Looking back and moving forward together

Southdale

As 2025 drew to a close, I reflected with immense gratitude on the year that was. Never a dull moment, as they say. From wildfires to tariff threats, plus some personal health challenges, last year was a challenge. But it also came with great rewards. We made incredible progress together to help make life safer, healthier, and more affordable for all Manitoba families.

A major milestone was passing a bill that modernizes our response to addictions and public safety. This led to Manitoba’s first protective care centre in Winnipeg, operated by Main Street Project and staffed by paramedics and health-care professionals. Now, first responders can bring someone struggling with meth or severe intoxication to a safe place for up to 72 hours – enough time to detox, receive medical care, and connect with housing and treatment support. This compassionate, practical approach will save lives and strengthen our communities.

We also relaunched the successful security rebate program, helping families and businesses protect themselves. Homeowners can access a $300 rebate, and small businesses can receive up to $2,500 for security upgrades. With a 9.2 per cent increase in justice funding and more officers hired, we’re beginning to see crime rates decline.

Health care remains central to our work. Since 2023, over 3,500 new health-care workers have joined the frontlines, six new primary care clinics have opened, and three new personal care homes are under construction. We introduced MediNav.ca, an online tool connecting Manitobans to same-day and next-day appointments. Extended-hours clinics at Grace, Concordia, Victoria, and St. Boniface hospitals now offer care evenings, weekends, and holidays. We’re training more health-care professionals across the province – from Churchill to Altona and many places in between.

We’re improving safety in health care by ending mandatory overtime for nurses, where possible, and legislating staff-to-patient ratios. Digital health cards and a new patient portal are launching soon, too.

I look forward to continuing to meet you at community events – whether it’s a school concert, a pickleball match or a community craft sale. And I’m always happy to support community initiatives by sharing information on my social media so feel free to share with me on Facebook and Instagram.

Finally, my incredible constituency team is always here to help – whether you need information, support, or commissioner of oaths services. Call us at 204-222-9038 or email renee.cable@yourmanitoba.ca

Wishing you a safe, healthy, and happy new year!