LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA
Thursday, June 16, 2011
ROUTINE PROCEEDINGS
Auto Theft–Court Order Breaches
Mr. Kelvin Goertzen (Steinbach): Good afternoon, Mr. Speaker. I wish to present the following petition to the Legislative Assembly.
The background to this petition is as follows:
On December 11th, 2009, in Winnipeg, Zdzislaw Andrzejczak was killed when the car that he was driving collided with a stolen vehicle.
The death of Mr. Andrzejczak, a husband and a father, along with too many other deaths and injuries involving stolen vehicles, was a preventable tragedy.
Many of those accused in fatalities involving stolen vehicles were previously known to police and identified as chronic and high-risk car thieves who had court orders against them.
Chronic car thieves pose a risk to the safety of all Manitobans.
We petition the Legislative Assembly as follows:
To request the Minister of Justice to consider ensuring that all court orders for car thieves are vigorously monitored and enforced.
And to request the Minister of Justice to consider ensuring that all breaches of court orders on car thieves are reported to police and vigorously prosecuted.
Mr. Speaker, this petition is signed by T. Lees, V. Lees, J. Lucas and thousands of other Manitobans.
Mr. Speaker: In accordance with our rule 132(6), when petitions are read they are deemed to be received by the House.
Bipole III–Cost to Manitoba Families
Mr. Blaine Pedersen (Carman): Mr. Speaker, I have a petition. I wish to present the following petition to the Legislative Assembly.
The background to this petition is as follows:
Manitoba Hydro has been directed by the provincial government to construct its next high voltage direct transmission line, Bipole III, down the west side of Manitoba.
This will cost each family of four in Manitoba $11,748 more than an east-side route, which is also shorter and more reliable.
We petition the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba as follows:
To urge the provincial government to build the Bipole III transmission line on the shorter and more reliable east side of Lake Winnipeg in order to save each Manitoba family of four $11,748.
And this petition is signed by G. Dyck, R. Lecoq, J. Warkentin and thousands more Manitobans.
Hon. Theresa Oswald (Minister of Health): I rise today to table the Chief Provincial Public Health Officer's Report on the Health Status of Manitobans, 2010, Priorities for Prevention: Everyone, Every Place, Every Day.
And, Mr. Speaker, with your indulgence, Dr. Kettner and his team is in the gallery today, and I hope I can say on behalf of all members of this House that we thank him and his team for this incredible body of work.
Hon. Andrew Swan (Minister of Justice and Attorney General): I'm pleased to provide the–pleased to table the Annual Report on the administration of The Discriminatory Business Practices Act for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2011.
Flooding and Ice Jams Update
Hon. Steve Ashton (Minister responsible for Emergency Measures): I rise today to provide the House with an update on the flood situation and summarize the extraordinary set of circumstances that we have faced this spring.
From the beginning we knew that this spring's flood would be a challenge, and we started early to work with our municipal counterparts to identify and address vulnerable areas, break ice, shore up dikes and expand our reserve of floodfighting equipment.
Despite some issues related to ice jams in the early stages of the flood north of Winnipeg in the RM of St. Andrews, flooding overall on the Red River was not as significant as the 2009 flood.
That having been said, the extent of flooding we have experienced in western and south-central Manitoba has been like we have never seen before. Water levels on the Assiniboine at Holland were recorded as a one-in-350-year event, and, on top of that, we've had to deal with five significant storm events in the last five weeks which has pushed precipitation levels beyond 300 per cent of what can be considered to be normal.
Lake levels are high throughout the province and will continue to be high throughout the summer and into the fall.
Because of the series of weather events and unprecedented water levels, our flood control infrastructure was pushed beyond its limits, and the Portage Diversion, the Fairford control structure and the outlet on Lake Winnipeg have all seen record flows of water being pushed through.
Mr. Speaker, we have been and will continue to work with affected municipalities and First Nations communities to address their concerns and to assist in providing access to people's homes where it is safe to do so.
This has been a historic flood, and it is certainly not over yet. It has been raining throughout much of western and south-central Manitoba since Sunday, which is causing river levels to rise, and wind and rain are expected for the remainder of the week and into the weekend.
As Minister responsible for the Emergency Measures Organization, I would like to, not just as minister but also on behalf of this Legislature, thank all the volunteers and the municipal and provincial staff who've given up their time or been directly employed in the flood fight. I'd like to give a special thanks to the Armed Forces for being there when we needed them, particularly to shore up the Assiniboine dikes. But, first and foremost, our thoughts are with those who've suffered great losses and with the many Manitobans away from their homes right now, Mr. Speaker.
In closing, I'd like to assure all Manitobans the Province is committed to fighting this flood until it's over and that we will be there to assist municipalities and First Nations and individuals to recover from the devastation and that we will continue to not only rebuild but invest in future flood mitigation. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
* (13:40)
Mr. Stuart Briese (Ste. Rose): And I thank the minister for the latest update on the flooding.
The flooding and excess moisture conditions we have experienced in recent weeks have taken a very heavy toll on many Manitobans. It has disrupted lives and livelihoods, and it is uncertain when conditions will improve.
Hundreds of homes and cottages have been badly damaged or destroyed. Similarly, hundreds of people have been forced from their homes, especially on First Nations communities in this province, and it's uncertain when some of them will be able to return. Others are still trying to protect their properties, and all supports available should be offered to help them achieve that.
Mr. Speaker, this flooding has had a negative impact on the agricultural sector as well. A record could be set in terms of unseeded acres, and livestock producers have been forced to relocate thousands of head of cattle to higher ground, some on more than one occasion, and damage to provincial-municipal infrastructure like roads, bridges, has been considerable.
In weeks ahead it's imperative that several steps are taken. As always, protection of people must be first priority, followed by ongoing efforts to protect property.
Disaster financial assistance and other special compensation programs need to be fair and delivered in a timely manner. Clear commitments have been made by this government with respect to programs, and Manitobans expect them to adhere to them.
We have repeatedly outlined the challenges facing grain and livestock producers. The crop insurance deadlines are coming on June the 20th. Assistance must be examined to help producers weather these challenges, be it programming related to unseeded acres, greenfeed programs, pasture and forage restoration or feed freight assistance. Program announcements are required sooner rather than later. Producers have serious decisions to make.
Finally, strategies are required to address the high water levels on Lake Manitoba and address other challenges with our flood protection system. We encourage the government to maintain strong lines of communication with those affected by flooding.
In closing, on behalf of the PC caucus, we would like to extend our sincere thanks to all those who have and who continue to help Manitobans affected by this year's devastating flooding. Your efforts are appreciated more than they'll ever realize. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Hon. Jon Gerrard (River Heights): Mr. Speaker, I ask leave to speak to the minister's statement.
Mr. Speaker: Does the honourable member have leave? [Agreed]
Mr. Gerrard: Mr. Speaker, first of all, I want to thank all those who have toiled so long and so hard to help in the effort to mitigate, to prevent, to aid in whatever fashion people who are suffering as a result of this year's flood.
More than ever, this year has illustrated the need for much improved water management in Manitoba. We must, in looking ahead, look at everything that can be done to prevent or mitigate disasters like this to make sure that the extent of the problem that we have seen this year, if we get the same conditions again, doesn't have the same disastrous impact.
And I want to say, as the session ends–and we have been making statements on the flood now almost daily for many, many days, but as the session ends, let us not forget those who have been affected by the flood, those who are still being affected and those who will be affected in the coming days and weeks, because this flood is not yet over.
There is much to do. We must remember the people in our province who are continuing to suffer, to have trouble because of this year's flood. And even as we leave this session and go out to all parts of Manitoba, we must continue to be concerned and to do what we can to help and aid them in this important cause. Thank you.
Introduction of Guests
Mr. Speaker: Prior to oral questions, I'd like to draw the attention of honourable members to the Speaker's Gallery where we have with us this afternoon, we have my wife, Pauline, and our daughter Lisa, our granddaughter–and our granddaughter Ashleigh and grandson Josh, and also our son from Iqaluit, Brad, and daughter-in-law Catherine and our little grandson Dylan, and also my co-workers Ellen, JoAnn and Michele.
And also, in the public gallery we have with us today, we have Dr. Joel Kettner, Chief Provincial Public Health Officer, Ciara Shattuck and Debbie Nelson and Andrea Rusk-Sirski, who are the guests of the honourable Minister for Health (Ms. Oswald).
And also in the public gallery we have Sylvia, Ernie and Rose-Marie Todaschuk and Monseigneur Michael Boyachuk, who are the guests of the honourable member for Russell (Mr. Derkach).
And also we have Margie, Jay, Travis and Mark Derkach, who is the wife and sons of, also, the honourable member for Russell.
And also in the public gallery, we have François Catellier, Miguel Catellier, George Guzzardo who are the guests of our page, Mathieu Cattelier.
And also in the public gallery, we have Gilbert Plains Elementary, we have 18 grade 6 students under the direction of Ms. Anne Richards. This school is located in the constituency of the honourable Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Initiatives (Mr. Struthers).
And also in the public gallery, we have from Melita School, we have 16 grade 6 students under the direction of Ms. Leanne Bugg. This school is located in the constituency of the honourable member for Arthur-Virden (Mr. Maguire).
On behalf of all honourable members, I welcome you all here today.
Gate Construction Project Status
Mr. Hugh McFadyen (Leader of the Official Opposition): We have heard from the member for Thompson (Mr. Ashton) today about the very serious flood being confronted by Manitobans from all walks of life, and we are sharing those concerns of all members of the House of the very stressful and difficult circumstances that they are facing.
Mr. Speaker, the work that could and should have been done in advance of these circumstances became an issue yesterday, and I would just note that from the time of the announcement of the Red River Floodway by Duff Roblin to the time that it was opened and completed was five years and six months.
Mr. Speaker, eight years and six months ago, this government announced new gates in the Shellmouth Dam, a $4-million project, a tiny fraction of the size of the Red River Floodway.
I want to ask the Premier why it is that he just simply couldn't seem to get it done more than eight years after the original announcement.
Hon. Greg Selinger (Premier): Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and before I answer the question, I'd just like to take a moment to thank you on behalf of the members of the Legislature for your many years of service as the Speaker here. [Applause]
So, thank you, Mr. Speaker, for that extra bit of time that you've provided.
And as to the member's question, the Shellmouth Dam is a very important project which we have proceeded with. The first–initial years were to look at the functions of the project. Some people thought it would be useful to use it for water storage in times of drought. Other people thought dams should be built in other parts of the Souris River and the Assiniboine River, and some people thought the gates should be improved.
And after the initial round of consultations, people seized on the notion of improving the gates, and up to $6 million was committed to follow through with land acquisition, as well as some of the early engineering work and compensation work with respect to that.
So the project has moved forward in partnership with the federal government, and I will provide further detail after the next question.
* (13:50)
Mr. McFadyen: Mr. Speaker, and it's worth noting that there were many people who opposed the Red River Floodway at the time that it was announced by then‑Premier Roblin. There was much second guessing. In fact, members of both the NDP and the Liberal Party opposed that project at the time, Mr. Speaker. Members of those parties are on the record.
But apart from the interesting academic discussion on where they stood at that time, Mr. Speaker, the reality is there was opposition and there was leadership that got it done within five years and six months.
And we know, Mr. Speaker, that there's lots of discussions and lots of views to consider. I think what Manitobans are wondering is why there's been such a failure of leadership to get the Shellmouth project done eight years and six months after the original announcement.
Mr. Selinger: It is often the case when a major project's done that there is resistance. We found the members opposite voted against the one-in-700-year investments we made in improving the floodway over the last several years and were not particularly supportive, and there's so many other good things that we are doing in Manitoba that members opposite have resisted every step of the way.
But to focus specifically on the Shellmouth Dam, that project is a project of signal importance because of the role it plays in the upper Assiniboine in storing water, and the member will know that there were some changes in the mandates of the various partners, and the Province took it over in 2009 and proceeded to invest an additional millions of dollars in the engineering work to bring this project forward.
This spring, the Shellmouth Dam was drawn down to a record low level, more than the '97 flood, by about an additional 10 feet, which allowed additional storage behind that dam in order to protect the communities downstream, including Brandon.
That project has served us very well, and when we renew it, it will continue to serve us well into the future.
Mr. McFadyen: Mr. Speaker, we know how slow they've been to move on the issue of the Shellmouth Dam gates, but by contrast they moved at record speed when it came to approving a channel from Saskatchewan into the Assiniboine River upstream. They move at record speed when it comes to rolling over in their negotiations with Saskatchewan. They move at record speed to protect Saskatchewan, who moved ahead. They dug a channel just a couple of months ago to put more water into the upper Assiniboine, and they couldn't get it done on the Shellmouth gates to protect the people of Manitoba.
The question is this: The Minister of Water Stewardship (Ms. Melnick) moves at high speed to do things for Saskatchewan. When is her government going to start to move at high speed to do things for Manitoba?
Mr. Selinger: Mr. Speaker, the member opposite never ceases to amaze me for his inability to misconstrue the facts. He's such a stranger to the truth, I'm amazed he doesn't need a passport to have entry to the Legislature.
Mr. Speaker: Order. The honourable member is skating on a little bit of thin ice here. I advise the member to pick his words very carefully.
Mr. Selinger: Thank you, and I will say this, that the first two meetings ever held between the cabinets of Saskatchewan and Manitoba have occurred in the last two years, and it's been–each have been–these have been very productive.
The arrangements made with respect to Fishing Lake had for the first time ever a government in another jurisdiction committing not to flow water into Manitoba when it would harm the Assiniboine Valley. That is a historic achievement–
Some Honourable Members: Oh, oh.
Mr. Speaker: Order. Let's have a little decorum, please.
The honourable First Minister has the floor.
Mr. Selinger: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The arrangement made between the government of Saskatchewan and the government of Manitoba did not allow water to flow into Manitoba when it would have a negative impact on Manitobans and Manitoba producers. That is a historic achievement. It also provided for compensation if any harm was done.
If the member opposite is opposed to that, I can tell you right now that he has missed the boat when it comes to intergovernmental relations.
Bipole III Line Reliability Project Status
Mr. Speaker: The honourable Leader of the Official Opposition, on a new question.
Mr. Hugh McFadyen (Leader of the Official Opposition): I understand why Saskatchewan would like those joint Cabinet meetings. They say, we want to build a channel to drain Fishing Lake, and the government of Manitoba says, go ahead.
At the same time, Mr. Speaker, the government of Manitoba fails to follow through on a commitment made eight and a half years ago to build protective measures for Manitobans. So they're allowing more water into the upper Assiniboine and failing to hold it back at Shellmouth, and they haven't got it done.
Mr. Speaker, speaking of projects where this Premier is dragging his feet and not getting the job done, we also see from internal Hydro documents that Hydro was ready to proceed with a Bipole III reliability project in 2000. Eleven years ago, internal memos show they were ready to go pending government approval. Here we are 11 years later; they haven't even filed an environmental licence.
I want to ask the Premier why, when it comes to the Bipole III project, he's pulling a full Shellmouth Dam failure.
Hon. Greg Selinger (Premier): Mr. Speaker, because of your cautionary note, I won't use the same expression as I did last time, but when it comes to misinformation and misleading information, I must say the member opposite is being extremely creative at this time.
The reality is this, that the arrangement made with the government of Saskatchewan prevented additional water in Manitoba at a time when it would harm Manitobans. That is a historic achievement. It also provided for compensation.
And that relationship with Saskatchewan has also generated the potential future hydro sales into Saskatchewan which makes it more understandable for people when they know that our future markets are not only to the south of us, but to the west of us, and the bipole will be an important part of that.
Mr. Speaker, the member opposite, after the 1997 near-catastrophic failure of the existing two bipoles, instead of doing more to protect the converter stations and to build additional bipoles, spent his time privatizing the telephone system.
It took a change of government for a government to come in and realize we need more reliability and more converter stations, and that is exactly what we will do. We will protect Manitoba–Manitobans with greater reliability and build our hydro for greater exports to keep Manitoba's rates the lowest in North America.
Mr. McFadyen: Mr. Speaker, what happened after the ice storm in 1996 was that Hydro went to work designing a third bipole line down the east side of the province, and in May of 2000 the engineers in charge of planning the project wrote an internal memo, and I'll table that memo today that was just provided to us.
And the memo goes as follows: This memorandum will serve to confirm that line routing for a Bipole III transmission line must be on the east side of Lake Winnipeg to satisfy system security and economic viability requirements. It goes on to describe the readiness of Hydro to proceed with that project in May of 2000. More than 11 years ago, they were ready to go. They said it must go down the east side.
And I want to ask this Premier why it is, 11 years later, he hasn't taken a single step in the direction of enhancing the reliability of Manitoba's power system.
Mr. Selinger: Mr. Speaker, the member knows full well that it was the government that he'd worked with that cancelled Conawapa in the 1990s, and that was a huge miss decade for economic development in Manitoba.
And they also opposed vigorously the Limestone project. They made the same kinds of comments about Limestone that they make now. They said it was lemonstone; it would never be productive; it would never pay itself back. It was built; it paid itself back in 10 years and it has generated $6 billion of revenue.
Mr. Speaker, we have built Wuskwatim. We're on the way to building Keeyask. We will build additional reliability, and the member knows full well that with the recent law just passed in the state of Wisconsin, they will only purchase new, clean hydro. They refuse–they will refuse to purchase hydro generated during the period of time when flooding occurred in the north.
Our decision to put the bipole outside of the way of the UNESCO World Heritage Site guarantees our product will be a premium product, a clean product, a green product to our customers. They value that kind of product, Mr. Speaker.
Mr. McFadyen: Hydro was ready to go in May of 2000 after having done all of the preliminary work to proceed down the east side. Because of his political interference and unwillingness to make decisions, here we are, more than 11 years later, they haven't even filed an environmental licence for that project.
Mr. Speaker, the fact is that if they had proceeded as Hydro had requested in 2000, the line would have been done three years ago, in 2008, and would already be in operation. But here we are, hasn't even started, just like the Shellmouth Dam gates.
This Premier says in the House that Bipole III is a priority. I just want to ask the Premier if he'll admit that the worst fate any project can ever suffer in this province is to be deemed by the NDP to be a priority.
