesday, May. 17, 2023

Manitoba Public Insurance raised concerns internally about work done by global consulting giant McKinsey and Company to deliver the auto insurer’s troubled Project Nova via a nearly $10-million untendered contract, according to documents released by the Manitoba NDP.

The two-page, internal email correspondence from March 15, 2023, was tabled by Opposition Leader Wab Kinew Wednesday.

The document, redacted partly by the NDP, contains the subject line “Align on next steps RE: McKinsey” and summarized management discussions on the consultant’s progress on Project Nova as well as options and next steps proposed by officials to address shortcomings with McKinsey’s work.

Names and other identifying information in the email were redacted.

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Wednesday, May. 17, 2023

Based on an email tabled by Opposition Leader Wab Kinew, MPI officials felt consultant McKinsey and Company was not following industry best practises in its work for the corporation and suggested a meeting to “share feedback one more time” and to request a corrective action plan. (Janek Lowe/Winnipeg Free Press files)

Widow blames health-care, hospital staff for husband’s death, demands answers from silent health minister

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Preview

Widow blames health-care, hospital staff for husband’s death, demands answers from silent health minister

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Wednesday, May. 17, 2023

A grieving widow is calling for accountability from Manitoba Health Minister Audrey Gordon after her husband died following a series of alleged mistakes by home-care and hospital staff.

Wayne Frank Robert, 68, died Oct. 11 at St. Boniface Hospital after suffering from a diabetic foot ulcer that went unnoticed by the home-care workers responsible for his care, Susan Robert said.

“Health care in this province failed my husband, it failed my family and it failed me,” she told reporters at the Manitoba legislature.

She attended question period Tuesday, where Manitoba Liberal health critic Jon Gerrard called for the Tory health minister to meet with Robert to provide closure and to ensure no other patient has the same experience.

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Wednesday, May. 17, 2023

SUPPLIED

Wayne Frank Robert, pictured with his grandchildren, had an infected sore on his foot that went unaddressed by home care and it landed him in hospital. He ended up in a COVID ward and then ICU, where his patient wristband was incorrect. He died after being taken off life support and his family wasn’t able to see him during the weeks leading up to his sedations.

Tories about to throw $10-M lifeline to pot stores

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Preview

Tories about to throw $10-M lifeline to pot stores

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Wednesday, May. 17, 2023

Millions in provincial revenue from cannabis sales could go up in smoke as the Tory government looks to further repeal taxes owed by cash-strapped retailers.

A proposed amendment to Bill 10 — introduced by the Progressive Conservatives last fall — would repeal the six per cent social responsibility fee on gross cannabis revenue, which is paid by retailers, retroactive to Jan. 1, 2022.

As written, Bill 10 (The Liquor, Gaming and Cannabis Control Amendment Act - Social Responsibility Fee Repealed) would eliminate the fee retroactive only to Jan. 1, 2023. During public hearings on Bill 10, cannabis retailers urged the government to go even further and waive fees owed for 2022.

The amendment proposed by Finance Minister Cliff Cullen could cost the government about $10.5 million in revenue in 2022.

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Wednesday, May. 17, 2023

MIKE DEAL / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES

The amendment proposed by Finance Minister Cliff Cullen could cost the government about $10.5 million in revenue in 2022.

MPI board chair quits after CEO pay boost, travel bill made public

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Preview

MPI board chair quits after CEO pay boost, travel bill made public

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Tuesday, May. 16, 2023

The Tory-appointed board chair of Manitoba Public Insurance has resigned amid a government-ordered review of the Crown corporation’s operations.

Portage la Prairie dentist Michael Sullivan quit his job on the public auto insurer’s board of directors last week, Justice Minister Kelvin Goertzen said.

Sullivan’s resignation follows a Free Press report that MPI chief executive officer Eric Herbelin received a three per cent pay bump last year and spent 38 business days travelling even as the price of the Crown corporation’s information technology program ballooned and the Public Utilities Board ordered increased financial reporting and oversight.

Goertzen, the minister responsible for MPI, thanked Sullivan for his time on the board.

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Tuesday, May. 16, 2023

MIKAELA MACKENZIE / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES

The board chair of MPI has resigned amid a government-ordered review of the Crown corporation’s operations.

Funding boost effective in growing number of hip, knee surgeries, task force says

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Preview

Funding boost effective in growing number of hip, knee surgeries, task force says

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Monday, May. 15, 2023

The number of hip and knee procedures increased slightly last year in Manitoba, owing in part to new same-day surgery programs and a boost in spending, Health Minister Audrey Gordon said Monday.

Gordon was in Winkler, located about 120 kilometres southwest of Winnipeg, to provide an update on the diagnostic and surgical recovery task force progress on orthopedic surgeries.

The minister said Boundary Trails Health Centre was able to complete 139 more hip and knee replacements in the 2022-23 fiscal year than the 500 procedures initially planned.

The boost in operating volumes was attributed to a program introduced about six months ago that allows patients to recover at home after being discharged the same day as their surgery. About half of the procedures completed at the hospital located between Morden and Winkler were considered “same day.”

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Monday, May. 15, 2023

Health Minister Audrey Gordon said Boundary Trails Health Centre was able to complete 139 more hip and knee replacements in the 2022-23 fiscal year than the 600 procedures initially planned. (Tim Smith / The Brandon Sun files)

Consumers group slams proposed Hydro rate hikes

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Preview

Consumers group slams proposed Hydro rate hikes

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Monday, May. 15, 2023

Manitoba’s consumer watchdog will consider whether to hike electricity bills by four per cent over the next year as hearings begin on Manitoba Hydro’s latest general rate application.

The Crown corporation is asking the Public Utilities Board to approve an average two per cent rate increase that would take effect on Sept. 1, 2023, followed by a second two per cent increase effective April 1, 2024.

On Monday, the independent, quasi-judicial tribunal will open hearings on the multi-year, general rate application with representations from Manitoba Hydro and interveners, including the Consumers Coalition, Manitoba Industrial Power Users Group, and First Nations organizations.

Consumers Coalition attorney Byron Williams said his clients believe the rate hikes are “unjust and unreasonable” while Manitoba Hydro projects massive profits and plans to increase operating and administration expenses by nearly $100 million over the next two years.

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Monday, May. 15, 2023

Manitoba Hydro Place (Ruth Bonneville / Winnipeg Free Press files)

Winnipeg divisions faced cuts under shelved education funding model

Maggie Macintosh and Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Preview

Winnipeg divisions faced cuts under shelved education funding model

Maggie Macintosh and Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Thursday, May. 11, 2023

The Stefanson government is defending its ongoing overhaul of how the province pays for public schools, after a leaked document revealed one rejected proposal would have cut millions from Winnipeg school boards’ budgets.

Confidential government documents obtained by the Manitoba NDP compare the total funding allotments for all 37 public school boards in 2022-23 based on both the existing formula and a “new funding model.”

The internal document, which the official Opposition released Thursday, was prepared for the education department’s funding review team in November 2022.

The proposal suggests 14 boards — including all but one metro division, River East Transcona — would have received fewer dollars if the updated formula was implemented.

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Thursday, May. 11, 2023

RUTH BONNEVILLE / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES

The proposal suggests 14 boards — including all but one metro division, River East Transcona — would have received fewer dollars if the updated formula was implemented.

Health-care injury, illness claims increase ‘at alarming rate,’ highest of all workplaces, WCB reports

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Preview

Health-care injury, illness claims increase ‘at alarming rate,’ highest of all workplaces, WCB reports

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Thursday, May. 11, 2023

More than 25,000 Manitobans opened a case with the Workers Compensation Board last year with the health-care sector driving an injury-claim increase in excess of six per cent.

Injury and time loss-claims continued to rise in 2022, according to the board’s annual report, costing the corporation just over $191 million.

“Healthcare-related injuries and illnesses continued to increase at an alarming rate in 2022,” the report stated, noting health care had the highest injury rate of all workplaces and one of two industries that recorded a significant jump in claims.

The public-administration sector — which includes workers employed by municipal, provincial and federal governments — was the other area to report a spike in workplace injuries and illnesses, and currently has one of the highest injury rates in the province, the WCB reported.

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Thursday, May. 11, 2023

(Ken Gigliotti / Free Press files)

Manitoba politicians spar over Superstore rebate

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Preview

Manitoba politicians spar over Superstore rebate

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Wednesday, May. 10, 2023

Opposition Leader Wab Kinew was accused of picking a fight with local businesses after pledging to axe school tax rebates for out-of-province billionaires who own commercial properties in Manitoba.

During question period Wednesday, the New Democrats relaunched their attack on the Progressive Conservative government over its $453-million education property tax rebate program.

The program is designed to eliminate the tax over a 10-year period and includes about $40 million in rebates for commercial property owners this year.

For the past three days, the NDP has singled out rebates sent to addresses associated with businesses owned by Loblaw. George Weston Ltd., which holds large stakes in Loblaw Companies, reported a profit of $426 million in its first quarter.

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Wednesday, May. 10, 2023

For the past three days, the NDP has singled out rebates sent to addresses associated with businesses owned by Loblaw. (Nathan Denette / The Canadian Press files)

Health minister claims physicians beating a path to Manitoba

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Preview

Health minister claims physicians beating a path to Manitoba

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Wednesday, May. 10, 2023

Health Minister Audrey Gordon insists Manitoba is a choice destination for desperately needed doctors, despite a well-documented physician shortage and complaints that bureaucracy is driving specialists away from the province.

“On a regular basis, I have individuals that are writing and calling my office because they’re physicians who want to come to Manitoba,” Gordon told reporters Tuesday, after the Free Press published a scathing opinion piece by the acting head of neurology at Health Sciences Centre, Dr. Dan Roberts.

In the piece, Roberts described a health system riddled with obstacles that prevent physicians from advancing proposals and programs to improve health-care delivery to Manitobans, and pushes doctors to seek opportunities elsewhere.

In one case, a stalled request for financing could spell the end to a neuro-ophthalmology specialist’s career in the province before it begins, he said.

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Wednesday, May. 10, 2023

MIKAELA MACKENZIE / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES

Health Minister Audrey Gordon insists Manitoba is a choice destination for desperately needed doctors.

Province ‘absolutely not defending’ MPI CEO pay raises: Goertzen

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Preview

Province ‘absolutely not defending’ MPI CEO pay raises: Goertzen

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Tuesday, May. 9, 2023

Justice Minister Kelvin Goertzen isn’t backing a three per cent pay bump awarded last year to the president of Manitoba Public Insurance amid concerns with its operations, saying changes to the Crown corporation’s board could be imminent.

On Tuesday, the Steinbach MLA and minister responsible for the public auto insurer was challenged by NDP critic Matt Wiebe to explain why MPI chief executive officer Eric Herbelin received a $11,300 raise in 2022 — the same year it was revealed the cost of modernizing its information technology systems had ballooned to $289 million from $128.5 million.

“The handpicked MPI CEO received not one but two raises, and he also racked up $88,000 in travel costs as he toured the country for the equivalent of 7 1/2 weeks away,” Wiebe said in question period, citing a Free Press report published Monday.

“This PC government and their handpicked board, including Grant Stefanson (cousin of Premier Heather Stefanson’s husband Jason) signed off on all of this.”

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Tuesday, May. 9, 2023

MIKE DEAL / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES

Justice Minister Kelvin Goertzen said the government is “absolutely not defending” raises provided to Herbelin, saying the PCs have issued directives to MPI because they are concerned with operations at the corporation.

NDP vows end to education property tax rebates for out-of-province billionaires

Danielle Da Silva 2 minute read Preview

NDP vows end to education property tax rebates for out-of-province billionaires

Danielle Da Silva 2 minute read Monday, May. 8, 2023

An NDP government would stop cutting education property tax rebate cheques to out-of-province billionaires but would otherwise leave the Tory tax program intact, Opposition Leader Wab Kinew says.

On Monday, Kinew said Manitobans should not expect his party to “do anything dramatically different” with the Progressive Conservatives’ $453 million rebate program, if the NDP forms government in the general election, scheduled for Oct. 3.

In question period, the Fort Rouge MLA called on Premier Heather Stefanson to “stop her handouts” to billionaires by way of rebate cheques to commercial property owners who pay education property taxes.

In 2021, the Tories committed to phase out the tax over 10 years. This year, the rebate increased from 37.5 per cent to 50 per cent for residential and farm property owners. The rebate remained at 10 per cent for commercial property owners.

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Monday, May. 8, 2023

RUTH BONNEVILLE / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS
FILES

An NDP government would stop cutting education property tax rebate cheques to out-of-province billionaires but would otherwise leave the Tory tax program intact, Opposition Leader Wab Kinew says.

More than 1,700 surgeries cancelled in city after pandemic restrictions lifted, NDP says

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Preview

More than 1,700 surgeries cancelled in city after pandemic restrictions lifted, NDP says

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Monday, May. 8, 2023

Winnipeg hospitals were forced to cancel more than 1,700 surgeries in the 10-month period after COVID-19 restrictions were dropped in the province, according to documents obtained by the Manitoba NDP.

During question period in the legislature Monday, Opposition Leader Wab Kinew blamed the cancelled procedures on the Progressive Conservative government’s mismanagement and accused the the Tories of ignoring proposals to add surgical capacity.

“Manitobans are waiting too long to get the surgeries that they need too often,” Kinew said, tabling a response to a freedom of information request that showed 1,788 surgical procedures scheduled at eight Winnipeg hospitals were cancelled on the day of, between April 2022 and January 2023.

“Surgeries are being cancelled because a lack of resources, a lack of capacity in our health-care system because of PC cuts,” the Fort Rouge MLA said.

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Monday, May. 8, 2023

MIKE DEAL / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES

NDP’s Wab Kinew blamed the cancelled procedures on the Progressive Conservative government’s mismanagement and accused the the Tories of ignoring proposals to add surgical capacity.

Manitoba’s health-care recruitment mission hits snag

Danielle Da Silva 6 minute read Preview

Manitoba’s health-care recruitment mission hits snag

Danielle Da Silva 6 minute read Wednesday, Apr. 26, 2023

The Manitoba government’s plan to bolster the burned-out health-care workforce with more than 300 Filipino nurses and aides could face delays as immigration negotiations drag on and a promised fast-track to license foreign nurses stalls.

Two months after the province launched a recruitment mission in the Philippines, the two governments have yet to approve a framework to facilitate the departure of the 300 nurses and aides offered jobs in Manitoba hospitals and nursing homes.

Shared Health, the provincial health authority overseeing the recruitment drive, said Manitoba government officials are working with their counterparts in the Philippines to accelerate the “finalization and approval” of formal offers of employment.

“Once these are approved by the Philippines government, specific letters will be issued to each individual candidate to enable the Canadian immigration process through our provincial nominee pathways,” the spokesman said.

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Wednesday, Apr. 26, 2023

MIKAELA MACKENZIE / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES

Despite the regulatory changes, recruited nurses will complete most of the requirements once they arrive in Manitoba, according to Shared Health.

Lab staff shortage at Thompson hospital has reached critical stage, union and NDP say

Danielle Da Silva 2 minute read Preview

Lab staff shortage at Thompson hospital has reached critical stage, union and NDP say

Danielle Da Silva 2 minute read Tuesday, Apr. 25, 2023

The union representing laboratory technologists at Thompson General Hospital says a severe staff shortage is threatening emergency services, prompting the Manitoba NDP to repeat its calls for government to reach a new deal with allied health workers.

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Tuesday, Apr. 25, 2023

The technologists’ plight was raised by NDP Opposition Leader Wab Kinew and NDP health critic Uzoma Asagwara in question period Tuesday. (Mike Deal / Winnipeg Free Press files)

Opposition releases confidential report revealing burnout, job desperation in Manitoba highest in Canada

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Preview

Opposition releases confidential report revealing burnout, job desperation in Manitoba highest in Canada

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Tuesday, Apr. 25, 2023

A draft report commissioned by the Manitoba government found most of the province’s health workforce reported a low level of well-being and resilience and was ready to quit, posing a risk to both employees and patients.

The 51-page confidential document produced by Deloitte last April was released by Manitoba’s NDP and Liberals in question period Monday.

The report contains 34 recommendations to support health workers that were developed through focus groups, interviews and surveys with people on the front lines.

“Employee resilience and well-being in the Manitoba health system is at a point where change is needed,” the report states.

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Tuesday, Apr. 25, 2023

MIKAELA MACKENZIE / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES

A draft report commissioned by the Manitoba government found most of the province’s health workforce reported a low level of well-being and resilience and was ready to quit, posing a risk to both employees and patients.

Premiers to seek cash for guns, gangs probes

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Preview

Premiers to seek cash for guns, gangs probes

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Friday, Apr. 21, 2023

Canada’s premiers will call on Ottawa to enhance funding for guns and gangs investigations and to follow through on legislative changes that would make it tougher for violent offenders to receive bail.

Premier Heather Stefanson chaired Friday’s virtual meeting between the Council of the Federation and Canadian Association of Chiefs of Police. The association requested the meeting in early April to discuss “several urgent and emerging issues” regarding policing and violence.

Stefanson described the meeting as “very positive and constructive” as the two groups discussed federal funding for special investigation units that target gang and gun violence, and bail reform.

“Now more than ever, federal action is needed. Reforms should not be delayed further for public protection and safer communities and to support the work and dedication of all of our law enforcement officers that seek to protect Canadians right across our country,” Stefanson told reporters following the meeting.

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Friday, Apr. 21, 2023

Premier Heather Stefanson described the meeting as “very positive and constructive” as the two groups discussed federal funding for special investigation units that target gang and gun violence, and bail reform. (John Woods / Canadian Press files)

Indigenous newborn back with family after outcry online, in house

Danielle Da Silva and Malak Abas 4 minute read Preview

Indigenous newborn back with family after outcry online, in house

Danielle Da Silva and Malak Abas 4 minute read Tuesday, May. 2, 2023

An Indigenous newborn apprehended by child welfare authorities at a Winnipeg hospital this week has been reunited with her young parents following social-media outcry and an appeal for intervention at the Manitoba legislature.

The baby girl was taken into the custody of child and family services on April 17, three days after her birth, according to the family.

Video of the incident posted by the baby’s aunt the same day circulated widely on social media and amassed thousands of views across various platforms as the family advocated for the child’s return.

The child's 18-year-old father said the apprehension of his daughter was devastating.

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Tuesday, May. 2, 2023

An Indigenous newborn apprehended by child welfare authorities at a Winnipeg hospital this week has been reunited with her young parents following social-media outcry and an appeal for intervention at the Manitoba legislature.

The baby girl was taken into the custody of child and family services on April 17, three days after her birth, according to the family.

Video of the incident posted by the baby’s aunt the same day circulated widely on social media and amassed thousands of views across various platforms as the family advocated for the child’s return.

The child's 18-year-old father said the apprehension of his daughter was devastating.

‘I am the minister of the art of the possible’: Gordon on Grace doctors’ plea for help

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Preview

‘I am the minister of the art of the possible’: Gordon on Grace doctors’ plea for help

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Wednesday, Apr. 19, 2023

Manitoba Health Minister Audrey Gordon says orthopedic surgeons at Grace Hospital are welcome in her office any time, after the doctors sent a desperate plea for help amid staff shortages and reduced surgical slates.

On Wednesday, Gordon said she did in fact receive a letter from orthopedic surgeons at the west Winnipeg hospital in November — after casting doubt on the authenticity of the correspondence released by the NDP a day prior.

The minister said she responded to the letter but has yet to meet with the group.

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Wednesday, Apr. 19, 2023

Manitoba Health Minister Audrey Gordon says orthopedic surgeons at Grace Hospital are welcome in her office any time, after the doctors sent a desperate plea for help amid staff shortages and reduced surgical slates. (Tim Smith / The Brandon Sun files)

Speaker dismisses complaint about nurse-bribe heckling

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Preview

Speaker dismisses complaint about nurse-bribe heckling

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Wednesday, Apr. 19, 2023

The Speaker of the Manitoba legislature has ruled against the NDP, which had alleged Health Minister Audrey Gordon had accused one of its MLAs of paying nurses to quit their jobs.

Speaker Myrna Driedger said the incident didn’t meet the threshold of a matter of privilege.

Meanwhile, Gordon would not deny making the alleged claim when pressed by reporters Wednesday to set the record straight.

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Wednesday, Apr. 19, 2023

MIKE DEAL / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES

Speaker Myrna Driedger said the incident didn’t meet the threshold of a matter of privilege.

Health minister defends private ‘investments’ to reduce backlogs

Katie May and Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Preview

Health minister defends private ‘investments’ to reduce backlogs

Katie May and Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Wednesday, Apr. 19, 2023

Manitoba’s health minister has defended a provincial task force request for private-sector involvement in proposals to fight pandemic backlogs after two physicians went public with their decision to stop giving input to the task force.

“What I want all individuals to know who are providing input is that the task force is there to listen and to consider all the voices, and there are times, believe it or not, where I put forward an idea and they come back with an explanation as to why it might not be the best approach,” Health Minister Audrey Gordon said Wednesday, adding all ideas are “appreciated and valued” even if they aren’t acted upon.

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Wednesday, Apr. 19, 2023

MIKAELA MACKENZIE / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES

Health minister Audrey Gordon said the two sleep specialists were not members of the task force or its steering committee. However, she said their input was valued.

Grace Hospital surgeons wait months for government action on ‘dire situation’

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Preview

Grace Hospital surgeons wait months for government action on ‘dire situation’

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Tuesday, Apr. 18, 2023

Five months after orthopedic surgeons at Grace Hospital pleaded with Health Minister Audrey Gordon for help to meet demand for joint replacements, doctors continue to wait for government funding and approval to tackle backlogs and bolster the beleaguered program.

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Tuesday, Apr. 18, 2023

MIKE DEAL / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES

Months after orthopedic surgeons at Grace Hospital pleaded with Health Minister Audrey Gordon for help to meet demand for joint replacements, doctors continue to wait for government funding and approval to tackle backlogs.

NDP to block government bills, including expansion of private liquor sales

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Preview

NDP to block government bills, including expansion of private liquor sales

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Monday, Apr. 17, 2023

Manitoba New Democrats put a cork in two provincial government bills to expand private liquor sales as advocates for the proposed legislation poured one out to mourn a lost business opportunity.

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Monday, Apr. 17, 2023

NDP critic for Manitoba Liquor and Lotteries Lisa Naylor (Mikaela MacKenzie / Winnipeg Free Press files)

Stefanson takes shots at NDP during address to Tory party faithful

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Preview

Stefanson takes shots at NDP during address to Tory party faithful

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Saturday, Apr. 15, 2023

Progressive Conservative Party Leader Heather Stefanson rallied supporters with a promise to lower taxes and put more money back in the pockets of Manitobans, while warning party faithful to brace for a PST hike if the New Democrats form government.

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Saturday, Apr. 15, 2023

JOHN WOODS / THE CANADIAN PRESS

Premier Heather Stefanson rallied supporters with a promise to lower taxes and put more money back in the pockets of Manitobans Saturday.

Tory coffers robust heading into election

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Preview

Tory coffers robust heading into election

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Saturday, Apr. 15, 2023

Donors to Manitoba Progressive Conservatives kept the cash flowing last year despite the party and its leader being plagued by poor polling.

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Saturday, Apr. 15, 2023

Mike Deal / Winnipeg Free Press files

Premier Heather Stefanson and the Tories pulled in $1.422 million in donations in 2022, financial statements published by Elections Manitoba Friday show.

Minister, NDP leader open to blowback over spat, observers say

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Preview

Minister, NDP leader open to blowback over spat, observers say

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Friday, Apr. 14, 2023

The public spat between a cabinet minister and the NDP leader could could backfire for both parties, political observers say, as voters grow tired of personal attacks and abuse in politics.

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Friday, Apr. 14, 2023

MIKE DEAL / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS

Sport, Culture and Heritage Minister Obby Khan.

Tory sport minister accuses NDP leader of swearing, shoving

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Preview

Tory sport minister accuses NDP leader of swearing, shoving

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Thursday, Apr. 13, 2023

Accusations of intimidation, profane language and physical violence were launched against Opposition Leader Wab Kinew, following a tense exchange at the Manitoba legislature Tory cabinet minister Obby Khan says left him feeling threatened and unsafe.

