Investing in a better Manitoba

There are many events in Manitoba that make winter fun. Winter carnivals and Festival du Voyageur are a few of the winter events that bring families and neighbors together. Seine River is home to St. Norbert Heritage Days, a winter celebration that showcases the area’s heritage and history, as well as the families who first settled in the area. On Feb. 4, a Heritage Day winter carnival was held at the St. Norbert Community Centre. Games, popcorn and prizes brought smiles, laughs, and shouts of joy from all who participated.

February was also I Love to Read month. I had a great time visiting schools throughout the community, reading to students, and sharing with them the joy and importance of reading. I Love to Read month is something I look forward to every year, and I’m glad I was once again able to participate.

In political news, our provincial government has been actively engaging with Manitobans and asking what is important to them and their communities. Health care, education, and safety were among the top concerns identified.

Our government has announced several investments our health-care system that will support health-care staff, create spaces for more students to train in the medical professions, and which will also support people seeking medical assistance. Investments in senior health will support those who want to stay in their communities longer. Additional funding to assist with in-home services and supports will go to self- and family-managed care; will enhance access to in-home palliative care for people affected by life-limiting illnesses; and will provide low-income seniors struggling with home maintenance financial support so they can remain in their homes.

In addition, our government has implemented several initiatives to support a high-quality, accessible, and inclusive early-learning child-care system. Beginning April 2, Manitoba families will pay a maximum of $10 a day for children ages 12 and under to receive daycare. New, ongoing operating grants will support the creation of over 3,100 affordable child-care spaces by partnering with rural municipalities and First Nations communities to build 23 new child-care centres, creating an additional 1,670 spaces. With these significant initiatives and investments, our government will help Manitoba families save thousands of dollars a year in child-care fees while ensuring their children are still receiving the best care.

In addition, owing to the increased number of violent, weapons-related criminal cases in our justice system, Manitoba Justice will fund 10 new positions for the Manitoba Prosecution Service. These staff positions will offer support in advising police agencies and offer legal advice to help with the increased number of cases while providing assistance with victim and witness management.

If you have any questions, please contact my constituency office at janice.seineriverMLA@mymts.net or 204-794-8079.