Mr. Selinger: The member opposite, by his own admission, says that there was a serious problem with the existing two bipoles in 1996 and they were in office until 1999. Not one thing was done to correct the problem. They did not make one move to correct the problem.
And not only did they do that the three years they were government, they are now promising to cancel the bipole down the west side after a hundred million dollars has been spent on it.
The greatest risk to Hydro are the members opposite. They would cancel the project. They would tie it up in legal wrangling with all the lawsuits that would go by their threat to move it down the east side and destroy the UNESCO World Heritage Site.
If we really want to build hydro, we will keep this side of the House in government. We will build it. It will be clean. It will be green. It will be a premium product in the marketplace. We won't destroy it and privatize it like the members opposite.
* (14:00)
Bipole III Cost Estimate Update
Mr. Rick Borotsik (Brandon West): Mr. Speaker, he forgot to mention it will be expensive and unreliable as well.
Mr. Speaker, for three long years, the Premier and the Minister responsible for Manitoba Hydro maintained that the cost of Bipole III had not changed. Now, capital costs on every other capital project at Manitoba Hydro had changed in those years, but not Bipole III.
We asked questions. We wanted to know what the capital cost was, but we never got answers, yet, Mr. Speaker, Manitoba Hydro executives knew about the rising cost of Bipole III, according to Manitoba Hydro's own testimony before the Public Utilities Board on March the 23rd of this year.
Mr. Speaker, can the minister confirm that she knew of those increased estimates or will she then admit that she has no foggy idea about what's going on with Bipole III?
Hon. Rosann Wowchuk (Minister charged with the administration of The Manitoba Hydro Act): Mr. Speaker, I can assure the member that we rely on Manitoba Hydro to give us numbers, and Manitoba Hydro is the corporation that provided us the numbers, and then Manitoba Hydro confirmed that the numbers that the members opposite are putting out are absolutely false.
According to the numbers that the members opposite have put out, they will not build a converter, Mr. Speaker. They have taken the converters out of the system and they intend, probably, to privatize some of Manitoba Hydro in order to get those numbers.
Mr. Speaker, Manitoba Hydro has told us that the cost is $13.68, not the amount that the members opposite are doing. The members opposite should apologize for misleading Manitobans the way they are when they talk about the prices and should tell the truth. They intend to privatize Manitoba telephone.
They will not build a converter, Mr. Speaker. They will not build the dam and they will not build the line.
Mr. Borotsik: Well, Mr. Speaker, we know that the Minister of Finance isn't all that comfortable with numbers at the best of times.
Mr. Speaker, Manitoba's top executives have confirmed that they saw cost estimates as high as $4 billion for Bipole III in 2009. Since 2009, this minister has met with the CEO of Manitoba Hydro a minimum of 38 times. She also met with the chairman of Manitoba Hydro a total of 36 times.
Mr. Speaker, do you not think that the minister with the largest capital project in Manitoba Hydro's history would not ask what the actual capital cost was going to be of Bipole III? Would she not ask the CEO or the chairman what those costs were?
Ms. Wowchuk: Mr. Speaker, indeed we have asked about what the cost difference between Bipole III would be on the east and the west side, and Manitoba Hydro has confirmed that the numbers that the members opposite are putting out are completely false. They are misleading, and we know when we look at their numbers they have–their numbers mean that there will be no converters built. It means that they are misleading on the amount of line losses, and in actual fact the cost to a Manitoban family is $13.68, not the misleading number that the members opposite are putting in.
Mr. Speaker, we know that the members opposite want to discredit Manitoba Hydro and then treat it the way they did the telephone system and privatize it.
Mr. Borotsik: Well, Mr. Speaker, this is not about discrediting Manitoba Hydro. They had the real number. It's over $4 billion. They knew that number in 2009. She met with the CEO and the chairman over 74 times, and not once are we led to believe she asked either one of those two gentlemen what the increased capital cost was going to be for Bipole III.
Mr. Speaker, her $13 is completely a fabrication. The $11,748 is what it's going to cost every Manitoban–every family in this province for her foolishness.
Why did she not ask those gentlemen what the capital cost was going to be and how she could save $11,748 per family?
Ms. Wowchuk: Well, Mr. Speaker, the members opposite are out dropping off pamphlets and asking the people of Manitoba what they would do with $11,000. I can tell you how the members opposite will get to this number. The members opposite would be cancelling a lot of things. The members opposite would not be building converters. The members opposite would be discrediting Manitoba Hydro to the point where they would be able to privatize it like the telephone system.
And, Mr. Speaker, I will take the word of the CEO of Manitoba Hydro who, at committee, said–at committee, the CEO, Mr. Bob Brennan, said, in his calculations, taking into consideration the length of the east- and the west-side line, that the cost per year would be $13.68.
Members opposite, Mr. Speaker, are putting false information–they're misleading Manitobans, and they want to privatize Manitoba Hydro. We know what their agenda is.
Bipole III Export Sale Viability (Saskatchewan)
Mr. Leonard Derkach (Russell): Mr. Speaker, before I ask my question, I want to correct the Premier's statement. I flew above the Fishing Lake channel. The Fishing Lake channel has been putting water into the Whitesand River and into the Assiniboine River all spring. I have documented evidence of that. I can share it with the Premier.
The Premier as well as the Minister responsible for Manitoba Hydro have stated, numbers of times, their desire to use Bipole III to export power to Saskatchewan.
Can the Minister responsible for Hydro outline the costs of the converter station required to bring power to Saskatchewan and the revenue Manitoba Hydro has received from exports to Saskatchewan?
Hon. Greg Selinger (Premier): I want to thank the member from Russell for raising again the Fishing Lake issue. Again, I repeat, this was a historic relationship. The water was already flowing. When it hits a certain level where it causes harm to Manitoba, they have to slow it down, and require them to protect Manitoba interests or pay compensation. That has never been achieved before with another jurisdiction.
And, again, Mr. Speaker, the relationship with Saskatchewan provides opportunities for the future. The first initiative that's being looked at is upgrading existing AC transmission to Saskatchewan for hydro‑electricity. Saskatchewan has 52 per cent of its power provided by coal. The federal government has said the coal plants will have to be phased out when they reach the end of their useful life.
Saskatchewan will be looking for new sources of power. We will be there to help them do that. Our power can be their power, and we can grow our economies together.
Mr. Derkach: In a letter to the Brandon Sun, the Minister responsible for Manitoba Hydro said, and I quote: We can export power to Saskatchewan from Bipole III. A major power sale to Saskatchewan can be facilitated by having Bipole III on the west side of Manitoba and by building an additional converter station along the line.
Mr. Speaker, since the Premier didn't answer the question, I will. Power sales to Saskatchewan peaked in 2008 at $6 million. A converter station costs as much as $1.5 billion. How can the minister justify a longer, more expensive, less reliable and less environmentally friendly line and a $1.5-billion converter for $6 million of revenue?
* (14:10)
Mr. Selinger: Mr. Speaker, the member must be taking lessons in questions from the Leader of the Opposition (Mr. McFadyen), because that is a remarkable misconstruction of the facts.
Mr. Speaker, the existing level of power sales is not the future level of power sales. I've made it very clear. The first initiative is to look at upgrading the existing infrastructure. In the long term, Saskatchewan will be phasing out coal power. In the long term, Saskatchewan will be a growing economy, as is the economy in Manitoba. There will be future opportunities, back to the days of the western power grid, to expand our capacity of transmission between the two provinces.
Mr. Speaker, there's only one political party saying they will cancel converter stations which translate power from direct current into usable current for Manitoba homes and businesses. The members opposite, through the Leader of the Opposition, have said they will never build those converter stations. That will put 75 per cent of our power at risk which goes through one converter station, Dorsey. It's reckless. It's irresponsible.
We will build power. We will build converter stations. We will build transmission lines. They will mothball it or privatize it.
Mr. Derkach: Well, Mr. Speaker, as the Premier twists and turns with the facts on this issue, there's a very simple solution to the conundrum that this minister and the Premier find themselves in.
They could simply reverse the decision to build the line to the west and build it on a shorter, cheaper, more reliable and more environmentally friendly east side.
Will the minister admit today that she was wrong about using Saskatchewan as a means to justify her foolish and bungled decision and that she is wrong about the route her government has taken for the Bipole III line?
Mr. Selinger: Mr. Speaker, I thought there was only one member of the Legislature that refused to build converter stations to add greater reliability for both domestic supply and foreign supply of our product, and now it appears there are at least two that are saying they're going to cancel the converter stations. They're saying they're going to reverse the decision to build the bipole, tie us up in years of litigation, tangle up Manitoba Hydro in legal knots.
Mr. Speaker, Danny Williams, the government of Newfoundland, tried to put a hydro line through the Gros Morne UNESCO World Heritage Site. They were stopped in their tracks. They built it around there. The government of Alberta tried to put hydro lines through Banff National Park, another world-class asset. They were stopped dead in their tracks. The government of British Columbia tried to put hydro lines through pristine forest out there. The courts stopped them.
Only the members opposite want to make the mistakes made everywhere else in North America and force it down through a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It'll tie up Hydro in knots. It'll reduce our export sales. It'll drive up rates, and it'll set up Hydro for privatization which is exactly what they did with the telephone system.
Bipole III Landowner Concerns
Mr. Kelvin Goertzen (Steinbach): Mr. Speaker, over the last couple of days, we've heard some of our retiring members talk about how important it is to represent your constituents. I hope that all members are listening but in particular the member for La Verendrye (Mr. Lemieux), because his constituents have clearly said they don't want the Bipole III line going through their farmland, through their pasture land.
They have told them that clearly, not because it's just their land, but because it's too long–
Some Honourable Members: Oh, oh.
Mr. Speaker: Order. Let's have a little co-operation here. There's people who came down to hear the questions and the answers. Order. Let's have a little decorum here. I'm asking the co-operation of all honourable members.
The honourable member for Steinbach has the floor.
Mr. Goertzen: Mr. Speaker, not just because it's their land but because they know that the west side is too long, too unreliable and too expensive.
I want to ask this member for La Verendrye: Will he today stand up for his constituents, defend them, or is he just going to defend the unelected, tired Premier who sits in that chair today, Mr. Speaker?
Hon. Greg Selinger (Premier): It's always a pleasure to see the member from Steinbach back up on his feet asking a question in the Legislature. He now thinks he represents the citizens of La Verendrye. I can tell you what, Mr. Speaker, the member from La Verendrye stands up for his constituents every single day, including farmers–
Some Honourable Members: Oh, oh.
Mr. Speaker: Order. Let's have some decorum. It's time for questions and answers. It's question period time. Let's have a little decorum here.
The honourable First Minister has the floor.
Mr. Selinger: The member for La Verendrye fully supports the Canadian Wheat Board because his farmers and producers support the Wheat Board. The member from Steinbach is ignoring the wishes of his own producers in his own area, as is every member of the caucus over there.
There's only one political party that represents farmers when it comes to the Wheat Board, and that's on this side of the House, not on that side of the House, Mr. Speaker.
Mr. Goertzen: We couldn't pry the member for La Verendrye out of his seat, Mr. Speaker, but we've been hearing the same concerns from the constituents in Southdale and in Kirkfield Park, in Seine River and in St. James. They want to know why their MLAs are willing to spend $11,748 of these families' income.
These MLAs, they're going to go door knocking and asking for support during the election, but they're going to have zero credibility unless any of them stand up today and say they'll stand up for those constituents and not this unelected, tired Premier.
Will they stand up for their constituents today or are they just going to stand behind this Premier and pay the consequences on October 4th?
Mr. Selinger: Mr. Speaker, what the member lacks in precision and accuracy, he always makes up for in volume. There's never any doubt about that in the House.
And, Mr. Speaker, the numbers that the members opposite have put forward have been completely disreputed in this House. In the public they've been completely discredited. They want to scare Manitobans with large numbers. Manitobans are scared. They're scared that they're going to see Manitoba Hydro be privatized by the members opposite. They want to see Manitoba Hydro be built so that we can keep the lowest rates in North America. They want to see the UNESCO World Heritage Site protected for future generations.
We will do that, Mr. Speaker; the members opposite won't. They're reckless, they're irresponsible and they're noisy.
Mr. Goertzen: You know, sometimes you've got to be noisy if you want to represent your constituents. We can't get any of these NDP MLAs to stand up. We've heard their concerns in St. Vital. We've heard their concerns in Riel, in Assiniboia, but those MLAs refuse to stand up for the very people who elected them.
Mr. Speaker, there's good news for Manitobans. The good news is there'll be Conservative candidates door knocking in those ridings. They'll be in Southdale and Kirkfield Park, in St. James and Seine River. They'll be in St. Vital. They'll be in La Verendrye. They'll be in Riel and Dawson Trail, Assiniboia, across the province.
Those Conservative candidates will stand up for their constituents, and the only question you're going to have to answer on October 5th is why didn't you stand up for your constituents when you still had the chance?
Mr. Selinger: Mr. Speaker, I agree with the member of Steinbach on this one. If he was only sometimes noisy, that would be all right, but he's always noisy when it comes to comments in the House. And, you know, all that volubility and all that noise does not obscure the fact that he's just wrong on the facts. He's wrong on the facts. He puts misinformation in front of the House, and he does it with great regularity.
The reality is this, Mr. Speaker. We want to build the economy of Manitoba. It's going to be a $56-billion economy. If the existing transmission bipoles go down in Manitoba, it would only take one week for the full cost of building the converter stations and the bipoles to be lost. The members opposite want to roll the dice with the future of our clean, green reliable energy in Manitoba. One week of their recklessness would destroy the Manitoba economy.
We'll build the economy. We'll build Manitoba Hydro. We'll keep it clean. We'll keep it green, and we'll keep the lowest rates in North America.
* (14:20)
Government Record
Mr. Hugh McFadyen (Leader of the Official Opposition): Well, Mr. Speaker, it's been a good back and forth, and I, for one, if I had to choose between the noisy and energetic member for Steinbach (Mr. Goertzen) or the tired and desperate member for St. Boniface (Mr. Selinger), I'm with the noisy and energetic member for Steinbach 10 days out of 10.
Some Honourable Members: Oh, oh.
Mr. Speaker: Order. The honourable Leader of the Official Opposition has the floor.
Mr. McFadyen: Mr. Speaker, as we wrap up this session and we look at the record of failure and mismanagement of this government–that Winnipeg is the violent crime capital of Canada, that wasteful spending is out of control, debt is at record levels, Manitoba families are going to get stuck paying an extra $11,748 on their hydro bills, we see the mismanagement of the flood–as we wrap up today, will the Premier acknowledge what's become clear to Manitobans from the north, south, east and west, and that is that this NDP government and NDP Premier are tired and desperate and their failures are hurting the people of Manitoba.
Hon. Greg Selinger (Premier): Mr. Speaker, you know, it all comes down to how you want to define the concept of success and failure.
I will take 3,000 more nurses. I will take 3,000 more nurses in Manitoba. They laid off a thousand nurses. They laid off a thousand nurses and fired them in the 1990s. We've hired back–for every nurse fired, we've hired and employed three new nurses in Manitoba. We have an additional 403 doctors in Manitoba now, and we are training a record number of doctors. We've gone from 70 doctors in medical school on an annual basis to 110 doctors in school on an annual basis, and we are retaining them like we've never seen before.
We're growing the population of Manitoba in record amounts, the highest population growth in 40 years this year in Manitoba. The Canadian economy–the Manitoba economy is growing above the Canadian average, and the unemployment rate has gone to one of the lowest in the country, from at least three percentage points down from when the members were in office.
When you have a growing population, a booming economy, you can afford things like NHL hockey, and we brought that back to Manitoba as well.
Mr. McFadyen: Mr. Speaker, I am disappointed it took this long for them to redline the desperation meter as the Premier of Manitoba just did. Now he gets up and he says he wants to redefine failure.
You know, it's the same thing he did with balanced budgets. He said, I'm going to run deficits but I'm going to redefine it so that we can call them surpluses, and now what he's doing is, I'm going to redefine failure and call it success–typical NDP.
So put out a news release, and we're looking forward to this: violent crime capital of Canada, debt at record levels, failure on Shellmouth, failure on Crocus, failure on getting the bipole line done, failure to manage the flood.
We're looking forward, Mr. Speaker, to see how this Premier is going to take all of those failures and redefine them as success. Will he please give us a bit of a preview today on how he plans to do that?
Mr. Selinger: I thank the member for the opportunity to put on the record that when they were in office, they spent 13 cents on the dollar on the debt. We're spending six cents on the dollar, Mr. Speaker.
And you know what we are doing with those resources? More personal care homes in Manitoba. More hospitals in Manitoba. More public schools in Manitoba. More highways in Manitoba. And you know what, more water treatment plants in Manitoba, something the members opposite refuse to finance and support every single day of the week.
Manitoba has more citizens. It has more prosperity. It has a stronger economy. We'll put our record of economic management up against their record of economic mismanagement every single day of the week.
Mr. McFadyen: Well, Mr. Speaker, he's so desperately attempting to deflect from his 11-and-a-half-year record of failure that he's doing what he has always done. This is a Premier and a government who, every chance they get, they–for their failures they blame previous governments. They blame the federal government. They blame international activists for their failure to get the job done on bipole. They even blame east-side First Nations for their inability to move on bipole. In fact, in committee the other day, they were blaming Ed Schreyer for the way he used to build dams, and in the House yesterday, they were blaming Duff Roblin for the way that he built his flood protection measures.
With his track record of failure, will he today acknowledge that the failures under his government in all of these areas are not the fault of the federal government, they're not the fault of international activists, they're not the fault of First Nations, they're not the fault of previous governments, they're not the fault of Ed Schreyer or Duff Roblin, that the single biggest impediment to getting things done in this province is this tired and weak NDP government.
Mr. Selinger: You know, Mr. Speaker, when you look at the number of people graduating from high school, 70 per cent when they were in office, 83 per cent when we're in office.
When you take a look at the number of people that have enrolled in post-secondary education, it's up by over 20 per cent since we've come back into office. It was declining when they were in office.
When you take a look at the number of people employed in Manitoba, a record number of people are working in Manitoba, never before seen in the history of the province, well over 600,000 people working in Manitoba, Mr. Speaker.