The allegations stem from a handshake between the two men at a New Democratic Party sponsored event Thursday afternoon to mark the first official Turban Day at the legislature in Winnipeg.

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Thursday, Apr. 13, 2023

MIKAELA MACKENZIE / FREE PRESS FILES

Sport, Culture and Heritage Minister Obby Khan said he shook hands with the NDP leader, who allegedly pulled him in close and offered an earful of profanities.

Rising HIV infections ‘creating havoc on the front lines’

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Preview

Rising HIV infections ‘creating havoc on the front lines’

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Thursday, Apr. 13, 2023

A troubling increase in the number of new HIV infections reported in Manitoba has front-line service providers racing to connect people with treatment and testing, as spread of the virus approaches a crisis level.

Nine Circles Community Health Centre executive director Mike Payne said infection rates for human immunodeficiency virus are continuing to trend in the wrong direction in Manitoba, owing to a multitude of factors that include systemic racism, the legacy of colonialism, homelessness, injection drug and methamphetamine use.

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Thursday, Apr. 13, 2023

ALEX LUPUL / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS

“In every part of our programming, I think people would agree that it feels like a crisis,” said Mike Payne, executive director of Nine Circles Community Health Centre.

Premiers’ fears about resource agreements unfounded: Trudeau

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Preview

Premiers’ fears about resource agreements unfounded: Trudeau

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Wednesday, Apr. 12, 2023

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau accused prairie premiers of distorting the words of his justice minister, insisting David Lametti didn’t promise to review natural resource transfer agreements when he spoke to Indigenous chiefs last week.

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Wednesday, Apr. 12, 2023

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau accused prairie premiers of distorting the words of his justice minister, insisting David Lametti didn’t promise to review natural resource transfer agreements when he spoke to Indigenous chiefs last week. (Mike Deal / Winnipeg Free Press)

Time to act on Adanac: NDP

Danielle Da Silva and Tyler Searle 5 minute read Preview

Time to act on Adanac: NDP

Danielle Da Silva and Tyler Searle 5 minute read Wednesday, Apr. 12, 2023

New Democrats are calling for government intervention in a troubled Winnipeg apartment block that was the scene of two recent homicides.

“The Adanac used to be a decent building that families called home,” NDP municipal relations critic Lisa Naylor said in question period Tuesday. “But now it’s an illegal dumping ground full of garbage (and) there’s multiple bylaw infractions leading to fires, property crime, drug and sex trafficking.”

Naylor described the three-storey apartment block at 743 Sargent Ave. as a “health and safety hazard for residents and neighbours” and called on the government to intervene.

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Wednesday, Apr. 12, 2023

The Adanac Apartments at 737 Sargent Ave. has been the source of numerous complaints and public health violations. (Tyler Searle / Winnipeg Free Press)

Unpaid bereavement days bill passes second reading

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Preview

Unpaid bereavement days bill passes second reading

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Tuesday, Apr. 11, 2023

A private member’s bill to guarantee time off work for families who have experienced a stillbirth or miscarriage passed second reading Tuesday.

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Tuesday, Apr. 11, 2023

MIKAELA MACKENZIE / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS Files

MLA Amanda Lathlin’s private member’s bill to establish paid bereavement leave for families who experience a miscarriage or stillbirth is receiving wide support in the House.

Prairie premiers air grievance over natural resources talk

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Preview

Prairie premiers air grievance over natural resources talk

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Tuesday, Apr. 11, 2023

Manitoba Premier Heather Stefanson says federal Justice Minister David Lametti has triggered “consternation” on the Prairies, following recent comments made to the Assembly of First Nations.

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Tuesday, Apr. 11, 2023

THE CANADIAN PRESS FILES/Spencer Colby

Federal Justice Minister David Lametti.

Tories accused of playing politics with MPI

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Preview

Tories accused of playing politics with MPI

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Thursday, Apr. 6, 2023

Manitoba New Democrats have accused the Tory government of using an external review of Manitoba Public Insurance as political cover for a potential rate hike, arguing customers should know before the fall election if their Autopac bill will increase.

In question period Thursday, MPI critic MLA Matt Wiebe challenged the government to reassure ratepayers their costs won’t spike in the wake of an organizational review at the Crown corporation.

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Thursday, Apr. 6, 2023

MIKAELA MACKENZIE / FREE PRESS FILES

“We are taking the initiative to ensure that we bring MPI into the 21st century,” Wharton said. “Our government will definitely not put ratepayers at risk.”

MPI head defends Crown corporation after minister orders external review

Danielle Da Silva 6 minute read Preview

MPI head defends Crown corporation after minister orders external review

Danielle Da Silva 6 minute read Wednesday, Apr. 5, 2023

The head of Manitoba Public Insurance isn’t shying away from an external review of its operations, insisting the Crown corporation is “doing the right things” despite the government’s escalating concerns about how it is being managed.

Chief executive officer Eric Herbelin expressed no qualms about the organizational review of MPI, in an interview late Tuesday afternoon. It was ordered by Justice Minister Kelvin Goertzen, who is also responsible for the corporation.

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Wednesday, Apr. 5, 2023

ETHAN CAIRNS / FREE PRESS FILES

President and CEO of Manitoba Public Insurance Eric Herbelin

Manitoba budget passes into law

Danielle Da Silva 1 minute read Preview

Manitoba budget passes into law

Danielle Da Silva 1 minute read Tuesday, Apr. 4, 2023

Legislation to implement the Tory government’s promised income tax breaks has passed.

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Tuesday, Apr. 4, 2023

MIKAELA MACKENZIE / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS

The Tories have promised that if the bill was passed by June 1, Manitobans could see personal income tax reductions in the budget reflected on their paycheques by July.

Province orders review of MPI operations

Danielle Da Silva 6 minute read Preview

Province orders review of MPI operations

Danielle Da Silva 6 minute read Monday, Apr. 3, 2023

The province has ordered an organization review of Manitoba Public Insurance after a pileup of management issues, including massive cost overruns related to its project to move Autopac services online.

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Monday, Apr. 3, 2023

FREE PRESS FILES

The review of MPI is to be completed by Dec. 31.

Security at Manitoba ERs in spotlight

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Preview

Security at Manitoba ERs in spotlight

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Monday, Apr. 3, 2023

The plan to add beefed-up security to Manitoba’s busiest emergency departments is being kept under lock and key even though guards, armed with handcuffs and batons, could begin patrolling the province’s largest university in late spring.

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Monday, Apr. 3, 2023

RUTH BONNEVILLE / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES

The provincial health authority responsible for the Health Sciences Centre has refused to discuss its plans for ISOs.

‘On hold’ marriage certificate piece of Vital Statistics backlog puzzle

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Preview

‘On hold’ marriage certificate piece of Vital Statistics backlog puzzle

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Friday, Mar. 31, 2023

A year-long odyssey to obtain a marriage certificate from the Manitoba Vital Statistics Branch has left a Winnipeg woman questioning whether her nuptials were ever legally registered.

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Friday, Mar. 31, 2023

RUTH BONNEVILLE / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS

On at least eight occasions, Brandy Kowal says she has tried to get help from Vital Statistics by phone or email.

‘Sense of frustration’: province-funded community safety pilot project remains grounded

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Preview

‘Sense of frustration’: province-funded community safety pilot project remains grounded

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Wednesday, Mar. 29, 2023

Manitoba communities faced with increased crime rates continue to wait for provincial help with targeted, local safety plans, after a rural and northern crime prevention program has been set back a year.

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Wednesday, Mar. 29, 2023

MIKAELA MACKENZIE / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS Eric’s law office on Main Street in Dauphin on Wednesday, June 27, 2018. When you walk down the street, Eric’s physical legacy is very prominent - from buildings to infrastructure to public art, he was integral in bringing many projects to fruition. Mikaela MacKenzie / Winnipeg Free Press 2018.

Correctional institution nurses added to provincial incentives plan

Danielle Da Silva 2 minute read Preview

Correctional institution nurses added to provincial incentives plan

Danielle Da Silva 2 minute read Tuesday, Mar. 28, 2023

Civil sector nurses will receive retroactive bonuses and incentives after initially being left out of the Progressive Conservative government’s $200-million plan to retain health-care workers.

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Tuesday, Mar. 28, 2023

MGEU president Kyle Ross said Tuesday an agreement has been reached with the province to provide correctional institution nurses and 42 others at the Manitoba Development Centre the incentives and perks offered to peers in the health sector. (Winnipeg Free Press files)

Lawyers jump to NDP MLA’s defence, object to out-of-order tactics from Tory caucus

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Preview

Lawyers jump to NDP MLA’s defence, object to out-of-order tactics from Tory caucus

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Tuesday, Mar. 28, 2023

The governing Progressive Conservatives have been accused of attacking Manitoba’s defence lawyers after the caucus singled out attorney and Opposition MLA Mark Wasyliw for “repeatedly fighting to make our streets less safe.”

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Tuesday, Mar. 28, 2023

KEVIN KING / POOL

In a news release issued last Wednesday, the Tory caucus said it was disappointed Fort Garry MLA Mark Wasyliw was defending “alleged criminals who make our streets less safe” on top of his role as an elected official.

Province continues search for new IIU civilian director

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Preview

Province continues search for new IIU civilian director

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Friday, Mar. 24, 2023

Manitoba’s police watchdog is on the search for a new boss.

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Friday, Mar. 24, 2023

A civilian director of the IIU cannot serve more than two, five-year terms, according to the Police Services Act. (Daniel Crump / Bloomberg Media files)

Construction contract payment legislation unveiled

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Preview

Construction contract payment legislation unveiled

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Thursday, Mar. 23, 2023

Construction industry contractors and suppliers burned by customers who refuse to pay their bills on time may soon have a new legislative foundation to build a case for repayment.

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Thursday, Mar. 23, 2023

MIKE DEAL / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES

On Thursday, Consumer Protection Minister James Teitsma introduced the Builders’ Liens Amendment Act which would establish a payment schedule and impose deadlines for payors on construction contracts, with mandatory interest charges on missed payments.

Province’s former top-ranking public servant Leitch has new role in Stefanson government

Danielle Da Silva 2 minute read Preview

Province’s former top-ranking public servant Leitch has new role in Stefanson government

Danielle Da Silva 2 minute read Thursday, Mar. 23, 2023

Manitoba Premier Heather Stefanson has tapped her former clerk to oversee a set of handpicked projects ahead of the general election.

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Thursday, Mar. 23, 2023

MIKAELA MACKENZIE / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES

Don Leitch, the former clerk of the executive council, was appointed deputy minister of strategic projects.

Seventh nurse abandons HSC sex assault examination program

Erik Pindera and Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Preview

Seventh nurse abandons HSC sex assault examination program

Erik Pindera and Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Thursday, Mar. 23, 2023

Manitoba’s largest hospital is turning to doctors and nurse practitioners to perform forensic exams after more than half of its nurses trained to examine sex assault survivors quit this week amid a program overhaul.

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Thursday, Mar. 23, 2023

ETHAN CAIRNS / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES

Jennifer Cumpsty, Health Sciences Centre’s acute health services executive director.

NDP blasts health minister after nurses jump ship

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Preview

NDP blasts health minister after nurses jump ship

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Wednesday, Mar. 22, 2023

Health Minister Audrey Gordon faced repeated calls for her resignation Wednesday in the wake of a mass exodus of sexual assault nurse examiners from Manitoba’s largest hospital.

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Wednesday, Mar. 22, 2023

MIKAELA MACKENZIE / FREE PRESS FILES

Health minister Audrey Gordon speaks to the media at the Grace Hospital in Winnipeg on Friday, Feb. 17, 2023. For Carol story.

Winnipeg Free Press 2023.

Carberry desperate to find doctor as ER threatened

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Preview

Carberry desperate to find doctor as ER threatened

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Wednesday, Mar. 22, 2023

Residents of a town in western Manitoba are bracing for the closure of their emergency department, which they fear could be permanent, beginning this fall.

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Wednesday, Mar. 22, 2023

The emergency room at the Carberry Plains Health Centre will have no physician coverage as of September, when the current doctor’s contract concludes. (Winnipeg Free Press files)

Nurse overtime at rural authorities through the roof: data

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Preview

Nurse overtime at rural authorities through the roof: data

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Wednesday, Mar. 22, 2023

Manitoba nurses who work for two rural health authorities recorded more than 132,000 overtime hours in 2022.

Figures released by the Manitoba NDP show nurses in Southern Health and Interlake-Eastern worked 73,291 and 59,227 hours of overtime, respectively, during the first eight months of 2022.

The jump in overtime hours put both health authorities on track to finish the year with a 36 per cent increase in overtime use compared to 2020, the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic.

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Wednesday, Mar. 22, 2023

Figures released by the Manitoba NDP show nurses in Southern Health and Interlake-Eastern worked 73,291 and 59,227 hours of overtime, respectively, during the first eight months of 2022. (TNS files)

Minister blames Shared Health after nurses in sex-assault unit quit

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Preview

Minister blames Shared Health after nurses in sex-assault unit quit

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Tuesday, Mar. 21, 2023

A group of nurses trained to gather criminal evidence and support sexual assault survivors at Manitoba’s largest hospital have resigned amid a staffing crisis, as Health Minister Audrey Gordon placed blame on management for failing to deliver promised 24-7 nursing coverage.

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Tuesday, Mar. 21, 2023

RUTH BONNEVILLE / FREE PRESS FILES

Health Minister Audrey Gordon

Bill to require municipal, school trustee candidates to disclose legal issues passes second reading

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Preview

Bill to require municipal, school trustee candidates to disclose legal issues passes second reading

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Tuesday, Mar. 21, 2023

Manitoba lawmakers are pushing forward legislation to require municipal council and school trustee candidates to disclose criminal, drug and tax convictions.

On Tuesday, Bill 230 passed second reading. It amends the Municipal Councils and School Boards Elections Act to compel candidates running for local government or school trustee to release a statement detailing convictions and guilty pleas under the Criminal Code, the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act and the Income Tax Act.

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Tuesday, Mar. 21, 2023

MATT GOERZEN / THE BRANDON SUN FILES

The private member’s bill was first introduced by PC backbencher Len Isleifson, the MLA for Brandon East, last Thursday.

Tender issued for consultant to oversee long-delayed move of Autopac services online

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Preview

Tender issued for consultant to oversee long-delayed move of Autopac services online

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Monday, Mar. 20, 2023

Manitoba Public Insurance is hiring a new consultant to oversee its $290 million project to move Autopac services online after the province’s consumer watchdog rapped the Crown corporation for a lack of control over spending.

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Monday, Mar. 20, 2023

FREE PRESS FILES

Arts, culture, sports groups to share $37.8M

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Preview

Arts, culture, sports groups to share $37.8M

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Friday, Mar. 17, 2023

The Manitoba government is giving out $35 million to nearly two dozen arts, culture and sports organizations to renovate and build new facilities.

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Friday, Mar. 17, 2023

RUTH BONNEVILLE / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS

Michele Augert, CEO of Dakota Community Centre (centre), thanks Premier Heather Stefanson after speaking at the event Friday.

Tories back Orange Shirt stat holiday

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Preview

Tories back Orange Shirt stat holiday

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Friday, Mar. 17, 2023

A private member’s bill to make Orange Shirt Day a statutory holiday in Manitoba has received support in “principle” from the Progressive Conservatives, but government refused to say if it will support its passage into law.

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Friday, Mar. 17, 2023

RUTH BONNEVILLE / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS

A private member’s bill to make Orange Shirt Day a statutory holiday in Manitoba has received support in “principle” from the Progressive Conservatives, but government refused to say if it will support its passage into law.

Patient’s death during air transfer probed as potential critical incident

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Preview

Patient’s death during air transfer probed as potential critical incident

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Friday, Mar. 17, 2023

AN investigation into a potential critical incident is underway after a patient died on board a medical transport flight from Winnipeg to Edmonton on Monday.

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Friday, Mar. 17, 2023

AN investigation into a potential critical incident is underway after a patient died on board a medical transport flight from Winnipeg to Edmonton on Monday.

Patient transport quality challenged in legislature

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Preview

Patient transport quality challenged in legislature

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Wednesday, Mar. 15, 2023

Privatized air ambulance services and drawn-out contract negotiations for more than 6,000 health-care workers were blamed Wednesday for a recent patient transport that left a Brandon woman fearing for her life.

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Wednesday, Mar. 15, 2023

Tim Smith/The Brandon Sun

Two days after Eleanor Buechler, 79, had a heart attack in February, she was air transferred to a Winnipeg hospital for extra care. She says the trip didn’t come without its challenges.

20 per cent job vacancy at Conservation Officer Service prompts wage boost

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Preview

20 per cent job vacancy at Conservation Officer Service prompts wage boost

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Thursday, Mar. 16, 2023

Manitoba’s complement of conservation officers has declined by more than a dozen in the past year, prompting the Tory government to spend nearly $5 million to increase wages.

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Thursday, Mar. 16, 2023

WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES

“We want to reopen district offices. We want to ensure that our manpower in detachments is high enough that we have coverage in the rural areas,” Natural Resources and Northern Development Minister Greg Nesbitt said.

Tories take first step to help city create transit security team by tabling police act amendment

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Preview

Tories take first step to help city create transit security team by tabling police act amendment

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Tuesday, Mar. 14, 2023

Manitoba community safety officers could be given new powers to arrest and respond to safety threats under proposed legislation intended to pave the way for a Winnipeg Transit security team.

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Tuesday, Mar. 14, 2023

Justice Minister Kelvin Goertzen introduced Bill 34 Tuesday which would give community safety officers and First Nation safety officers authority to provide an “initial response to situations that pose a safety threat” until police arrive. (Mike Sudoma/Winnipeg Free Press files)

New proposed rules for school trustees, municipal councillors seeking provincial seat

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Preview

New proposed rules for school trustees, municipal councillors seeking provincial seat

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Monday, Mar. 13, 2023

School trustees and municipal councillors seeking to run in the upcoming provincial election could be forced to take an unpaid leave of absence, if proposed legislation passes.

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Monday, Mar. 13, 2023

MIKAELA MACKENZIE / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES

On Monday, Justice Minister Kelvin Goertzen introduced Bill 28 which would require municipal councillors, community councillors and school trustees to take a leave of absence from their job if they are nominated to run for a seat in the Manitoba legislature.

Province seeks to unshackle event ticket resellers

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Preview

Province seeks to unshackle event ticket resellers

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Monday, Mar. 13, 2023

Concert-goers and sports fans could see the cost of admission rise as the Manitoba government looks to alter legislation that prohibits mark-ups on ticket resales.

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Monday, Mar. 13, 2023

MIKE DEAL / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES

Consumer Protection Minister James Teitsma said the change will bring Manitoba in line with other Canadian jurisdictions and level the playing field for ticket resellers based in Manitoba.

Government challenged over Grace overnight doctor shortage

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Preview

Government challenged over Grace overnight doctor shortage

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Monday, Mar. 13, 2023

The Progressive Conservative government has been accused of ignoring doctors’ calls for help to cover overnight shifts at Grace Hospital, amid patient safety concerns at the west Winnipeg hub.

On Monday, Premier Heather Stefanson and Health Minister Audrey Gordon came under fire from opposition leaders who questioned why Grace patients have languished for months with sub-standard physician coverage.

“These physicians who are duty bound to look after their patients are speaking out publicly, and they are saying that they no longer feel safe working at the Grace Hospital overnight,” NDP Leader Wab Kinew said.

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Monday, Mar. 13, 2023

JOHN WOODS / FREE PRESS FILES

Manitoba NDP leader Wab Kinew said physician staffing should have been addressed in November, when doctors first raised the matter.

‘We heard nothing’: Doctors Manitoba derides lack of recruitment, retention in provincial budget

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Preview

‘We heard nothing’: Doctors Manitoba derides lack of recruitment, retention in provincial budget

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Friday, Mar. 10, 2023

Manitoba’s worsening physician shortage has been overlooked by lawmakers in the government’s latest budget, Doctors Manitoba says, as the majority of its members report feeling cast aside by the province.

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Friday, Mar. 10, 2023

MIKAELA MACKENZIE / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES

Manitoba’s worsening physician shortage has been overlooked by lawmakers in the government’s latest budget, said Dr. Candace Bradshaw, president of Doctors Manitoba.

Manitoba signs more surgery deals with U.S. providers amid backlog

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Preview

Manitoba signs more surgery deals with U.S. providers amid backlog

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Thursday, Mar. 9, 2023

Hospitals in Minnesota, Arizona and California are being added to the list of destinations for Manitobans willing to travel for surgical and diagnostic care as the province tries to address a huge backlog of procedures.

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Thursday, Mar. 9, 2023

UCSF UC San Francisco - Mount Zion campus

Provincial government pitches retail alcohol sales pilot project

Danielle Da Silva and Kevin Rollason 5 minute read Preview

Provincial government pitches retail alcohol sales pilot project

Danielle Da Silva and Kevin Rollason 5 minute read Thursday, Mar. 9, 2023

Manitobans may soon be able to put a bottle of rye or scotch into their grocery cart with eggs and bread purchases — or even where they buy lumber or shoes.

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Thursday, Mar. 9, 2023

SUE OGROCKI / ASSOCIATED PRESS FILES

Tories raise idea of building new care home in Winnipeg for first time since 2019

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Preview

Tories raise idea of building new care home in Winnipeg for first time since 2019

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Wednesday, Mar. 8, 2023

The Manitoba government has proposed a new personal care home be built in Winnipeg for the first time since 2019 as part of a $291-million capital plan for health care.

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Wednesday, Mar. 8, 2023

MIKE DEAL / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES

Seniors and Long-Term Care Minister Scott Johnston.

Provincial support for human trafficking awareness campaign

Danielle Da Silva 2 minute read Preview

Provincial support for human trafficking awareness campaign

Danielle Da Silva 2 minute read Wednesday, Mar. 8, 2023

A campaign to raise awareness of human trafficking will receive funding from the Manitoba government.

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Wednesday, Mar. 8, 2023

RUTH BONNEVILLE / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS

Joy Smith, founder of the Joy Smith Foundation and former MLA, said the awareness campaign is needed.

Tories herald personal income tax cuts, increase in health spending in election-year budget

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Preview

Tories herald personal income tax cuts, increase in health spending in election-year budget

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Tuesday, Mar. 7, 2023

The Progressive Conservative government is slashing personal income taxes by $311 million and ramping up spending across provincial departments in its final budget ahead of the looming election.

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Tuesday, Mar. 7, 2023

MIKAELA MACKENZIE / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS

Finance minister Cliff Cullen announces the budget to media at the Manitoba Legislative Building in Winnipeg on Tuesday.

‘We’re in a stronger position’: finance minister pre-budget talk touts investments

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Preview

‘We’re in a stronger position’: finance minister pre-budget talk touts investments

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Monday, Mar. 6, 2023

The Progressive Conservative government will present the final budget of its mandate Tuesday, as rebounding revenues set the stage for big-ticket spending ahead of the looming general election.

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Monday, Mar. 6, 2023

Mike Deal / Winnipeg Free Press

Finance Minister Cliff Cullen speaks during a media event held at CityPlace Shopping Centre Monday morning.

Tories questioned on private liquor sales

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Preview

Tories questioned on private liquor sales

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Monday, Mar. 6, 2023

Manitoba’s official Opposition and union leaders are demanding the Tory government give proof its plan to allow private stores to sell hard liquor won’t cost the provincial treasury.

Lawmakers are debating Bill 9, which would allow 226 hotel beer vendors, eight specialty wine stores, 168 rural liquor vendors and 50 craft liquor manufacturers to sell the entire catalogue of Manitoba Liquor and Lotteries products, including spirits.

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Monday, Mar. 6, 2023

WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES

Lawmakers are debating Bill 9, which would allow 226 hotel beer vendors, eight specialty wine stores, 168 rural liquor vendors and 50 craft liquor manufacturers to sell the entire catalogue of Manitoba Liquor and Lotteries products, including spirits.

