Defending your interests in the legislature
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Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 12/10/2022 (231 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.
The fourth session of Manitoba’s 42nd Legislature resumed on Sept. 28, but during the summer break I had the chance to come out to the community and meet some of you in The Maples at your homes and at community events.
Many of you raised concerns with me when we spoke, foremost being health care. People are waiting much longer in emergency rooms to see doctors. Health-care workers are being mandated with overtime, and people are waiting far too long to get necessary surgeries. Other concerns which many of you raised surround affordability — whether it’s the cost of groceries, gas, or the many other rising prices, Manitobans are struggling with these costs.
Thank you to all the people who opened their doors to talk to me. I want you to know that I am listening and will raise your issues in the legislature. Manitobans want to look forward to a brighter future, but under the Progressive Conservative government life is only getting more expensive.
Sept. 29 was the deadline to debate bills that we heard from the community were of concern to many Manitobans. As the opposition, we are allowed to delay consideration of several bills. This gives us an opportunity for more consideration of legislation and so that everyone can have their voices heard. These bills do several things. They set the stage to add costs to Manitoba Public Insurance ratepayers. They also remove the ban on cosmetic application of synthetic chemical pesticides that reduced the risk of exposure for everyone, including our kids and pets. They impact those on employment income assistance and their ability to appeal decisions made about their assistance. Last, the government has introduced Bill 36, The Manitoba Hydro Amendment and Public Utilities Board Amendment Act. This bill will allow Hydro rates to be effectively set at the cabinet table rather than through a neutral review by the Public Utilities Board. Instead, cabinet can set rate increases of up to five per cent. The bill also opens the door to privatization at Manitoba Hydro.
We want to make sure that the concerns of Manitobans are addressed. That’s why we held these bills back. I hope that the government will listen to those voices when they hold committee hearings, and encourage you to participate if you’re able. We will work to hold this government accountable.
Please follow my Facebook page for updates. I can be reached via email at mintu.sandhu@yourmanitoba.ca or phone at 204-417-3486 if you have any concerns.
Mintu Sandhu
The Maples constituency report
Mintu Sandhu is the NDP MLA for The Maples.