And much more activity to come, Mr. Speaker, as we rebuild the north with Manitoba Hydro, as we rebuild the downtown with new assets, as we build housing for people, as we build roads for people, as we build schools for people, and doing it in a fiscally responsible way.
Through the great recession of this century, Manitoba's economy faired better than any other economy in Canada, Mr. Speaker. It's due to the hard work of Manitobans, it's due to the hard work of our entrepreneurs and it's due to the support of the provincial government, that we have thrived through these difficult times.
And we will keep doing that, Mr. Speaker, every single day, every week, every month and every year that we have the opportunity to do that.
Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Some Honourable Members: Oh, oh.
Mr. Speaker: The honourable member for River Heights has the floor. Order. The honourable member for River Heights has the floor.
Impact on Farmers
Hon. Jon Gerrard (River Heights): Mr. Speaker, as the session ends, I want to check in and see what the First Minister's shame level is for ignoring calls from farmers for the past 12 years for a water management system that works.
When I was living in St. François Xavier, I developed great friendships with farmers in the area and, indeed, in many parts of the province, and they continue to be perplexed as to why Broadway politics in Winnipeg dictate farm policies in rural Manitoba.
A water management system that works would have mitigated quite a lot of the damage endured by farmers this year, and yet the NDP chose not to implement one.
Mr. Speaker, does the First Minister feel shame that the NDP did not prevent or mitigate an expected $1 billion in lost revenue to farmers this year?
Hon. Greg Selinger (Premier): Mr. Speaker, we spent a billion dollars in improving flood protection in Manitoba over the last decade, and the member from River Heights, as well as all the members opposite, voted against every single one of those investments.
Mr. Speaker, we lifted homes up to '99–1997 levels plus two feet. We took the floodway and took it from a one‑in-99-year facility to a one-in-700-year facility. We invested on the Assiniboine dikes in a timely fashion this spring, which has made a huge difference. We invested in dikes in Brandon this spring. We have brought in additional equipment to deal with icebreaking north of Winnipeg, with additional Amphibexes and new technology.
Every single year in Manitoba, we have taken measures to deal with flooding, to deal with water management, both quantity of water and quality of water. There has been record-breaking legislation, including in this session, to ensure that the quality of water does not destroy our lakes and streams in this province.
Mr. Speaker, those kinds of things can be controversial sometimes, but they will make all the difference in the future for the quality of water we have in Manitoba and the quality of life we have in this province.
* (14:30)
Mr. Gerrard: Mr. Speaker, it was good to protect Winnipeg but the Premier forgot to protect farmers.
The NDP have been ignoring the struggle of the family farm for 12 years. For the past 12 years, farmers have faced chronic flooding and the NDP have done very little, and, now, faced with a potential $1-billion loss in revenue, farmers are faced with one of the worst crises in a generation and the NDP have just sat and watched.
Mr. Speaker, if the Premier had an ounce of good in him, he would have done the right thing and he would do the right thing now and apologize to farmers for failing agricultural families in rural Manitoba.
Mr. Selinger: Subject to the realities of the weather in this province which we have seen–and, by the way, it's similar weather in Saskatchewan; I hope he's not going to blame me for the weather in Saskatchewan as well–we have put in place excess moisture insurance for farmers. We made that a permanent program. My colleague to the right of me, the member for Swan River (Ms. Wowchuk), was the person that initiated that as the Minister of Agriculture. That program will be here until the members opposite decide they don't want it. We will always support that program.
We've put in place AgriRecovery programs. We've flowed over $26 million to the Interlake alone on that, and we will do additional measures with the federal government as soon as possible to bring those measures forward.
Mr. Speaker, we have done things to help the rural economy diversify, including enormous investments in drainage throughout rural Manitoba. The reality is a one-in-350-year event requires us to make further investments in the future.
Just three weeks ago, we committed to further capital investments in drainage and protection for Manitobans up and down Lake Manitoba, through the Assiniboine Valley. We will take this crisis and use it as an opportunity to make sure we have the best flood protection in North America, and we will act on that, Mr. Speaker.
Mr. Gerrard: The Premier's drain-everything water management policy has dramatically increased peak runoff levels and caused irreparable damage to many farmers and their fields.
While family farmers are stressed beyond belief trying to figure out how to put food on the table, the NDP are spending taxpayers' dollars to buy votes they don't deserve in suburban constituencies. Meanwhile, too many fields are flooded out, the ground is rotting and the NDP doesn't care.
For 12 years, they've had a chance to prevent or substantially mitigate flood disasters. They've chosen not to, Mr. Speaker. I ask: What is the degree of shame the Premier feels for forgetting and failing the family farmers for 12 years?
Mr. Selinger: Mr. Speaker, the member asks an important question: What have we done to support producers. Not only have we helped them with drainage projects, but we have made a major commitment to restoring wetlands in Manitoba, which I believe the member opposite supports. He should at least acknowledge that there are going to be and have been major investments in wetlands restoration.
Just less than a week ago, Mr. Speaker, we added to the Delta Marsh. We increased our purchase of hectares to expand the Delta Marsh. We put in place in January–and I believe the member was possibly present at the Institute for Sustainable Development when we announced a wetlands project for the southern basin of not only Lake Winnipeg but Lake Manitoba.
We do think that there could be better storage capacity in Manitoba using the natural ecosystems, which is why we're protecting the east side of Manitoba, as well, in terms of peat and boreal forest and clean oxygen and clean water.
If the members opposite, including the member from River Heights, are serious about this, I invite them to join with us in protecting the UNESCO World Heritage Site as well as the marshes, as well as the wetlands, as well as our investments in future infrastructure.
Mr. Speaker: Time for oral questions has expired.
Introduction of Guests
Mr. Speaker: There's some guests in the gallery that I forgot to introduce.
Susan Morgan and representatives from Equal Opportunities West, I welcome you here on behalf of all honourable members.
Mr. Speaker: I wonder if I could ask the patience and indulgence of honourable members so I can make a brief statement to the House because I don't know when I'll get the opportunity, so I'd like to take advantage of it now. So, if you don't mind, is it okay? [Agreed]
Thank you very much. As you know, this should be my last sitting in the House unless something occurs, but the way the House is functioning today, I'm expecting a smooth day and I think it will be my last day and I have mixed feelings about it being my last day in the Chair.
And, first of all, I want to thank my family, because on September 11th, it will be 21 years that I've been a sitting member. And I've been fortunate by constituents sending me here five times. And I want to thank my wife, Pauline, and our family for all the support they've given me over the years, because, as you know, there's a lot of late evenings and also there's a lot of travel. And when we spent the first nine years of my political career, we were in–I was in opposition. And I was very fortunate that I was given the opportunity for my first term to be Deputy House Leader and the whip for those nine years.
And so it took a lot of time and–but it was also–gave me an opportunity to do a lot of learning. And I appreciated those times in opposition. I know you–a lot of times you won't hear that from members, but I did, because it sort of gave me a chance to learn to crawl, walk and then run, instead of just being thrown right into the mix. And I did appreciate those times and I took time to learn from them.
And I've been very, very fortunate that I have worked with wonderful people and I want to thank my co-workers. I want to start off with Ellen Douglas. She's up in the Speaker's Gallery. She's been my assistant since I've been elected Speaker. And I thank you very much for all the things that you do, and without you, I know it would be impossible to do–fulfill my role as an elected member and also my role as the Speaker, because it's pretty hard to juggle the two. And, Ellen, thank you very much for making it possible.
And I want to thank Michele LaPointe from–who's the admin officer in the Speaker's office, as a lot of you know her and met her. And thank you for all that you do and the tremendous amount of help that you've given, not only to me but to a lot of the members that come to see you. I have heard nothing but positive praise thrown your way from members that have had the opportunity to deal with you. And it makes me very proud when I hear members say that it's really nice to go to the Speaker's office, it's such a nice, friendly place. So thank you very much for that and for all that you do.
And JoAnn McKerlie-Korol–I also see her here–she's the director of the Teachers' Institute. It's a new program that we started in Manitoba, and it's been really well received. And we've–JoAnn has covered many schools and a lot of teachers have come here. And I've had very little input into it; it's all been creativity of JoAnn to use her artistic skills and to create the programs that she has put together. And JoAnn, thank you very much for what you do for the students of Manitoba and how you represent and promote the dignity of the Legislative Assembly. Thank you very much for that.
And I'd also like to take this opportunity–as you all know, we're all elected members; you all know without our constituency assistants, not too much get done. And a lot of times, because we're tied up–right now, we're all tied up here in this Chamber, but our constituency assistants are out there doing something on our behalf, either dealing with a constituent or answering the phones. And we–I know I can speak for all of us: we've all been very fortunate in the calibre and the friendliness and the type of individuals that we've all had for assistants. Because I know I've met some of your constituency assistants and I was treated respectfully, with dignity, and I think we're very fortunate, the calibre of assistants we do get to assist us.
* (14:40)
So I'd like to thank Lydia Sicotte, who is in my office on Main Street. And I'd also like to thank Debi Spence, who was my former assistant for 17 years, because that's a long time together. And so I want to make sure that I put that on record, because she has provided myself and our constituents a lot of assistance.
And I want to also extend my thanks and appreciation to the Clerk's office. As you know, as a Speaker, the advice I get comes from the Clerk's office and the table officers, and I've said from day one, any Speaker, whether you're new or a veteran, would be a fool not to follow their advice, because they're experts in their area and they are–they do their job very, very well and they are so professional.
And I want to start off, if you would please indulge me, I want to start off thanking our Clerk, Patricia Chaychuk, and Deputy Clerk, Rick Yarish. And also I want to show my appreciation, and, I'm sure, all of your appreciation, to our former Deputy Clerk Bev Bosiak, who was here for many, many years, and Monique Grenier and Claude Michaud and Greg Recksiedler and their office staff, who has offered us assistance and, you know, when we're doing travel or if we have questions, they're so eager to help us. And I'd like to acknowledge Pat, Arlene and Becki.
And also, with the Legislative Assembly, it's not run by just the Speaker. The Speaker lends support to the operations of the Assembly, but there are so many people that actually do the work and do a lot of the work behind the scenes, and a lot of you never get to meet them, but if it wasn't for them, the Assembly would not function as smooth as it does.
And I would just like to thank Fred Bryans and Susan Scott and all the staff from our financial offices and also Members' Allowances staff, our tour guides, our Hansard staff, our recorders, and the Sergeant-at-Arms and the former Sergeant-at-Arms that I had the privilege of working with, and all the gallery attendants that we have had the opportunity of associating ourself and working together with.
And we cannot forget the experience these individuals get, but also the assistance and the contributions and, I really believe, the encouragement that we get from them for our own youth and our own children because of the excellent work they do, but also the excellent example they set as youth, and that's our pages. You know, I think our–I think we are very, very fortunate. We are very fortunate in our Chambers throughout the years. If I did make it to November 18th, it would be 12 years as a Speaker. That's three terms and, you know, there hasn't been one term where I did not see or appreciate the contributions that our pages bring forward and the example they set for all youth–and I'm talking to my grandchildren here–for all youth in Manitoba.
So–and also our security guards that are–provide security to this beautiful, wonderful building, and you know, as I do, if, and I've seen it, where some members have asked to be escorted to their vehicles or something, they have provided that, and they're always friendly with a smile and they have helped us so much.
And, you know, I would also like to extend my own thank you to the media staff that I have been involved with over the years. You know, in all the years that I've been a member, I have been treated with the utmost respect and treated most fairly by all the media that I have come across, whatever it–whether it's newsprint or the television media. And I thank them for that, for the professionalism that they bring forward.
And it's been quite a long career, in my estimation, because my body's telling me that. But, you know, I have enjoyed all these years, you know, and I would be remiss if I didn't extend my thank you to the constituents–my constituents–the constituents of Point Douglas who have sent me here, I said earlier, five times and have treated me with so much respect and dignity, and I know that I try to give it back but how do you thank people that will do so much for you and all they ask at times is just a little assistance or just a little shove up a hill or just a little lift up to go over a barrier.
And, you know, we all–we're all elected members and there's not one member in this Chamber that I have met, in all the years that I've been here, that have really sought to be a member of the Legislative Assembly for their own purposes. I've always felt from members that each and every one of us, in our own way and in our hearts, we're here to help the best we can.
And I've always said, you know, the thanks we get–at times the public is pretty rough on us as elected members but that we have to put aside because I really believe that the thank-you we get is when we have helped a constituent or an individual to overcome that barrier or just need a little assistance to climb that hill, and I've seen some individuals that have completely, completely turned their lives around and are just incredible people. But all they needed was just a little encouragement and a lot of it did not know where to go, and when they're steered to the–where the assistance is and the help, and I think that's what our job is as elected members. Sure, we make laws. We make laws; that's part of it. But I think the biggest part of our job is to be there for people when they need a hand up, is to be there to help and some people, as you know, maybe because of mental or physical challenges, they will need our assistance and I think we have to be there for them and all individuals that seek our help.
So I thank my constituents for giving me this great opportunity, and I'd also like to thank my executive. I've had various executives over the years but there's a small core that have been there from day one. They've served a long time with me and I want to really thank them, like John Lee and Barry Hammond, and I won't go into all of them because it would be too many to name. But I want to thank them for serving and helping me because the executives–our executives don't work for us; we work for them. And I think that's one thing that we always have to keep in mind.
And I have to thank you, you, the members. Each and every one of you, I have to thank you from the bottom of my heart. I have to thank you very, very much because it's been a real, real privilege to have served you.
* (14:50)
As you know, Speakers are servants of the House and I thank you very much for giving me the opportunity to serve each and every one of you in whichever way I did, and you showed confidence in me in electing me as your Speaker three terms. And I will always be very, very grateful for that because you gave me an opportunity to learn a lot of things and to meet a lot of other Speakers from all various Commonwealth countries. And, as you know, some countries are still struggling with democracy. And even the roughest day, even the roughest day that I've had in this Chair, or the most challenging days that I've had in this Chair, it was always–I took it as a learning experience and–because I know what other countries are going through and they have Speakers there that are trying to assist them.
And I know that when it gets heated in here, it's not because members are angry or hate each other. It's a difference of philosophies, and that's what democracy is all about. We have the right to speak our mind and our right to stand up for a principle or a value that we cherish, and if other people do not believe the same, our job is to try to convince them that what we believe in is the best way. That's what debating is all about.
And I will always treasure the wonderful friendships that I have developed. I have developed some great friendships on both sides of the House–both sides of the House. I have a lot of respect for all members, but I have developed some very good close friendships, and I know those friendships will last forever. We might not see each other, maybe for a time here and there, but when we do, those friendships will start right back where we left off, because I think the friendships that we have developed are too deep, and I appreciate the opportunity to form those friendships.
And as you know, I have worked with different House leaders throughout my career and I have developed very good relationships with all House leaders, because the House leaders are very committed to their parties and their caucuses, but I haven't found one House leader that was not committed to democracy. And I think the parties, your choice of your House leaders has been excellent because I can speak from first-hand experience from working with them and their knowledge of the situations, and I really appreciate that opportunity.
As you know, or some of you know, I've had a long journey, okay? I'm going to reminisce a little bit. I hope you will indulge me, because I need to share this with you.
Because the first eight years of my life was spent up in the Arctic, okay? I was born about 40 miles north of Rankin Inlet, and in those days, when I was born, no one had houses. The only buildings there were was the Hudson Bay Company trading post and the Catholic church and the police station. And we just lived in an igloo in the wintertime. That's what we lived in; we didn't have a house. First eight years, that's how I lived. Summertime, we just lived in a sealskin tent because we had to follow the game. And in the wintertime, our grocery store, our Safeway or Sobeys, whatever you want to call it, was the caribou herd that we followed. That was our grocery store. And in the summertime, we would travel where the seals and the beluga whales and the fish were.
And for the first eight years of my life, really the only clothing I wore was caribou skin clothing and sealskin mukluks, and I never had jeans and T-shirts and–but, you know, it was a wonderful life. Eric knows my family very well from his time he spent in–oh, I shouldn't call him Eric, but–I'm sorry I did. Someone please call order on me. But the honourable member–honourable Minister for Northern and Aboriginal Affairs (Mr. Robinson), he knows my family very, very well and he's close to a lot of my family members.
And living up there was–so, well, there was 13 in my family, okay, there's 11 boys and two girls. Then when I was eight, we moved to Churchill. That's the furthest north you can go in Manitoba. And that's where I was very, very fortunate that I had the opportunity to go to school and learn to speak English. And I think it was in my early teens when I got my first real new clothes, new pair of jeans, new shirt. And I know I'll never forget that because I was very proud.
But you know, when you think about that, you know, various people have said to me when I've spoken in different public places, they've asked me–they ask me to speak about my life. And some of them said, you know, you've had a pretty tough life. And, you know, that could be the furthest from the truth. That could be the furthest from the truth. I had–it was wild meat. I had all the food I wanted. I had nice warm clothing. I had a loving family and I had brothers and sisters that, you know, that we spent time playing together.
Always keep in mind, when someone is telling you about their hardship, and if they're down and feeling sorry for themselves, there is really no reason to. Because they're–always remind them of this story where these two elderly gentlemen were in Churchill, and I was just a little boy, and they were talking about how poor they had it. And this one individual said, you know, we were so poor, he said, just to go to school, he said, I had to get some newspapers my dad had and put them inside my shoes to cover the holes on the soles of my shoes. And the other man turned and said, you had a pair of shoes? So always remember that. There's always someone a little worse off and that one you might be able to help.
So I want to end, letting you know that I have had a wonderful career and a wonderful life, made a lot of friends. And I want to make sure that I pass on my friendship and everything to the community of Churchill because that's where I was raised, when I moved there when I was eight years old. And I still have a lot of friends there.
And you know, I'll tell you something. You know, when I was growing up, and the challenges we had, the excitement–I always thought that it was one of the greatest thrills I ever had, in my younger years, was when I was riding whales. You know, I thought that was such a thrill. But you know, I must say, that also, this has been quite a ride for me and it's been a tremendous thrill and I've enjoyed every minute of it. And I hope that we are able to keep in touch.