Forensic nursing shifts to be staffed: health minister

Danielle Da Silva 2 minute read Preview

Forensic nursing shifts to be staffed: health minister

Danielle Da Silva 2 minute read Thursday, Mar. 2, 2023

Manitoba Health Minister Audrey Gordon says she has instructed the Health Sciences Centre to ensure a specially trained nurse is available to see victims of sexual assault in need of an exam.

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Thursday, Mar. 2, 2023

RUTH BONNEVILLE / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS

Manitoba Health Minister Audrey Gordon says she has instructed the Health Sciences Centre to ensure a specially trained nurse is available to see victims of sexual assault in need of an exam.

MRI wait times up 70 per cent since August

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Preview

MRI wait times up 70 per cent since August

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Friday, Mar. 3, 2023

Manitobans who need magnetic resonance imaging tests are in limbo after the health authority responsible for diagnostics stopped issuing appointments for some patients as wait-times reach a near two-year high.

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Friday, Mar. 3, 2023

RUTH BONNEVILLE / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS

Health Minister Audrey Gordon says the increased wait times for an MRI are due to staffing shortages.

Manitoba’s female politicians united against online harassment

Danielle Da Silva 7 minute read Preview

Manitoba’s female politicians united against online harassment

Danielle Da Silva 7 minute read Wednesday, Mar. 1, 2023

It’s a day that’s seared into Manitoba lawmaker Rochelle Squires’ memory.

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Wednesday, Mar. 1, 2023

RUTH BONNEVILLE / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS

- Politics Physical Appearance Cindy Lamoureux, Tyndall Park, Independent Liberal, prepping for QP Wednesday. For feature story on Politics physical appearance by Danielle. March 1st, 2023

Legislature ready to rumble as parties fight for right to govern

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Preview

Legislature ready to rumble as parties fight for right to govern

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Wednesday, Mar. 1, 2023

Raucous debate, big-ticket spending promises, finger-pointing, and a few swan songs are expected as Manitoba lawmakers return to Broadway today for a final, high stakes sitting of the legislative assembly before the fall election.

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Wednesday, Mar. 1, 2023

MIKAELA MACKENZIE / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES

Premier Heather Stefanson will face voters Oct. 3. It’s do or die during the spring session of the legislature, which starts today.

‘Everyone is feeling very discouraged’: sex assault nurse program staffing issues remain

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Preview

‘Everyone is feeling very discouraged’: sex assault nurse program staffing issues remain

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Monday, Feb. 27, 2023

A growing number of sexual assault victims seeking help at Manitoba’s largest hospital were sent home without a forensic exam this month, as nurses trained to gather criminal evidence say staffing shortages continue to worsen, despite assurance help is on the way.

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Monday, Feb. 27, 2023

JOHN WOODS / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS

Manitoba Nurses Union (MNU) representative and sexual-assault nurse examiner Katie Stark

Stefanson promises ‘very good budget for Manitobans’ March 7

Danielle Da Silva 2 minute read Preview

Stefanson promises ‘very good budget for Manitobans’ March 7

Danielle Da Silva 2 minute read Friday, Feb. 24, 2023

The Progressive Conservative government’s final budget before Manitoba voters go to the ballot box will be tabled March 7.

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Friday, Feb. 24, 2023

MIKE DEAL / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS

Premier Heather Stefanson: ‘You’ll see more relief coming forward in the next budget.’

Doctors, nurses welcome Manitoba’s health deal with Ottawa

Chris Kitching and Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Preview

Doctors, nurses welcome Manitoba’s health deal with Ottawa

Chris Kitching and Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Friday, Feb. 24, 2023

Labour groups hope Manitoba’s new agreement in principle for $6.7 billion in federal funding for health care will ease pressure on staff and reduce wait times.

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Friday, Feb. 24, 2023

ADRIAN WYLD / CANADIAN PRESS FILES

Federal Health Minister Jean-Yves Duclos pledged Friday the cash will improve access to family and mental health services, reduce surgical backlogs and support employees.

Province melts funding freeze, throwing fiscal lifeline to municipalities

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Preview

Province melts funding freeze, throwing fiscal lifeline to municipalities

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Friday, Feb. 24, 2023

Manitoba municipal leaders gave a warm welcome to a $47-million increase in provincial operating grants, as the Progressive Conservatives formally put an end to a seven-year funding freeze that left local councils strapped for cash.

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Friday, Feb. 24, 2023

MIKAELA MACKENZIE / FREE PRESS FILES

On Friday, Premier Heather Stefanson said municipal operating grants will increase to $217 million from $170 million this year, after being stuck at 2016 levels.

Manitoba offers 100-plus Filipinos jobs in health care during recruitment trip

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Preview

Manitoba offers 100-plus Filipinos jobs in health care during recruitment trip

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Thursday, Feb. 23, 2023

Nurses who are being recruited from the Philippines could arrive in Manitoba as early as this summer, and be allowed to work shortly after they land under changes to licensing rules.

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Thursday, Feb. 23, 2023

MIKAELA MACKENZIE / THE CANADIAN PRESS FILES

A COVID-19 unit at the Health Sciences Centre in Winnipeg.

NDP shuffles shadow cabinet

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Preview

NDP shuffles shadow cabinet

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Thursday, Feb. 23, 2023

New Democratic Party of Manitoba Leader Wab Kinew has shuffled his shadow cabinet, promoting a handful of Winnipeg-area MLAs to high-profile positions ahead of the spring legislative session.

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Thursday, Feb. 23, 2023

MIKAELA MACKENZIE / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS

Manitoba NDP leader Wab Kinew on Thursday announced new critic roles for the upcoming legislative session at the Manitoba Legislative Building in Winnipeg.

Manitoba unveils overdue seniors strategy

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Preview

Manitoba unveils overdue seniors strategy

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Wednesday, Feb. 22, 2023

The Manitoba government plans to overhaul home care, bolster seniors housing, and offer pensioners better tax breaks to make the province a “great place to age.”

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Wednesday, Feb. 22, 2023

MIKE DEAL / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES

On Wednesday, Seniors and Long-term Care Minister Scott Johnston released his government’s long-awaited seniors strategy which contains seven priority areas where the province intends to increase spending, add resources and launch campaigns to support the aging population.

‘You get what you pay for’: pilots give their take on circuit court crisis

Danielle Da Silva 6 minute read Preview

‘You get what you pay for’: pilots give their take on circuit court crisis

Danielle Da Silva 6 minute read Tuesday, Feb. 21, 2023

Measly wages, poor labour management and difficult working conditions are being blamed for a pilot shortage that has plunged Manitoba’s circuit court system into crisis.

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Tuesday, Feb. 21, 2023

KEN GIGLIOTTI / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES

Measly wages, poor labour management and difficult working conditions are being blamed for a pilot shortage that has plunged Manitoba’s circuit court system into crisis.

Ottawa, Manitoba working to get new health dollars in provincial budget

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Preview

Ottawa, Manitoba working to get new health dollars in provincial budget

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Friday, Feb. 17, 2023

Negotiations for a new bilateral health-care funding agreement could wrap “quite quickly,” as the Manitoba government looks to receive promised federal dollars in time for its spring budget.

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Friday, Feb. 17, 2023

MIKAELA MACKENZIE / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS

Premier Heather Stefanson meets with federal Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs, Infrastructure and Communities Dominic LeBlanc and federal Minister of Health Jean-Yves Duclos along with Manitoba Finance Minister Cliff Cullen and Manitoba Health Minister Audrey Gordon.

First Nations raise alarm over lack of fire safety resources

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Preview

First Nations raise alarm over lack of fire safety resources

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Wednesday, Feb. 15, 2023

First Nations leaders are demanding more support for life-saving fire safety programs, after a blaze in Tataskweyak Cree Nation sent two children to hospital Feb. 11, less than one year after a house fire killed three youth in another northern community.

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Wednesday, Feb. 15, 2023

JESSICA LEE / FREE PRESS FILES

The North siblings — Kolby, 17, Jade, 13, and Reid, 2 — died in a house fire Feb. 12, 2022.

Province plans to modernize clunky website

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Preview

Province plans to modernize clunky website

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Wednesday, Feb. 15, 2023

MANITOBA’S presence on the world wide web is set for an overhaul.

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Wednesday, Feb. 15, 2023

MIKAELA MACKENZIE / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES

NDP MLA Jamie Moses questions the need to bring in outside help for the website update.

Manitoba to get $194M more for health from Ottawa

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Preview

Manitoba to get $194M more for health from Ottawa

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Tuesday, Feb. 14, 2023

Premier Heather Stefanson says Ottawa’s top-up to Manitoba’s health transfer payment will be too small to make a major difference in the coming fiscal year.

The province is expected to receive an additional $194 million in 2023-24, Stefanson said.

“It really doesn’t have a massive impact,” she said Tuesday.

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Tuesday, Feb. 14, 2023

MIKAELA MACKENZIE / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES

Premier Heather Stefanson says Ottawa’s top-up to Manitoba’s health transfer payment will be too small to make a major difference in the coming fiscal year.

Pilot program offers bonuses to family doctors to expand hours of practice

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Preview

Pilot program offers bonuses to family doctors to expand hours of practice

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Monday, Feb. 13, 2023

Family doctors and pediatricians who keep their clinics open beyond the typical 9-to-5 can cash in on a new bonus from the Manitoba government, as it looks to bolster physician availability amid a province-wide shortage.

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Monday, Feb. 13, 2023

MIKAELA MACKENZIE / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS

Health Minister Audrey Gordon announced a 20 per cent premium on physicians’ billings for extended hours.

One job, two expensive salaries: Manitoba taxpayers on hook after premier shuffles inner circle

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Preview

One job, two expensive salaries: Manitoba taxpayers on hook after premier shuffles inner circle

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Friday, Feb. 10, 2023

Manitobans are paying double for the provincial government’s top bureaucrat after Premier Heather Stefanson’s “refresh” of her inner circle divvied the work of the clerk of the executive council between two high-ranking public servants.

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Friday, Feb. 10, 2023

MIKAELA MACKENZIE / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES

Don Leitch cutline please

Tories promise generous funding boost to City of Winnipeg

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Preview

Tories promise generous funding boost to City of Winnipeg

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Thursday, Feb. 9, 2023

Manitoba’s Progressive Conservative government says it will give a “generous” funding increase to the cash-strapped City of Winnipeg, ending a seven-year freeze on operating grants to local governments.

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Thursday, Feb. 9, 2023

Municipal Relations Minister Andrew Smith confirmed the province will boost cash transfers to municipalities. (Ethan Cairns / Winnipeg Free Press files)

City budget’s fine print

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Preview

City budget’s fine print

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Wednesday, Feb. 8, 2023

Winnipeg Mayor Scott Gillingham’s first budget makes good on key campaign promises and earmarks money for big-ticket and overdue capital projects supported, in part, by proposed increases to property taxes and the frontage levy.

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Wednesday, Feb. 8, 2023

MIKE DEAL / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS

Winnipeg Mayor Scott Gillingham’s first budget makes good on key campaign promises and earmarks money for big-ticket and overdue capital projects supported, in part, by proposed increases to property taxes and the frontage levy.

Winnipeggers face increased taxes, fees in Gillingham’s tough first budget

Chris Kitching and Danielle Da Silva 6 minute read Preview

Winnipeggers face increased taxes, fees in Gillingham’s tough first budget

Chris Kitching and Danielle Da Silva 6 minute read Wednesday, Feb. 8, 2023

Winnipeggers will see their tax bill rise and can expect to pay more in municipal fees, as city council looks to recover from significant revenue shortfalls while making modest spending increases in this year’s budget.

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Wednesday, Feb. 8, 2023

MIKE DEAL / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS
Mayor Scott Gillingham (left) and Finance Chairperson Jeff Browaty answer questions from the media just before the City of Winnipeg Preliminary 2023 Budget is tabled at City Hall Wednesday afternoon.
230208 - Wednesday, February 08, 2023.

First Nations eye legal action to halt Crown lands lease auction

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Preview

First Nations eye legal action to halt Crown lands lease auction

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Monday, Feb. 6, 2023

MANITOBA First Nations are threatening to sue the provincial government over the leasing of Crown lands to farmers and ranchers, arguing treaty rights are being trampled in the process.

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Monday, Feb. 6, 2023

The province’s auction of long-term leases for unoccupied Crown lands disregards First Nations, says Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs Grand Chief Cathy Merrick. (Mikaela MacKenzie / Winnipeg Free Press files)

Manitoba boosts funding to help immigrants integrate

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Preview

Manitoba boosts funding to help immigrants integrate

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Friday, Feb. 3, 2023

Michelle Puno, an internationally educated nurse, nearly gave up on a career in Manitoba.

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Friday, Feb. 3, 2023

Michelle Puno received a loan from SEED Winnipeg to help her pay to become a registered nurse in Manitoba. (Mike Deal / Winnipeg Free Press)

Western Manitoba town hiring recruiter to find two doctors willing to work there

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Preview

Western Manitoba town hiring recruiter to find two doctors willing to work there

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Thursday, Feb. 2, 2023

A Manitoba small town desperate to bring doctors to the rural community is reaching into its coffers to hire a private recruitment firm to perform a job intended for the regional health authority.

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Thursday, Feb. 2, 2023

Jillian Austin/Brandon Sun Files

Since last spring, the local health centre and emergency department has been short at least two doctors, with the Prairie Mountain Health Region filling vacancies by using travelling physicians and international medical graduates.

Chill out, log in, pay up? Province looks for parks campground Wi-Fi provider

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Preview

Chill out, log in, pay up? Province looks for parks campground Wi-Fi provider

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Thursday, Feb. 2, 2023

Campers relying on wireless internet offered by the Manitoba government to stay connected while visiting three provincial parks could face new fees to get online.

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Thursday, Feb. 2, 2023

JUSTIN SAMANSKI-LANGILLE / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES

The government is seeking a telecommunications company to take over the Wi-Fi service it currently offers to campers at Birds Hill, Winnipeg Beach and Falcon Lake Beach in Whiteshell Provincial Park, according to a request for proposals.

Manitoba in position to embrace long-term care standard: researcher

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Preview

Manitoba in position to embrace long-term care standard: researcher

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Tuesday, Jan. 31, 2023

Adopting new, national standards for long-term care wouldn’t be a “huge leap” for Manitoba care home operators, experts in seniors care say, as the Progressive Conservative government considers regulatory changes.

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Tuesday, Jan. 31, 2023

MIKAELA MACKENZIE / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES

The COVID-19 pandemic exposed significant sector vulnerabilities, said Dr. Samir Sinha, pointing to devastating outbreaks of the virus at Parkview Place (pictured) and Maples in Winnipeg in fall 2020.

Four rookie ministers step forward in pre-election Tory cabinet shuffle

Carol Sanders and Danielle Da Silva 6 minute read Preview

Four rookie ministers step forward in pre-election Tory cabinet shuffle

Carol Sanders and Danielle Da Silva 6 minute read Monday, Jan. 30, 2023

With an election in eight months and almost one-third of her caucus not seeking re-election, Premier Heather Stefanson has promoted four backbenchers to cabinet — including two new MLAs in Winnipeg seats the Progressive Conservatives are “desperate” to retain.

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Monday, Jan. 30, 2023

MIKAELA MACKENZIE / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS

Premier Heather Stefanson applauds at the cabinet shuffle swearing-in ceremony at the Manitoba Legislative Building in Winnipeg on Monday, Jan. 30, 2023. For Carol/Danielle story. Winnipeg Free Press 2023.

Birth certificate delays stress parents

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Preview

Birth certificate delays stress parents

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Monday, Jan. 30, 2023

Manitoba’s Vital Statistics Branch is sitting on a stack of more than 5,000 birth certificates that can’t be issued owing to errors on applications, sparking concern over the provincial agency’s ability to alert unsuspecting parents of mistakes.

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Monday, Jan. 30, 2023

Manitoba’s Vital Statistics Branch is sitting on a stack of more than 5,000 birth certificates that can’t be issued owing to errors on applications, sparking concern over the provincial agency’s ability to alert unsuspecting parents of mistakes.

Premier thanks Friesen for service and dedication

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Preview

Premier thanks Friesen for service and dedication

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Friday, Jan. 27, 2023

Manitoba Premier Heather Stefanson offered well-wishes to longtime Tory MLA and cabinet minister Cameron Friesen, who intends to resign his seat to seek the federal Conservative nomination in Portage-Lisgar.

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Friday, Jan. 27, 2023

Cameron Friesen is leaving provincial politics to run federally. (Mike Deal / Winnipeg Free Press files)

New provincial spending announced after tax windfall

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Preview

New provincial spending announced after tax windfall

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Friday, Jan. 27, 2023

The Manitoba government will direct more cash to hospitals, municipal infrastructure, schools and community development after receiving an unexpected $150-million windfall in tax revenue.

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Friday, Jan. 27, 2023

Manitoba Premier Heather Stefanson (The Canadian Press files)

Tories sending $200M in inflation-relief cheques to Manitobans

Danielle Da Silva 6 minute read Preview

Tories sending $200M in inflation-relief cheques to Manitobans

Danielle Da Silva 6 minute read Thursday, Jan. 26, 2023

Manitoba’s Progressive Conservative government is distributing cheques totalling $200 million to ease pressure on voters’ wallets in an election year, but critics say the tax dollars would be better spent bringing down costs and strengthening public services.

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Thursday, Jan. 26, 2023

MIKAELA MACKENZIE / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS

Premier Heather Stefanson today announced a $200 million “carbon tax relief fund” that aims to help 700,000 Manitobans cope with rising costs, from food to fuel.

MPI takes first step toward online expansion

Danielle Da Silva 2 minute read Preview

MPI takes first step toward online expansion

Danielle Da Silva 2 minute read Wednesday, Jan. 25, 2023

Rubber is finally meeting the road for a massive modernization program at Manitoba Public Insurance, with the first release of Project Nova officially online.

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Wednesday, Jan. 25, 2023

Trucking and commercial customers will now be able to insure loads and cargo online through MPI’s website. (Winnipeg Free Press files)

Manitoba officials headed to Philippines on nurse-recruiting mission

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Preview

Manitoba officials headed to Philippines on nurse-recruiting mission

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Wednesday, Jan. 25, 2023

Manitoba is sending a team of health and immigration officials to the Philippines to recruit hundreds of nurses and health-care workers to the province.

Immigration Minister Jon Reyes will be part of the delegation arriving in the island nation on Feb. 21, with stops scheduled in Manila, Cebu and Iloilo over a five-day period.

The recruitment mission is expected to have broad participation and set the course for “hundreds of qualified internationally educated nurses” to move to Manitoba, according to the province.

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Wednesday, Jan. 25, 2023

Immigration Minister Jon Reyes will be part of a team of health and immigration officials to the Philippines to recruit hundreds of nurses and health-care workers to the province.

(Matt Goerzen / The Brandon Sun files)

Premiers, PM meeting opportunity for ‘real dialogue’: Stefanson

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Preview

Premiers, PM meeting opportunity for ‘real dialogue’: Stefanson

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Wednesday, Jan. 25, 2023

Manitoba Premier Heather Stefanson is cautiously optimistic, after Prime Minister Justin Trudeau invited the country’s premiers to negotiate a new health-care funding agreement next month in Ottawa.

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Wednesday, Jan. 25, 2023

(Matt Goerzen/The Brandon Sun)

Manitoba Premier Heather Stefanson chairs the Council of the Federation which wants the federal government to increase its share of annual health funding.

‘Appalling’ COVID numbers among seniors spark calls for targeted vaccinations

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Preview

‘Appalling’ COVID numbers among seniors spark calls for targeted vaccinations

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Tuesday, Jan. 24, 2023

Manitoba seniors are bearing the brunt of unchecked COVID-19 spread with retirees representing the bulk of recent critical-care admissions and deaths, spurring calls for a targeted vaccination program to protect the most vulnerable.

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Tuesday, Jan. 24, 2023

Just 58 per cent of people 80-years of age or older are up to date on their COVID-19 vaccines, with booster uptake falling to 57 and 42 per cent for people in their 70s and 60s, respectively, according to recent data from Manitoba Public Health. (Rogelio V. Solis / The Associated Press photo)

MPI rapped by watchdog for ballooning cost of huge IT project

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Preview

MPI rapped by watchdog for ballooning cost of huge IT project

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Thursday, Jan. 12, 2023

Manitoba’s consumer watchdog has ordered a closer look at spending by Manitoba Public Insurance, citing concerns the Crown corporation has lost control of its $290-million budget to overhaul its IT systems.

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Thursday, Jan. 12, 2023

Manitoba Public Insurance is in the middle of a huge software update. (Winnipeg Free Press files)

Manitoba must outsmart private agencies that poach nurses: NDP

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Preview

Manitoba must outsmart private agencies that poach nurses: NDP

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Thursday, Jan. 12, 2023

Manitoba should learn from the private sector when it comes to attracting surgical nurses back to Winnipeg hospitals, as job vacancy rates remain stubbornly high, NDP Leader Wab Kinew suggests.

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Thursday, Jan. 12, 2023

MIKE DEAL / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES

NDP Leader Wab Kinew on hiring nurses for the public sector: “We have to be competitive.”

Manitoba defends loan to bus maker New Flyer after layoffs

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Preview

Manitoba defends loan to bus maker New Flyer after layoffs

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Wednesday, Jan. 11, 2023

The Manitoba government says protecting local jobs is the priority as it hammers out the terms of a $50-million loan to local manufacturer NFI Group following a recent round of layoffs.

Economic Development Minister Cliff Cullen said he was not aware the Transcona zero-emission bus maker had laid off 30 employees at its New Flyer subsidiary on Dec. 22, one day before he joined NFI Group chief executive officer Paul Soubry to announce the taxpayer-supported loan.

“Our focus has been on the bigger picture,” Cullen said. “We’re optimistic once New Flyer gets through that we’ll be able to grow the work force here in Manitoba.”

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Wednesday, Jan. 11, 2023

JESSICA LEE / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES

The Manitoba government says protecting local jobs is the priority as it hammers out the terms of a $50-million loan to local manufacturer NFI Group following a recent round of layoffs.

Premier Heather Stefanson defends her government’s record in wide-ranging interview with Free Press

Danielle Da Silva and Carol Sanders 6 minute read Preview

Premier Heather Stefanson defends her government’s record in wide-ranging interview with Free Press

Danielle Da Silva and Carol Sanders 6 minute read Wednesday, Jan. 11, 2023

On the heels of a turbulent first year in the premier’s office, Heather Stefanson is buckling up for what will be her biggest political test yet: convincing disenchanted Manitobans to entrust her Progressive Conservative government with a third term.

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Wednesday, Jan. 11, 2023

MIKE DEAL / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS Premier Heather Stefanson in her office at the Manitoba Legislative Building Tuesday afternoon. See Danielle DaSilva and Carol Sanders story 230110 - Tuesday, January 10, 2023.

Stefanson puts positive light on massive exodus from Tory caucus

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Preview

Stefanson puts positive light on massive exodus from Tory caucus

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Monday, Jan. 9, 2023

Manitoba Premier Heather Stefanson will shuffle her inner circle, promising rejuvenation for the Progressive Conservative party after batch of longtime MLAs announced they will not run for re-election.

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Monday, Jan. 9, 2023

RUTH BONNEVILLE / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS

Premier Heather Stefanson said MLAs who are choosing not to run again are taking the opportunity to spend time with family following the COVID-19 pandemic in a press conference at the RBC Convention Centre Monday.

Paid sick leave long overdue, labour federation says

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Preview

Paid sick leave long overdue, labour federation says

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Monday, Jan. 9, 2023

Staying home to nurse a fever, sniffles or an ailing child is becoming increasingly difficult for Manitoba workers to afford as the province resists appeals by labour groups to legislate paid sick leave.

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Monday, Jan. 9, 2023

ALEX LUPUL / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS The Golden Boy stands atop the Manitoba Legislative Building’ in Winnipeg on Monday, July 5, 2021. It embodies the spirit of enterprise and eternal youth, and is poised atop the dome of the building. Reporter: Ben Waldman

Former cabinet minister Cox joins group in Tory caucus not running again

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Preview

Former cabinet minister Cox joins group in Tory caucus not running again

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Thursday, Jan. 5, 2023

Former cabinet minister Cathy Cox has added her name to the growing list of Tories choosing to leave their legislature seats rather than take another run at the ballot box.

