The 4th session of the 41st Legislature started on Tuesday with the Province’s Throne Speech.
It was disappointing, to say the least. The Manitoba Government is repeating many of the same promises it has made, but failed to keep for the third, fourth, and even fifth time.
The government has commissioned more than 30 outside reports on how to fix everything from health care to education to the economy – because they don’t seem to have any ideas of their own.
The major commitment of the speech is more cuts – with no actions to actually deal with the most important issues facing our province – the economy, the environment, or the meth epidemic that is gripping our province.
INDEPENDENT INVESTIGATION UNIT MISSING REPORTS
A major issue that came to light was that the Justice Department seems to have lost two annual reports from the province’s police watchdog agency - the Independent Investigation Unit. They were submitted to the department but never made it up to the Minister.
In Question Period, I asked the Justice Minister to explain why two annual reports submitted by the Independent Investigation Unit were ignored by his department.
He offered no explanation. Click here to watch the video.
I have written a letter to the Office of the Ombudsman calling for an investigation into the current government’s handling of the IIUs annual reports.
ANTI-HARASSMENT LEGISLATION
A few weeks ago, Manitoba Liberal MLA Judy Klassen brought forward a bill that would introduce anti-harassment legislation for municipal councillors in Manitoba. The bill was voted down by the PCs, but the PCs have now brought in their own legislation that is very similar to the legislation that we put forward.
I thank Judy for putting it on the government’s radar and we will certainly look very seriously at supporting (Bill 2).
Unfortunately, it still doesn’t cover MLAs!
PALLISTER’S PART-TIME ADDICTIONS SUPPORT
Manitoba’s meth crisis is an issue that was ignored in the government’s Throne Speech, and it’s an issue that needs immediate action now.
Manitoba Liberals believe that we need to get out in front of issues like addiction by investing in prevention.
We are calling for full-time addictions support for all Manitobans.
We recommend using revenue from legal cannabis for:
A province-wide public awareness prevention program for adults and youth. Create drug stabilization units so people can detox in a safe, secure setting.
Provide transitional housing with mental health supports.
Work with the Federal Government and municipalities on longer-term housing so addicts can stay clean and resume independent lives.
Expand harm reduction across Manitoba.
Work with municipalities to fund diversion and employment programs in communities to prevent youth from ever taking meth in the first place.
On Thursday, we marked the 85th anniversary of the Ukrainian Holomodor with survivors and MLAs from all parties.
It was a beautiful and sombre service.
HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE
Please join the Manitoba Liberal Caucus for a holiday celebration at the legislature on Saturday, December 1st from 1:00 - 3:00 pm.
Then, join me on December 9th from 2:00 - 4:00 at the Notre Dame Rec Centre for a Holiday celebration in my constituency of St. Boniface.
There will be light refreshments, activities for kids, and photos with Santa!
Start Now! - BECOMING A CANDIDATE
The Manitoba Liberal Party is planning on opening the candidate nomination process in early 2019 and although the rules for becoming a candidate have not yet been set, the fundamental things that you will need to do to become a successful candidate are.
Join us for our next candidate information session on Sunday November 18th from 3:30 pm to 4:30 pm at 635 Broadway where we will discuss the technical and strategic approaches to becoming a candidate and running a successful campaign.
We aren't waiting to start and neither should you!