And also, that I will always remember the little boy that left the Artic tundra and was very fortunate because of the great constituents of Point Douglas, that sent him to this beautiful wonderful building, the Legislative Building. And so that's quite a trip from the Artic tundra to here. And to have an opportunity to have, meet, and made so many friends that I have in this room, and within the constituency.
So I thank you for your indulgence.
[Inuktitut spoken]
Translation
Thank you very much.
English
And I'll leave it at that and we'll go on with our business.
So thank you very much. [Applause]
* * *
Mr. Speaker: Okay, we'll go on with the House business.
Equal Opportunities West
Ms. Sharon Blady (Kirkfield Park): You will be missed.
Mr. Speaker, this year the Assiniboia Chamber of Commerce gave out its first-ever Business Excellent Awards. These are awarded to West Winnipeg businesses of all different stripes and I'm proud to report that Equal Opportunities West, a non-profit employment service for people with intellectual disabilities, was a finalist in the Not-For-Profit Business Excellence Award.
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Equal Opportunities West believes that we all have gifts and contributions to make in our communities. For over 30 years, this organization has provided one-to-one service to help people with disabilities develop their skills, and to work with employers to match job opportunities with program participants' abilities.
By coaching individuals in social and life skills, such as using public transportation, and by providing post-employment continued support, the staff and directors of Equal Opportunities West have made this a very successful program. Program graduates work in many businesses, including restaurants, hotels, retail outlets and more.
Mr. Speaker, people with disabilities sometimes struggle to receive equal respect from others, but Equal Opportunities West believes in the value and dignity of each person. In turn, many senior participants in the program provide mentorship to people who are new to the training. As well as encouraging camaraderie, program alumni can relate to participants in a unique way, that supervisors cannot, stemming from their common experiences.
Equal Opportunities West is a deserving finalist, and the Assiniboia Chamber of Commerce will be forwarding all their finalists' names to the Manitoba Chambers of Commerce for consideration in their Business Excellent Awards. While I'm sure that most people at Equal Opportunities West would say that seeing participants develop their independence and self-esteem is rewarding in itself, it is always important to recognize outstanding staff for their hard work.
Congratulations to Susan Morgan, director of EOW, and to all the staff for the Assiniboia Chamber of Commerce award nomination, Mr. Speaker. All the best, as well, to the adult with disabilities who are discovering many new talents. And I look forward to hearing about further goals you will achieve.
Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Sylvia Todaschuk
Mr. Leonard Derkach (Russell): Today I rise to pay tribute to a great Manitoban; a woman who has always put others first and has worked tirelessly in this city and this province for the betterment of this great city and province. Her contributions to the Ukrainian community have been exceptional, and she has been a catalyst for many proactive and positive developments, as a businessperson and a community activist and leader.
Mr. Speaker, I am referring to Sylvia Todaschuk, who is with us in the gallery today. Sylvia was born in my constituency, where she was raised by her grandmother until the age of seven when her grandmother died. Later, by her foster parents, the Butler family, of Solsgirth, Manitoba and the Miniuk family of Winnipeg. She became involved in the Ukrainian community and her own community here in Winnipeg. She is married to Ernie Todaschuk and together have two daughters, Charlene, who with her husband and son and daughter live in Montréal, and Rosemary, who is with us here today, who is a teacher right here in Winnipeg.
Those of us who have attended events sponsored by the Ukrainian community will have heard and have had the pleasure of being entertained by the Todaschuk sisters. Both Rosemary and Charlene are extremely talented and gifted individuals. Charlene is an artist, and has produced many beautiful pieces of art work, and has held exhibits of her work in Montréal. And Rosemary is a jazz singer, and has entertained at many prestigious events. Together, the Todaschuk sisters have produced a number of CDs and, to say the least, they are the pride of Ernie and Sylvia.
Mr. Speaker, I know that members in this House today will join me in paying tribute to this outstanding Manitoban who has given so much to her community. I would like to quickly highlight a few examples of the entire–because the entire list would take hours to recount. Sylvia has been an active member of the Selkirk Avenue Improvement Zone for more than 25 years. On this committee, she has strived to ensure the zone is an attractive place to do business. It goes without saying that Sylvia has also played a prominent role on the Folklorama Board for 39 years, and the organizations that she has devoted her hours of volunteer work are endless.
Federally, Mr. Speaker, Sylvia has been involved in the import-export board and has worked to create a new–new market opportunities for Manitoba. As a fundraiser, she has been involved in the efforts of Holy Family Nursing Home, as well as most recently fundraising in the Ukrainian community for the new Human Rights Museum. Sylvia has also led the Ukrainian professional business club here in Winnipeg and has spearheaded the organization for countless dinners, Malankas and tributes to Manitobans and Canadians.
One might think that there would be no time for anything else, but let me assure you that Sylvia also runs a very successful Ukrainian boutique, called the Todaschuk Sister's Ukrainian Boutique, which caters to a tourism market and clientele.
As many of you have gathered by now, Sylvia is well known to many of the major players here in the city and in the province. Whether it's the mayor's office, the City of the Winnipeg police chief's office, government, both provincial and federal, religious leaders, clergy and major organizations, Sylvia has made a lasting and positive difference.
Mr. Speaker, I would like all members to join me in the House today, and to thank this worthy Manitoban for the outstanding contributions to our city, to our province and to our country, for the passionate and determined approach that she takes. We salute you today, Sylvia, and we wish you and your husband Ernie and your family God's blessing for an abundance of good health and much happiness for many, many years. Congratulations.
North Kildonan Community Centre
Ms. Erna Braun (Rossmere): Mr. Speaker, this evening the North Kildonan Community Centre will hold its annual general meeting. This will provide President John Hudohmet and the board of directors the opportunity to share all the recent exciting developments at the club with community members.
Part of the excitement involves recent funding the community centre received through two government initiatives, including $30,000 from Community Places Program and $200,000 from the Building Communities Initiative. The money will go towards renovating their building, which has not had any work done in 30 years. Some of the renovation projects include flooring, painting, removing two dressing rooms to make way for an expansion of the common room and updating the storage and serving area. These improvements to the building will enable the centre to add new and exciting programs as well as improve services to the community.
In addition to the excitement about the upcoming renovations, Mr. Speaker, they will be celebrating their 50th anniversary later this year. Their success has, in large part, been due to the incredible generosity, hard work and dedication of the countless volunteers who have selflessly given their time and effort over the years. This includes helping with canteen duty, winter and summer carnival activities, organizing various sports tournaments, coaching and managing the sports teams, fundraising and distributing flyers.
The NKCC is the hub of activity for the community. In addition to having a wide range of sport teams who represent the club, the NKCC also hosts socials and fundraisers throughout the year. Taken together, all the activities and programs provided through the centre really help to connect the residents in our neighbourhood. I just can't imagine Rossmere without the North Kildonan Community Centre and the important role it plays in the lives of our community members.
Mr. Speaker, the North Kildonan Community Centre has proudly served the residents of this neighbourhood for 50 years. I would ask that the members of the House join me in congratulating them on this anniversary and on wishing them many more successful years well into the future.
Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Farewell Speech
Mr. David Faurschou (Portage la Prairie): This is my last opportunity to rise on private member's statement, and I'd like to take this opportunity to recognize those that I am indebted to, to have had the opportunity to serve in the Manitoba Legislative Assembly.
Mr. Speaker, to my constituency assistants, Allison Thurston, Michelle Redmond, Rose Carriere and Monica Stewart, thank you for your dedicated service to my office and to all the constituents of Portage la Prairie.
Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank the campaign chairs have endured the campaign rigours and saw a successful, completion of those endeavours with my election: Brian Lane-Graham, Roberta Christianson, Norman Wiebe, Ray Johnson, Jeff McDonald.
And without those that have served to make certain that the resources were there to run a campaign, I'm completely and utterly indebted to Jerry Lupkowski and Wayne McWhirter. Those individuals, indeed, have provided the service that I can never, ever repay or express my appreciation for.
It is with that I say to the House, Mr. Speaker, I hope I have served the Chamber well, represented my constituents and done the best I can with the dignity and respect the position of MLA is in–is to be held by all those who serve the Chamber.
Thank you.
Brandon Flooding Community Response
Mr. Drew Caldwell (Brandon East): Mr. Speaker, western Manitoba has experienced the worst flooding in provincial history this spring with water levels rising above any previously recorded, and extraordinary measures being undertaken by our government to prevent the catastrophic flood event from occurring. Rain falling in the Assiniboine River and Souris River drainage basins continues to pose a flood threat, and water levels in Manitoba's great lakes are expected to rise even further during the weeks ahead.
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While the flood fight continues throughout Manitoba, it is appropriate for me to recognize in the Manitoba Legislature the heroism and hard work of so many in Brandon and western Manitoba in combating this flood. Provincial and municipal employees, the Canadian Armed Forces, volunteers, police officers and firefighters, evacuees, citizens of all 'strites'–stations and stripes have pulled together as a community and worked to save Brandon from experiencing a catastrophic flood event. Without the significant dike construction undertaken this past winter, several hundred homes in Brandon would today be under water.
Mayor Shari Decter-Hirst and her city council of Jim McCrae, Jan Chaboyer, Garth Rice, Corey Roberts, Murray Blight, Shawn Berry, Jeff Fawcett, Steven Montague, Len Isliefson and Jeff Harwood are to be commended for working together with the provincial government in protecting the community we serve. Brian Kayes and Ted Snure and their respective staff are to be commended for bringing to bear the resources of the City to combat this flood. By being prepared and working together, all have made a positive difference.
In Brandon, our government worked hard for several months to bolster, reinforce and invest in permanent flood mitigation member–measures which will serve the community well into the future. Mr. Speaker, several million dollars have been invested in building permanent dike infrastructure up to one‑in-300-year flood levels, while the recently constructed Assiniboine River bridges have also been built to resist high water levels. The work of provincial employees in sandbagging and pumping Brandon's major access points on lst Street and 18th Street has been exemplary and has kept the city accessible. In my home constituency of Brandon East, over 1,400 citizens were evacuated by order of the City of Brandon, all of whom I am pleased to report have now returned to their homes. Our government has been working for months to address the very serious threat to life and property posed by this unprecedented flood, and we are prepared to work into the future to continue building defences.
Mr. Speaker, I would ask that all members of the House join me in extending a sincere thank-you to those many Manitobans who have made a positive difference in this flood fight. The battle continues and will for some time ahead, but by working together as Manitobans we are making a positive difference for our province.
Mr. Speaker: The honourable member for River Heights, on a grievance?
Hon. Jon Gerrard (River Heights): Yes, Mr. Speaker, on a grievance.
Mr. Speaker: Okay.
Mr. Gerrard: Mr. Speaker, I rise today on what is the one-year anniversary of the unveiling of the statue of Nellie McClung, a famous woman, a famous Liberal who contributed a lot to our province, and I want to talk about several particular issues in health care in northern Manitoba and certain issues in River Heights and Winnipeg.
First, Mr. Speaker, I want to comment briefly on the NOR-MAN Regional Health review report. The report deals–details major problems in the NOR‑MAN Regional Health Authority under the NDP government. It's astounding to learn, as the report says, many describe a corrupt system where performance appraisal of staff is lacking; clinical supervision, especially in the initial stages of employment, is minimal; ongoing education is not a priority and accountability for problem solving is unclear. While there are recommendations for improvement, it is very surprising that the NDP government could have let conditions in the NOR‑MAN region deteriorate to this extent. What on earth have the NDP been doing for 12 years?
Mr. Speaker, it was disappointing that there were two areas where the review team did not go. The first of these was the large number of concerns raised by individuals about the care received by themselves or their families, and that's a quote. The review team said, and I quote, that these " . . . cannot be investigated within the review." This dodging the question of the major problems with care has meant that too many people with issues about care will not have their questions answered and it will not be possible to learn from individual situations to improve care as we should be able to. Quality of care is absolutely central to what is needed and, sadly, we've no guarantee that quality issues will be directly addressed and improved in the time ahead.
It was disappointing also to learn that the review team would not look at financial issues. Such financial issues are central to the accountability of RHAs. We clearly need recommendations to achieve greater financial accountability moving forward. A single audit, as suggested by the review team, will not be enough. There needs to be ongoing accountability.
Second, I want to comment briefly to praise a long-time physician in the Burntwood region, Dr. Alan Rich. Dr. Rich, a long-time physician in Thompson, although not perfect, has served his community very well.
I want to read into the record some of the praise for Dr. Rich, and I quote: Dr. Rich is extremely knowledgeable and experienced. You know this to be immediately true by the way he's able to zero in and target your problems. He has an astute reputation for his medical knowledge and at always getting it right. There is definite comfort in knowing that he has seen it all, that you have been correctly diagnosed, and not having to worry about whether or not you are wasting valuable time. Thanks to Dr. Rich, there are many, many people still walking around today, who might not otherwise be alive, had they lost time with anyone less caring than he. You immediately sense his sincerity and know that he is doing all he can in your best interest. Although not quite so tolerant of scammers, his compassion for ill people is beyond reproach. He exudes optimum responsibility for putting their health-care interest first, above all else, including his own. He is Manitoba's gift and always there 24-7 when you need him the most.
From another: He is the only doctor in town that does house calls. If you have an appointment and the wait is too long, and leave, he will show up at your house that evening. He is rough around the edges. He's dedicated his life to the people of the north. We are in debt to him for this commitment.
Third: This man is awesome. He is only human, so he can't know everything, but if he does not know what's wrong, he will ask someone who does. Go see him. Dedicated to his profession and patients, he will not turn away any patient requesting his help, even working up to 16 hours a day to see every person. I waited three hours in his office one day and left to go home to bed. Dr. Rich came to my house at 10 o'clock that night. I know of no other doctor who would go to such lengths, for this is a way of life, not just a job.
Another: He is understanding, caring and explains things fully after an exam. He phones, checking on you later at night, to see if everything is okay. He's an awesome doctor. Many doctors should strive to be as good.
And, lastly: Dr. Rich was born to be a doctor. He makes house calls, he works long hours, he listens to you, and if he doesn't know what's wrong, he's not too proud to say so and refer you to a specialist. He's very dedicated and I trust him.
There is more, Mr. Speaker, but that is enough for today, except I will add this: Dr. Rich is honest, and his integrity and he should be treated well and with dignity by the Burntwood Regional Health Authority.
I want to mention a couple of items from River Heights. First, to note the progress in bringing together the Central Corydon Community Centre from the Sir John Franklin Community Centre, Crescentwood Community Centre and the River Heights Community Centre, and congratulate all those who have been involved.
Second, I want to acknowledge the recent commitment to completing the Queenston School gym, and say thanks to all those who have worked so hard to make sure this happens.
And last, I want to say that we need rapid transit for all of Winnipeg, not just to connect two NDP constituencies, Mr. Speaker. Thank you.
(Continued)
House Business
Mr. Speaker: The honourable Government House Leader, on House business.
Hon. Jennifer Howard (Government House Leader): Mr. Speaker, on House business.
I'd like to announce that the Standing Committee on Legislative Affairs will be meeting on June 30th at 10:30 to deal with the following report: Annual Report of the Children's Advocate for the fiscal years ending March 31st, 2009 and March 31st, 2010.
Mr. Speaker: It's been announced that the Standing Committee on Legislative Affairs will be meeting on June 30th at 10:30 to deal with the following report: Annual Report of the Children's Advocate for the fiscal years ending March 31st, 2009 and March 31st, 2010.
The honourable Government House Leader, on further House business.
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Ms. Howard: Yes, Mr. Speaker, would you call for third reading on Bill 27, followed by bills 37, 45, 49, 22 and 44.
Mr. Speaker: Okay, it's the order of business that we will be dealing with. We will deal with concurrence and third readings, and then the order we'll deal with them is 27, 37, 45, 49, 22 and 44.
Bill 27–The Manitoba Ukrainian Canadian Heritage Day Act
Mr. Speaker: So the first one we'll deal with is 27, concurrence and third reading of Bill 27, The Manitoba Ukrainian Canadian Heritage Day Act.
Hon. Jennifer Howard (Government House Leader): I move, seconded by the Minister of Agriculture (Mr. Struthers), that Bill 27, The Manitoba Ukrainian Canadian Heritage Day Act; Loi sur le Jour du patrimoine ukrainien-canadien au Manitoba, as amended and reported from the Standing Committee on Human Resources, be concurred in and be now read for a third time and passed.
Motion presented.
Mr. Leonard Derkach (Russell): I'm kind of pleased to stand and speak on this bill, Mr. Speaker, as this is probably my–and for sure is my last time speaking in this House.
But I want to say a word or two about this bill, because I want it to be known that I do and we do support the concept of the bill and the bill itself, because it was a bill that I had introduced as a private member's bill, and then, of course, the government introduced its own, and we have some differences about the date and about the title of the bill, but nonetheless, we do this for the Ukrainian community, and it is important that we pass it in this Legislature and allow Ukrainian Heritage Day to be a reality.
Well, Mr. Speaker, in final words, I have to say that it's been quite a journey. I listened to your final words this afternoon and to those of my colleagues in the last few days, and I have to say that 25 years has gone by almost like the blink of an eye. And I remember starting about twenty-six and a half years ago as a nominated candidate having no idea what this entailed except for some people who were encouraging me to run who said, Len, don't worry, the House only sits about 70 days a year, and the rest of the time is yours.
Now, the last job I had I had to work 200 days a year or more, so this was quite an encouragement. So we started off. We won the nomination, and at that time, I have to say, Mr. Speaker, we had three young children under six years old. The youngest was six months old. Now, anybody who has three young children at that age and is living four hours from Winnipeg and is getting into politics should go and see a psychiatrist, I think, because if you really love your family, why would you want to do this?
But I didn't–we had no idea. And so we boldly set out, and our vision was that we would be there for one term, well, and if it all went well, we'd maybe even try another term. Well, Mr. Speaker, how quickly time goes by, and here we are 25 years later, seven elections later. My kids have grown up, and they're with me here today, and I'm so proud of them.
Now, I have to tell you, Mr. Speaker, at the time when we got into this business, we had a farm, my wife was running a business and we had three little guys running around and I was about to take off. So I don't know how we know how we ever managed, or how my wife ever managed, because there were things like hockey games, there were birthday parties, there was Ukrainian dance, there were music schedules, there was drama, and the list goes on and on.