The Kildonan-River East MLA said Thursday she will not seek re-election after serving close to seven years as the representative for the Progressive Conservative stronghold in northeast Winnipeg.

“Only God can foresee our future,” Cox wrote in a statement. “Life is short and there are no guarantees in this world.”

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Thursday, Jan. 5, 2023

RUTH BONNEVILLE / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES

Former Sport, Culture and Heritage Minister Cathy Cox said Thursday she will not seek re-election.

Manitoba set to sign another deal with a U.S. clinic to whittle waiting list

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Preview

Manitoba set to sign another deal with a U.S. clinic to whittle waiting list

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Wednesday, Jan. 4, 2023

Manitoba is on the verge of signing another agreement with a U.S. health-care provider to ease the strain on its clogged waiting lists.

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Wednesday, Jan. 4, 2023

Michael S. Williamson / Washington Post files

The Mayo Clinic hospital in Eau Claire, Wis.

Parks review recommends $90M in capital improvements, increasing fees

Danielle Da Silva 6 minute read Preview

Parks review recommends $90M in capital improvements, increasing fees

Danielle Da Silva 6 minute read Wednesday, Jan. 4, 2023

Adding glamping experiences, building a resort hotel at Grand Beach, hiking fees and making more than $90 million in capital improvements are among recommendations to boost revenue at Manitoba parks, as groups call for urgent spending to improve the delivery of basic services.

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Wednesday, Jan. 4, 2023

Jeff de Booy / Winnipeg Free Press Files

A 114-page sustainability review by Manitoba firm Meyers Norris Penny identified Whiteshell Provincial Park as one of several locations the government should prioritize investment to get the best bang for its buck while increasing visits and improving facilities.

Infighting appears to have derailed return of ‘freedom convoy’

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Preview

Infighting appears to have derailed return of ‘freedom convoy’

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Monday, Jan. 2, 2023

A “freedom convoy 2.0” reunion protest set to roll into Winnipeg has been nixed, but protesters vow to assemble in Winnipeg this February under a new banner.

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Monday, Jan. 2, 2023

SEAN KILPATRICK / THE CANADIAN PRESS FILES

James Bauder, a protest organizer from Alberta, said the multi-day rally by Canada Unity and scheduled for Feb. 17 to 20 in Winnipeg has been cancelled.

Election period advertising complaint dismissed

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Preview

Election period advertising complaint dismissed

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Thursday, Dec. 29, 2022

A Manitoba NDP complaint over partisan budget advertising by the provincial government during the Thompson byelection has been dismissed.

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Thursday, Dec. 29, 2022

Thompson NDP candidate Eric Redhead won the byelection with 70 per cent of the vote. (Mikaela MacKenzie / Winnipeg Free Press files)

Winnipeg nurses burdened by 400,000 OT hours, records show

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Preview

Winnipeg nurses burdened by 400,000 OT hours, records show

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Wednesday, Dec. 28, 2022

Winnipeg nurses are set to finish this year with more than 400,000 overtime hours logged, even as the health authority and provincial government try to curb their reliance on mandated shifts.

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Wednesday, Dec. 28, 2022

Nurses clocked about 36,547 overtime hours per month in 2022, an increase of about 50 per cent compared to 2020. (Winnipeg Free Press files)

Government to help fill transit systems’ operating shortfalls

Danielle Da Silva 2 minute read Preview

Government to help fill transit systems’ operating shortfalls

Danielle Da Silva 2 minute read Wednesday, Dec. 28, 2022

Five municipal public transit systems facing COVID-19 pandemic-driven revenue shortfalls are getting a boost from the federal and provincial governments.

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Wednesday, Dec. 28, 2022

A father and his 10-year-old son were punched multiple times by strangers on a bus Thursday evening. (Daniel Crump / Winnipeg Free Press files)

City, developers pay price for expanded Municipal Board: Rollins

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Preview

City, developers pay price for expanded Municipal Board: Rollins

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Monday, Dec. 26, 2022

The Manitoba government is giving its municipal development tribunal more power to overturn land-use decisions made by Winnipeg city councillors.

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Monday, Dec. 26, 2022

ETHAN CAIRNS / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES

Coun. Sherri Rollins, who chairs Winnipeg’s property and development committee, said parts of a new law will have a significant effect on city operations, add red tape and drive up costs for both the city and developers.

Province lends $50M to Winnipeg bus manufacturer stalled by supply-chain issues

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Preview

Province lends $50M to Winnipeg bus manufacturer stalled by supply-chain issues

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Friday, Dec. 23, 2022

New Flyer Industries, a Winnipeg-based zero-emission bus manufacturer, was handed a $50-million lifeline from the Manitoba government to weather the supply-chain challenge storm.

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Friday, Dec. 23, 2022

In-progress buses at NFI Group’s facilities in Winnipeg. (Mikaela MacKenzie / Winnipeg Free Press files)

Manitoba’s out-of-province surgery strategy called pricey political tactic

Danielle Da Silva 6 minute read Preview

Manitoba’s out-of-province surgery strategy called pricey political tactic

Danielle Da Silva 6 minute read Thursday, Dec. 22, 2022

A Manitoba surgeon compares the Tory government’s plan to send people out of province for hip and knee procedures to applying a bandage on a hemorrhaging artery, as the controversial program falls behind targets and operations continue to be cancelled close to home.

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Thursday, Dec. 22, 2022

MIKAELA MACKENZIE / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS

Canadian Orthopedic Association Manitoba chapter president Dr. Jason Crosby poses for a portrait in the orthopedic clinic at the Grace Hospital in Winnipeg on Thursday, Dec. 22, 2022. Crosby says the government’s plan to send patients out-of-province for hip and knee procedures doesn’t cut it for patients, or physicians, as uptake in the program lags and surgeries continue to be cancelled in Manitoba. For Danielle. Winnipeg Free Press 2022.

Task force tries to boost interest in out-of-province joint surgeries

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Preview

Task force tries to boost interest in out-of-province joint surgeries

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Wednesday, Dec. 21, 2022

Manitobans waiting for hip and knee replacements can expect a personal invitation for an all-expenses paid trip to a hospital in Ontario or the United States to arrive in their mail box.

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Wednesday, Dec. 21, 2022

JESSICA LEE / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES

The province’s diagnostic and surgical recovery task force director David Matear said the task force wants all people waiting — regardless of their position on the wait-list — to be aware of their options.

Health disparity widens: top doc

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Preview

Health disparity widens: top doc

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Tuesday, Dec. 20, 2022

Health disparities for racialized Manitobans are getting worse, and policy changes are needed to tackle the systemic causes of poor outcomes, the province’s top doctor said in a new report.

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Tuesday, Dec. 20, 2022

The 78-page report authored by Dr. Brent Roussin is the first high-level assessment of Manitobans’ health since 2015. (Mike Deal / Winnipeg Free Press files)

Harvest Manitoba gets $3-M grant boost from province

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Preview

Harvest Manitoba gets $3-M grant boost from province

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Monday, Dec. 19, 2022

An unprecedented number of Manitobans are turning to food banks to make ends meet, as rising costs and demand put intense pressure on the community aid organizations to respond.

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Monday, Dec. 19, 2022

JESSICA LEE / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS

“We need all the help of all Manitobans at this time, because the need that we’re facing is absolutely unprecedented,” said Vince Barletta, president and CEO of Harvest Manitoba.

Province backs landfill-search feasibility study

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Preview

Province backs landfill-search feasibility study

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Friday, Dec. 16, 2022

The Manitoba government will support an Indigenous-led feasibility study to find remains of at least two women slain by an alleged serial killer and buried at the Prairie Green Landfill.

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Friday, Dec. 16, 2022

Premier Heather Stefanson promised financial and technical support for an Indigenous-led feasibility study to find remains of at least two women slain by an alleged serial killer and buried at the Prairie Green Landfill. (The Canadian Press files / John Woods)

Proposed firearms ban an ‘overreach’: Kinew

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Preview

Proposed firearms ban an ‘overreach’: Kinew

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Friday, Dec. 16, 2022

The Trudeau government is going too far with legislation intended to restrict the availability of assault-style firearms, Manitoba New Democratic Party Leader Wab Kinew says.

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Friday, Dec. 16, 2022

MIKE DEAL / FREE PRESS FILES

The proposed legislation is causing concern for law-abiding gun owners, Wab Kinew said, adding lawful, respectful use of firearms is a part of Manitoba’s culture.

Fear of closure drove rural MD shortage

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Preview

Fear of closure drove rural MD shortage

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Friday, Dec. 16, 2022

A fear of permanent emergency room closures that has left rural communities struggling to recruit staff for years was well-founded, as new documents obtained by the Free Press show provincial health officials proposed closing as many as 16 rural sites four years ago.

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Friday, Dec. 16, 2022

The emergency room at Carman Memorial Hospita was one of the 16 facilities proposed to be closed as part of the Health System Transformation Program, according to the Shared Health document. (Fred Greenslade / The Canadian Press files)

Klein pulls off narrow victory for PCs in Kirkfield Park byelection

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Preview

Klein pulls off narrow victory for PCs in Kirkfield Park byelection

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Wednesday, Dec. 14, 2022

In a fierce battle that came down to the wire, Kevin Klein managed to hang on to Kirkfield Park in a desperately needed victory for the bruised Progressive Conservatives and party leader Heather Stefanson.

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Wednesday, Dec. 14, 2022

JOHN WOODS / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS

PC candidate Kevin Klein clebrates his by-election victory at party headquarters Tuesday.

WPS civilian member files class-action lawsuit over COVID vax policy

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Preview

WPS civilian member files class-action lawsuit over COVID vax policy

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Monday, Dec. 12, 2022

A Winnipeg Police Service civilian member has filed a class-action lawsuit against their employer for alleged damages caused by its COVID-19 vaccination policy.

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Monday, Dec. 12, 2022

An estimated 97 per cent of the service was fully vaccinated, WPS Chief Danny Smyth said in February. (Lars Hagberg / The Canadian Press Files)

Byelection will test Tories’ staying power

Danielle Da Silva 7 minute read Preview

Byelection will test Tories’ staying power

Danielle Da Silva 7 minute read Tuesday, Dec. 13, 2022

It’s just one of Manitoba’s 57 provincial ridings, but Premier Heather Stefanson’s government faces a reckoning in the Kirkfield Park byelection Tuesday.

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Tuesday, Dec. 13, 2022

MIKE DEAL / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS

Manitoba Liberal candidate Rhonda Nichol walks along a sidewalk while out door-knocking in Kirkfield Park Friday afternoon. The Liberals are hoping to win a fourth seat to earn official party status ahead of next year’s provincial election.

Stefanson leads charge for more health money

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Preview

Stefanson leads charge for more health money

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Friday, Dec. 9, 2022

Manitoba Premier Heather Stefanson is leading the renewed call by the country’s premiers for Ottawa to negotiate a deal for health funding amid acute staffing shortages and surging respiratory viruses Canada-wide.

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Friday, Dec. 9, 2022

MIKE DEAL / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS

On Friday, Manitoba Premier Heather Stefanson chaired a virtual conference with the leaders of other provinces and territories to discuss the need for a new, sustainable health care funding partnership with the federal government.

Doctors Manitoba adds voice to provincial, national health-care call

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Preview

Doctors Manitoba adds voice to provincial, national health-care call

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Wednesday, Dec. 7, 2022

The federal-provincial stalemate over increases to health-care transfers is hurting patients, Canadian physicians groups warned in a letter to first ministers, as doctors called for increased funding and collaboration among elected leaders.

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Wednesday, Dec. 7, 2022

ERIK PINDERA/WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES

Dr. Candace Bradshaw, president of Doctors Manitoba, said increased healthcare funding is urgently needed as costs, wait times, access to primary care and the number of delayed procedures worsen.

Day of remembrance brings new reminder of violence against women

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Preview

Day of remembrance brings new reminder of violence against women

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Tuesday, Dec. 6, 2022

The names of Indigenous women believed slain by an alleged serial killer in Winnipeg were recited alongside the names of 14 women killed in a mass shooting in Montreal three decades ago at a sombre ceremony marking the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women.

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Tuesday, Dec. 6, 2022

RUTH BONNEVILLE / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES

Premier Heather Stefanson: ‘We still have so much work to do to eliminate violence against women and girls.’

‘Initial plan was not realistic’: consultant issues delay MPI shift online, CEO says

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Preview

‘Initial plan was not realistic’: consultant issues delay MPI shift online, CEO says

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Monday, Dec. 5, 2022

Manitoba Public Insurance is shifting responsibility for delays in providing Autopac services online and massive cost overruns to upgrade its technology systems, pointing to incomplete advice from consultants hired to help with the rollout.

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Monday, Dec. 5, 2022

MIKAELA MACKENZIE / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES

MPI head offices in downtown Winnipeg.

MPI draws map to reduce test wait times

Danielle Da Silva 2 minute read Preview

MPI draws map to reduce test wait times

Danielle Da Silva 2 minute read Monday, Dec. 5, 2022

Manitoba Public Insurance is trying to drive down waits for road tests to 45 days by the spring, after being caught off-guard by demand coming out of the COVID-19 pandemic.

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Monday, Dec. 5, 2022

MIKE DEAL / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS

MPI President Eric Herbelin.

The fine print on ‘eliminated’ cataract-surgery backlog

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Preview

The fine print on ‘eliminated’ cataract-surgery backlog

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Sunday, Dec. 4, 2022

Phil Hayden was elated when he read the Manitoba government had cleared the pandemic backlog of cataract surgeries.

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Sunday, Dec. 4, 2022

JESSICA LEE / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS

Phil Hayden, 76, learned he has cataracts in both eyes earlier this year, but will be forced to wait as long as 12 months to get a consultation with a surgeon owing to bottlenecks and pandemic backlogs as people put off appointments.

Health care takes spotlight in Kirkfield Park byelection

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Preview

Health care takes spotlight in Kirkfield Park byelection

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Friday, Dec. 2, 2022

Kirkfield Park byelection candidate Kevin Klein is pledging to work with city hall to increase community and advanced care paramedic units to reduce emergency department demand.

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Friday, Dec. 2, 2022

JOHN WOODS / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES

Kirkfield Park byelection candidate Kevin Klein is pledging to work with city hall to increase community and advanced care paramedic units to reduce emergency department demand.

Manitoba seeks second opinion on Nygard investigation

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Preview

Manitoba seeks second opinion on Nygard investigation

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Thursday, Dec. 1, 2022

Manitoba Justice Minister Kelvin Goertzen has ordered a second opinion on whether local charges should be brought against disgraced fashion mogul Peter Nygard.

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Thursday, Dec. 1, 2022

TIM SMITH / BRANDON SUN FILES

Manitoba Justice Minister Kelvin Goertzen has ordered a second opinion on whether local charges should be brought against disgraced fashion mogul Peter Nygard.

Private facilities tapped to provide post-op physiotherapy

Danielle Da Silva 2 minute read Preview

Private facilities tapped to provide post-op physiotherapy

Danielle Da Silva 2 minute read Thursday, Dec. 1, 2022

THE Manitoba government has contracted three private facilities to provide outpatient physiotherapy for hip and knee replacement patients in Winnipeg.

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Thursday, Dec. 1, 2022

THE Manitoba government has contracted three private facilities to provide outpatient physiotherapy for hip and knee replacement patients in Winnipeg.

Province botched subsidy rollout, child-care coalition says

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Preview

Province botched subsidy rollout, child-care coalition says

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Wednesday, Nov. 30, 2022

Six-digit sums of cash intended to reduce child-care costs for families across Manitoba have sat untouched for months owing to the “botched” rollout of a program to cut average fees in half before the year ends.

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Wednesday, Nov. 30, 2022

DANIELLE DA SILVA / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS

Fort Rouge Child Care Centre board chair Lori Isber says her centre, and many others across Manitoba, have been unable to disperse hundreds of thousands of dollars to their families owing to a botched rollout of a provincial fee-subsidy program.

Nurse union challenges depth of provincial float pool

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Preview

Nurse union challenges depth of provincial float pool

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Tuesday, Nov. 29, 2022

A one-year-old program incentivizing nurses to travel to communities struggling with staffing shortages and cover gaps in the health-care system has yet to add a nurse to its payroll, according to the Manitoba Nurses Union.

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Tuesday, Nov. 29, 2022

WINNIPEG FREE PRESS ARCHIVES

In October 2021, the MNU and Shared Health agreed to establish a provincial float pool and ratified the program in its new collective agreement.

Hydro seeks to raise annual rates for 19 years

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Preview

Hydro seeks to raise annual rates for 19 years

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Tuesday, Nov. 29, 2022

Manitobans should prepare for electricity rates to jump by two per cent annually for years to come after the provincial government decided to cut the fees it charges Manitoba Hydro.

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Tuesday, Nov. 29, 2022

Manitoba Hydro Place (Ruth Bonneville / Winnipeg Free Press files)

Legislature hears calls for Nygard investigation inquiry

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Preview

Legislature hears calls for Nygard investigation inquiry

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Tuesday, Nov. 29, 2022

A decision by Manitoba Crown attorney’s office not to pursue charges against disgraced fashion designer Peter Nygard demands an independent inquiry and a new investigation into alleged sexual assaults, victims and advocates said Monday.

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Tuesday, Nov. 29, 2022

ALEXANDRA NEWBOULD / THE CANADIAN PRESS FILES

A decision by Manitoba Crown attorney’s office not to pursue charges against disgraced fashion designer Peter Nygard demands an independent inquiry and a new investigation into alleged sexual assaults, victims and advocates said Monday.

NDP leader blames Tory health reforms for ER wait times

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Preview

NDP leader blames Tory health reforms for ER wait times

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Monday, Nov. 28, 2022

PATIENTS piling up in emergency departments and the exodus of Manitoba physicians can be traced to the Progressive Conservative government’s health system reform, Opposition NDP Leader Wab Kinew argues, as staffing shortages push wait times to an eight-year high.

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Monday, Nov. 28, 2022

Daniel Crump / Winnipeg Free Press Files

NDP leader Wab Kinew: ‘Emergency rooms in Manitoba are in crisis.’

Manitoba politician begs for kindness; then all hell breaks loose in the legislature

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Preview

Manitoba politician begs for kindness; then all hell breaks loose in the legislature

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Friday, Nov. 25, 2022

Manitoba lawmakers shed tears, made vulgar gestures, and dredged up their opponents’ criminal records in a tense sitting of the legislature that began with an appeal for kindness from Tory backbencher Bob Lagasse, who said the environment is contributing to his “dark thoughts of self-harm.”

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Friday, Nov. 25, 2022

FREE PRESS FILES

Grandview hospital temporary closure highlights rural staffing woes

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Preview

Grandview hospital temporary closure highlights rural staffing woes

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Wednesday, Nov. 23, 2022

“A nurse can take a vacation and they close a hospital.”

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Wednesday, Nov. 23, 2022

“A nurse can take a vacation and they close a hospital.”

Municipalities want provincial funding increased

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Preview

Municipalities want provincial funding increased

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Wednesday, Nov. 23, 2022

MUNICIPAL Relations Minister Eileen Clarke has signalled that the seven-year freeze on provincial cash transfers to municipal governments may be thawing.

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Wednesday, Nov. 23, 2022

Scott Johnston (left) and Cameron Friesen hold a discussion during the Association of Manitoba Municipalities’ fall convention. (Jessica Lee / Winnipeg Free Press)

NDP says Tory byelection candidate lying about history with Nygard

Carol Sanders and Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Preview

NDP says Tory byelection candidate lying about history with Nygard

Carol Sanders and Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Monday, Nov. 21, 2022

Progressive Conservative byelection candidate Kevin Klein’s work history came under attack again during question period Monday, with New Democrats taking issue with his claim he quit working for disgraced Winnipeg fashion mogul Peter Nygard in 2014.

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Monday, Nov. 21, 2022

NYGARD

Photo from Nygard’s corporate website shows Peter Nygard with Kevin Klein at the 2008 opening of the Kenaston store in Winnipeg. The gallery of images from the opening also include politicians Sam Katz and Rod Bruinooge.

Kirkfield Park vote kicks off with controversy

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Preview

Kirkfield Park vote kicks off with controversy

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Friday, Nov. 18, 2022

Manitoba’s Liberal leader challenged the governing Tories to defend Kirkfield Park byelection candidate Kevin Klein’s employment with disgraced fashion mogul Peter Nygard, as the aspiring MLA was forced to once again distance himself from his former boss.

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Friday, Nov. 18, 2022

Kevin Klein is running for the Progressive Conservatives in the Dec. 13 Kirkfield Park byelection. (Mike Deal / Winnipeg Free Press files)

Round dance organizers call on province to pivot on supervised drug-consumption site, save lives

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Preview

Round dance organizers call on province to pivot on supervised drug-consumption site, save lives

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Thursday, Nov. 17, 2022

Supporters of supervised drug-consumption sites held a round dance at Broadway and Osborne Street Thursday, calling on the provincial government to reverse course and fund the life-saving intervention.

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Thursday, Nov. 17, 2022

The round dance at Broadway and Osborne Street was organized to call on the provincial government to support safe-consumption sites and implement seven harm-reduction recommendations outlined in an open letter signed by more 80 front-line organizations. (Mikaela MacKenzie / Winnipeg Free Press)

Pandemic-caused cataract surgery backlog cleared, health minister says

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Preview

Pandemic-caused cataract surgery backlog cleared, health minister says

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Wednesday, Nov. 16, 2022

The Manitoba government has caught up on cataract surgeries delayed during the COVID-19 pandemic though thousands of patients continue to wait longer for care than three years ago.

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Wednesday, Nov. 16, 2022

WAYNE GLOWACKI / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES

Health Minister Audrey Gordon said Wednesday a backlog of more than 1,200 people needing corrective surgery to restore their sight was cleared at the end of September.

Sectors wait for details in throne speech wake

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Preview

Sectors wait for details in throne speech wake

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Tuesday, Nov. 15, 2022

Reaction from municipalities, labour and business to the Progressive Conservatives’ self-described bold throne speech was mixed, with many stakeholders searching for clarity on the Manitoba government’s path forward.

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Tuesday, Nov. 15, 2022

Winnipeg Mayor Scott Gillingham says he will continue discussions with the province to assist with the financial impact of the pandemic on the city. (Mikaela MacKenzie / Winnipeg Free Press files)

Policing, private health care top Tory re-election agenda

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Preview

Policing, private health care top Tory re-election agenda

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Tuesday, Nov. 15, 2022

Manitoba’s Tory government is banking on boosting police ranks and propping up health care with private providers to sway voters ahead of next year’s election.

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Tuesday, Nov. 15, 2022

MIKE DEAL / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS

Lt.-Gov. Anita Neville, followed by Premier Heather Stefanson, enters the Legislative Chamber to give her first throne speech.

Manitoba nursing regulators lower benchmark language-test scores

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Preview

Manitoba nursing regulators lower benchmark language-test scores

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Monday, Nov. 14, 2022

Nursing regulators in Manitoba have lowered their standards for English-language proficiency tests as part of ongoing efforts to license more internationally educated nurses.

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Monday, Nov. 14, 2022

Bloomberg photo by Allison Dinner

Nursing regulators in Manitoba have lowered their standards for English-language proficiency tests as part of ongoing efforts to license more internationally educated nurses.

Sunday’s patient count — many with respiratory viruses — highest in years, Shared Health says

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Preview

Sunday’s patient count — many with respiratory viruses — highest in years, Shared Health says

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Monday, Nov. 14, 2022

A surge of sick kids continued to overwhelm the Children’s Hospital emergency department over the weekend, spurring calls for health officials to address Manitobans amid the unprecedented patient load.

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Monday, Nov. 14, 2022

Ruth Bonneville / Winnipeg Free Press Files

On Sunday, 201 patients visited the Children’s Hospital ER at the Health Sciences Centre, the highest single-day patient count in “at least several years” according to Shared Health.

