Letters, Feb. 10

Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 10/02/2024 (943 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

In defence of mining

Re: Critical mineral mining needs careful assessment (Think Tank, Feb. 3)

In a recent op-ed, Anne Lindsey raised concerns about potential environmental impacts from mineral extraction in Manitoba, specifically pointing to silica sand projects as examples of potential harm. However, it is essential that we broaden this perspective and do our best to avoid spreading misinformation by acknowledging that Canada has made major contributions to mineral exploration and extraction science.

We can be proud of Canadian innovation, particularly in the critical mineral sector, maintaining some of the best environmental protection measures and governance mechanisms in the world to ensure responsible mineral sector practices across the country.

Modern mineral extraction practices prioritize safety and environmental protection. Advancements in technology, stringent regulations, and sustainable practices contribute to ever improving safety standards. Rigorous environmental impact assessments, conducted by independent qualified experts, identify, and mitigate potential risks.

Through close collaboration with scientists, engineers, and environmental specialists, the mineral extraction sector proves itself committed to best practices that balance environmental protection and economic development, especially Indigenous economic development, while supporting global efforts to invest in green technologies and mitigate climate change.

Ranking among the top five countries in the world for mineral production, Canada’s extraction sector plays a crucial role in the nation’s economy. Investing in the critical mineral sector now, as a part of Canada’s shift to a green economy, offers Manitoba a chance to be a leader in this effort, while providing employment opportunities for countless Manitobans, particularly for those living in Indigenous communities, Northern and remote communities.

Ongoing collaborations between mineral companies and Indigenous groups demonstrate a mutual understanding of the benefits and economic potential.

Acknowledging advancements in exploration and extraction science, adherence to environmental protection measures, and collaborative efforts with Indigenous communities, Manitoba can navigate toward a sustainable and prosperous future. Recognizing these initiatives is vital and avoiding misleading dogma is fundamental as we collectively work towards a greener, more responsible mining

In conclusion, Manitoba’s critical mineral sector is crucial for a green economy, providing economic opportunities for communities who wouldn’t otherwise have them. We have the opportunity and responsibility to support a transition to a zero-emissions future.

MaryAnn Mihychuk, MSc Geo.

President, MPDA

Manitoba Prospectors and Developers Association

Puzzled by MAID delay

Re: Delaying MAID changes is a mistake (Think Tank, Feb. 5); It’s time for MAID for mental health sufferers (Feb. 2); MAID delay a tragedy (Letters, Feb. 5)

Delaying MAID changes is a mistake by Jerry Storie was right on. I’m puzzled that Canadians with mental illness aren’t being consulted. Where are their rights? Who is speaking for them?

Surely the story of Cathy Van Buskirk causes most of us to feel compassion and empathy for this poor woman. Surely she would qualify for dying with dignity. And, surely again, the process is based on each individual case. Not a blanket policy! Qualifiers for sure, but there would be no doubt Ms. Van Buskirk would qualify.

Dying with dignity is a personal choice made by Canadians pertaining to their own body.

My mother was an amazing woman and mother. Sadly, she suffered from dementia. She passed in December of 2021. For myself, my mother passed almost two years earlier. I lost her when I could no longer share “my family news,” ask her for advice, and when she no longer knew any of our names, or who we were. When I remember her, I picture her sitting in a wheelchair, sleeping, with her head resting on her chest.

My mother died without dignity.

As Dr. Hallatt wrote “As psychiatrists we were taught to relieve pain not stand back and prolong suffering.”

Joan Lombaert Cyrenne

Winnipeg

Tax must return to its roots

Just over 15 years ago the City of Winnipeg Accommodation Tax bylaw came into effect. Since then, a five per cent tax has been added to paid stays in Winnipeg. The original intent of the tax was to use those revenues to increase events and tourism. A flywheel-like system was envisioned, where increased visitation would help further support more events and tourists coming to Winnipeg.

The 2024 preliminary budget chips away at that linkage. Increasing the accommodation tax rate to six per cent and using that percentage point for general revenue breaks the funding model and virtuous cycle of current visitors helping attract future ones.

Tourism spin-offs support businesses in multiple industries. Globally, only about 30 per cent of tourism spending is on the actual accommodation, the rest goes to areas such as restaurants, retail, transportation and entertainment, to name a few. There is a reason tourism represents around three per cent of Manitoba’s economy and is critical to our shared future prosperity.

We recognize the city is facing financial challenges, higher interest rates and inflation have also hit every reader of this newspaper. Hotels haven’t been immune, and it comes at a time when we are just emerging from the toughest times in our sector’s history. We were the first in and the last out of the pandemic. Despite limited to no revenues, property taxes and utility bills still had to be paid.

Who pays is always a difficult question when it comes to taxation, and we strongly encourage the city to move back towards the original goal of the accommodation tax.

Michael Juce

President and CEO

Manitoba Hotel Association

Mind where you park

I must say I had a good chuckle when I read in the Free Press that some individuals were whining about a cash grab when they were ticketed and towed off a designated snow route.

The fact that the Free Press and other media send out numerous messages in regard to this, and people either ignore these warnings, or better yet they say they were unaware, is incredible.

I can only wonder what the excuse will be when they ignore the street cleaning signs in the spring and summer months.

Harry Peterson

Winnipeg

Poilievre’s job to criticize

Your editorial cartoon of Feb. 9 shows Poilievre’s policy options, all involving criticizing Justin Trudeau.

Poilievre’s job is leader of the Opposition, not leader of the co-operation. It’s his role to criticize government policies. The criticism of Trudeau is natural given that he has a huge ego and claims credit for any alleged good occurring in our country.

When Stephen Harper was prime minister, what did the Liberals and NDP do ?

They blamed everything on Harper, of course.

The Free Press has a remarkably short memory.

Kurt Clyde

Winnipeg