And just a word about hockey: three little guys on three different teams. So, when you had tournaments on the weekends, you'd shuffle one kid off with one set of friends, another with another set of friends, and you went–and Margie went with the third child. And, of course, I was doing my political stuff as well, and, occasionally, I would try to come and see the games and give them all the support I could.
But, Mr. Speaker, if someone were to say, well, what formula did you use to keep your family together? I'd have to say that you'd have to check with Margie on that, because, besides doing this with the kids, she also ran her clothing business, and she also kept tabs on what was going on at the farm as well.
So time went on. We were in opposition. Thank God, we spent two years in opposition. Now, nobody wants to be in opposition. But, you know, those first two years, I was [inaudible]. But I'll tell you, those first two years saved my life because it did allow me to get sort of accustomed to the role, and it did–like you said, Mr. Speaker–it did give me personally an opportunity to understand what really was entailed in the work in this business.
Well, Mr. Speaker, those of us who have tried to be successful as MLAs owe a debt of gratitude to our families, and certainly I owe a debt of gratitude to mine.
Mr. Speaker, I don't know how many trips I made into Winnipeg, but I do know that I killed five deer and badly injured one moose and demolished four cars and–
An Honourable Member: That was yesterday.
Mr. Derkach: No, no. And, you know, besides that, the number of hours that I spent in the vehicles–and some of you have spent equally as much and more–gives you a lot of time to think about what it is that you're going to be doing in the next weeks, and how you're going to plan your life. Recently, it's been giving me a lot of time to think about maybe I'd like to write a book. But I'll tell you, the number of thoughts I've had driving back and forth would fill volume 4 of Public Accounts, and I'm never going to ask you to table volume 4 again. I can assure you of that.
But, Mr. Speaker, there have been incredible experiences. It's been an incredible journey. As with any other journey, there are always disappointments. There are always hardships. There's always difficulty. But, overall, it's been an incredible ride.
There are many people that I want to thank today. First and foremost, I want to thank my constituents, because, if it were not for them and the support I've received over seven elections, I would not be here. They've entrusted me with their confidence for each of seven elections consecutively, and they have become not just constituents but friends. And, as you said, Mr. Speaker, all they ask from us from time to time, is a bit of a hand up, a bump–a push over a bump.
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And you know, the gratitude that they, in turn, return cannot be underestimated and can always be appreciated. And, you know, I've got scrapbooks full of–and files full of–letters that I've received from constituents because we were able to help them with something that, to them, appeared to be a huge problem, and when they were able to resolve that, their gratitude came back in a form of a letter, in form of phone calls, emails, and what have you. And that thanks doesn't just go to me individually as an MLA, but it goes to all legislators because if it were not for ministers who were listening, if it were not for this Legislature, those things could never have happened.
Mr. Speaker, I want to also thank my PC association. Now, this is my executive who have changed over time because the boundaries changed. Remember, I have lived through three boundary changes. The first one took me into the areas of Gilbert Plains, Grandview and almost to Dauphin, and then in the next round, it was changed to more of the southerly part of that central region of the province–central western region of the province, and so my executive changed, but in each of the executives that I had, there was tremendous support and dedication and commitment.
And the presidents who served while I was an MLA dedicated themselves to making sure that they advised me as to perhaps the things that I should be doing. They supported me and at times they even cautioned me, and I want to thank them and I want to name them. And they were the presidents of my associations–weren't many. They were Lavern Elliott from Grandview, Brad Robin from Inglis, Dennis Cochrane, who now lives in Alberta–he was from Hamiota–and Paul Orsak who lives in Binscarth. And just, Mr. Speaker, that was sort of the last of the Russell constituency executives and presidents.
My campaign teams who worked to make phone calls, raise funds, and the list goes on and on of what they did, and everyone here knows how much we rely on these people to help us to get elected to this Assembly.
Mr. Chairman, or Mr. Speaker, I also want to say special thanks to my campaign chairs. I didn't have many through my career. I had a Dr. Vern Rosnoski, who was a dentist in my town who managed my first few campaigns–he actually was instrumental in bringing me into the political arena–and Eldon Montgomery, Jon Montgomery's dad, who not only were we good friends and still are, our kids grew up together. Jon and my boys grew up together, went together to school, played hockey together and got into all kinds of trouble together, as well, but those are stories that they chuckle about now and we know very little about. So I want to say thank you to those individuals for chairing those campaigns.
I also want to thank my staff. The first assistant, constituency assistant I had, her name was JoAnn Newton. She worked with me for 19 years. She was as passionate about politics as any politician I know, but she was also equally as passionate about being a Conservative, and if I ever strayed off the line, it didn't take her long to bring me back into line. Not only was she my constituency assistant, I remember countless times that she would say, Len, you're too tired to drive. I'm driving you into the city. And she'd get in the car and she'd drive me into the city only to drive back again. I know times when we needed to be at an event, she would volunteer to look after our children.
She was the kind of person that you want, and her untimely death at a young age left a void in our family and in my association. She was the kind of person, Mr. Speaker, that I can never forget. She taught her family to understand the values of standing up for what you believe and making sure that you speak out when you believe strongly enough in something. So to her, may she rest in peace, and certainly I owe a debt of gratitude to her and her family.
Mr. Speaker, when she was gone, I hired a young lady by the name of Judy Snitynsky, who worked with me for five years, and, you know, you got to shield these people from others because if they're successful, somebody's going to find out about it. And, you know, sometimes your friends end up being not necessarily your best friend. Well, I remember working hard for Bob Sopuck, only to find out about two weeks later that he offered her more money, a better work schedule, and, goodbye, Judy. She was gone.
But, Mr. Speaker, I have to say that Judy is a volunteer, still does tremendous work for me, and I want to say thank you to her.
I want to say thank you to Laura Orsak, who worked here while a student at the university in the Legislature as my assistant, and Jade Nernberg, who worked with me only a short while but took time to help me along when I was without an assistant, and I want to say thank you to her for the job well done and to Pamela Dracus-Rathgaber, who is currently my constituency assistant, who is efficient, effective and certainly–she's Judy's daughter, as a matter of fact–and makes sure that she keeps me in line as well.
Mr. Speaker, you know, this Chamber has been quite a place. I've learned to respect parliamentary tradition. I've learned to respect people of all sides of the House here. You know, in the early years, I remember being quite a–quite stuck in my ways and I wasn't very flexible. But, you know, but I think I mellowed over time. I think I'm kind of a softie now.
But, Mr. Speaker, I want to say thank you to the people who work right here in this Chamber. I want to say thank you to the Clerk, Ms. Chaychuk. Now, I don't know how many times she would give me the evil eye when I was House leader, and even after, for some reason, she's got this ear that hears everything I say.
And then I want to say thank you to the Deputy Clerk, who has been a real support to us in the Public Accounts Committee, and the work that he has done has certainly led us to achieving a fairly substantial number of important improvements under the public accounts system, and I want to say thank you to Rick.
Also, I want to say thank you to Monique and to Greg and to Claude, because all of them here dedicate themselves to the cause, and, Mr. Speaker, without them, this place wouldn't function and, certainly, we would not be as cordial to each other, perhaps, and even as in line in terms of the rules as we are.
Mr. Speaker, I want to thank the deputy–or the Sergeant-at-Arms, the Deputy Sergeant-at-Arms, our Hansard recording staff, our pages and also the people who work to put out Hansard every day. We are supported by so many people in this Chamber. It's–you can't name them all, but I want them to know that, from someone who has watched them for a number of years, we say thank you to them from the bottom of our hearts.
I also want to say thank you to the staff who are in their offices now, the Clerk's staff. I know Pat Malynyk always keeps me on my toes when I come in there asking for something, and even today she told me that she was going to keep after me because I've been registered for a conference and I haven't got my flight booked yet and so she's going to keep after me until I get that done. So, Mr. Speaker, to them, thank you for everything they do.
Mr. Speaker, our caucus staff, our front office staff, Barbara Craven and Sandra. Boy, the amount of work they do for us. And I know every office has their staff that do incredible work for them, but Barb has been like a sister to me where, if there's a problem, she can laugh with me or she can cry with me and she can set me straight when I need to be set straight. And to her and to Sandra, I say thank you so much for being there every day when I need you. Every phone call I make, you pick it up, transfer me over to another phone call if I need it, because I'm too lazy to look up the number. And so thank you for all of those things.
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Mr. Speaker and members of this Chamber, I had the opportunity to act as a minister when we were in government and, of course, you're never in government forever. They say that the amount of time you spent in opposition and–compared to the amount of time you spend in government is about 50-50, and it was almost that. But I have to say that every day in government is far more fun than any day in opposition, and I think that cliché has been used over and over again, but it's true. And you can't tell me that every seat is equally as good in this House because those seats over there are a lot better; I know that.
And, Mr. Speaker, acting as a minister for the Crown gave me the opportunity to work very hard to try to contribute to the quality of life in this province and to the citizens. And I know every minister does that, regardless of which side of the House you are on. We have different philosophies. Thank God for that because that's what democracy is about. And every day we work to ensure that perhaps we somehow make a little change to the quality of life of the people who elect us and the people who send us to this Chamber.
Mr. Speaker, I want to thank Gary Filmon, my premier, a person I served under, and many don't know this, but he was compassionate. Our families were close. They still continue to be that way today. I found him a man of great integrity.
You know, you have the Duff Roblin Ditch and you have other edifices, the hydro dams and everything else, but the greatest legacy Gary Filmon left our province was that we should live within our means as a province. We should live, we should conduct our business in the House here and as a government like people conduct their business of their own homes, and that is to live within your means and to spend within your means.
And I will always be indebted for his leadership and for giving me the opportunity and empowering me to do what I needed to do as a minister, as a Cabinet minister, and he allowed me to serve on many committees.
And, Mr. Speaker, one of the things that was kind of a favourite of mine, and I know the member from Charleswood and the member from Pembina joined me on a trip to Nunavut, when Nunavut just became a province. And on the day that the government was sworn in, in Nunavut, we were in an airplane flying to Iqaluit. And the announcement came on that the government and Cabinet of Nunavut had been sworn in. We made contact with them, and I was so proud to get off the plane with my colleagues, and a lot of business people from Winnipeg, and people who were involved in chambers and that sort of thing, and to be joined for dinner with the first premier of Nunavut and his Cabinet when they had their first gathering that evening. They were sworn in at about 3 o'clock in the afternoon. We met them at about 6 o'clock that evening and enjoyed an evening of fellowship and, indeed, congratulatory remarks to them for having become a province in our–territory in our nation, an independent one with its own government.
So that's something that still sticks out in my mind. We had some wonderful experiences in the North. I met many of your family members then, and today those members of your family are still our friends.
Mr. Speaker, I want to thank Stuart Murray, who was also the leader of our party for a short period of time, but, indeed, he contributed to the quality of our province as well. And, although he has moved on, I want to say to him, thank you for being here and helping to make our province a better place.
And I want say thank you to our current leader, and I'm going to name him, Mr. Speaker, Mr. Hugh McFadyen, and I know I'm not supposed to, but he's the member for Fort Whyte. I made a mistake, so–but I say–[interjection] Yes.
But, Mr. Speaker, I go back a little bit of ways with the member from–or with our leader. As a matter of fact, he was in university at the time when I was the minister of Education. And our premier came to me and said, you know, Len, you should perhaps consider this young fellow to be appointed to the board of governors. He's got good qualities. He's an intelligent young fellow, and I think he'd do well over there. And we took a look at this–at his resumé and, indeed, very highly qualified, a very intelligent individual who did well on the board of governors at the University of Manitoba.
And, Mr. Speaker, I'm proud of what he has accomplished as our leader, and, of course, it goes without saying, that I wish him well as he leads this team into the next election.
Mr. Speaker, I want to say thank you to you. You and I have developed a special relationship over time, and it's gotten closer as time has gone on. I guess our common interest in the north, understanding each other's ways of life and understanding that we are just people who are doing our job and loving life for what it is. And to you and to your family, I wish you the very best as you retire. And, certainly, I hope that our paths will cross many, many times in the future.
And, you know what? I kid my colleagues sometimes. I say, you know, the Speaker and I are going to form a consulting company. And we're going to just roll the dice and, if the Conservatives get in, then it's my job to get the contracts, and if the NDP get in, then it's his job to get the contracts. Well, I know life doesn't work like that, but it's simply a thought.
An Honourable Member: You never know.
Mr. Derkach: You never know.
Mr. Speaker, as I run out of time here, I simply want to say thank you to the members of this Chamber–both sides of the House–my colleagues, who I have had the privilege and the honour of serving and working with. Thank you for everything that you have done to help me be a better MLA. And I want to say thank you to that 132 group, especially. You know, for some reason, they think that I'm a target every time I walk in there, and things could be quiet until I walk in and then they start picking on me. And, you know, they find something wrong and it goes from there and it goes on and on. But, when we finally get down to talking seriously, we can solve some of the world's problems in a hurry, as the member from Brandon West said–[interjection]–oh, 113. I'm sorry, 132 was the old room I was in. [interjection] Yes, they pick on me too.
But, Mr. Speaker, there's good camaraderie there, as there is in our caucus, and I say to our caucus, thank you for everything. It's been a great time with you, and I wish you the very best as you go out and you campaign and you look for votes. And, certainly, I wish each and every one of you an abundance of success, and I hope you're going to be joined by many other successful candidates as well.
To the members opposite, of course, our philosophies are different, but, folks, I want to say thank you to you. I want to say thank you to all of you for being good government and giving us a reason to oppose your policies because we don't believe in your philosophy. You know, Mr. Speaker, a province is only strong if you've got strong parties on either side of the House, and there are good individuals in this House, all of you. You know our philosophies differ, but, as individuals, you care. As individuals, you treat us with respect and that's what it was all about.
You know, a long time ago, Wally McKenzie, who was the MLA for Roblin-Russell at the time, was–I was at a meeting with him, and Maureen Hemphill, who had been the minister of Education, walked into the room, and Wally ran up to her and give her a great big hug and it–and I–you know what? I was in shock. What are you doing, Wally? She's NDP; she's the enemy. He says, Len, she's a colleague in the Legislature. He said, we differ in our philosophies but we respect each other and, indeed, we are colleagues. And, Mr. Speaker, that's the way I look at my colleagues here in the Legislature.
We have differing views, but I know that many of the ministers in the government today have helped me out with situations that I have run into. Mr. Speaker, I–the member from Rupertsland, the Minister of Northern and Aboriginal Affairs, when we were dealing with the Holodomor, he contributed very significantly to making sure that there was a mark left here to commemorate the Holodomor. And that's the kind of co-operation that this House needs outside of the question period and outside of the regular banter.
* (15:50)
Mr. Speaker, I want to conclude today by talking a little bit about my family, pretty special bunch they are. First of all, my extended family. When I started into this business, we were running a significantly modest farm. But I couldn't do it alone, so I partnered with my brother who did a lot of the work with his son because my children were too small. And Margie kind of took over the management side from my end of things. And the farm ran, because one MLA, by the name of Gerry Mercier, told me, Len, don't ever abandon your primary work, because you don't know how long you're going to be here. He said, too many come here, they abandon what they were doing before and find themselves in a very awkward and difficult position. So he said, don't do that.
So I want to thank my extended family on Margie's side and on my side for the support, the help, the times we called for help and for all of the things they did to make our life a little easier and, certainly, my job a lot easier.
Yes, and I want to thank my three guys. [interjection] Mr. Speaker, I have five grandchildren: little Kennedy is four years old; Otello is three; Nevaeh is one; Tucker is 14 months; and little Tyne is about three months old. These are the reason that I need to say that it's time for me to go home.
And, Mr. Speaker, the decision for me to leave was not mine. It came as a joint decision of my family. We discussed it, and because of the respect that we have for my constituents, who I call my friends, my party, my colleagues, my leader, we decided that it's time to retire and to close this chapter in life and open another one that is closer to home, closer to family and the ones I love.
I wish all of you an abundance of personal success in your lives today and on into the future. And there's one thank-you I have to extend as a final note, and that thank-you, Mr. Speaker, goes to God. Thank you.
Mr. Hugh McFadyen (Leader of the Official Opposition): I just want to acknowledge that this is a day for those members who have served with great distinction in this House and who have decided not to seek re-election in October, to have their opportunity to share their memories and their thanks. I rise, Mr. Speaker, only to put a few comments on the record in connection with the end of this legislative session, and I will be brief knowing that there's a significant amount of legislative work yet to be done today.
I only want to take the opportunity just to say a few thank-yous to those members of the House who have made that very difficult and personal decision to not seek re-election this coming October. We all know that if you survive until the end of a term in government, you have two options as to how you leave politics. One is that you decide on your own to not seek re-election and the other is to be defeated. And I think the majority of people who come into this line of work, not by choice but–and regardless of party and time, but by circumstances, leave via the second route.
But to all of those members who have made that decision to move on to new chapters in their lives, I just want to take a moment to thank each and every one of them. We had the opportunity earlier today in caucus to share our thoughts, and I had the opportunity at some greater length than I will right now to pay tribute to the four members of our caucus who are moving on from elected politics, and I just want to again thank each and every one of them, the member for Portage la Prairie (Mr. Faurschou), the member for Brandon West (Mr. Borotsik), the member for Pembina (Mr. Dyck), and the member for Russell (Mr. Derkach), who just spoke very well, for their years of service to our province, to our party, and to the betterment of the communities that they represent.
I also just want to say a thank-you to the spouses of these four members, Lori Faurschou, Irene Dyck, Norma Borotsik, and Margie Derkach, all of whom are people I've had the great pleasure of getting to know over the past number of years and all of whom have contributed greatly to supporting those very fine members of the Legislative Assembly.
I also want to thank Gerald and Pam Hawranik, the former member for Lac du Bonnet, as he takes on new challenges in the province of Alberta, and we certainly want to pay our respects to him for his years of great service here and wish Gerald, Pamela, and their family our very best wishes as they move forward.