Manitoba unveils funding list as byelection looms

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Preview

Manitoba unveils funding list as byelection looms

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Monday, Nov. 14, 2022

Manitoba’s Progressive Conservative government has committed millions of dollars to child care, municipalities, newcomer women and community groups ahead of the writ drop for the Kirkfield Park byelection.

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Monday, Nov. 14, 2022

RUTH BONNEVILLE / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES

Premier Heather Stefanson kicked off a day of government announcements in Stonewall, where the province said it would partner with the federal government to add 1,200 child care spaces in rural communities.

Housing advocates raise alarm as landlords allowed to raise rents an average of nine per cent

Danielle Da Silva 7 minute read Preview

Housing advocates raise alarm as landlords allowed to raise rents an average of nine per cent

Danielle Da Silva 7 minute read Friday, Nov. 11, 2022

Cash-strapped tenants are tightening budgets or packing bags following hefty rent hikes approved by the Residential Tenancies Branch — despite the Progressive Conservative government issuing property tax rebate cheques to Manitoba landlords amid a two-year rent freeze.

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Friday, Nov. 11, 2022

MIKE DEAL / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS

Samantha Smith, a member of the West Broadway Tenants Committee, says renters who face increases higher than the provincial guidelines often have to move. The committee has successfully argued against excessive rent increases.

Health care cornerstone of NDP alternative throne speech

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Preview

Health care cornerstone of NDP alternative throne speech

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Thursday, Nov. 10, 2022

Promises to expand hours and access to health centres and to hire more nurse practitioners are at the core of the New Democratic Party’s pitch to Manitobans in its alternative throne speech.

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Thursday, Nov. 10, 2022

Leader Wab Kinew released his party’s vision for the province on Thursday; it takes aim at the Progressive Conservative government for stretching “hospitals to a breaking point.” (Daniel Crump / Winnipeg Free Press Files)

Manitoba rules out supervised drug site

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Preview

Manitoba rules out supervised drug site

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Wednesday, Nov. 9, 2022

The Manitoba government has taken a hard line against supervised consumption sites after Community Wellness Minister Sarah Guillemard went to Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside.

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Wednesday, Nov. 9, 2022

ETHAN CAIRNS / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES

The government rejected the supervised consumption site model after Community Wellness Minister Sarah Guillemard toured East Hastings Street with Alberta Public Safety Minister Mike Ellis this week.

Children’s Hospital resumes admission of out-of-province patients

Danielle Da Silva 2 minute read Preview

Children’s Hospital resumes admission of out-of-province patients

Danielle Da Silva 2 minute read Tuesday, Nov. 8, 2022

THE Children’s Hospital in Winnipeg is again admitting children from Nunavut and northwestern Ontario who need critical care.

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Tuesday, Nov. 8, 2022

RUTH BONNEVILLE / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES

Children’s Hospital at HSC has resumed admitting children from Nunavut and northwestern Ontario who need critical care after suspending admission of out-of-province critical care patients in August when its ICU was swamped.

Water management strategy unveiled

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Preview

Water management strategy unveiled

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Tuesday, Nov. 8, 2022

CONSERVATION is at the forefront of a new provincial strategy to guarantee the water needed to sustain population and industrial growth continues to flow amid the threats of climate change.

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Tuesday, Nov. 8, 2022

Premier Heather Stefanson, government officials and stakeholders were at FortWhyte Alive to unveil the province's new water management strategy. (Ruth Bonneville / Winnipeg Free Press)

Unopposed Klein will run for Tories in Kirkfield Park byelection

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Preview

Unopposed Klein will run for Tories in Kirkfield Park byelection

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Saturday, Nov. 5, 2022

Former city councillor and Winnipeg mayoral candidate Kevin Klein will carry the governing Progressive Conservatives’ banner in the upcoming Kirkfield Park byelection.

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Saturday, Nov. 5, 2022

A nomination meeting to acclaim Kevin Klein as the Progressive Conservative candidate for Kirkfield Park is set for Nov. 14. (Jessica Lee / Winnipeg Free Press files)

Police team will track down wanted high-risk criminals

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Preview

Police team will track down wanted high-risk criminals

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Thursday, Nov. 3, 2022

Fears of violence, crime and a worsening addictions crisis in Manitoba’s capital city has fuelled millions in provincial spending, as the governing Tories try to assert their tough-on-crime stance and appeal to Winnipeg voters with a promise of increased policing.

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Thursday, Nov. 3, 2022

MIKAELA MACKENZIE / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS

Stefanson’s tough-on-crime rhetoric will tap into issues that are top of mind for many Winnipeg residents, as a byelection in Kirkfield Park approaches and the PCs face a battle in the polls, according to a new poll.

Tories agree to NDP’s non-binding election proposal

Danielle Da Silva 2 minute read Preview

Tories agree to NDP’s non-binding election proposal

Danielle Da Silva 2 minute read Thursday, Nov. 3, 2022

MANITOBA lawmakers unanimously endorsed a motion to confirm the next election will take place Oct. 3, 2023.

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Thursday, Nov. 3, 2022

MIKAELA MACKENZIE / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES

The non-binding proposal brought forward by NDP house leader Nahanni Fontaine received consent from the Tory government.

Nursing college English test ‘smells like white supremacy’

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Preview

Nursing college English test ‘smells like white supremacy’

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Wednesday, Nov. 2, 2022

A Tataskewayak Cree Nation nurse, who is desperate to work in Manitoba, has been barred from practising after failing an English exam that advocates argue is prejudiced against First Nations people.

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Wednesday, Nov. 2, 2022

MIKE DEAL / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS

Tamra Keeper has taken the test unsuccessfully five times in the past two years; she came within half a point of passing on her last attempt.

Economists believe PCs will balance budget before election

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Preview

Economists believe PCs will balance budget before election

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Wednesday, Nov. 2, 2022

A new report from the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives puts Manitoba on track to balance its budget in time for an election, but the province’s finance minister offered no assurances books would be back in the black by next year.

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Wednesday, Nov. 2, 2022

In September, the provincial government released its first-quarter fiscal update for 2022-23 with a forecast deficit of $202 million, an improvement of about $346 million from April’s budget. (Alex Lupul / Winnipeg Free Press files)

NDP vows to freeze hydro rates

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Preview

NDP vows to freeze hydro rates

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Wednesday, Nov. 2, 2022

Manitoba Hydro was once again at the centre of a political scrap as the NDP promised to freeze electricity rates while the government held firm to its proposed five per cent cap.

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Wednesday, Nov. 2, 2022

Daniel Crump / Winnipeg Free Press Files

NDP Leader Wab Kinew said Tuesday Manitobans would not be subject to hydro bill increases if his party forms government in the next election, due by Oct. 3, 2023.

‘Humanitarian crisis’ downtown unacceptable, Chipman says

Carol Sanders and Danielle Da Silva 6 minute read Preview

‘Humanitarian crisis’ downtown unacceptable, Chipman says

Carol Sanders and Danielle Da Silva 6 minute read Tuesday, Nov. 1, 2022

Winnipeg Jets co-owner Mark Chipman, one of the city’s most prominent business leaders, decried the “humanitarian crisis” of homelessness and drug addiction in Winnipeg’s downtown Tuesday.

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Tuesday, Nov. 1, 2022

Changes to Manitoba liquor laws not expected to pass

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Preview

Changes to Manitoba liquor laws not expected to pass

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Tuesday, Nov. 1, 2022

Time is running out on the Manitoba government’s latest attempt to change liquor laws.

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Tuesday, Nov. 1, 2022

WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES

Bill 42 would would allow beer vendors and specialty wine stores to apply for a licence to sell the full range of alcoholic products sold by Manitoba Liquor and Lotteries.

Stefanson snubs Smith’s offer of Churchill meeting

Danielle Da Silva 2 minute read Preview

Stefanson snubs Smith’s offer of Churchill meeting

Danielle Da Silva 2 minute read Monday, Oct. 31, 2022

A proposed meeting of Prairie premiers in Churchill was placed firmly on the back-burner by Manitoba’s first minister.

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Monday, Oct. 31, 2022

JASON FRANSON / THE CANADIAN PRESS FILES

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith sent a letter to Premier Heather Stefanson and Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe, requesting a meeting in Churchill to discuss “opportunities” to increase exports to Europe.

Province increases funding for homeless shelters, rent assistance

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Preview

Province increases funding for homeless shelters, rent assistance

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Tuesday, Nov. 1, 2022

Chronically underfunded homeless shelters received a “historic” boost to their bottom line, as the provincial government pledged more funding for rental supports and housing programs.

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Tuesday, Nov. 1, 2022

MIKAELA MACKENZIE / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS

Manitoba will increase its annual funding rates to shelters, transitional housing services and homeless outreach mentors to $15.1 million from $6.1 million, Premier Heather Stefanson said.

Tories accused of cutting highway maintenance fleet

Danielle Da Silva 2 minute read Preview

Tories accused of cutting highway maintenance fleet

Danielle Da Silva 2 minute read Friday, Oct. 28, 2022

Opposition Leader Wab Kinew borrowed a familiar refrain to pine over crumbling roads.

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Friday, Oct. 28, 2022

TREVOR HAGAN/ WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES

According to records obtained through a freedom of information request, Manitoba’s Vehicle and Equipment Management Agency had 273 fewer pieces of heavy equipment in its fleet last year compared to 2016-17.

Manitoba in line to set record on overdose deaths

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Preview

Manitoba in line to set record on overdose deaths

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Friday, Oct. 28, 2022

Manitoba appears to be on track to set a grim record for preventable overdose deaths.

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Friday, Oct. 28, 2022

Levi Foy, Sunshine House executive director, estimates the outreach team will have about 10,000 interactions annually with people seeking assitance. (Daniel Crump / Winnipeg Free Press files)

Frustration grows for fully boosted U.S.-bound Manitobans without vax proof

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Preview

Frustration grows for fully boosted U.S.-bound Manitobans without vax proof

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Friday, Oct. 28, 2022

Despite rolling up his sleeve and receiving a fifth — bivalent — COVID-19 vaccine in late-September, retiree Ian Ross has little to show for it from the Manitoba government.

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Friday, Oct. 28, 2022

MIKE DEAL / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES

Despite rolling up his sleeve and receiving a fifth — bivalent — COVID-19 vaccine in late-September, retiree Ian Ross has been unable to access an updated copy of his pan-Canadian proof of vaccination from the province.

Session may end before bill on MMIWG licence plate passes

Danielle Da Silva 2 minute read Preview

Session may end before bill on MMIWG licence plate passes

Danielle Da Silva 2 minute read Thursday, Oct. 27, 2022

A bill to create a specialty licence plate to recognize missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls and two-spirited people has moved closer to becoming law.

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Thursday, Oct. 27, 2022

Danielle DaSilva / Winnipeg Free Press

Point Douglas MLA Bernadette Smith hopes her private member’s bill establishing a license plate to raise money for families of missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls and two-spirit people receives support from government and moves to committee stage. Smith was joined by family members and advocates at the Legislature as the bill passed second reading on Thursday.

Manitoba unveils surgical, diagnostic wait list dashboard

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Preview

Manitoba unveils surgical, diagnostic wait list dashboard

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Thursday, Oct. 27, 2022

Manitobans on lengthy wait lists for surgical and diagnostic procedures can now keep tabs on a small part of the province’s efforts to eliminate the COVID-19 pandemic backlog.

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Thursday, Oct. 27, 2022

WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES

“This is the first phase of the dashboard, with additions and improvements to come as more date becomes available,” diagnostic and surgical recovery task force provincial director David Matear said.

NDP, government trade barbs over health crisis

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Preview

NDP, government trade barbs over health crisis

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Wednesday, Oct. 26, 2022

Manitoba political leaders pointed the finger at each other and deflected blame Wednesday for the worsening crisis in health care.

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Wednesday, Oct. 26, 2022

DANIEL CRUMP / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES

NDP leader Wab Kinew said the Progressive Conservatives are directly responsible for the chaos in hospitals described by workers on the front-line.

Doctors Manitoba expects exodus of physicians

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Preview

Doctors Manitoba expects exodus of physicians

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Wednesday, Oct. 26, 2022

Manitobans who are struggling to find a family physician or see a specialist could face even fewer options, Doctors Manitoba has warned.

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Wednesday, Oct. 26, 2022

RUTH BONNEVILLE / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES

“Manitoba has seen a significant increase in the number of practising physicians over the past 20 years, but our increase has not kept up with other provinces, leaving us with one of the biggest physician shortages in Canada,” Doctors Manitoba president Dr. Candace Bradshaw said in a release.

NDP vows to battle chronic homeless problem in two terms

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Preview

NDP vows to battle chronic homeless problem in two terms

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Tuesday, Oct. 25, 2022

A provincial government helmed by New Democrats would do in eight years what community organizations and leaders have been working towards for decades — bring chronic homelessness to an end, leader Wab Kinew pledged on Tuesday.

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Tuesday, Oct. 25, 2022

JOHN WOODS / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS

Within two terms of forming government, the NDP would have a program in place to rapidly house people who are homeless.

Illness, burnout force RHAs to lean more heavily on private-agency nurses

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Preview

Illness, burnout force RHAs to lean more heavily on private-agency nurses

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Monday, Oct. 24, 2022

Private nursing agencies are taking a bigger share of Manitoba’s health-care budget, as sick and tired nurses take more time off and competition drives up the province’s bill for temporary workers.

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Monday, Oct. 24, 2022

THE CANADIAN PRESS FILES

On average, Manitoba’s five regional health authorities are spending 34 per cent more on private nurses per month compared to one year ago, despite efforts by the Progressive Conservative government to wean itself off the for-profit agencies.

Manitoba Housing fire injures three, fans concern for response plans

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Preview

Manitoba Housing fire injures three, fans concern for response plans

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Friday, Oct. 21, 2022

A blaze at a Manitoba Housing high-rise that sent three people to hospital and forced nearly a dozen others from their homes Friday morning has sparked concerns over fire preparedness among tenants at the primarily 55-plus complex.

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Friday, Oct. 21, 2022

DANIELLE DA SILVA / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS

According to the Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service, a monitored fire alarm was activated at 101 Marion St. just after 6 a.m. The blaze within the sixth-floor suite could be seen from the street as crews arrived.

Rebuilding better structures crucial after spring-flood toll: infrastructure minister

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Preview

Rebuilding better structures crucial after spring-flood toll: infrastructure minister

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Thursday, Oct. 20, 2022

With taxpayers set to cover a massive bill for last spring’s flooding, attention is turning to provincial mitigation efforts as natural disasters and extreme weather are forecast to increase with climate change.

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Thursday, Oct. 20, 2022

JORDAN ROSS THE CARILLON

Infrastructure Minister Doyle Piwniuk said the Manitoba government is focused on rebuilding “better” after the second-most expensive flood event in more than 20 years.

Initial costs for spring flood damage hit $200M

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Preview

Initial costs for spring flood damage hit $200M

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Thursday, Oct. 20, 2022

Devastating spring flooding that washed out roads, forced Manitobans from their homes, and triggered local states of emergency caused at least $200 million in damage to public and private property.

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Thursday, Oct. 20, 2022

Daniel Crump / Winnipeg Free Press Files

Infrastructure Minister Doyle Piwniuk has revealed widespread flooding in Manitoba this spring caused $200 million in damages to the province.

PC’s review of parks profitability coming soon

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Preview

PC’s review of parks profitability coming soon

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Wednesday, Oct. 19, 2022

Manitoba’s provincial parks have been ranked for their potential to turn a profit and the results are finally ready to be released to the public.

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Wednesday, Oct. 19, 2022

Findings of a sustainability review, commissioned by the Progressive Conservative government nearly two years ago, will be shared at an upcoming announcement, says Parks Minister Jeff Wharton. (Ruth Bonneville / Winnipeg Free Press files)

Province puts $8.7M into waste-diversion sector

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Preview

Province puts $8.7M into waste-diversion sector

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Tuesday, Oct. 18, 2022

Children’s car seats destined for the dump are instead being detoured to a Point Douglas recycling centre with support from a government program to divert waste from landfills.

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Tuesday, Oct. 18, 2022

Old car seats will be turned into household items, including coasters and planters at Mother Earth Recycling with the help of funding from the province. (Mikaela MacKenzie / Winnipeg Free Press)

Avian flu devastates 17 Manitoba farms

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Preview

Avian flu devastates 17 Manitoba farms

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Tuesday, Oct. 18, 2022

Nearly 300,000 birds on Manitoba poultry farms died or were culled in the past six weeks as a highly contagious avian influenza tears through flocks in the Interlake and the southeastern part of the province.

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Tuesday, Oct. 18, 2022

An estimated 289,000 birds — including chickens and turkeys — died or were destroyed in Manitoba this year as part of an effort to contain a highly contagious avian influenza in the Interlake and the southeastern part of the province. (The Associated Press files)

Kirkfield Park a challenge for Tories

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Preview

Kirkfield Park a challenge for Tories

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Monday, Oct. 17, 2022

The governing Tories are off to a slow start in the race to fill former cabinet minister Scott Fielding’s seat, with dismal polling and the civic election frustrating the search for a candidate as the deadline approaches to drop the writ in Kirkfield Park.

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Monday, Oct. 17, 2022

Kinew rallies delegates as NDP convention opens

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Preview

Kinew rallies delegates as NDP convention opens

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Friday, Oct. 14, 2022

Public versus private. The middle class over the most wealthy. A government in-waiting and a government in turmoil.

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Friday, Oct. 14, 2022

Kinew, backed by the provincial NDP caucus, criticized the provincial government’s plan to eliminate education property taxes and mail out rebate cheques. (Jessica Lee / Winnipeg Free Press)

Manitoba protection of sensitive data lacking: auditor general

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Preview

Manitoba protection of sensitive data lacking: auditor general

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Thursday, Oct. 13, 2022

Sensitive information held by the Manitoba government and the provincial health authority was not adequately protected from unauthorized access, a report by the Office of the Auditor General has concluded.

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Thursday, Oct. 13, 2022

Someone with privileged access could steal data or funds, disrupt operations, or cause system outages, Auditor general Tyson Shtykalo said in a report to the provincial government about sensitive information held by the Manitoba government and the provincial health authority. (Elise Amendola / The Associated Press files)

Industrial electricity consumers slam provincial Hydro bill

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Preview

Industrial electricity consumers slam provincial Hydro bill

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Thursday, Oct. 13, 2022

A group representing major industrial electricity users in Manitoba warned proposed legislation to accelerate debt repayment at Manitoba Hydro could spark an exodus of business over the next two decades.

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Thursday, Oct. 13, 2022

JOHN WOODS / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES

A group representing major industrial electricity users in Manitoba warned proposed legislation to accelerate debt repayment at Manitoba Hydro could spark an exodus of business over the next two decades.

Stefanson vows to protect Manitoba’s turf

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Preview

Stefanson vows to protect Manitoba’s turf

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Wednesday, Oct. 12, 2022

Premier Heather Stefanson hasn’t ruled out borrowing a page from the new Alberta premier to protect Manitoba’s jurisdiction and interests from interference by the federal government.

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Wednesday, Oct. 12, 2022

MIKAELA MACKENZIE / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS

On Wednesday, Premier Heather Stefanson was asked whether she agrees with other Prairie premiers, including United Conservative Party leader Danielle Smith in Alberta, in asserting provincial authority and challenging the federal government through legislation.

Tories introduce ‘very straight up’ budget bill

Danielle Da Silva 2 minute read Preview

Tories introduce ‘very straight up’ budget bill

Danielle Da Silva 2 minute read Tuesday, Oct. 11, 2022

A bill to set the Progressive Conservative government’s marquee education property tax rebate program in law and to carry out its latest budget was introduced Tuesday.

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Tuesday, Oct. 11, 2022

MIKE DEAL / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES

Finance Minister Cameron Friesen said the bill, while large, is the “least encumbered BITSA in the legislature for 20 years. It’s very straight up.”

NDP claims ‘political interference’ in green light of Brandon road project

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Preview

NDP claims ‘political interference’ in green light of Brandon road project

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Tuesday, Oct. 11, 2022

A proposed driveway for a new, multi-use development off a major Manitoba highway received a green light from Transportation Minister Doyle Piwniuk, despite departmental warnings the access road will lead to more collisions.

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Tuesday, Oct. 11, 2022

Tim Smith/The Brandon Sun Files

Construction on the Highway 10 bridge over the Souris River south of Brandon.

Hydro, PUB bill draws public fire

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Preview

Hydro, PUB bill draws public fire

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Friday, Oct. 7, 2022

A contentious bill proposing significant changes to the Public Utilities Board and Manitoba Hydro was slammed at a committee meeting that narrowly avoided being brought to a premature conclusion.

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Friday, Oct. 7, 2022

MIKE DEAL / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES

Cameron Friesen, the minister responsible for Manitoba Hydro, defended Bill 36, saying if it had been in place 20 years ago, it may have prevented rate increases above inflation in 2004, 2008 and 2012.

Regional home-care spending falls as demand outstrips funds

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Preview

Regional home-care spending falls as demand outstrips funds

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Friday, Oct. 7, 2022

Health authority spending on home-care clients in western and southern Manitoba dropped over the past four years, as demand for the essential service that allows people to continue living at home outpaced funding.

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Friday, Oct. 7, 2022

MIKAELA MACKENZIE / FREE PRESS FILES

“Home-care workers are stretched too thin to give each client the attention they deserve,” Opposition Leader Wab Kinew said in question period.

‘We need systemic change’: Loney builds campaign on value of solutions

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Preview

‘We need systemic change’: Loney builds campaign on value of solutions

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Friday, Oct. 7, 2022

Cracked concrete of a gated Point Douglas-area parking lot, tucked between a refurbished brown-brick warehouse and the imposing steel tracks of the Canadian Pacific Railway, doubled as stage for mayoral candidate Shaun Loney on an early August afternoon.

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Friday, Oct. 7, 2022

Winnipeg’s defining issue is connecting the people who most need the work with the work that most needs to be done, says Shaun Loney. (Jessica Lee / Winnipeg Free Press files)

Chiefs file $1-billion lawsuit on behalf of CFS kids

Danielle Da Silva 6 minute read Preview

Chiefs file $1-billion lawsuit on behalf of CFS kids

Danielle Da Silva 6 minute read Thursday, Oct. 6, 2022

The Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs has filed a class-action lawsuit against the Manitoba government and the Attorney General of Canada, seeking up to $1 billion for damages it says were caused by the provincial child welfare system.

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Thursday, Oct. 6, 2022

RUTH BONNEVILLE / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS

Local - AMC lawsuit

Photo of AMC Deputy Grand Chief Cornell McLean speaking to the media Thursday.

Press conference on (AMC)- FIRST NATIONS FAMILY ADVOCATE OFFICE FILES CLASS ACTION LAWSUIT ON BEHALF OF FIRST NATIONS CHILDREN, FAMILIES AND NATIONS IMPACTED BY THE MANITOBA CHILD WELFARE SYSTEM at AMC Thursday.

Those in attendance in person speaking about the announcement:
Cora Morgan, First Nations Family Advocate,
AMC Deputy Grand Chief Cornell McLean,
Amber Laplante (individual lived experience with CFS) and Roberta Godin (family member lived experience with CFS).

Oct 6th, 2022

Fourth Manitoba Tory decides to hang up his hat

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Preview

Fourth Manitoba Tory decides to hang up his hat

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Tuesday, Oct. 4, 2022

Manitoba government backbencher Ralph Eichler will not seek re-election after nearly 20 years representing the Lakeside constituency.

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Tuesday, Oct. 4, 2022

TIM SMITH / THE BRANDON SUN FILES

Manitoba government backbencher Ralph Eichler will not seek re-election after nearly 20 years representing the Lakeside constituency.

Elder supports removal of legislature camp, calling it a ‘mockery’

Danielle Da Silva and Carol Sanders 6 minute read Preview

Elder supports removal of legislature camp, calling it a ‘mockery’

Danielle Da Silva and Carol Sanders 6 minute read Wednesday, Oct. 5, 2022

Sixty officers carefully dismantled a teepee encampment at the front of the Manitoba legislature Thursday as a handful of protesters from the reprised version of the “freedom convoy” heckled them.

