NDP block passage of Diabetes Reporting Act

This morning the NDP blocked the passage, at second reading, of Bill 206, the Diabetes Reporting Act. This act, described fully at http://www.manitobaliberals.ca/2008/12/addressing-diabetes-epidemic-in.html
is a vital step forward in addressing the epidemic of diabetes in Manitoba. It will require mandatory reporting of diabetes cases and provide up to date information on the extent of the diabetes epidemic in our province.

Sadly, after a full hour's debate on this bill, Jennifer Howard, the NDP MLA for Fort Rouge used the NDP's strategy to block passage of bills they do not like. Instead of allowing the bill to go to a vote, Jennifer Howard, kept on talking until the time allowed for debate on the bill had expired. Her move has almost certainly blocked passage of this bill in this session.

The NDP move is a very sad and unworthy one. As Tony Dratowany, who watched the debate commented "It's a real letdown for northern Manitoba." Of course this bill will help people all over Manitoba, not just northern Manitoba, although information to date suggests that the incidence of diabetes is highest in northern Manitoba. Establishing the incidence in different parts of the province is important and vital if resources are to be directed to where they are most needed. Knowing the incidence of diabetes on a monthly basis is vital to being able to determine whether interventions are effective in preventing diabetes.