I also, Mr. Speaker, just want to acknowledge and thank the members for St. James, St. Norbert, Lord Roberts, Flin Flon, and Burrows, members opposite, who have announced their decisions to not seek re-election in October, and if I've left anybody out or inadvertently included anybody I ought not to have, I hope that you'll let me know so that I can correct that record. But I do want to thank each and every one of them for their service to their–this House and convey my personal respect to each and every one of you for your contributions. Even though we may have had differences on matters in debate, I certainly have personal respect for each and every one of them.
Finally, Mr. Speaker, to you, I want to just say to you how much we have appreciated your very wise and dignified leadership within this Chamber in the Chair. Your words earlier were just as graceful and touching as any words heard I've spoken in this House, and I know I speak for all of my colleagues when we wish you just every bit of happiness and health and success in the months and the years ahead, and that includes your family.
I will just say when you rise in your chair we always know that we have gotten out of line and that we need to get back into line very quickly. It's not just a function of the office and the chair that you sit in, and it is certainly not out of fear, but out of personal respect for you, and I want you to know how genuine that personal respect is. I've enjoyed coming to know you over the past five and a half years that I've been here. My respect for you has grown with the passage of that time, Sir, and I just want to just say to you that this Chamber and the proceedings of this House have proceeded in a way that has been dignified and fair.
We haven't agreed with every ruling, Mr. Speaker, but you never expected that would be the case. But we respect that those rulings have come from somebody with your integrity and your sense of the import and the significance of the role that you play here. And one thing I will say, and I've never mentioned this to you before, in many ways your personality and demeanour are much like my own father's, that quiet dignity.
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He didn't, and still doesn't, talk a lot, but when he does you listen carefully because his words are important and carefully considered, and I think, although you are far too young to be my father, in many respects, Mr. Speaker, it almost felt a little bit like disobeying my own father when you rose in the House. And so I–and I say that with the greatest of respect, that that is your nature, that calm, quiet, and dignified way, and that has been something that has allowed this House to proceed in ways that are far more dignified and efficient and appropriate than would otherwise have been the case.
And so, in closing, Mr. Speaker, I just again want to thank all of the staff here, all of our staff that work for us in caucus, in the leader's office, in my constituency office, and I want to just thank everybody who's had the opportunity to serve in this House, and particularly to wish well all of those members who have made the decision not to run again.
For the rest of us who are moving forward, we will have a vigorous campaign in the days ahead. We will reconvene in this Chamber after October the 4th and, Mr. Speaker, regardless of what happens, we will maintain this common bond of having been members of this Chamber together through this very interesting time in our province's history.
And so with that, Mr. Speaker, I want to close with my thanks and wish everybody a good summer and much health, success and happiness in the months and years ahead.
Hon. Jon Gerrard (River Heights): Mr. Speaker, just a few comments on Bill 27, but also primarily to acknowledge the contributions that the MLA for Russell has made. I got to know the MLA for Russell first when I was a federal Member of Parliament and minister and, of course, many and in the Legislature have got to know the member very well, attending numerous, numerous Ukrainian events together and working together to recognize the internment in the First World War, the Holodomor and, of course, in this bill, Bill 27, the culture and heritage of Ukrainians in Manitoba.
I want to thank the member for Russell (Mr. Derkach) for his co-operative approach to many issues, his ability to work for members of other parties, and I wish him and his family the very best in the years ahead. I also want to say briefly that I would like to wish other retiring members, including yourself, all the very best as well and thank yourself and the other members who are retiring, for their contributions to democracy, their contributions in the Chamber, their contributions to Manitoba. Thank you.
Mr. Speaker: Is the House ready for the question?
Some Honourable Members: Question.
Mr. Speaker: The question for the House is Bill 27, The Manitoba Ukrainian Canadian Heritage Day Act. Is it the pleasure of the House to adopt the motion? [Agreed]
Bill 37–The Highway Traffic Amendment Act
(Accident Reporting Requirements)
Hon. Jennifer Howard (Government House Leader): I move, seconded by the Attorney General (Mr. Swan), that Bill 37, The Highway Traffic Amendment Act (Accident Reporting Requirements); Loi modifiant le Code de la route (exigences en matière de rapports d'accident), reported from the Standing Committee on Justice, be concurred in and be now read for a third time and passed.
Motion presented.
Mr. Speaker: Is the House ready for the question?
Some Honourable Members: Question.
Mr. Speaker: The question before the House is Bill 37, The Highway Traffic Amendment Act (Accident Reporting Requirements). Is it the pleasure of the House to adopt the motion? [Agreed]
Bill 45–The Statutes Correction and Minor Amendments Act, 2011
Hon. Jennifer Howard (Government House Leader): I move, seconded by the Attorney General (Mr. Swan), that Bill 45, The Statutes Correction and Minor Amendments Act, 2011; Loi corrective de 2011, as reported from the Standing Committee on Human Resources, be concurred in and be now read for a third time and passed.
Motion presented.
Mr. Speaker: Is the House ready for the question?
Some Honourable Members: Question.
Mr. Speaker: The question before the House is Bill 35, The Statutes Correction and Minor Amendments Act, 2011.
Is it the pleasure of the House to adopt the motion? Agreed? [interjection]
Well, Bill 45. [Agreed]
Bill 49–The Employment and Income Assistance Amendment and Highway Traffic Amendment Act
Hon. Jennifer Howard (Government House Leader): I move, seconded by the Attorney General (Mr. Swan), that Bill 49, The Employment and Income Assistance Amendment and Highway Traffic Amendment Act; Loi modifiant la Loi sur l'aide à l'emploi et au revenu et le Code de la route, reported from the Standing Committee on Human Resources, be concurred in and be now read for a third time and passed.
Motion presented.
Mr. Kelvin Goertzen (Steinbach): Mr. Speaker, this is a–essentially, a bill that we introduced during the last sitting of the Legislature. We're glad that the government has seen fit to copy and adopt it, and we look forward to it passing.
Mr. Speaker: Is the House ready for the question?
An Honourable Member: Question.
Mr. Speaker: The question before the House is Bill 49, The Employment and Income Assistance Amendment and Highway Traffic Amendment Act.
Is it the pleasure of the House to adopt the motion? [Agreed]
Bill 22–The Securities Amendment Act
Mr. Speaker: Bill 22, The Securities–am I on the right one? Yes. Bill 22, Securities Amendment Act.
Hon. Jennifer Howard (Government House Leader): I move, seconded by the Minister of Finance (Ms. Wowchuk), that Bill 22, The Securities Amendment Act; Loi modifiant la Loi sur les valeurs mobilières, reported from the Standing Committee on Human Resources, be concurred in and be now read for a third time and passed.
Motion presented.
Mrs. Heather Stefanson (Tuxedo): And I just had to hear you say, one more time, the member for Tuxedo. So that's the only reason I'm getting up today, Mr. Speaker. But I wish you well, and we're fine to pass this bill forward. Thank you.
Mr. Speaker: Tuxedo.
Is the House ready for the question?
An Honourable Member: Question.
Mr. Speaker: The question before the House is Bill 22, The Securities Amendment Act.
Is it the pleasure of the House to adopt the motion? [Agreed]
Bill 44–The Civil Service Superannuation Amendment Act
Hon. Jennifer Howard (Government House Leader): I move, seconded by the Minister of Finance (Ms. Wowchuk), that Bill 44, The Civil Service Superannuation Amendment Act; Loi modifiant la Loi sur la pension de la fonction publique, as amended and reported from the Standing Committee on Human Resources, be concurred in and be now read for a third time and passed.
Motion presented.
Hon. Jon Gerrard (River Heights): Mr. Speaker, I just want to indicate support for this legislation at this time.
Mr. Speaker: Is the House ready for the question?
An Honourable Member: Question.
Mr. Speaker: The question before the House is Bill 44, The Civil Service Superannuation Amendment Act.
Is it the pleasure of the House to adopt the motion? [Agreed]
House Business
Mr. Speaker: The honourable Government House Leader, on further House business?
* (16:10)
Ms. Howard: Yes, Mr. Speaker. Would you call for third reading on Bills 13, 28, 11, 48, 24, 26, 42 and 50?
Mr. Speaker: We'll put bills in this order. We'll start with concurrence and third reading of Bill 13, 28, 11, 48, 24, 26, 42 and 50.
An Honourable Member: Bingo.
Mr. Speaker: Do we have a winner? We have a bingo.
Bill
13–The Preparing Students for Success Act
(Various Acts Amended)
Hon. Jennifer Howard (Government House Leader): I move, seconded by the Minister of Education (Ms. Allan), that Bill 13, The Preparing Students For Success Act (Various Acts Amended); Loi visant la réussite scolaire (modification de diverses dispositions législatives), as amended and reported from the Standing Committee on Social and Economic Development, be concurred in and be now read for a third time and passed.
Motion presented.
Hon. Jon Gerrard (River Heights): Mr. Speaker, I just want to add a couple of points, first of all, that I continue to have some quite significant concern about the use of fines as a way of punishing kids in this instance, and I believe that there's far better ways of having children stay in school. And certainly the other point which is–must be made is that in other jurisdictions which they have moved to age 18 there has been very little change in the proportion of children attending school. So, clearly, there are many other measures which are vital if this act is to succeed.
I will support this bill, but I wanted to put those reservations on the record. Thank you.
Mr. Cliff Cullen (Turtle Mountain): I just wanted to take the opportunity to wish you all the best on your pending retirement and thank you for your years of service.
In terms of Bill 13, certainly on this side of the House we believe a strong education–a strong and effective education system is very important for Manitobans, and, obviously, it's very important for our future moving forward. We look forward to seeing how the government is going to implement this particular piece of legislation.
So thank you very much, Mr. Speaker.
Mr. Speaker: Is the House ready for the question?
Some Honourable Members: Question.
Mr. Speaker: The question before the House is Bill 13, The Preparing Students for Success Act (Various Acts Amended).
Is it the pleasure of the House to adopt the motion. [Agreed]
Bill 28–The Public Schools Amendment Act
(Reporting Bullying and Other Harm)
Hon. Jennifer Howard (Government House Leader): I move, seconded by the Minister of Education (Ms. Allan), that Bill 28, The Public Schools Amendment Act (Reporting Bullying and Other Harm); Loi modifiant la Loi sur les écoles publiques (obligation de faire rapport des cas d'intimidation et des préjudices subis), reported from the Standing Committee on Social and Economic Development, be concurred in and be now read for a third time and passed.
Motion presented.
Hon. Jon Gerrard (River Heights): Mr. Speaker, I will support this legislation, but I want to make sure that the concerns that I have heard from some that we don't end up with a lot of extra bureaucratic reporting requirements here, that we want an effective way of reducing bullying in schools and making sure that schools are working better, and that students learn by example because there is less bullying not only within the school but in the school environment among staff and from others. And I think that there is a lot of work to do here, and I certainly support this legislation. But I think that we have to be careful that we don't create a whole lot of extra work without effect. We want to make an effective change here, and that's really what's important. Thank you.
Mr. Cliff Cullen (Turtle Mountain): I just do want to acknowledge the good work that teachers and principals and staff are currently doing in this regard across the province. I'm certainly hopeful this piece of legislation will send a strong message to all Manitobans that bullying and other improper conduct will not be tolerated in our school system.
Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker.
Mr. Speaker: Is the House ready for the question?
An Honourable Member: Question.
Mr. Speaker: The question before the House is Bill 28, The Public Schools Amendment Act (Reporting Bullying and Other Harm).
Is it the pleasure of the House to adopt the motion? [Agreed]
Bill 11–The Planning Amendment Act
Hon. Jennifer Howard (Government House Leader): I move, seconded by the Minister of Agriculture (Mr. Struthers), that Bill 11, The Planning Amendment Act; Loi modifiant la Loi sur l'aménagement du territoire, reported from the Standing Committee on Social and Economic Development, be concurred in and be now read for a third time and passed.
Motion presented.
Hon. Jon Gerrard (River Heights): Wait a minute. We're on 11? Yes, I'm ready to support this legislation and just want to so note. Thank you.
Mr. Speaker: Is the House ready for the question?
An Honourable Member: Question.
Mr. Speaker: The question before the House is Bill 11, The Planning Amendment Act.
Is it the pleasure of the House to adopt the motion? [Agreed]
Bill
48–The Planning and Land Dedication for School Sites Act
(Various Acts Amended)
Hon. Jennifer Howard (Government House Leader): I move, seconded by the Minister of Agriculture (Mr. Struthers), that Bill 48, The Planning and Land Dedication for School Sites Act (Various Acts Amended); Loi sur la planification et les affectations de biens-fonds concernant les emplacements scolaires (modification de diverses dispositions législatives), as amended and reported from the Standing Committee on Human Resources, be concurred in and now be read for a third time and passed.
Motion presented.
Hon. Jon Gerrard (River Heights): Yes, Mr. Speaker, I want to put on record that, while I strongly support making sure that there is good planning and that there are schools available in new areas that are developed that are appropriate and that are there for people in new subdivisions, that I am opposed to this particular bill, because I believe it's bad legislation.
This bill really tries to fix a problem which this government itself created when it brought in legislation–I think it was 2002 or 2003–and that, you know, faulty legislation created this problem as was made very clear at the committee stage, and it was an NDP mistake back then and, as a number of people at committee stage said, that it would have been far better to return to the legislation as it had been, or something similar to that, rather than to do it in this fashion.
So while I strongly support having space and making sure that there is space for schools, I'm stand opposed to this particular piece of legislation.
Thank you.
Mr. Speaker: Is the House ready for the question?
An Honourable Member: Question.
Mr. Speaker: The question before the House is Bill 48, The Planning and Land Dedication for School Sites Act (Various Acts Amended).
Is it the pleasure of the House to adopt the motion?
Some Honourable Members: Agreed.
Some Honourable Members: No.
Voice Vote
Mr. Speaker: All those in favour of the motion, say aye.
Some Honourable Members: Aye.
Mr. Speaker: All those opposed to the motion, say nay.
Some Honourable Members: Nay.
Mr. Speaker: In my opinion, the Ayes have it.
Bill 24–The Innovation Funding Act
Hon. Jennifer Howard (Government House Leader): I move, seconded by the Minister of Agriculture (Mr. Struthers), that Bill 24, The Innovation Funding Act; Loi sur le financement de l'innovation, reported from the Standing Committee on Human Resources, be concurred in and be now read for a third time and passed.
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Motion presented.
Mr. Speaker: Is the House ready for the question?
Some Honourable Members: Question.
Mr. Speaker: The question for the House is Bill 24, The Innovation Funding Act.
Is it the pleasure of the House to adopt the motion? [Agreed]
Bill 26–The Université de Saint-Boniface Act
Hon. Jennifer Howard (Government House Leader): I move, seconded by the Minister of Education (Ms. Allan), that Bill 26, The Université de Saint-Boniface Act; Loi sur l'Université de Saint-Boniface, reported from the Standing Committee on Human Resources, be concurred in and be now read for a third time and passed.
Motion presented.
Mr. Speaker: Is the House ready for the question?
Some Honourable Members: Question.
Mr. Speaker: The question before the House is Bill 26, The Université de Saint-Boniface Act.
Is it the pleasure of the House to adopt the motion? [Agreed]
Bill 42–The Caregiver Recognition Act
Hon. Jennifer Howard (Government House Leader): I move, seconded by the Minister of Healthy Living (Mr. Rondeau), that Bill 42, The Caregiver Recognition Act; Loi sur la reconnaissance de l'apport des aidants naturels, reported from the Standing Committee on Human Resources, be concurred in and be now read for a third time and passed.
Motion presented.
Hon. Jon Gerrard (River Heights): Mr. Speaker, just very briefly, I want to say a thank-you to those who came into committee on this act and recognize the importance of caregiving in this province and strongly support this piece of legislation.
Mr. Speaker: Is the House ready for the question?
Some Honourable Members: Question.
Mr. Speaker: Question for the House is Bill 42, The Caregiver Recognition Act.
Is it the pleasure of the House to adopt the motion? [Agreed]
Bill 50–The Thompson Nickel Belt Sustainability Act
Hon. Jennifer Howard (Government House Leader): I move, seconded by the Minister of Agriculture (Mr. Struthers), that Bill 50, The Thompson Nickel Belt Sustainability Act; Loi sur la viabilité de la ceinture nickélifère de Thompson, as amended and reported from the Standing Committee on Human Resources, be concurred in and be now read for a third time and passed.
Motion presented.
Hon. Jon Gerrard (River Heights): Mr. Speaker, I support this legislation, but I just note that some in Thompson feel that this is more about the–should be an act for the sustainability of the MLA for Thompson.
I think that we need to recognize that there's some political motivation here, but I'm ready to support it.
Mr. Speaker: Is the House ready for the question?
Some Honourable Members: Question.
Mr. Speaker: Question for the House is Bill 50, The Thompson Nickel Belt Sustainability Act.
Pleasure of the House to adopt the motion? Agreed? [Agreed]
House Business
Mr. Speaker: The honourable Government House Leader, on further House business.
Ms. Howard: Yes, Mr. Speaker, on House business. Would you call third readings on bills 15, 23, 32, 33, 34 and 47.
Mr. Speaker: Okay, we'll deal bills in this order of concurrence third reading. We'll deal with 15, 23, 32, 33, 34 and 47.
Bill 15–The Firefighters and Paramedics Arbitration Amendment Act
Hon. Jennifer Howard (Government House Leader): I move, seconded by the Minister of Education (Ms. Allan), that Bill 15, The Firefighters and Paramedics Arbitration Amendment Act; Loi modifiant la Loi sur l'arbitrage relatif aux pompiers et aux travailleurs paramédicaux, reported from the Standing Committee on Social and Economic Development, be concurred in and be now read for a third time and passed.
Motion presented.
Mr. Speaker: House ready for the question?
Some Honourable Members: Question.
Mr. Speaker: The question before the House is Bill 15, The Firefighters and Paramedics Arbitration Amendment Act.
Is it the pleasure of the House to adopt the motion? [Agreed]
Bill 23–The Employment Standards Code Amendment Act
Hon. Jennifer Howard (Government House Leader): I move, seconded by the Minister of Education (Ms. Allan), that Bill 23, The Employment Standards Code Amendment Act; Loi modifiant le Code des normes d'emploi, reported from the Standing Committee on Social and Economic Development, be concurred in and be now read for a third time and passed.
Motion presented.