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Wednesday, Oct. 5, 2022

MIKE DEAL / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS

Officers remove a teepee from the grounds.

Dr. Brent Roussin rewarded with 47 per cent raise during pandemic

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Preview

Dr. Brent Roussin rewarded with 47 per cent raise during pandemic

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Monday, Oct. 3, 2022

Manitoba’s chief public health officer received a significant pay bump as he steered the province through the pandemic, allowing him to leap past the salaries of counterparts in Ottawa and other provinces.

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Monday, Oct. 3, 2022

Chief provincial public health officer Dr. Brent Roussin. (Mike Deal / Winnipeg Free Press files)

Finding inspiration in the North End

Danielle Da Silva 2 minute read Preview

Finding inspiration in the North End

Danielle Da Silva 2 minute read Friday, Sep. 30, 2022

Chris Clacio rattles off the history of the cast bronze bell that rang out over city hall at the turn of the 20th century and the contemporary youth movement that gathered in the shadow of its current Selkirk Avenue tower home to oppose violence in the North End.

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Friday, Sep. 30, 2022

When Chris Clacio started attending Stop the Violence rallies, he found camaraderie, safety and inclusion among the Indigenous youth leading the social-justice movement. (Winnipeg Free Press files)

Province forecasts deep cut to deficit

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Preview

Province forecasts deep cut to deficit

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Thursday, Sep. 29, 2022

The Manitoba government is projecting a boon to its bottom line, with the deficit anticipated to be slashed by more than half — to $202 million — at the end of this fiscal year.

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Thursday, Sep. 29, 2022

MIKE DEAL / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES

On Thursday, Finance Minister Cameron Friesen released the government’s first-quarter fiscal update for 2022-23, and its annual report and public accounts for the past year.

NDP complaint claims Conservatives got inside info

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Preview

NDP complaint claims Conservatives got inside info

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Wednesday, Sep. 14, 2022

THE Manitoba New Democratic Party has filed a complaint to the elections commissioner alleging the Progressive Conservative party received insider information from the government on the timing of the upcoming Kirkfield Park byelection.

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Wednesday, Sep. 14, 2022

MIKE DEAL / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES

“The concern is that the premier is giving her PC party an unfair advantage by providing this insider information about the timing of a byelection call for Kirkfield (Park),” said NDP house leader Nahanni Fontaine.

Manitoba Tories post wide margin of support for Poilievre

Carol Sanders and Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Preview

Manitoba Tories post wide margin of support for Poilievre

Carol Sanders and Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Tuesday, Sep. 13, 2022

Newly-elected Conservative Party of Canada Leader Pierre Poilievre easily won every federal riding in Manitoba.

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Tuesday, Sep. 13, 2022

THE CANADIAN PRESS FILES

Pierre Poilievre took 59 per cent of the votes in Winnipeg South Centre.

Province keeps U.S. spinal surgery price tag under wraps

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Preview

Province keeps U.S. spinal surgery price tag under wraps

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Tuesday, Sep. 13, 2022

Manitoba taxpayers are being asked to sign a blank cheque to cover spinal surgeries performed stateside, after the financial interests of a North Dakota hospital were found to outweigh the public interest in disclosing the price tag.

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Tuesday, Sep. 13, 2022

JESSICA LEE / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES

When pressed on the price for the out-of-province hip and knee procedures, David Matear, provincial director of the diagnostic and surgical recovery task force, would not say how much more the surgeries will cost compared to being performed in Manitoba.

Province enters official period of mourning for Queen

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Preview

Province enters official period of mourning for Queen

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Friday, Sep. 9, 2022

Flags will remain at half-mast and the Royal Cypher will illuminate the Manitoba Legislative Building nightly, as the provincial government memorializes Queen Elizabeth during a formal period of mourning that began Friday.

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Friday, Sep. 9, 2022

WAYNE GLOWACKI / FREE PRESS FILES

Flags at City of Winnipeg-owned buildings have also been lowered.

Choice is to boost now or wait

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Preview

Choice is to boost now or wait

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Wednesday, Sep. 7, 2022

Faced with the choice to get the first COVID-19 booster shot available or wait their turn for a new, Omicron-targeted vaccine, some Manitobans are raring to recharge their immunity, while others say they’ve had their share of needles.

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Wednesday, Sep. 7, 2022

Teacher and Winnipeg School Division trustee candidate Luanne Karn is planning on getting the new booster as soon as she can. (Mikaela MacKenzie / Winnipeg Free Press)

Rural ER long weekend closures spark extra concern: doctor

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Preview

Rural ER long weekend closures spark extra concern: doctor

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Friday, Sep. 2, 2022

Closures of three rural emergency rooms in western Manitoba have physicians bracing for longer patient waits and heavy workloads through the Labour Day long weekend.

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Friday, Sep. 2, 2022

Neepawa Health Centre will be the safety net for any patients in the communities of Carberry, Minnedosa and Glenboro whose ERs are scheduled to be closed or operating at reduced hours owing to staffing challenges. (File)

Province widens fourth-dose eligibility

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Preview

Province widens fourth-dose eligibility

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Friday, Sep. 2, 2022

Fourth doses of the COVID-19 vaccine are being released to the general public, but the Manitoba government is advising people to wait to roll up their sleeves until shots targeting Omicron are readily available.

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Friday, Sep. 2, 2022

Manitoba is allowing anyone age 12 and up to get their fourth shot, known as a second booster, as of Sept. 12. (Lars Hagberg / The Canadian Press files)

Premier, PM divided on carbon tax, together on immigration

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Preview

Premier, PM divided on carbon tax, together on immigration

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Thursday, Sep. 1, 2022

Manitobans are unlikely to get a tax break on fuel, after calls by Premier Heather Stefanson for Ottawa to pause collection of the carbon tax were dismissed by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau during a stop in Winnipeg.

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Thursday, Sep. 1, 2022

JOHN WOODS / THE CANADIAN PRESS

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau met with Manitoba Premier Heather Stefanson at the Hotel Fort Garry in Winnipeg.

Province announces ‘affordability’ funds

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Preview

Province announces ‘affordability’ funds

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Wednesday, Aug. 31, 2022

The Progressive Conservative government is cutting cheques for families and low-income seniors struggling beneath the mounting cost of living, but stopped short of ponying up cash to help all Manitobans feeling the sting of high inflation.

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Wednesday, Aug. 31, 2022

ETHAN CAIRNS / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS

Premier Heather Stefanson said the Manitoba government is focused on getting cheques out in the broadest and most expeditious way.

New regulations, little movement on legislature grounds encampments

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Preview

New regulations, little movement on legislature grounds encampments

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Wednesday, Aug. 31, 2022

After an unsuccessful attempt to evict a pair of months-long occupations at the Manitoba legislature grounds, Justice Minister Kelvin Goertzen insisted new regulations prohibiting such encampments have teeth — as the Tories seek to avoid a major political misstep in clearing the protest groups.

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Wednesday, Aug. 31, 2022

Members of two camps on the north and east lawns of the provincial legislative grounds were ordered to tear down their tents, teepees and fires last week, but haven't. (John Woods / Winnipeg Free Press files)

Long-term care facilities, hospitals battle COVID outbreaks; health workers’ sick-time calls rise

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Preview

Long-term care facilities, hospitals battle COVID outbreaks; health workers’ sick-time calls rise

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Tuesday, Aug. 30, 2022

After four consecutive months free from isolation, illness and COVID-19, the Convalescent Home of Winnipeg was once again placed on high alert last week with the return of five positive test results.

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Tuesday, Aug. 30, 2022

RUTH BONNEVILLE / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES

The Convalescent Home of Winnipeg is one of 10 long-term care facilities in Winnipeg working to contain COVID-19 while the virus spreads unchecked in the community.

Retailers prep for fall COVID test kit pressure

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Preview

Retailers prep for fall COVID test kit pressure

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Wednesday, Sep. 7, 2022

Demand for free rapid COVID-19 tests at grocery stores and pharmacies is expected to ramp up as summer comes to an end, and retailers are preparing to hand out kits by the handful for the provincial government.

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Wednesday, Sep. 7, 2022

Examples of COVID-19 rapid antigen test kits. (Chris Young / The Canadian Press files)

Stalemate over two camps on legislature lawn

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Preview

Stalemate over two camps on legislature lawn

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Friday, Aug. 26, 2022

The Manitoba government remained tight-lipped Friday about two encampments at the legislature that have not budged after being handed eviction notices more than a week ago.

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Friday, Aug. 26, 2022

JOHN WOODS / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS

The two encampments at the Manitoba Legislative Building were supposed to be dismantled on Tuesday but remained as of Friday.

Licence review on the table for care home where residents allegedly abused

Danielle Da Silva 2 minute read Preview

Licence review on the table for care home where residents allegedly abused

Danielle Da Silva 2 minute read Thursday, Aug. 25, 2022

A Winnipeg personal-care home at the centre of multiple abuse allegations could face an operating licence review, Manitoba Health Minister Audrey Gordon said Thursday.

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Thursday, Aug. 25, 2022

In June, the Winnipeg Regional Health Authority said police were investigating after two health-care aides at Oakview Place Personal Care Home had allegedly abused multiple residents. (John Woods / Winnipeg Free Press files)

Visitation shelters eat up nearly half of province’s share of federal long-term care money

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Preview

Visitation shelters eat up nearly half of province’s share of federal long-term care money

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Thursday, Aug. 25, 2022

Nearly half of Manitoba’s $37.2-million share of federal funding for long-term care homes will cover the cost of pandemic-era visitation shelters — many of which are no longer in use.

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Thursday, Aug. 25, 2022

MIKAELA MACKENZIE / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS

Ottawa has agreed to cover the operating expenses for approximately 105 external and 57 internal shelters at facilities across Manitoba through the Safe Long-Term Care Fund.

Manitoba inks surgery deals with Thunder Bay, Cleveland, North Dakota

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Preview

Manitoba inks surgery deals with Thunder Bay, Cleveland, North Dakota

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Wednesday, Aug. 24, 2022

The province has signed three contracts with out-of-province clinics to reduce the backlog of Manitobans waiting for hip or knee replacement surgery.

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Wednesday, Aug. 24, 2022

Surgeon, Dr Thomas Turgeon checks digital x-rays prior to knee replacement surgery at Concordia Hospital Monday moring. August 13, 2012 - Phil Hossack / Winnipeg Free Press

Manitoba seeks public opinion on new COVID vaccine

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Preview

Manitoba seeks public opinion on new COVID vaccine

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Wednesday, Aug. 24, 2022

Manitobans are being asked to share their opinion on a potential new COVID-19 vaccine that protects against Omicron and the original strain of the virus.

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Wednesday, Aug. 24, 2022

The new vaccine, which targets the Omicron subvariant BA.1 and the original strain of the coronavirus, was approved Thursday by Health Canada for people 18 years old and up. (John Woods / The Canadian Press files)

HSC nurses step up to help ER dodge understaffing bullet

Carol Sanders and Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Preview

HSC nurses step up to help ER dodge understaffing bullet

Carol Sanders and Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Monday, Aug. 22, 2022

Nurses worked overtime and picked up shifts to help Manitoba’s main trauma hospital avert crisis over the weekend after it was forced to close half of its beds in the emergency department due to a severe staffing shortage.

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Monday, Aug. 22, 2022

JOHN WOODS / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES

On Friday, the Free Press reported that of 69 total beds, only the ones for the most seriously ill patients would remain open at HSC because nursing shifts were operating at about 30 per cent capacity.

NDP, Tories clash over CancerCare

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Preview

NDP, Tories clash over CancerCare

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Thursday, Aug. 18, 2022

The NDP has accused the Tory government of shortsightedness and disregard for cancer patients after Shared Health ordered $5.5 million worth of “immediate needs and stabilization” projects at CancerCare Manitoba.

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Thursday, Aug. 18, 2022

MATT GOERZEN / THE BRANDON SUN FILES

NDP leader Wab Kinew said cancer patients would have been guaranteed an appropriate space and environment for cancer treatment had the Progressive Conservatives moved forward with a $300-million plan for a new facility.

Manitoba to raise minimum wage to $15 in time for 2023 election

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Preview

Manitoba to raise minimum wage to $15 in time for 2023 election

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Thursday, Aug. 18, 2022

Minimum-wage workers will see their hourly pay increase nearly 13 per cent this fall as the province aims to hit $15 by October 2023 in a move labour groups argue will drive more low-income earners into poverty.

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Thursday, Aug. 18, 2022

MIKAELA MACKENZIE / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES

“This phased-in approach will ensure small businesses remain strong and continue to grow while helping workers and their families get ahead,” Premier Heather Stefanson wrote in a news release.

Camps at Manitoba legislature handed eviction notices

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Preview

Camps at Manitoba legislature handed eviction notices

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Wednesday, Aug. 17, 2022

Two independent groups of people who have camped on the grounds of the Manitoba legislature for months have been told to clear out.

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Wednesday, Aug. 17, 2022

JOHN WOODS / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES

On Wednesday morning, eviction notices were hand delivered by Manitoba Justice officials to members of a 14-month occupation of the east lawn and to another encampment on the north lawn, which formed in June.

Province wants to reduce reliance, spending on agency nurses

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Preview

Province wants to reduce reliance, spending on agency nurses

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Wednesday, Aug. 17, 2022

THE Manitoba government is looking to rein in spending on agency nurses, after temporary staff costs surpassed $40 million in the past fiscal year.

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Wednesday, Aug. 17, 2022

MIKE DEAL / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES

Health Minister Audrey Gordon said the federal Canada Health Act lays out some of the parameters of “what we can and cannot pay for”.

Manitoba expands coverage for cystic fibrosis drug to young kids

Danielle Da Silva 2 minute read Preview

Manitoba expands coverage for cystic fibrosis drug to young kids

Danielle Da Silva 2 minute read Wednesday, Aug. 17, 2022

A costly, life-changing treatment for children with cystic fibrosis has been added to the provincial drug plan, following recent approval by Health Canada.

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Wednesday, Aug. 17, 2022

MIKE DEAL / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS

Jackie Snarr, provincial lead advocate, Cystic Fibrosis Canada-Manitoba Chapter, speaks after Health Minister Audrey Gordon (left) announced that the Manitoba government has expanded coverage for the cystic fibrosis medication Trikafta to patients aged six and older.

Premier sticks by Ukrainian-refugee plan

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Preview

Premier sticks by Ukrainian-refugee plan

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Tuesday, Aug. 16, 2022

Manitoba will not borrow a page from its western neighbour by co-ordinating humanitarian charter flights for Ukrainian refugees.

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Tuesday, Aug. 16, 2022

MIKAELA MACKENZIE / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES

Premier Heather Stefanson said the province’s current approach to resettling Ukrainians fleeing war is getting results and suggested other jurisdictions that partner with organizations to charter flights for Ukrainians are playing catch up.

Premier mum on inflation relief

Danielle Da Silva 2 minute read Preview

Premier mum on inflation relief

Danielle Da Silva 2 minute read Tuesday, Aug. 16, 2022

The provincial government said it is still mulling ways to help Manitobans cope with the second-highest inflation rate in the country.

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Tuesday, Aug. 16, 2022

MIKAELA MACKENZIE / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS

Premier Heather Stefanson: “I have committed to making an announcement, so stay tuned.”

City police boost effort to trace ‘crime guns’

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Preview

City police boost effort to trace ‘crime guns’

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Tuesday, Aug. 16, 2022

Winnipeg police are increasing their capacity to trace illegal, unmarked firearms that are often trafficked into Canada from the United States and end up being seized on the streets of Winnipeg.

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Tuesday, Aug. 16, 2022

ETHAN CAIRNS / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS

Insp. Elton Hall said the police service will purchase a ductless chemical work station for technicians to restore obliterated serial numbers on seized weapons.

Former MP Neville named Manitoba’s next lieutenant-governor

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Preview

Former MP Neville named Manitoba’s next lieutenant-governor

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Tuesday, Aug. 16, 2022

A former Member of Parliament known for her ability to bridge partisan divides and her commitment to the community has been appointed Manitoba’s next lieutenant-governor after a months-long search.

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Tuesday, Aug. 16, 2022

Anita Neville (Jessica Lee / Winnipeg Free Press)

No new COVID wave ‘at this point’: Roussin

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Preview

No new COVID wave ‘at this point’: Roussin

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Friday, Aug. 12, 2022

Manitoba is not in a new, summer wave of COVID-19 infections, despite a reported increase in viral activity and hospitalizations, its chief provincial public health officer says.

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Friday, Aug. 12, 2022

Dr. Brent Roussin, chief provincial public health officer, provides an update on monkeypox vaccination in the province. (Winnipeg Free Press)

AMC cuts ties with suspended grand chief Dumas

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Preview

AMC cuts ties with suspended grand chief Dumas

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Friday, Aug. 5, 2022

The Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs voted Friday to strip suspended grand chief Arlen Dumas of his title.

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Friday, Aug. 5, 2022

FREE PRESS FILES

According to the assembly’s constitution, Arlen Dumas was permitted the opportunity to address the gathered chiefs prior to the vote. However, McLean said, Dumas did not appear at the meeting, despite repeated invitations through his legal counsel.

Dumas seeking treatment for childhood trauma, asks for ‘understanding’ before crucial AMC vote

Dylan Robertson and Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Preview

Dumas seeking treatment for childhood trauma, asks for ‘understanding’ before crucial AMC vote

Dylan Robertson and Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Wednesday, Aug. 3, 2022

Just days ahead of a vote that could see Grand Chief Arlen Dumas removed over a finding of sexual harassment, the suspended head of the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs is pleading for support, saying he’s seeking help for lifelong trauma.

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Wednesday, Aug. 3, 2022

FREE PRESS FILES

Arlen Dumas said he would seek help for the trauma that he says dates back to his early childhood.

Province, Norway House Cree Nation sign historic timber deal

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Preview

Province, Norway House Cree Nation sign historic timber deal

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Wednesday, Aug. 3, 2022

NORWAY HOUSE CREE NATION — The scent of freshly cut white spruce and the buzz of two saws tucked away off a gravel road signal potential for the northern Manitoba community of Norway House Cree Nation, after it inked an historic agreement with the province to share profit from timber harvested on its ­territory.

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Wednesday, Aug. 3, 2022

DANIELLE DA SILVA / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS
Over the past four years, the band has steadily built up its capacity to produce lumber from timber cut on treaty land, with the ability to process enough raw wood to construct as many as 50 homes for residents each year.

Affirming the right to make a hard choice

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Preview

Affirming the right to make a hard choice

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Monday, Aug. 1, 2022

It was with both sadness and relief that a young Lisa Naylor learned her birth mother would have chosen abortion had it been an option while she was pregnant with her 56 years ago.

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Monday, Aug. 1, 2022

JESSICA LEE / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS Wolseley MLA Lisa Naylor poses for a photo in her office on Portage Ave. on July 28, 2022.

Manitoba Housing to target ‘exceptional circumstances’ buildings: Squires

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Preview

Manitoba Housing to target ‘exceptional circumstances’ buildings: Squires

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Friday, Jul. 29, 2022

Families Minister Rochelle Squires says the Tory government is committed to turning a St. Boniface-area Manitoba Housing property into “a safe and affordable place to call home,” after a visit to the rundown, bug-infested residential tower.

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Friday, Jul. 29, 2022

MIKE DEAL / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES

“I’ve identified with my team in Manitoba Housing some key priorities for the Manitoba government which include some of these buildings that are experiencing exceptional circumstances,” said Families Minister Rochelle Squires.

Manitoba signs on to push for expanded immigration powers

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Preview

Manitoba signs on to push for expanded immigration powers

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Wednesday, Jul. 27, 2022

Manitoba Immigration Minister Jon Reyes has added his name a letter calling on Ottawa to give the provinces more authority over the resettlement of skilled workers amid an unprecedented labour shortage.

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Wednesday, Jul. 27, 2022

MIKE DEAL / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES

Manitoba Immigration Minister Jon Reyes

Tories seek to ‘accelerate’ use of private agency nurses: NDP

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Preview

Tories seek to ‘accelerate’ use of private agency nurses: NDP

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Tuesday, Jul. 26, 2022

The Progressive Conservative government has been accused of doubling-down on its use of agency nurses, after Shared Health last month surveyed the private health-care firms about their capacity to prop up the public health system.

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Tuesday, Jul. 26, 2022

MIKE DEAL / FREE PRESS FILES

“You have a system that’s in crisis and the PCs are proposing a course of action that is more expensive, leads to less quality of care for the patient — and so we should all be concerned about that,” said Opposition Leader Wab Kinew.

Manitoba unwraps arts, culture, sport support fund

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Preview

Manitoba unwraps arts, culture, sport support fund

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Monday, Jul. 25, 2022

Manitoba community organizations desperate for funding to improve facilities and run arts, culture and sport programs can tap into a new provincial plan intended to spur sectors hard hit by the COVID-19 pandemic.

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Monday, Jul. 25, 2022

ETHAN CAIRNS / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS

Premier Heather Stefanson and Sport, Culture and Heritage Minister Andrew Smith at the Bourkevale Community Centre on Monday announcing the province’s new community fund.

Inflation relief? Premier says stay tuned

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Preview

Inflation relief? Premier says stay tuned

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Monday, Jul. 25, 2022

Manitoba Premier Heather Stefanson has promised relief from 40-year-high inflation is on the way.

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Monday, Jul. 25, 2022

ETHAN CAIRNS / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES

Premier Heather Stefanson said her Progressive Conservative government will bring forward “interesting things” to assist Manitobans struggling under the weight of gas and grocery bills. She declined to give specifics.

Keeyask completion fails to generate excitement

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Preview

Keeyask completion fails to generate excitement

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Friday, Jul. 22, 2022

Manitoba Hydro has no plan to publicize the recent completion of the multibillion-dollar Keeyask Generating Station in northern Manitoba, even as one First Nations partner says it feels burned by the massive project.

Despite all units at the dam being up and running for the first time last month, there’s not much to celebrate given the burden of cost overruns and delays on First Nations, said Fox Lake Cree Nation Chief Morris Beardy.

“We were told this was going to be the golden egg, so to speak, for generations to come — but now, that’s far from what we’re feeling right now. It’s not right,” Beardy said.

The remote community is one of four First Nations that partnered with Manitoba Hydro on the generating station project on the Nelson River.

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Friday, Jul. 22, 2022

The interior of Keeyask Generating Station in 2018 during construction. (Manitoba Hydro files)

First Nation asks court to strike down licence for diversion

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Preview

First Nation asks court to strike down licence for diversion

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Friday, Jul. 22, 2022

A northern Manitoba First Nation has asked the Court of Queen’s Bench to nullify a final operating licence for the Churchill River diversion, arguing Manitoba Hydro and the provincial government failed to consult them.

Tataskweyak Cree Nation and its chief, Doreen Spence, applied for a judicial review of the final licence in March after the provincial government officially signed off on the continued operations of the water control structures in May 2021.

The community, situated 900 kilometres north of Winnipeg on the shores of Split Lake, claims the river system has been devastated by the diversion, which had been operating under an interim licence since 1976, and Manitoba Hydro’s augmented flow program, which was renewed annually since 1986.

The court application claims the fishery at Southern Indian Lake has all but closed due to water choked by sediment and fish contaminated with methyl-mercury; shorelines and habitat on the lower Churchill River and the Rat-Burntwood-Nelson River system have been destroyed; the lake sturgeon population has dwindled owing to manipulated water levels; and TCN remains under a boil water advisory.

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Friday, Jul. 22, 2022

RUTH BONNEVILLE / FREE PRESS FILES
Tataskweyak Cree Nation and its chief, Doreen Spence, applied for a judicial review of the final licence in March after the provincial government officially signed off on the continued operations of the water control structures in May 2021.

Health minister sofa tour plan soft on details

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Preview

Health minister sofa tour plan soft on details

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Tuesday, Jul. 19, 2022

Manitoba Health Minister Audrey Gordon’s promised “sofa conversations” tour will hit the road this summer, but only those in the know will be able to kick back with the Southdale MLA as she keeps a low profile heading into the community.

Midway through July, Gordon and her couch have yet to make an appearance at a park in the southeast Winnipeg neighbourhood, after promising to lug the furniture around her constituency so voters can grab a seat to share what’s on their mind.

Her constituency office and social media feeds have so far been silent on the outreach initiative.

On Tuesday, Gordon chalked up the delay to wet weather and did not provide a direct answer when asked if safety concerns have forced her office to limit promotion of upcoming public appearances.

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Tuesday, Jul. 19, 2022

MIKE DEAL / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES
Health Minister Audrey Gordon said Southdale residents are aware of the timing of the upcoming conversations, but did not say exactly when or where she and her sofa would next be in the neighbourhood.

Manitoba to unveil vaccine plan for young children

Danielle Da Silva and Katie May 3 minute read Preview

Manitoba to unveil vaccine plan for young children

Danielle Da Silva and Katie May 3 minute read Tuesday, Jul. 19, 2022

Manitoba’s top doctor is set to reveal the province’s plan to vaccinate children under age five against COVID-19.

Chief provincial public health officer Dr. Brent Roussin will address Manitobans this week for the first time since May, said Health Minister Audrey Gordon.

“This is an exciting announcement for so many families that have been waiting for Health Canada to approve the vaccine,” Gordon said during an unrelated announcement.

Roussin will speak about the approval process and the rollout of the shots to children aged six months to five years old, Gordon said. Health Canada approved Moderna’s Spikevax COVID-19 vaccine for the younger age group on July 14.

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Tuesday, Jul. 19, 2022

DANIEL CRUMP / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES
Chief provincial public health officer Dr. Brent Roussin will address Manitobans this week for the first time since May.

Province launches catalytic converter ID anti-theft campaign

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Preview

Province launches catalytic converter ID anti-theft campaign

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Monday, Jul. 18, 2022

High-visibility paint and an eight-digit number will serve as a warning to potential catalytic converter thieves the valuable part can be traced, as Manitoba scrap metal dealers must now report the purchase of such devices to police or face a hefty fine.

On Monday, the Progressive Conservative government’s Scrap Metal Act and regulations came into force, alongside the launch of a new campaign to etch vehicle identification onto catalytic converters in Winnipeg and Steinbach.

“There hasn’t been a simple solution found in any jurisdiction, but it is important that in Manitoba we do what we can. We try the efforts that can make a difference in our province and reduce those thefts,” Justice Minister Kelvin Goertzen said during a joint news conference at Winnipeg Police Service headquarters.

The Scrap Metal Act contains a number of new regulations for the province’s recyclers, intended to cut down on the sale and purchase of illegally obtained precious metals — including those contained in catalytic converters, which are integral to controlling harmful emissions in an automotive internal combustion engine.

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Monday, Jul. 18, 2022

ETHAN CAIRNS / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS
High-visibility paint and an etched, eight-digit number warns thieves the catalytic converter can be traced.

Scrap-metal recyclers dubious about province’s anti-theft legislation

Danielle Da Silva 6 minute read Preview

Scrap-metal recyclers dubious about province’s anti-theft legislation

Danielle Da Silva 6 minute read Monday, Jul. 18, 2022

Manitoba scrap-metal recyclers will be forced to collect a tonne of new information from customers as legislation intended to curb rampant metal and catalytic converter theft comes into force.

However, the added paperwork for local businesses and new authority given to police under The Scrap Metal Act will do little to deter thefts that are driving up costs for Manitobans, scrap dealers say.

“People who feel the necessity to commit a crime will continue to commit those crimes for whatever needs they need to fill,” Western Scrap Metals manager Al Linder told the Free Press.

Linder has been at the helm of the South Point Douglas scrap yard for 65 years and said staff are careful to reject any materials they suspect were illegally obtained.

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Monday, Jul. 18, 2022

DANIEL CRUMP / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES
A vehicle that has had its catalytic converter stolen.

New right-wing provincial party to focus on grassroots concerns: Keystone leader

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Preview

New right-wing provincial party to focus on grassroots concerns: Keystone leader

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Friday, Jul. 15, 2022

A new provincial party is promising to put grassroots Manitobans at the centre of government and bring disengaged voters back into the political fold.

Keystone Party of Manitoba leader Kevin Friesen officially launched the right-wing, populist party Friday morning at Vimy Ridge Memorial Park in Winnipeg, with 30-40 supporters in attendance.

“We used to be called ‘friendly Manitoba.’ But our government has literally turned some of us on each other,” Friesen said during a keynote address under the mid-morning sun.

“So you ask how we bring Manitobans back together? Well, we start by letting families make decisions at the family level. We start by giving communities back their right to govern. We start by respecting our forefathers and what they fought for and what they established in the Canadian Bill of Rights (and) the Charter of Rights and Freedoms.”

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Friday, Jul. 15, 2022

MIKAELA MACKENZIE / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS
Party leader Kevin Friesen announces the launch of the Keystone Party at a media event at Vimy Ridge Park in Winnipeg.

Premier denies criticism of police chief akin to meddling

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Preview

Premier denies criticism of police chief akin to meddling

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Thursday, Jul. 14, 2022

Premier Heather Stefanson insisted she didn’t intend to butt in to Winnipeg police operations when she publicly expressed her disappointment with Chief Danny Smyth’s take on the recent spate of violence against innocent bystanders.

“I’m not interfering in the deliberations or the operations of the police service at all,” Stefanson said on Thursday, during her first public appearance since returning from this week’s premiers conference in Victoria.

On Tuesday, the premier posted to social media that she was “very concerned” with comments made by Smyth, who on Friday said a recent streak of violent crime was concerning but not unusual for the city.

Stefanson later told the Free Press she was “really disappointed” with the chief’s remarks and spoke with Winnipeg Police Association president Moe Sabourin to “hear what’s really happening” within the service and offer her unwavering support to officers.

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Thursday, Jul. 14, 2022

MIKAELA MACKENZIE / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS
Premier Heather Stefanson was concerned about comments made by police Chief Danny Smyth.

Premier picks side in Winnipeg police union, chief dispute

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Preview

Premier picks side in Winnipeg police union, chief dispute

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Tuesday, Jul. 12, 2022

Manitoba Premier Heather Stefanson took aim at Winnipeg Police Service Chief Danny Smyth and threw her support behind “front-line officers,” after a recent streak of violent crime was described as nothing new by the city’s top cop.

In an interview late Tuesday afternoon, Stefanson told the Free Press she was “really disappointed” with comments made by the police chief following a series of high-profile incidents, including the stabbing of a Ukrainian refugee at The Forks.

“It sort of seemed to almost normalize these violent activities that are taking place in Winnipeg and I’m very concerned about that,” Stefanson told the Free Press. “Our front-line officers have done such amazing work throughout very, very difficult times and I wanted to send a message: we have their backs.”

During a news conference July 8, the WPS chief suggested such crimes were not unusual in the city. “Nothing that we’re talking about today is new. Nothing. This is a concern to us, but it’s not new to us (police),” Smyth said.

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Tuesday, Jul. 12, 2022

Manitoba Premier Heather Stefanson to front-line WPS officers: “We have their backs.”

Family seeks more info on care home abuse allegations

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Preview

Family seeks more info on care home abuse allegations

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Tuesday, Jul. 12, 2022

Family members of seniors allegedly abused by staff at Oakview Place personal care home want stronger whistleblower protections and are encouraging employees to come forward with information to help vulnerable residents.

“The whistleblowers need to be protected,” said Gail Johnson, whose 91-year-old mother lives at Oakview Place in west Winnipeg. “If it wasn’t for them coming forward, we would never have known what happened — and if someone can’t come forward and tell you something’s going on or something’s wrong, that’s a problem.”

On June 21, the Winnipeg Regional Health Authority revealed two health-care aides had allegedly abused 15 residents. A whistleblower alerted local management with Extendicare — the home’s operator — of the issue in February. However, nothing was done and the health authority was not informed of the allegations until approached directly by another whistleblower June 10.

The WRHA has not specified the type of abuse residents allegedly endured.

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Tuesday, Jul. 12, 2022

RUTH BONNEVILLE / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS

“The whistleblowers need to be protected,” says Gail Johnson, whose 91-year-old mother lives at Oakview Place in west Winnipeg.

Health minister accused of brain freeze for promoting Slurpees

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Preview

Health minister accused of brain freeze for promoting Slurpees

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Monday, Jul. 11, 2022

A syrupy, sweet message from Manitoba’s health minister left a sour taste with some after she encouraged people to head to 7-Eleven for a Slurpee sugar rush courtesy of the convenience store chain.

On Monday, Health Minister Audrey Gordon was criticized for a social media post promoting the frosty, sugar-laden drinks amid higher-than-average obesity rates and as the federal government considers warning labels for sugary and fatty foods.

“Happee 7-Eleven Day! I stopped by my local 7-Eleven on the corner of Elizabeth Rd/Archibald St (Windsor Park) to celebrate and enjoy a Frog Water Watermelon Lime Slurpee,” Gordon posted to Twitter, along with three photos at the store. “Stop by your local 7-Eleven today and enjoy a Slurpee!”

The minister was rapped for her choice to promote the drink over healthier lifestyle choices by social media commentators, opposition MLAs and the Manitoba Nurses Union.

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Monday, Jul. 11, 2022

TWITTER
A tweet from Manitoba Health Minister Audrey Gordon Monday for 7-Eleven Day.

‘We’re trying to keep our heads up’: Whiteshell businesses struggle as campground closures limit traffic

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Preview

‘We’re trying to keep our heads up’: Whiteshell businesses struggle as campground closures limit traffic

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Thursday, Jul. 7, 2022

Business owners in parts of the Whiteshell Provincial Park hard hit by flooding are holding on to hope traffic will rebound, as some provincial campgrounds remain closed to visitors for at least another three weeks.

White Lake Resort co-owner Stefanie Giasson said traffic at the store and restaurant at her north park-area business has dropped 70 per cent compared to last year, due to flooding and the ongoing closure of the province’s White Lake campground.

“We’re trying to keep our heads up and just provide as many services as we can to the surrounding areas,” Giasson said in a phone interview with the Free Press. “If the campground doesn’t open this summer, we’re already at about a $50,000 loss in revenue just off of traffic in the restaurant and the store.

“It’s going to probably be our worst summer in the eight years we’ve been here.”

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Thursday, Jul. 7, 2022

DANIEL CRUMP / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES
Rows of sandbags protect the Otter Falls resort from flood waters in May. On Wednesday, the provincial government pushed the reopening of Otter Falls campground back another three weeks, until at least July 29.

Half-billion dollars rolls out for Transit upgrades

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Preview

Half-billion dollars rolls out for Transit upgrades

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Thursday, Jul. 7, 2022

Despite substantial delays that left millions of federal infrastructure dollars unspent for years, the Progressive Conservative government is being commended for finally getting on board a tri-level agreement to modernize Winnipeg Transit to the tune of $539 million.

As rapid transit buses rolled through Seel Station in Winnipeg’s Fort Garry neighbourhood Thursday morning, Premier Heather Stefanson said the province will spend nearly $170 million to purchase approximately 235 new buses, build a new Transit garage and implement planned changes to its network.

“These new infrastructure projects will help to reduce our carbon footprint while also promoting job growth and opportunities for Manitoba businesses,” Stefanson said at the announcement, flanked by Winnipeg Mayor Brian Bowman and Manitoba Liberal MPs Terry Duguid and Kevin Lamoureux.

The three levels of government will spend a combined $539 million to buy 100 zero-emission buses and requisite infrastructure by 2027; purchase 135 new diesel buses during the transition to a zero-emission fleet; construct a new, LEED certified garage in the North End neighbourhood; conduct further design work to carry out the Winnipeg Transit Master Plan; replace 325 wheelchair securement devices on Transit vehicles; and upgrade radio hardware and equipment on buses.

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Thursday, Jul. 7, 2022

MIKAELA MACKENZIE / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS
“These new infrastructure projects will help to reduce our carbon footprint while also promoting job growth and opportunities for Manitoba businesses,” Premier Heather Stefanson said.

Hospital CEO paid $615K in year she quit

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Preview

Hospital CEO paid $615K in year she quit

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Wednesday, Jul. 6, 2022

A former St. Boniface Hospital chief executive officer — criticized for her regular long-distance commutes from Montreal — earned more than twice her typical salary in 2021 after bowing out of the job 18 months early.

Public compensation disclosure reports show former president Martine Bouchard earned $615,170 in 2021; the year prior, she took home $294,358 in total remuneration.

Bouchard resigned for personal reasons, including to care for a family member, on Oct. 15, 2021, 18 months before her contract was set to end.

“It’s certainly not a good look,” Opposition health critic Uzoma Asagwara said of the six-figure compensation package.

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Wednesday, Jul. 6, 2022

SASHA SEFTER / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES

Former St. Boniface Hospital president Martine Bouchard earned $615,170 in 2021. In 2020, she took home $294,358 in total remuneration.

Manitoba personal care home beds pledge falters

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Preview

Manitoba personal care home beds pledge falters

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Monday, Jul. 4, 2022

Fewer personal care home beds are available to aging Manitobans than when the Progressive Conservative government took office in 2016, putting a campaign pledge to add 1,200 new berths within eight years out of reach.

Access to information records released by the New Democratic Party show there were a total of 9,505 beds in use, or available for use, in Manitoba, as of March 31.

The number of licensed personal care homes in the province dropped by 193 between 2016 and early 2022, despite a promise by the Tories to make additions to meet demand from an aging population.

“It’s not feasible,” said Julie Turenne-Maynard, executive director of the Manitoba Association of Residential and Community Care Homes for the Elderly, said of the government’s promise. “There is an absolute need for more beds right now.”

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Monday, Jul. 4, 2022

MIKE DEAL / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES
Julie Turenne-Maynard said three non-profit personal care home operators represented by MARCHE have submitted proposals to the government to add as many as 400 new beds, but cash constraints have slowed progress.

Hydro VP earned $740K in 2021

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Preview

Hydro VP earned $740K in 2021

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Saturday, Jul. 2, 2022

A former Manitoba Hydro executive has sauntered into retirement with more than $740,000 in hand, capping a career with the Crown corporation as its top earner last year.

Lorne Midford, former vice-president of asset planning and delivery, was paid $741,772 in 2021 — more than double his 2020 salary of $354,254 — according to public compensation disclosure reports published this week.

Midford also earned more than Hydro chief executive officer Jay Grewal, who took home $513,046 last year, an increase of about $1,600 over 2020. Grewal was the corporation’s second-highest earner.

In an email to the Free Press, Manitoba Hydro spokesperson Bruce Owen said Midford retired in late 2021, after 36 years with the Crown corporation.

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Saturday, Jul. 2, 2022

MIKE DEAL / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES
About 230 members of Unifor Local 681 are on strike against Hydro. Their union calls the latest salary disclosure ‘another disrespect’ for the workers.

Grand chief sexually harassed female colleague, probe finds

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Preview

Grand chief sexually harassed female colleague, probe finds

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Thursday, Jun. 30, 2022

Manitoba’s most powerful chief sexually harassed a senior member of his staff, a months-long workplace investigation has concluded.

The embattled Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs is preparing to hold a non-confidence vote on Arlen Dumas, who was suspended from his job as grand chief in March.

A third-party legal firm hired by the AMC to investigate allegations of gender-based violence, including harassment and sexual misconduct, determined Dumas’ behaviour amounted to workplace sexual harassment, the assembly said in a release.

The report was received and reviewed by the assembly’s executive council of chiefs on June 29.

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Thursday, Jun. 30, 2022

MIKAELA MACKENZIE / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES
Police have not laid charges against Arlen Dumas.

New Concordia OR hits snag in effort to cut surgery backlog

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Preview

New Concordia OR hits snag in effort to cut surgery backlog

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Wednesday, Jun. 29, 2022

Complications have delayed plans to open a new orthopedic operating room at Concordia Hospital, as the province looks to send patients who need hip and knee surgery out of province.

Provincial executive director of Manitoba’s diagnostic and surgical recovery task force David Matear said a fifth operating room scheduled to open at Concordia Hospital by the end of the calendar year is now on track for the start of the 2023-24 fiscal year in April.

Matear attributed the setback to the work-up time needed to get the refurbished surgical suite up and running.

“So, if we take that into consideration, the time that it takes to put that in practise, to put everything together, the timeline takes us to the beginning of fiscal year 23-24,” Matear said during the task force’s monthly update at the John Buhler Research Centre on the Health Sciences Centre campus.

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Wednesday, Jun. 29, 2022

Concordia Hospital will be home to a new operating room, the provincial government recently announced.

Coalition pushes for province to preserve pesticide ban

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Preview

Coalition pushes for province to preserve pesticide ban

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Wednesday, Jun. 29, 2022

A coalition that includes the Manitoba College of Family Physicians has told the provincial government to scrap its plan to lift restrictions on cosmetic pesticides.

“The current ban represents sound, science-based public policy, with important health and environmental goals,” states a letter sent Tuesday to Environment Minister Jeff Wharton and Health Minister Audrey Gordon on behalf of the Cosmetic Pesticide Ban Manitoba Coalition.

“Independent, peer-reviewed evidence has identified serious health risks associated with human exposure to chemical pesticides.”

In March, the Tory government introduced Bill 22 (Environment Amendment Act). It would repeal legislation banning the use of a number of pesticides and herbicides for cosmetic purposes.

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Wednesday, Jun. 29, 2022

GRAHAM HUGHES / THE CANADIAN PRESS FILES
The coalition has asked government to withdraw or amend Bill 22, and ensure families and children are not exposed to pesticides.

Seniors take minister to task over request for advocate

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Preview

Seniors take minister to task over request for advocate

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Wednesday, Jun. 29, 2022

A retirees group has scolded the Progressive Conservative government for dismissing suggestions of an independent seniors advocate in a scathing letter to Seniors Minister Scott Johnston.

The Manitoba chapter of the Canadian Association of Retired Persons wrote to Johnston on Monday to decry the government’s refusal to establish an advocate. It also cited a lack of engagement on issues beyond long-term care.

“Seniors issues, if you’re lucky to live long enough, we will all have a slice of this pie,” chapter president Carol-Ann Borody-Siemens told the Free Press. “We are suggesting shifting their approach to be more proactive. Get ahead of this stuff. The baby boomers are coming. There are going to be more, not less.

“It’s too important and there are too many of us that will be affected by it,” she said.

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Wednesday, Jun. 29, 2022

MIKAELA MACKENZIE / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES
The Manitoba chapter of the Canadian Association of Retired Persons wrote to Seniors Minister Scott Johnston to decry the government’s refusal to establish an independent seniors advocate.

Manitoba expands chronic wasting disease monitoring

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Preview

Manitoba expands chronic wasting disease monitoring

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Wednesday, Jun. 29, 2022

The Manitoba government is stepping up surveillance of chronic wasting disease to curb further spread of the contagion among deer, elk and moose.

The province announced Tuesday a new strictly regulated and managed mule deer hunting season in areas along the western and southern borders and increased the range of its mandatory sample submission area.

Hunters who harvest white-tailed deer, mule deer, elk and moose along the Saskatchewan border, south of Flin Flon, and along the Manitoba-U.S. border, including Brandon and areas south of Winnipeg, must provide samples for testing.

Samples will allow for the identification of infected animals to determine spread of the disease within the area, which is considered high risk, the government said. Additional details on new sample drop-off locations will be announced in mid-August. Hunters will be notified if samples test positive.

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Wednesday, Jun. 29, 2022

CP
BRENT STETTLER / UTAH DIVISION OF WILDLIFE RESOURCES FILES
Five cases of chronic wasting disease have been confirmed in mule deer in Manitoba.

Province establishes adult epilepsy surgery program

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Preview

Province establishes adult epilepsy surgery program

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Tuesday, Jun. 28, 2022

THE Manitoba government has committed to funding a long-awaited surgical program for adult epilepsy patients.

On Monday, Health Minister Audrey Gordon said her government will spend $2.5 million annually to establish the adult initiative and to expand pediatric services.

“Investing in a comprehensive adult epilepsy program that can provide monitoring and life-changing surgical intervention for patients will allow Manitobans to get the care they need here at home,” Gordon said.

According to the province, when the expanded epilepsy program at Health Sciences Centre in Winnipeg is operational, roughly 20 adult and 30 pediatric patients will receive surgeries in Manitoba. The program is expected to begin next spring, pending the recruitment of a neurosurgeon.

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Tuesday, Jun. 28, 2022

MIKE DEAL / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS
Health Minister Audrey Gordon announced Monday the government will be making an annual investment of more than $2.5 million in operational funding for the establishment of an adult epilepsy surgery program as well as the expansion of the pediatric program.

Paramedics asked to take on HSC emergency room duties

Danielle Da Silva 6 minute read Preview

Paramedics asked to take on HSC emergency room duties

Danielle Da Silva 6 minute read Monday, Jun. 27, 2022

Paramedics received an urgent call for help from Manitoba’s largest hospital, as staffing levels in its emergency department dropped to desperately low levels over the weekend.

On Sunday, advanced care paramedics from the Winnipeg region were asked to pick up shifts at the Health Sciences Centre adult emergency department for the first time, due to short staffing.

“They’re an excellent resource to be able to help staff and support the emergency work,” HSC chief operating officer Dr. Shawn Young said during an unrelated news conference on the Manitoba Legislative Building grounds Monday morning.

“Working in triage, working in (resuscitation), they have the skill sets and the tools to be able to provide that service exceptionally well.”

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Monday, Jun. 27, 2022

JOE BRYKSA / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES
Health Sciences Centre chief operating officer Dr. Shawn Young said HSC has been partnering with paramedics for “quite some time."

Legal fees take bite out of PC party financial statement

Carol Sanders and Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Preview

Legal fees take bite out of PC party financial statement

Carol Sanders and Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Friday, Jun. 24, 2022

The Progressive Conservative Party of Manitoba’s annual financial statement was released Friday, showing it raised roughly the same amount in 2021 as the previous year — and had a whopper of a legal bill.

The PCs raised $1,423,768 in contributions in 2021, slightly less than the $1,487,151 received in 2020, the documents say.

Most of the money the Tories raised last year ($861,983) came from individuals who donated $250 or more.

The biggest expense was salaries ($483,640), followed by legal and audit fees. The party spent $279,633 on legal fees in 2021, almost 10 times the amount spent in 2020 ($28,224).

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Friday, Jun. 24, 2022

JESSICA LEE / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS
Heather Stefanson gave the single largest donation to the PC party in 2021, maxing out the $5,000 limit.

From Shamattawa to the legislature

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Preview

From Shamattawa to the legislature

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Friday, Jun. 24, 2022

Eric Redhead got emotional as he was sworn in as MLA for Thompson at a ceremony in which family, friends and First Nations leaders from northern Manitoba gathered at the legislature to support the former chief’s transition to provincial politics.

Redhead was sworn in by Patricia Chaychuk, clerk of the Manitoba Legislative Assembly, following a procession that included drumming and singing by the White Horse Singers, and a prayer from Pastor Marty McLean of Encounter Life Ministries.

The 36-year-old held back tears as he promised to work for the people of northern Manitoba and people across the province during a brief address to the crowd, which included family from across Canada and his four children Sage, Sweetgrass, Shimmer and Starlit.

“I’ll put my heart and soul into it. Thank you,” he said.

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Friday, Jun. 24, 2022

MIKE DEAL / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS
Eric Redhead was sworn in as the NDP MLA for Thompson Friday afternoon with Patricia Chaychuk, the Clerk of the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba.

Friesen weighs down current Hydro profit buzz with talk of future woes

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Preview

Friesen weighs down current Hydro profit buzz with talk of future woes

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Thursday, Jun. 23, 2022

The potential for massive financial rebound at Manitoba Hydro has not softened the Tory government’s contempt for the Keeyask generating station and Bipole III transmission line.

Finance Minister Cameron Friesen says not much thought has been given to a ribbon-cutting after the northern hub fully came into service in early June, adding Manitobans have nothing to celebrate about two former megaprojects that went $3.7 billion over budget.