Mr. Speaker: House ready for the question?
Some Honourable Members: Question.
Mr. Speaker: The question before the House is Bill 23, The Employment Standards Code Amendment Act.
Is it the pleasure of the House to adopt the motion? [Agreed]
Bill 32–The Essential Services (Health Care) and Related Amendments Act
Hon. Jennifer Howard (Government House Leader): I move, seconded by the Minister of Education (Ms. Allan), that Bill 32, The Essential Services (Health Care) and Related Amendments Act; Loi sur les services essentiels (soins de santé) et modifications connexes, as amended and reported from the Standing Committee on Social and Economic Development, be concurred in and be now read for a third time and passed.
Motion presented.
Mr. Speaker: House ready for the question?
Some Honourable Members: Question.
Mr. Speaker: Okay. The question before the House is Bill 32, The Essential Services (Health Care) and Related Amendments Act.
Is it the pleasure of the House to adopt the motion? [Agreed]
Bill 33–The Pension Benefits Amendment Act
Hon. Jennifer Howard (Government House Leader): I move, seconded by the Minister of Education (Ms. Allan), that Bill 33, The Pension Benefits Amendment Act; Loi modifiant la Loi sur les prestations de pension, reported from the Standing Committee on Social and Economic Development, be concurred in and be now read for a third time and passed.
Motion presented.
Mr. Speaker: Is it the pleasure of the House to adopt the motion–is it–is the House ready for question?
Some Honourable Members: Question.
Mr. Speaker: The question before the House is The Pension Benefits Amendment Act, Bill 33.
Is it the pleasure of the House to adopt the motion? [Agreed]
Bill
34–The Workers Compensation Amendment Act
(Presumption re OFC Personnel)
Hon. Jennifer Howard (Government House Leader): I move, seconded by the Minister of Education (Ms. Allan), that Bill 34, The Workers Compensation Amendment Act (Presumption re OFC Personnel); Loi modifiant la Loi sur les accidents du travail (présomption s'appliquant au personnel du bureau du commissaire aux incendies), reported from the Standing Committee on Social and Economic Development, be concurred in and be now read for a third time and passed.
Motion presented.
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Hon. Jon Gerrard (River Heights): I just want to indicate support for this legislation. Thank you.
Mr. Speaker: Is the House ready for the question?
An Honourable Member: Question.
Mr. Speaker: The question for the House is Bill 34, The Workers Compensation Amendment Act (Presumption re OFC Personnel).
Is it the pleasure of the House to adopt the motion? [Agreed]
Bill 47–The Accessibility Advisory Council Act and Amendments to The Government Purchases Act
Hon. Jennifer Howard (Government House Leader): I move, seconded by the Minister of Housing and Community Development (Ms. Irvin-Ross) that Bill 47, The Accessibility Advisory Council Act and Amendments to The Government Purchases Act; Loi sur le Conseil consultatif de l'accessibilité et modifiant la Loi sur les achats du gouvernement, as amended and reported from the Standing Committee on Human Resources, be concurred in and be now read for a third time and passed.
Motion presented.
Hon. Jon Gerrard (River Heights): Mr. Speaker, I just want to rise to indicate very strong support for a more accessible Manitoba. I recognize that this is one step in that direction and that much, much more needs to be done. Thank you.
Mr. Speaker: Is the House ready for the question?
An Honourable Member: Question.
Mr. Speaker: The question for the House is Bill 47, The Accessibility Advisory Council Act and Amendments to The Government Purchases Act.
Is it the pleasure of the House to adopt the motion? [Agreed]
House Business
Mr. Speaker: The honourable Government House Leader, on further House business?
Ms. Howard: Yes, Mr. Speaker, would you resolve us into the Committee of Supply to complete consideration of concurrence.
Mr. Speaker: We will now resolve into Committee of Supply.
Madam Deputy Speaker, please take the Chair.
COMMITTEE OF SUPPLY
Madam Chairperson (Marilyn Brick): Will the Committee of Supply please come to order. The committee has before it for consideration the motion concurring in all Supply resolutions relating to the Estimates of Expenditure for the fiscal year ending March 31st, 2012.
On May 25th, 2011, the Official Opposition House Leader (Mrs. Taillieu) tabled the following list of ministers of the Crown who may be called for questioning in debate on the concurrence motion: Minister of Water Stewardship (Ms. Melnick), the First Minister (Mr. Selinger), the Minister for Health (Ms. Oswald), and the Minister for Justice (Mr. Swan). The floor is now open for questions.
Is the committee ready for the question?
Some Honourable Members: Question.
Madam Chairperson: The question before the committee is: It has been moved by the Government House Leader (Ms. Howard) that the Committee of Supply concur in all Supply resolutions relating to the Estimates of Expenditure for the fiscal year ending March 31st, 2012, which have now been adopted at this session by a section of the Committee of Supply or by full committee.
Shall the motion pass? [Agreed]
Committee rise. Call in the Speaker.
IN SESSION
Committee Report
Ms. Marilyn Brick (Chairperson): Mr. Speaker, the Committee of Supply has adopted a motion regarding concurrence in Supply.
I move, seconded by the honourable member for Flin Flon (Mr. Jennissen), that the report of the committee be received.
Motion agreed to.
Hon. Jennifer Howard (Government House Leader): I move, seconded by the Minister of Finance (Ms. Wowchuk), that this House concur in the report of the Committee of Supply respecting concurrence in all Supply resolutions relating to the Estimates of Expenditure for the fiscal year ending March 31st, 2012.
Motion agreed to.
* (16:40)
Hon. Rosann Wowchuk (Minister of Finance): Mr. Speaker, I move, seconded by the Minister of Education (Ms. Allan), that there be granted out of the Consolidated Fund for Capital purposes, the sum of $1,419,028,000 for the fiscal year ending March 31st, 2012.
Motion presented.
Mr. Speaker: Is it the pleasure of the House to adopt the motion? Agreed?
Some Honourable Members: Agreed.
Mr. Speaker: Agreed?
An Honourable Member: No.
Mr. Speaker: No? No. Okay.
Voice Vote
Mr. Speaker: All those in favour of the motion, say aye.
Some Honourable Members: Aye.
Mr. Speaker: All those opposed to the motion, say nay.
Some Honourable Members: Nay.
Mr. Speaker: In my opinion, the Ayes have it.
Mrs. Mavis Taillieu (Official Opposition House Leader): On division, Mr. Speaker.
Mr. Speaker: On division.
* * *
Ms. Wowchuk: Mr. Speaker, I move, seconded by the Minister of Health (Ms. Oswald),
THAT there be granted to Her Majesty for the Public Service of the Province for the fiscal year ending March 31st, 2012, out of the Consolidated Fund, a sum of $11,087,745,000, as set out in Part A and–of the Operating Expenditure, and $808,050,000, as set out in Part B of the Capital–Part B, Capital Investments, of the Estimates.
Mr. Speaker: It might help with the mike on, eh?
It's been moved by the honourable Minister of Finance, seconded by the honourable Minister for Health,
THAT there be granted to Her Majesty for the Public Service of the Province for the fiscal year ending March 31st, 2012, out of the Consolidated Fund, a sum of $11,087,745,000, as set out in Part A, Operating Expenditure, and $808,050,000, as set out in Part B, Capital Investment, of the Estimates.
Is it the pleasure of the House to adopt the motion? [Agreed]
Bill 52–The Appropriation Act, 2011
Hon. Rosann Wowchuk (Minister of Finance): Mr. Speaker, I move, seconded by the Minister of Labour (Ms. Howard), that Bill 52, The Appropriation Act, 2011, be now read a first time and be ordered for a second reading immediately.
Mr. Speaker: It's been moved by the honourable Minister of Finance, seconded by the honourable Minister of Labour and Immigration, that Bill 52, The Appropriation Act, 2011, be now read a first time and ordered for second reading immediately.
Is it the pleasure of the House to adopt the motion? [Agreed]
House Business
Mr. Speaker: The honourable Government House Leader, on House business?
Hon. Jennifer Howard (Government House Leader): Yes, Mr. Speaker. I wonder if you might see if there's leave to not see the clock and revisit at 6 o'clock or sooner if we've completed the business of the House.
Mr. Speaker: Order. Can we have order, please?
We're trying to do House business. We can't hear–can't hear the House leader. Order.
Okay, please repeat.
Ms. Howard: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would wonder if you could seek leave to not see the clock and revisit at 6 o'clock so we can complete the business of the House.
Mr. Speaker: Is it the will of the House for the Speaker to not see the clock, and, if we're continuing, to revisit it at 6 p.m.
Is there agreement of the House? [Agreed]
Okay. That's been agreed to.
Bill 52–The Appropriation Act, 2011
Hon. Rosann Wowchuk (Minister of Finance): I move, seconded by the Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Initiatives (Mr. Struthers), that Bill 52, The Appropriation Act, 2011, be now read a second time and be referred to a Committee of the Whole.
Motion presented.
Mr. Speaker: Is the House ready for the question?
An Honourable Member: Question.
Mr. Speaker: The question before the House is Bill 52, The Appropriation Act, 2011.
Is it the pleasure of the House to adopt the motion? [Agreed]
INTRODUCTION OF BILLS
Bill 53–The Loan Act, 2011
Hon. Rosann Wowchuk (Minister of Finance): I move, seconded by the Minister of Local Government (Mr. Lemieux), that Bill 53, The Loan Act, 2011, be now read a first time and be ordered for a second reading immediately.
Motion presented.
Mr. Speaker: Is it the pleasure of the House to adopt the motion?
Agreed? Agreed and so ordered.
Voice Vote
Mr. Speaker: Okay, all those in favour of the motion, say aye.
Some Honourable Members: Aye.
Mr. Speaker: All those opposed, say nay.
Some Honourable Members: Nay.
Mr. Speaker: In my opinion, the Ayes have it.
Mrs. Mavis Taillieu (Official Opposition House Leader): On division, Mr. Speaker.
Mr. Speaker: On division.
* (16:50)
SECOND READINGS
Bill 53–The Loan Act, 2011
Hon. Rosann Wowchuk (Minister of Finance): I move, seconded by the honourable Attorney General (Mr. Swan), that Bill 53, The Loan Act, 2011, be now read a second time and be referred to a Committee of the Whole.
Motion presented.
Mr. Speaker: Is it the pleasure of the House to adopt the motion?
Some Honourable Members: Agreed.
Some Honourable Members: No.
Mr. Speaker: No? No.
Voice Vote
Mr. Speaker: All those in favour of the motion, say aye.
Some Honourable Members: Aye.
Mr. Speaker: All those opposed, say nay.
Some Honourable Members: Nay.
Mr. Speaker: In my opinion, the Ayes have it.
Mrs. Mavis Taillieu (Official Opposition House Leader): On division, Mr. Speaker.
Mr. Speaker: On division.
* * *
Mr. Speaker: The House will now resolve into Committee of the Whole to consider and report on the Capital Supply bill, The Loan Act, and the main supply bill, The Appropriation Act and Budget Implementation and Tax Statutes Amendment Act, 2011, for concurrence and third reading.
Would Madam Deputy Speaker please take the Chair.
Madam Chairperson (Marilyn Brick): The Committee of the Whole will come to order to consider the following bills: Bill 51, The Budget Implementation and Tax Statutes Amendment Act, 2011; Bill 52, The Appropriation Act, 2011; and Bill 53, The Loan Act, 2011.
During the consideration of these bills, the table of contents, the enacting clauses and the title are postponed until all other clauses have been considered in their proper order. Also, if there is agreement from the committee, I will call clauses in blocks that conform to pages.
Is that agreed? [Agreed]
Bill 51–The Budget Implementation and Tax Statutes Amendment Act, 2011
Madam Chairperson: Does the minister responsible for Bill 51 have an opening statement?
Hon. Rosann Wowchuk (Minister of Finance): No.
Madam Chairperson: We thank the minister.
Does the critic for the official opposition have an opening statement? We thank the member.
Due to the size and structure of Bill 51, is it the will of the committee to consider the bill in blocks of clauses conforming–corresponding to its five parts and schedules, with the understanding that we will stop at any particular clause or clauses where members may have comments, questions or amendments to propose? Is that agreed? [Agreed]
Clauses 1 through 4–pass; clauses 5 through 7–pass; clauses 8 through 12–pass; clauses 13 through 32–pass; clauses 33 through 38–pass; clauses 39 through 46–pass; clauses 47 through 62–pass; clauses 63 through 68–pass; clauses 69 through 76–pass; clause 77–pass.
Schedule A: clauses 1 through 7–pass.
Schedule B: clauses 1 through 8–pass.
Table of Contents of Schedule A–pass.
Table of Contents of Schedule B–pass.
Table of Contents–pass; enacting clause–pass.
Title of Schedule A–pass.
Title of Schedule B–pass.
Title–pass. Bill be reported.
Bill 52–The Appropriation Act, 2011
Madam Chairperson: Does the minister responsible for Bill 52 have any opening statement?
Hon. Rosann Wowchuk (Minister of Finance): No.
Madam Chairperson: No, we thank the minister.
Does the critic from the official opposition have an opening statement? We thank the member.
Clauses 1 and 2–pass; clauses 3 through 6–pass; schedule–pass; enacting clause–pass; title–pass. Bill be reported.
Bill 53–The Loan Act, 2011
Madam Chairperson: Does the minister responsible for Bill 53 have an opening statement?
Hon. Rosann Wowchuk (Minister of Finance): No.
Madam Chairperson: We thank the minister.
Does the critic from the official opposition have an opening statement? We thank the member.
Shall clauses 1 and 2 pass?
An Honourable Member: Pass.
Madam Chairperson: Clauses 1 and 2–oh, sorry.
Mrs. Mavis Taillieu (Morris): [inaudible]
Madam Chairperson: No.
Voice Vote
Madam Chairperson: All those in favour of clause 1 passing, say aye.
Some Honourable Members: Aye.
Madam Chairperson: All those opposed to clause 1 passing, say nay.
Some Honourable Members: Nay.
Madam Chairperson: In my opinion, the Ayes have it.
Mrs. Mavis Taillieu (Official Opposition House Leader): On division.
Madam Chairperson: On division.
Clause 1 is accordingly passed, on division.
* * *
Madam Chairperson: Shall clause 2 pass?
Some Honourable Members: Aye.
An Honourable Member: No.
Madam Chairperson: I hear a no.
* (17:00)
Voice Vote
Madam Chairperson: All those in favour of clause 2 passing, say yea.
Some Honourable Members: Yea.
Madam Chairperson: All those opposed to clause 2 passing, say nay.
Some Honourable Members: Nay.
Madam Chairperson: In my opinion, the Yeas have it.
Mrs. Taillieu: On division.
Madam Chairperson: On division.
Clause 2 is passed with–on division.
* * *
Madam Chairperson: Shall clauses 3 through 5 pass?
Some Honourable Members: Pass.
Some Honourable Members: No.
Mrs. Taillieu: On division.
Madam Chairperson: Clauses–shall clauses–clauses 3 through 5 are accordingly passed, on division.
Shall clauses 6 and 7 pass?
Some Honourable Members: Pass.
Some Honourable Members: No.
An Honourable Member: On division.
Madam Chairperson: Clauses 6 and 7 are accordingly passed, on division.
Shall the schedule be passed?
Some Honourable Members: Pass.
An Honourable Member: On division.
Madam Chairperson: The schedule is accordingly passed, on division.
Shall the enacting clause pass?
Some Honourable Members: Pass.
Mrs. Taillieu: On division.
Madam Chairperson: The enacting clause is accordingly passed, on division.
Shall the title pass?
Some Honourable Members: Pass.
Mrs. Taillieu: On division.
Madam Chairperson: The title is accordingly passed, on division.
Shall the bill be reported?
Some Honourable Members: Agreed.
An Honourable Member: On division.
Madam Chairperson: The honourable member for Morris, on–the bill shall be reported, on division.
That concludes the business currently before us.
Committee rise. Call in the Speaker.
Committee Report
Ms. Marilyn Brick (Chairperson): Mr. Speaker, the Committee of the Whole has considered the following bills: Bill 51, The Budget Implementation and Tax Statutes Amendment Act, 2011; Bill 52, The Appropriation Act, 2011; and Bill 53, The Loan Act, 2011, and reports the same without amendment, although, Bill 53, The Loan Act, 2011 was agreed to report on division.
I move, seconded by the honourable member for Burrows (Mr. Martindale), that the report of the committee be received.
Mr. Speaker: It's been moved by the honourable member for St. Norbert, seconded by the honourable member for–
It's been moved by the honourable member for St. Norbert, seconded by the honourable member for Burrows (Mr. Martindale), that the report of the Committee of the Whole be received. [Agreed]
CONCURRENCE AND THIRD READINGS
Bill 53–The Loan Act, 2011
Hon. Jennifer Howard (Government House Leader): I move, seconded by the Minister of Finance (Ms. Wowchuk), that Bill 53, The Loan Act 2011; Loi d'emprunt de 2011, reported from the Committee of the Whole, be concurred in and be now read for a third time and passed.
Mr. Speaker: Agreed?
An Honourable Member: No.
Mr. Speaker: No?
Voice Vote
Mr. Speaker: All those in favour of the motion, say yea.
Some Honourable Members: Yea.
Mr. Speaker: All those opposed, say nay.
Some Honourable Members: Nay.
Mr. Speaker: In my opinion, the Yeas have it.
Mrs. Mavis Taillieu (Official Opposition House Leader): On division, Mr. Speaker.
Mr. Speaker: On division.
Bill 52–The Appropriation Act, 2011
Hon. Jennifer Howard (Government House Leader): I move, seconded by the Minister of Finance (Ms. Wowchuk), that Bill 52, The Appropriation Act, 2011; Loi de 2011 portant affectation de crédits, reported from the Committee of the Whole, be concurred in and be now read for a third time and passed.
Motion agreed to.
Bill 51–The Budget Implementation and Tax Statutes Amendment Act, 2011
Hon. Jennifer Howard (Government House Leader): I move, seconded by the Minister of Finance (Ms. Wowchuk), that Bill 51, The Budget Implementation and Tax Statutes Amendment Act, 2011; Loi d'exécution du budget de 2011 et modifiant diverses dispositions législatives en matière de fiscalité, reported from the Committee of the Whole, be concurred in and be now read for a third time and passed.
Motion agreed to.
House Business
Mr. Speaker: The honourable Government House Leader, on House business.
Hon. Jennifer Howard (Government House Leader): Yes, Mr. Speaker, would you call for report stage amendments on Bill 46, please.
Bill 46–The Save Lake Winnipeg Act
Mr. Speaker: Report stage amendment, Bill 46.
Hon. Stan Struthers (Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Initiatives): I move, seconded by the Minister for Labour and Immigration (Ms. Howard),
THAT Bill 46 be amended in Clause 16 by adding "biological nutrient removal" after "best available" in item 2 of the proposed subsection 4.2(2) of The Water Protection Act.
* (17:10)
Mr. Speaker: It's been moved by the honourable Minister of Agriculture and Food (Mr. Struthers), seconded by the honourable Minister of Labour and Immigration (Ms. Howard),
THAT Bill 46 be amended in Clause 16 by adding "biological nutrient removal" after "best available" in item 2 of the proposed section 42.2(2) of The Water Protection Act.
Mrs. Mavis Taillieu (Official Opposition House Leader): Mr. Speaker, the amendment that was circulated has–it's moved by the honourable Mr. Blaikie–sorry, the honourable member for Conservation.
Mr. Speaker: This just gives you an outline because it was printed earlier, but any minister of the Crown can move the motion, so it doesn't have to be the minister that you see on here.
THAT Bill 46 be amended in Clause 16 by adding "biological nutrient removal" after "best available" in item 2 of the proposed subsection 42.2(2) of The Water Protection Act.
Is it the pleasure of the House to adopt the motion?
Mr. Struthers: Nutrient removal must be achieved primarily by biological methods through application of the best available technologies for biological nutrient remover. This amendment further clarifies that a modern state-of-the-art full BNR plant capable of dealing with growth and stricter ammonia standards is required for the City of Winnipeg's North End sewage plant. This will require a $350-million investment, but it is worth it to protect our water and Lake Winnipeg and for the city to have a state-of-the-art facility to serve it well into the future.
Mr. Speaker, I wholeheartedly agree with Councillor Jeff Browaty when he said you can't put a price on clean, safe water.
Mr. Speaker: Is the House ready for the question?
Mr. Larry Maguire (Arthur-Virden): Just for clarification, Mr. Speaker, the way the minister just read that amendment was that nutrient removal must be achieved primarily by biological methods through application of the best available technologies for biological nutrient removal. I'm assuming that he means that the best biological nutrient removal should come between best available and technologies? That's the way the act–that's the way the amendment states it. Not that it makes a lot of difference.
Mr. Speaker: Is it the pleasure of the House to adopt the amendment? Oh, we have a speaker.
The honourable member for River Heights, to speak to the amendment.
Hon. Jon Gerrard (River Heights): I just find it a little curious that the member would not accept the best available technologies and wants to have it constrained to certain types of technologies. Certainly, if it was found, after very careful study, that the best available technology was technology which was cheaper but very effective, and the phosphorus could be recycled and all these things, then the minister may be unduly restricting the choices of the City of Winnipeg. I just want to point that out to the minister.
Mr. Speaker: Okay, is the House ready for the vote, or for the question?
Some Honourable Members: Question.
Mr. Speaker: The question before the House is amendment that was moved.
Is it the pleasure of the House to adopt the amendment? [Agreed]
The honourable Government House Leader, on House business.
House Business
Hon. Jennifer Howard (Government House Leader): Yes, Mr. Speaker, could you note that that amendment was passed unanimously.
Mr. Speaker: The amendment has been passed unanimously.
The honourable Government House Leader, on further House business.
Ms. Howard: Yes, Mr. Speaker, could you call third reading for Bill 46.
Bill 46–The Save Lake Winnipeg Act
Mr. Speaker: Okay, we'll now call concurrence and third reading of Bill 46, The Save Lake Winnipeg Act.
Hon. Jennifer Howard (Government House Leader): I move, seconded by the Minister of Agriculture (Mr. Struthers), that Bill 46, The Save Lake Winnipeg Act; Loi sur la protection du lac Winnipeg, reported from the Standing Committee on Social and Economic Development, and subsequently amended, be concurred in and be now read for a third time and passed.
Motion presented.
Mr. Hugh McFadyen (Leader of the Official Opposition): I would just note that 11 and a half years after taking government that, as of last night, raw sewage was flowing into our rivers with the rainfall, that the state of Lake Winnipeg is worse than at any time in the province's history.
And I think it's notable, Mr. Speaker, that the NDP government would wait until the very last piece of legislation, in the last session before the election, to get on with cleaning up Lake Winnipeg. And what it sends is a very clear message: This is the absolute bottom, last priority for this NDP government.
Hon. Jon Gerrard (River Heights): Mr. Speaker, as I've indicated, I have some serious reservations about this legislation, which doesn't adequately specify the timelines and the targets and how they are going to be achieved. So it's much less than we should have had. And, clearly, there are some significant deficiencies here.
But, as a step which has been brought forward on the very last day of 12 years of session, I'm prepared at this juncture to support it, but just feel that after 12 years, we should have had something that was much better.
Thank you.
Mr. Larry Maguire (Arthur-Virden): I just want to put a few words on the record in regards to Bill 46, and to say that we all know that Lake Winnipeg is an important natural resource and must be protected for future generations.
We also note, Mr. Speaker, in first and second readings, that this bill affects five different pieces of legislation, including The Crown Lands Act, The Environment Act, The Mines and Minerals Act, The Planning Act, and The Water Protection Act.
And on Monday and Tuesday of this week, in the evenings, we had committee on Bill 46, and there was a broad array of stakeholders made presentations, representing local governments, business and industry, the research community, First Nations and others interested citizens.
* (17:20)
There was a common thread in those presentations, and that was that we all have a role to play in reducing the levels of nutrients coming into, not just Lake Winnipeg, but also the other bodies of water around the province. And there was complete recognition that some of the point sources of nutrient loading into Lake Winnipeg originate in Manitoba as well, and many from outside of our provincial boundaries.
There was recognition that provincial policy-makers must continue to work with policy-makers throughout the whole watershed area, as I've just said, to develop strategies to help reduce nutrient loading affecting the lake throughout that area, all the way to the Rockies and down to South Dakota.
Restoring the health of Lake Winnipeg will take time and considerable investment of public and private resources, but that should not deter us from this important task. Ongoing advances in science and technology will help us better manage these challenges. They should be incorporated into nutrient management strategies wherever possible.
In closing, the common theme that we heard throughout the committee presentations was that deep commitment from stakeholders to try to restore the health of Lake Winnipeg, Mr. Speaker. And we share that commitment.
I'd just like to take an opportunity as well, to thank you, personally, Mr. Speaker, for your time in the chair, and I guess I'd be remiss if I didn't say that you'd probably be the happiest guy in town if the new hockey team could draft Mr. Tootoo, your nephew, back to town here. So, congratulations, and we'll keep our eyes open.
Thanks to my colleagues that are retiring.
And, with those few words, Mr. Speaker, I just wanted to allow this bill to be passed. Thank you.
Hon. Stan Struthers (Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Initiatives): And I, too, want to join with everyone to wish you all the best as you move on from here and tell you what a great job you've done as Speaker, and I hope the next Speaker quotes you often and–as your precedents in this House.
Mr. Speaker, though, I must say, the phoniness of what I just heard come from across the way is stunning, absolutely stunning. For 11 and a half years, this government has put forward motions, legislation, lines in budgets, one measure after the other to protect Lake Winnipeg, and on every single count, members opposite opposed it, worked against it, voted against it, talked in the coffee shops against it.
At the 11th hour, they've come to some kind of conversion on the road to Damascus, a phony-baloney conversion at the very last moment in order to get them through the next election, Mr. Speaker. Well, we have no doubt–we have no doubt that this is a group of people who do not support any of the protections for Lake Winnipeg, including Bill 46, and if they ever have the chance, they will repeal Bill 46, and they have said so much as that. They said they'd repeal Bill 17; they'll do it to this one too.
Mr. Speaker, Manitobans are smarter than that. They won't believe this phony-baloney conversion of members opposite. They know the party in this House that stands up for Lake Winnipeg. They know we've put our money where our mouth is. They know that we're working to protect Lake Winnipeg and improve that for our kids and our grandkids. They'll see right through the phoniness of members opposite.
So let's get on with it, Mr. Speaker, and let's save Lake Winnipeg.
Mr. Speaker: Is the House ready for the question?
Some Honourable Members: Question.
Mr. Speaker: The question before the House, concurrence, third reading of Bill 46, The Save Lake Winnipeg Act.
Is it the pleasure of the House to adopt the motion? [Agreed]
Some Honourable Members: Busted, busted.
Mr. Speaker: The honourable–order.
House Business
Mr. Speaker: The honourable Government House Leader, on further House business.
Hon. Jennifer Howard (Government House Leader): Yes, Mr. Speaker, would you note that that last vote was unanimous.
Mr. Speaker: What was that?
The vote on Bill 46 was unanimous.
Point of Order
Mr. Hugh McFadyen (Leader of the Official Opposition): Just a point of order, Mr. Speaker.
Mr. Speaker: On a point of order.
Mr. McFadyen: Could we note that neither the Premier (Mr. Selinger) nor the minister of environment were present for that bill, Mr. Speaker?
Mr. Speaker: Order.
Some Honourable Members: Oh, oh.
Mr. Speaker: Order. All members know the rules about mentioning members that are either present or absent from the House. All members know that rule.
* * *
Mr. Speaker: Order. Bill 46 has been passed unanimously, as amended.
House Business
Mr. Speaker: Okay, the honourable Government House Leader, on further House business.
Hon. Jennifer Howard (Government House Leader): Yes, Mr. Speaker, I believe we're ready for royal assent–[interjection] No?
Mr. Speaker: Okay, sorry about that.
The–on third readings, when bills are amended, it's just as passed; you don't read the amendment part.
So the Bill 46 has been passed.
Mr. Speaker: The honourable Government House Leader, on House business.
Ms. Howard: Yes, Mr. Speaker, I believe we're ready for royal assent.
Some Honourable Members: Oh, oh.
* (17:30)
Deputy Sergeant-at-Arms (Mr. Ray Gislason): His Honour the Lieutenant-Governor.
Mr. Speaker: Your Honour:
The Legislative Assembly of Manitoba asks your House to–Your Honour to accept the following bills:
Madam Clerk Assistant (Monique Grenier):
Bill 52–The Appropriation Act, 2011; Loi de 2011 portant affectation de credits
Bill 53–The Loan Act, 2011; Loi d'emprunt de 2011
Madam Clerk (Patricia Chaychuk): In Her Majesty's name, the Lieutenant-Governor thanks the Assembly and assents to these bills.
Mr. Speaker: Your Honour:
At this sitting, the Legislative Assembly has passed certain bills that I ask Your Honour to give assent to.
Madam Clerk Assistant (Monique Grenier):
Bill 6–The Workers Compensation Amendment Act; Loi modifiant la Loi sur les accidents du travail
Bill 11–The Planning Amendment Act; Loi modifiant la Loi sur l'aménagement du territoire
Bill 13–The Preparing Students for Success Act (Various Acts Amended); Loi visant la réussite scolaire (modification de diverses dispositions législatives)
Bill 14–The Prescription Drugs Cost Assistance Amendment Act (Prescription Drug Monitoring and Miscellaneous Amendments); Loi modifiant la Loi sur l'aide à l'achat de médicaments sur ordonnance (contrôle de certains médicaments couverts et modifications diverses)
Bill 15–The Firefighters and Paramedics Arbitration Amendment Act; Loi modifiant la Loi sur l'arbitrage relatif aux pompiers et aux travailleurs paramédicaux
Bill 16–The Safer Communities and Neighbourhoods Amendment and Criminal Property Forfeiture Amendment Act; Loi modifiant la Loi visant à accroître la sécurité des collectivités et des quartiers et la Loi sur la confiscation de biens obtenus ou utilisés criminellement
Bill 17–The Cooperatives Amendment Act; Loi modifiant la Loi sur les coopératives
Bill 18–The Highway Traffic Amendment Act; Loi modifiant le Code de la route
Bill 19–The Provincial Court Amendment Act (Senior Judges); Loi modifiant la Loi sur la Cour provinciale (juges aînés)
Bill 20–The Defibrillator Public Access Act; Loi sur l'accès du public aux défibrillateurs
Bill 21–The Organ and Tissue Donation Awareness Day Act; Loi sur la Journée de sensibilisation aux dons d'organes et de tissus
Bill 22–The Securities Amendment Act; Loi modifiant la Loi sur les valeurs mobilières
Bill 23–The Employment Standards Code Amendment Act; Loi modifiant le Code des normes d'emploi
Bill 24–The Innovation Funding Act; Loi sur le financement de l'innovation
Bill 25–The Inter-jurisdictional Support Orders Amendment Act; Loi modifiant la Loi sur l'établissement et l'exécution réciproque des ordonnances alimentaires
Bill 26–The Université de Saint-Boniface Act; Loi sur l'Université de Saint-Boniface
Bill 27–The Manitoba Ukrainian Canadian Heritage Day Act; Loi sur le Jour du patrimoine ukrainien-canadien au Manitoba
Bill 28–The Public Schools Amendment Act (Reporting Bullying and Other Harm); Loi modifiant la Loi sur les écoles publiques (obligation de faire rapport des cas d'intimidation et des préjudices subis)
Bill 29–The Child Sexual Exploitation and Human Trafficking Act; Loi sur l'exploitation sexuelle d'enfants et le traite de personnes
Bill 30–The Change of Name Amendment Act; Loi modifiant la Loi sur le changement de nom
Bill 31–The Manitoba Public Insurance Corporation Amendment Act; Loi modifiant la Loi sur la Société s'assurance publique du Manitoba
Bill 32–The Essential Services (Health Care) and Related Amendments Act; Loi sur les services essentiels (soins de santé) et modifications connexes
Bill 33–The Pension Benefits Amendment Act; Loi modifiant la Loi sur les prestations de pension
Bill 34–The Workers Compensation Amendment Act (Presumption re OFC Personnel); Loi modifiant la Loi sur les accidents du travail (présomption s'appliquant au personnel du bureau du commissaire aux incendies)
Bill 35–The Consumer Protection Amendment Act (Cell Phone Contracts); Loi modifiant la Loi sur la protection du consommateur (contrats de téléphonie cellulaire)
Bill 36–The Adult Abuse Registry Act and Amendments to The Vulnerable Persons Living with a Mental Disability Act; Loi sur le registre des mauvais traitements infligés aux adultes et modifications concernant la Loi sur les personnes vulnérables ayant une déficience mentale
Bill 37–The Highway Traffic Amendment Act (Accident Reporting Requirements); Loi modifiant le Code de la route (exigences en matière de rapports d'accident)
Bill 38–The Regional Health Authorities Amendment Act (Accountability and Transparency); Loi modifiant la Loi sur les offices régionaux de la santé (responsabilisation et transparence)
Bill 39–The Grieving Families Protection Act (Various Acts Amended); Loi sur la protection des familles en deuil (modification de diverses disposition législatives)
Bill 40–The Condominium Act and Amendments Respecting Condominium Conversions (Various Acts Amended); Loi sur les condominiums et modifications législatives en matière de conversion en condominium
Bill 41–The Liquor Control Amendment Act; Loi modifiant la Loi sur la réglementation des alcools
Bill 42–The Caregiver Recognition Act; Loi sur la reconnaissance de l'apport des aidants naturels
Bill 43–The Real Property Amendment Act; Loi modifiant la Loi sur les biens réels
Bill 44–The Civil Service Superannuation Amendment Act; Loi modifiant la Loi sur la pension de la fonction publique
Bill 45–The Statutes Correction and Minor Amendments Act, 2011; Loi corrective de 2011
Bill 46–The Save Lake Winnipeg Act; Loi sur la protection du lac Winnipeg
Bill 47–The Accessibility Advisory Council Act and Amendments to The Government Purchases Act; Loi sur le Conseil consultatif de l'accessibilité et modifiant la Loi sur les achats du gouvernement
Bill 48–The Planning and Land Dedication for School Sites Act (Various Acts Amended); Loi sur la planification et les affectations de biens-fonds concernant les emplacements scolaires (modification de diverses dispositions législatives)
Bill 49–The Employment and Income Assistance Amendment and Highway Traffic Amendment Act; Loi modifiant la Loi sur l'aide à l'emploi et au revenu et le Code de la route
Bill 50–The Thompson Nickel Belt Sustainability Act; Loi sur la viabilité de la ceinture nickélifère de Thompson
Bill 51–The Budget Implementation and Tax Statutes Amendment Act, 2011; Loi d'exécution du budget de 2011 et modifiant diverses disposition législatives en matière de fiscalité
Bill 204–The Consumer Rights Day Act; Loi sur la journée des Droits du consommateur
Bill 205–The Regional Health Authorities Amendment Act (Mammography Accreditation); Loi modifiant la Loi sur les offices régionaux de la santé (homologation des mammographies)
Bill 217–The Residential Tenancies Amendment Act (Expanded Grounds for Early Termination); Loi modifiant la Loi sur la location à usage d'habitation (nouveaux motifs de résiliation par anticipation)
Bill 220–The Justice For Victims of Child Pornography Act; Loi sur l'indemnisation des victimes de pornographie juvénile
Bill 222–The Sexual Assault Awareness Month Act; Loi sur le Mois de la sensibilisation aux agressions sexuelles
Bill 300–The Winnipeg Foundation Amendment Act; Loi modifiant la Loi sur la fondation dénommée « The Winnipeg Foundation »
Bill 301–The Providence College and Theological Seminary Incorporation Amendment Act; Loi modifiant la Loi constituant en corporation le « Providence College and Theological Seminary »
Madam Clerk (Patricia Chaychuk): In Her Majesty's name, His Honour assents to these bills.
His Honour was then pleased to retire.
* (17:40)
"God Save the Queen" was sung.
"O Canada" was sung.
Mr. Speaker: The hour now being past 5 p.m., this House is adjourned and stands adjourned, and will return at the call of the Speaker. So good luck to everyone.