“On one side, opportunity in respect of revenue — undisputed,” Friesen, the minister responsible for Manitoba Hydro, said this week in an interview with the Free Press. “On the other side, (the) downside being, the real and unavoidable impact of amortization schedules. We have to pay for these assets.”

Friesen was responding to a recent Free Press column that estimated a $430-million profit for Hydro in the 2022-23 fiscal year — based on information from the Crown corporation’s latest rate application to the Public Utilities Board — attributed in part to the two New Democratic government-era projects.

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Thursday, Jun. 23, 2022

DANIEL CRUMP / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES
The new bill imposes debt-to-equity targets (80 per cent by 2035 and 70 per cent by 2040) Manitoba Hydro must meet by generating enough revenue through rates it charges and export sales.

Family of slain woman comforted at vigil

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Preview

Family of slain woman comforted at vigil

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Thursday, Jun. 23, 2022

Family and friends offered prayers, songs and tobacco to honour Rebecca Contois, after remains recovered from the Brady Road landfill were confirmed to belong to the young First Nation woman.

Over 40 people attended a vigil at a home in Winnipeg’s Centennial community Wednesday night to show support for Contois’ family, including her grieving mother and sister. They placed long-stem red roses and votive candles around a photo of the 24-year-old.

“What happened to her, there was a sacred law that was broken,” elder Geraldine ‘Gramma’ Shingoose told the vigil. “Hurting and harming our women is not OK. It’s going on too long.”

On Tuesday, Winnipeg police said human remains discovered by investigators at the Brady Road landfill on June 14 belonged to Contois.

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Thursday, Jun. 23, 2022

Victim Rebecca Contois’ sister, mother and family friend Darryl Contois at a vigil at a home in Winnipeg’s Centennial community Wednesday night. (Danielle Da Silva / Winnipeg Free Press)

Vital Statistics hit its ‘low point’ in 2021: deputy minister

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Preview

Vital Statistics hit its ‘low point’ in 2021: deputy minister

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Wednesday, Jun. 22, 2022

MONTHS-long delays that left more than 25,000 Manitobans without essential identity documents were a result of stagnant bureaucracy within the Vital Statistics Agency, a provincial committee heard Monday.

Deputy minister of government services Scott Sinclair said a massive backlog of birth, marriage and death certificate applications had accumulated over years due to an “inability to look at critically how we do work, how we process our applications, (and) how we deliver services to Manitobans.”

“The organization got to a place where the processes were simply no longer efficient, effective, meeting the needs of citizens,” Sinclair told the Manitoba Legislative Assembly’s public accounts committee, which was considering a 2020 report by the auditor general on Vital Statistics.

In April 2021, Vital Statistics had 25,601 applications for certificates — received between August 11, 2020, and March 31, 2021 — waiting to be processed.

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Wednesday, Jun. 22, 2022

MIKAELA MACKENZIE / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES
Manitoba Liberal Party leader Dougald Lamont will appear in court on May 18 to ask that the case be heard.

New leaders take posts at pair of Crown corporations

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Preview

New leaders take posts at pair of Crown corporations

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Tuesday, Jun. 21, 2022

Two of Manitoba’s largest Crown corporations are under new direction, as the Progressive Conservative government prepares to make significant changes to Manitoba Hydro and Manitoba Liquor & Lotteries.

Earlier this month, the province revoked the appointments of Marina James and Randy Williams as chairs of the Hydro and MLL boards, respectively.

In their place, the Tories have installed Edward Kennedy, former chief executive officer for the North West Company, as chairman of Manitoba Hydro, and Bonnie Mitchelson, a former PC MLA and cabinet minister, as chairwoman of MLL.

In an interview, James said her departure from the board was planned, after coming into the role under the “most unusual circumstances” four years ago.

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Tuesday, Jun. 21, 2022

RUTH BONNEVILLE / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES
Edward Kennedy, former chief executive officer for the North West Company, is the new chairman of Manitoba Hydro.

Manitoba tabs $16M for long-term care staffing

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Preview

Manitoba tabs $16M for long-term care staffing

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Friday, Jun. 17, 2022

The Progressive Conservative government will spend more than $16 million to add desperately needed staff to the province’s long-term care sector, appealing to Manitobans to join the pandemic-weary workforce.

Seniors and Long-Term Care Minister Scott Johnston said the new money will go towards recruiting and hiring 350 health-care aides and 72 registered and licensed practical nurses to Manitoba’s 125 licensed personal care homes.

“We’re here to reinforce our government’s commitment to seniors in the province of Manitoba,” Johnston said Friday, during a media event outside Deer Lodge Centre in Winnipeg.

The funding will come from the department’s new $55-million budget, and will increase staffing ratios to 3.8 hours of resident care per day from 3.6, Johnston said. “It is the position of the department and the government that we continue to increase.”

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Friday, Jun. 17, 2022

DAVID LIPNOWSKI / THE CANADIAN PRESS FILES
“We’re here to reinforce our government’s commitment to seniors in the province of Manitoba,” Seniors and Long-Term Care Minister Scott Johnston said Friday.

Province reaffirms commitment to reconciliation over residential schools

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Preview

Province reaffirms commitment to reconciliation over residential schools

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Wednesday, Jun. 15, 2022

PORTAGE LA PRAIRIE — Smoke from burning sage drifted on the strong southern wind and through the canopy of trees rooted firmly in front of the former Portage residential school on Long Plain First Nation.

On Wednesday, the three-storey brick building, converted into a museum that memorializes the experience of residential school survivors, served as the backdrop for a ceremony to transfer $2.5 million from the Manitoba government to seven Indigenous organizations.

Announced last June, the money will fund efforts by the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs, Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak, Southern Chiefs’ Organization, Manitoba Inuit Association, Manitoba Métis Federation and Sioux Valley Dakota Nation to locate and commemorate children who did not return home from residential school.

“Once we find the unmarked graves, we can’t stop there,” Betty Ross, a residential school survivor and member of Pimicikamak Cree Nation, told community members, Indigenous leaders and elected officials at the national historic site.

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Wednesday, Jun. 15, 2022

MIKE DEAL / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS
Premier Heather Stefanson said she is committed to supporting Indigenous-led efforts to find and return the remains of children who died in the residential school system to their community.

Acting Manitoba grand chief faces misconduct allegations

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Preview

Acting Manitoba grand chief faces misconduct allegations

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Tuesday, Jun. 14, 2022

A high-profile leader called in to replace the province’s grand chief, who had been suspended earlier this year amid a sex assault investigation, is facing his own allegation of misconduct, but the longtime chief denies any wrongdoing.

Lawyers for acting Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs Grand Chief Cornell McLean issued a cease-and-desist letter to Lake Manitoba resident Vanessa Maytwayashing on Monday, after she accused McLean of sexual harassment and abusing the power of his office to have her fired as a custodian at the on-reserve school.

“I feel like I was bullied,” Maytwayashing told the Free Press.

Maytwayashing said she has repeatedly asked the band to address mould issues in her Lake Manitoba home for the sake of her 10 children, but to date no repairs have been made.

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Tuesday, Jun. 14, 2022

MIKAELA MACKENZIE / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES
Acting Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs Grand Chief Cornell McLean.

Outlet channels project data still missing: Ottawa

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Preview

Outlet channels project data still missing: Ottawa

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Monday, Jun. 13, 2022

An environmental review of the Lake Manitoba and Lake St. Martin outlet channels megaproject has once again been put on hold, after the provincial government left out essential information in its latest submission to Ottawa.

On June 6, the Impact Assessment Agency of Canada told the province it still needed a number of analyses, maps, figures and documents to proceed with a review of its $600-million channels project connecting Lake Manitoba to Lake St. Martin, and Lake St. Martin to Lake Winnipeg.

Last month, Manitoba submitted a package in response to the agency’s 2020 requests for additional and missing information about environmental impact. However, in a letter to Manitoba Transportation and Infrastructure, the agency noted 21 information requests were still outstanding.

“This is yet another example that the consultation and environmental process has been slow, lacking commitment from the province, and seems to be responsible for contributing to delays,” NDP Leader Wab Kinew said in an interview Friday.

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Monday, Jun. 13, 2022

Opposition leader Wab Kinew attributed the latest setback to a government ‘not committed to details.’ (Mikaela MacKenzie / Winnipeg Free Press files)

Food-delivery drivers demand wage top-up

Danielle Da Silva and Bryce Hunt 3 minute read Preview

Food-delivery drivers demand wage top-up

Danielle Da Silva and Bryce Hunt 3 minute read Friday, Jun. 10, 2022

Couriers fed up with paltry pay amid soaring fuel prices took to the streets Friday to demand better wages from the country’s three major online food delivery services.

“We ask companies to please think of their drivers. Our cars do not run on water,” said Manpreet Gill, a Skip the Dishes driver who joined about 20 of his colleagues for an informal strike next to the McDonald’s on Regent Avenue West.

Organizers said drivers from Skip The Dishes, Uber Eats and DoorDash have refused to accept delivery jobs to protest against wages many argue are unsustainable.

“We don’t want the customers to suffer but this has gone too far and we hope they understand that we will be back once this problem is resolved,” Gill said. “We have mortgages to pay and families to feed.”

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Friday, Jun. 10, 2022

BRYCE HUNT / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS
Left to right: Manpreet Gill, Arjun Khera, Kuldeep Dhillon holding signs on a Regent Avenue sidewalk to strike against food delivery services.

Premier on defensive over Pride parade absence

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Preview

Premier on defensive over Pride parade absence

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Thursday, Jun. 9, 2022

Manitoba Premier Heather Stefanson is no longer welcome at Pride Winnipeg events after the Progressive Conservative leader failed to march in Sunday’s parade. 

The premier’s office lied to organizers and the LGBTTQ+ community when it confirmed on multiple occasions that Stefanson would march alongside parade participants, said Pride Winnipeg president Barry Karlenzig.

After Stefanson delivered remarks at the annual rally on the west lawn of the Manitoba Legislative grounds, the premier did not join the small cohort of Tory caucus members who walked in the parade, Karlenzig said.

“It’s a breach of trust. As a community organization, we’re not going to put up with it,” Karlenzig said in an interview with the Free Press.

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Thursday, Jun. 9, 2022

JOHN WOODS / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES
Premier Heather Stefanson delivers remarks at the rally on the west lawn of the Manitoba Legislative grounds on Sunday. However, the premier did not participate in the parade to The Forks that followed.

Grand chief’s accuser goes public

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Preview

Grand chief’s accuser goes public

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Thursday, Jun. 9, 2022

Four months after accusing the province’s most powerful First Nations chief of sexual assault, Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs acting executive director Shauna Fontaine was forced to shed her anonymity after her employer refused to initiate a trauma-informed inquiry.

On Wednesday, Fontaine published a statement on social media that identified her as the source of the formal complaint against AMC Grand Chief Arlen Dumas.

The 42-year-old mother and member of Sagkeeng First Nation said she gave up her right to privacy to address any confidentiality concerns the AMC might have in launching an independent inquiry into Dumas’s conduct, co-led by the AMC and victim advocates.

“I felt at a loss. I already feel so isolated,” Fontaine said in an interview with the Free Press. “I’m extremely isolated and unsupported by my employer at this time and I want them to accept that invitation for a trauma-informed practice with a healing-centred approach.”

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Thursday, Jun. 9, 2022

SUPPLIED
Shauna Fontaine

Indigenous politicians seek inquiry into suspended grand chief

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Preview

Indigenous politicians seek inquiry into suspended grand chief

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Tuesday, Jun. 7, 2022

A letter demanding the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs allow victim advocates to co-lead an inquiry into the conduct of its suspended grand chief, Arlen Dumas, has been endorsed by three New Democratic politicians.

Member of Parliament Leah Gazan and Manitoba NDP MLAs Nahanni Fontaine and Bernadette Smith, added their names to an open letter published Monday, that urges chiefs to consider the victims of sexual violence and “engage in a process of discovery that is trauma informed and independently managed.”

“We are concerned that the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs is not proceeding with a trauma-informed process that centres on those who have been adversely affected by the grand chief’s behaviour,” the letter states.

“The process we are asking for today is an independent commission of inquiry that is trauma-informed, co-developed and co-led by AMC and victim advocates as agreed upon by both parties.”

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Tuesday, Jun. 7, 2022

MIKAELA MACKENZIE / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES
The AMC's executive council of chiefs suspended Arlen Dumas in March and launched a workplace investigation after a female staff member accused him of sexual harassment and assault.

Staycation promotion sent money outside Manitoba

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Preview

Staycation promotion sent money outside Manitoba

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Thursday, Jun. 2, 2022

A government-funded pandemic-relief program that encouraged Manitobans to spend their travel budget close to home put nearly a quarter million dollars into the coffers of companies outside the province.

Last month, rebate cheques started to land in the mailboxes of Manitobans who took part in the Manitoba Chambers of Commerce Tourism Rebate Incentive Program.

To the surprise of some staycationers, the $100 rebate cheque they received had travelled more than 1,300 kilometres from Colorado.

“When our economy needs help, they should be helping our economy. Why can’t they hire people locally, create employment,” said a Free Press reader who had received her cheque and agreed to an interview if she was not publicly identified.

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Thursday, Jun. 2, 2022

CNS-GREEN-WATER.

Premier’s new right hand man to keep hefty severance

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Preview

Premier’s new right hand man to keep hefty severance

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Wednesday, Jun. 1, 2022

Premier Heather Stefanson said she has no problem hiring a former staffer who got a large severance when he left former premier Brian Pallister’s inner circle a few years ago.

Pallister had been fiercely opposed to staff returning to the public payroll after parting ways and collecting severance, but Stefanson has decided to do just that by hiring back longtime Tory adviser Philip Houde.

Houde was Pallister’s chief of staff from 2016 to 2019 and chief executive officer for the Economic Development Office until April 2021. Last June, he received nearly $85,000 in severance, according to public-sector disclosure.

As a senior officer with the government during the 2020-21 fiscal year, Houde earned $174,305.

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Wednesday, Jun. 1, 2022

JOE BRYKSA / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES
Last June, Philip Houde received nearly $85,000 in severance, according to public-sector disclosure.

Legislature Briefs

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Preview

Legislature Briefs

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Tuesday, May. 31, 2022

Manitoba not following B.C. path on drug crisisManitoba will not be following the lead of British Columbia and decriminalizing small amounts of hard drugs, Justice Minister Kelvin Goertzen says.

On Tuesday, the federal government granted B.C. a three-year exemption under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act to allow adults to possess up to 2.5 grams of opioids, cocaine, methamphetamine or MDMA without facing arrest, charges or seizure.

“Manitoba is not considering that at this point. Obviously, we recognize that there are serious issues when it comes to drugs in Manitoba,” Goertzen said Tuesday.

“We’re focused on ensuring that we’re stopping the flow of those illegal drugs across borders, whether that’s across the international border or the inter-provincial borders, but then also ensuring there’s assistance and support for those who are addicted to drugs.”

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Tuesday, May. 31, 2022

Manitoba not following B.C. path on drug crisisManitoba will not be following the lead of British Columbia and decriminalizing small amounts of hard drugs, Justice Minister Kelvin Goertzen says.

On Tuesday, the federal government granted B.C. a three-year exemption under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act to allow adults to possess up to 2.5 grams of opioids, cocaine, methamphetamine or MDMA without facing arrest, charges or seizure.

“Manitoba is not considering that at this point. Obviously, we recognize that there are serious issues when it comes to drugs in Manitoba,” Goertzen said Tuesday.

“We’re focused on ensuring that we’re stopping the flow of those illegal drugs across borders, whether that’s across the international border or the inter-provincial borders, but then also ensuring there’s assistance and support for those who are addicted to drugs.”

Proposed law gives Manitobans access to sensitive information about partners to protect themselves, children

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Preview

Proposed law gives Manitobans access to sensitive information about partners to protect themselves, children

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Monday, May. 30, 2022

Critical information held by the authorities about a person’s history of violence, abuse or exploitation could be disclosed to their intimate partner under new legislation proposed by the Progressive Conservative government.

Families Minister Rochelle Squires introduced The Disclosure to Protect Against Intimate Partner Violence Act on Monday.

Bill 43 establishes a framework for the disclosure of sensitive information held by police or other public bodies regarding an intimate partner to an applicant in cases where their safety, or the safety of their children, is at risk.

“It is important that Manitoba continue to address gender-based violence. Bill 43 empowers those concerned for their safety or the safety of their children with supports, safety planning and information to take the next steps that they determine are best for their family,” Squires said during a press conference at the Manitoba legislature.

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Monday, May. 30, 2022

JESSICA LEE / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS
Families Minister Rochelle Squires (at podium) described the legislation as the “new generation” of Clare’s Law, a policy or statute used in other jurisdictions to ensure women and other vulnerable people are aware of an intimate partner’s history of violence or abuse.

Liquor Mart union greets expanded private sales with skepticism

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Preview

Liquor Mart union greets expanded private sales with skepticism

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Friday, May. 27, 2022

Revenue from liquor sales could be drained from government coffers if legislation to expand private retail sales becomes law, the union representing Liquor Mart workers warns.

Manitoba Government and General Employees’ Union president Kyle Ross said the province needs to back up its claims Bill 42 would not substantially impact Manitoba Liquor & Lotteries Corp. revenue or lead to job losses at Liquor Marts.

“The figures from yesterday’s announcement just don’t add up. It stretches believability to suggest that if you add 130 additional locations in Winnipeg to purchase alcohol that it won’t affect the bottom line of the 36 Liquor Marts that are already in existence,” Ross said Friday.

“Those profits go somewhere, and the best place for that profit is invested in schools and hospitals.”

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Friday, May. 27, 2022

Revenue from liquor sales could be drained from government coffers if legislation to expand private retail sales becomes law, the union representing Liquor Mart workers warns.

Manitoba Government and General Employees’ Union president Kyle Ross said the province needs to back up its claims Bill 42 would not substantially impact Manitoba Liquor & Lotteries Corp. revenue or lead to job losses at Liquor Marts.

“The figures from yesterday’s announcement just don’t add up. It stretches believability to suggest that if you add 130 additional locations in Winnipeg to purchase alcohol that it won’t affect the bottom line of the 36 Liquor Marts that are already in existence,” Ross said Friday.

“Those profits go somewhere, and the best place for that profit is invested in schools and hospitals.”

NDP candidate discloses old charges

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Preview

NDP candidate discloses old charges

Danielle Da Silva 3 minute read Friday, May. 27, 2022

The New Democratic candidate in the Thompson byelection has disclosed that he was was charged with assault against an intimate partner following an incident more than 15 years ago.

Eric Redhead, the former chief of the Shamattawa First Nation, filed a report with Elections Manitoba.

Redhead said he received an absolute discharge for the 2006 charge against his former partner, who is the mother of his four children.

A judge can choose to grant an absolute discharge instead of convicting a person who is found guilty of a crime.

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Friday, May. 27, 2022

Eric Redhead

Tenants enduring filthy, unsafe conditions in Manitoba Housing complex say repeated complaints to management have been ignored

Danielle Da Silva 7 minute read Preview

Tenants enduring filthy, unsafe conditions in Manitoba Housing complex say repeated complaints to management have been ignored

Danielle Da Silva 7 minute read Thursday, May. 26, 2022

Without hesitation and with the speed of a seasoned marksman, Randall Wolak took aim as a roach scuttled down the elevator door jamb at the Manitoba Housing high-rise where he has lived for nearly a decade.

The 68 year old, who is on a wait list for knee surgery, firmly planted his crutch in the path of the pest that’s taken up residence in the building at 101 Marion St., forcing it to retreat into the crevices of the elevator shaft, startling a neighbour exiting the dingy car to the second floor.

Rampant roach and bedbug infestations are just one of many concerns tenants at the Manitoba Housing complex have reported to management only to see little or no action taken to improve conditions at the primarily 55-plus residence, Wolak told the Free Press during a recent visit to the building.

“It progressively got worse, and worse, and worse,” Wolak said, describing the decline in maintenance, cleanliness and safety at the St. Boniface building over the past six years.

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Thursday, May. 26, 2022

Some tenants at the Manitoba Housing complex at 101 Marion Street have expressed concern for their safety while living in the building. (Jessica Lee / Winnipeg Free Press)

Proposed legislation opens hard-liquor sales to beer vendors, wine stores with licence

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Preview

Proposed legislation opens hard-liquor sales to beer vendors, wine stores with licence

Danielle Da Silva 5 minute read Friday, May. 27, 2022

Beer vendors and private wine stores across Manitoba could soon see their shelves stocked with hard liquor, as the provincial government looks to expand the private retail sales of alcohol.

A new bill before the Manitoba legislature would allow existing beer vendors and specialty wine stores to apply for a licence to sell the full range of alcoholic products offered through Manitoba Liquor & Lotteries Corp.

“We really want to make sure that Manitobans have that convenience in place,” Scott Fielding, minister responsible for MLL, said Thursday. “You have the great service through the Liquor Marts and through the beer vendors and others, but this will just expand Manitobans’ ability to have access.”

Private liquor retailers in rural Manitoba could also apply to sell case lots of beer in their stores. Currently, only 50 rural retailers are permitted to sell cases of beer in communities where there is no hotel beer vendor.

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Friday, May. 27, 2022

RICK BOWMER / ASSOCIATED PRESS FILE PHOTO
According to the province, if the proposed legislation becomes law and all beer vendors and specialty wine stores in Winnipeg apply for the new retail licences, there would be up to 70 new locations selling spirits and up to 62 new locations selling wine.

Province to reveal ‘more modern alcohol-delivery’ retail system in proposed legislation

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Preview

Province to reveal ‘more modern alcohol-delivery’ retail system in proposed legislation

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Wednesday, May. 25, 2022

Manitoba’s Tory government is taking a second shot at expanding retail liquor sales.

Minister Scott Fielding will introduce Bill 42 (The Liquor, Gaming and Cannabis Control Amendment and Manitoba Liquor and Lotteries Corporation Amendment Act) on Thursday afternoon.

Fielding, the minister responsible for Manitoba Liquor and Lotteries, said the newly drafted legislation is a continuation of the Progressive Conservatives’ efforts to modernize liquor laws.

However, the new bill will not go as far as its predecessor, Bill 40, which was met with opposition from the Manitoba Government and General Employees’ Union — which represents Liquor Mart workers — before it was withdrawn by the Tories last October.

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Wednesday, May. 25, 2022

RUTH BONNEVILLE / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES
Minister Scott Fielding, the minister responsible for Manitoba Liquor and Lotteries, said the newly drafted legislation is a continuation of the Progressive Conservatives’ efforts to modernize liquor laws.

Manitoba streamlines liquor licensing

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Preview

Manitoba streamlines liquor licensing

Danielle Da Silva 4 minute read Tuesday, May. 24, 2022

Manitoba is reforming laws that require alcohol to be served with a side of food, entertainment or lodging.

Justice Minister Kelvin Goertzen introduced the Liquor, Gaming and Cannabis Control Amendment Act (Bill 38) on Tuesday, which would eliminate liquor licence categories and allow businesses that serve liquor to operate with fewer regulations.

“This is just reducing the number of licences and making it a bit easier for different businesses to work,” Goertzen said. “Instead of trying to find a licence to fit into the business model, we’re looking at the business model and building licences around it.”

Currently, the Liquor, Gaming and Cannabis Authority has six service licensing categories and 14 sub-categories, including beverage rooms, entertainment facilities, dining rooms and unique hospitality venues.

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Tuesday, May. 24, 2022

CNS Calgary Herald
cns-0718Diet1-Alcoholic drinks can pack a punch of calories. If you're on a diet your best options are wine and beer as they contain the least amount of calories. With story by Maria Kubacki for CanWest Health and Fitness Package. (Photo by Mikael Kjellstrom/Calgary Herald). Calgary-06/23/03-TASTE-Italian cocktails made at Brava Bistro, 723 17th Ave SW, Monday evening. From left to right: Italian Tea, Limoncello (two liqueur glasses) Roman Holiday, Bellini and a glass of Prosecco, the soft Italian sparkling wine. Photo by Mikael Kjellstrom/Calgary Herald * Calgary Herald Merlin Archive *CANWEST NEWS SERVICE