LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA
Monday, March 10, 2025
The Speaker: O Eternal and Almighty God, from Whom all power and wisdom come, we are assembled here before Thee to frame such laws as may tend to the welfare and prosperity of our province. Grant, O merciful God, we pray Thee, that we may desire only that which is in accordance with Thy will, that we may seek it with wisdom and know it with certainty and accomplish it perfectly for the glory and honour of Thy name and for the welfare of all our people. Amen.
We acknowledge we are gathered on Treaty 1 territory; that Manitoba is located on the treaty territories and ancestral lands of the Anishinaabeg, Anishininewuk, Dakota Oyate, Denesuline and Nehethowuk nations. We acknowledge Manitoba is located on the Homeland of the Red River Métis. We acknowledge northern Manitoba includes lands that were and are the ancestral lands of the Inuit. We respect the spirit and intent of treaties and treaty making and remain committed to working in partnership with First Nations, Inuit and Métis people in the spirit of truth, reconciliation and collaboration.
Please be seated.
Mrs. Lauren Stone (Midland): I move, seconded by the member for Lac du Bonnet (Mr. Ewasko), that Bill 224, The Budget Bill Public Accountability Act, be now read a first time.
Motion presented.
Mrs. Stone: The Budget Bill Public Accountability Act will ensure that any budget implementation bill must be referred to a standing committee that allows public representations on the budget bill, and that the committee shall sit for a minimum of 10 hours of public hearings.
The Speaker: Committee reports? Tabling of reports? Ministerial statements–oh, yes.
Is it the pleasure of the House to adopt the motion? [Agreed]
Committee reports?
Tabling of reports?
Ministerial statements?
Hon. Mike Moyes (Minister of Environment and Climate Change): It is an immense honour to rise today to recognize the late Kirk Cadman and the Cadman family, as well as the incredible work of Transplant Manitoba.
Kirk Cadman was a kind and energetic young person who always went out of his way to ensure those around him felt cared for and welcomed. He spent much of his teenage years competing at the University of Manitoba as a national calibre track and field athlete and broke two provincial records: one in the 400‑metre hurdles and the other as a member of the four-by-400-metre relay team. Tragically, Kirk passed away at the age of 20 from a car accident.
It was at this time in 2023 the Cadman family selflessly decided to donate Kirk's organs, saving the lives of seven other people. The Cadman family has continued Kirk's legacy by hosting the Kirk Cadman Memorial Classic track and field meet, creating the Kirk Cadman scholarship and speaking out on the importance of organ donation. All of this in the hopes of inspiring others to give the gift of life, as Kirk did. The Cadman family's strength in the face of such grief is truly inspiring.
It is through the important work of Transplant Manitoba, and the heroism of organ donors like Kirk, that those in need of transplants are given a second chance at life. Yet, each year, thousands of people wait for life‑saving transplants, and many do not receive them in time.
Transplant Manitoba works tirelessly to raise awareness about the importance of signing up to save lives by committing an intent to donate on signupforlife.ca. Signing up takes less than two minutes and can make a life‑saving difference. With the demand for transplants far outpacing the number of donors, one person dies every 36 hours in Canada while waiting to be the recipient of an organ donor.
Let us honour Kirk's heroic legacy by sharing the importance of organ donation. By encouraging others to register their intent to donate, and supporting the work of organizations like Transplant Manitoba, we can follow in Kirk's footsteps and help save lives.
I would ask all members to join me in recognizing the Cadman family, Scott and Amanda, and from Transplant Manitoba: Roberta Koscielny, Krista Maxwell and Dr. Owen Mooney.
Thank you.
MLA Jeff Bereza (Portage la Prairie): Honourable Speaker, Kellie Verwey was truly one of a kind.
I knew Kellie, but then again, almost everyone knew Kellie. She was everywhere.
Kellie was one of the hardest working people many of us will ever know. She had a full‑time job promoting economic development in Portage la Prairie. She had a part‑time job cleaning houses. She volunteered almost every event our community hosted. She and her fiancé Travis built and installed lights on Portage's Crescent Lake so people in the community could skate at night. And when they had a dream to take a little trailer and turn it into a mobile bar called Roasts and Toasts, it was such a great success the Portage chamber of commerce named Kellie and Travis the Outstanding New Entrepreneur of the year just last year.
It didn't matter if you met Kellie in passing or worked with her or volunteered with her, went to school with her or bought a drink from her, you were Kellie's friend. Kellie had so many friends, young and old.
Kellie loved to be around people. At Kellie's celebration of life, we heard a story about a monster‑sized dining room table in her house in High Bluff that she wanted so she could host big dinners for family and friends. There's a lot of people here today who are making sure Travis is never alone at that table.
The last thing I want to share about Kellie is there were two words that were not in her vocabulary: can't and no. My promise to Kellie today, on her birthday, is that our PC team will work hard every day to make sure we say no to current revolving door bail systems in the province. And we will never accept the word can't when it comes to changing the way we deal with repeat offenders.
We are taking our cues from you, Kellie. Until we meet again, keep pushing us.
And I have a number of names for the Hansard.
Thank you.
Meechelle Best, Ron Best, Ryan Best, Lori Blight, Stefanie Dunn, Blaze Dunning, Ryan and Sheena Hyde, Evan Kaminski, Jessica Kaminski, Alex Ketsman, Brittany Ketsman, Ryan and Carly Kontzie, Connie Krawec, Evan Lundy, Kent Lundy, Roxanne Lundy, Travis Lundy, Darren MacDonald, Josh MacDonald, Vyra MacDonald, Parker McCutcheon, Paige Morisseau, Ken Proden, Rachael Proden, Rusty Rutherford, Taralea Simpson, Tracey Taylor, Brice Verwey, Jennifer and Rodney Verwey, Jill Verwey, Jordan Verwey, Gerry Verwey, Mcren Verwey, Sarah Verwey, Michelle Watson, Brittany Zackowich; also: Bernie Verwey, Conrad Verwey, Laurie Kitson, Pat and Owen Williams, and Randy and Shirlene Verwey of Portage la Prairie
Mr. Logan Oxenham (Kirkfield Park): Honourable Speaker, today, I rise to recognize Kirkfield Park constituent Tim Ringland and his friend Roman Naumiuk for their appetite for destruction when it comes to making incredible contributions to the community.
* (13:40)
These two are not just firefighters with the Winnipeg fire department; they're the Slash and Axl Rose of organizing one of Winnipeg's most exciting charity events: Guns N' Hoses hockey game. It's like paradise city with more hockey sticks and fewer guitars.
The charity game took place on February 15 at Canada Life Centre, featuring the Winnipeg fire department facing off against the Winnipeg police. The funds raised were destined for three worthy causes: Project 11, which supports mental health awareness in children; the Never Alone Foundation, which provides emotional, financial, and informational support to those affected by cancer; and Special Olympics Manitoba, dedicated to enriching the lives of Manitobans with intellectual disabilities through sport. It's safe to say they were knocking on heaven's door with those donations.
In 2023, both Roman and Tim participated in the Winnipeg World Police & Fire Games. Inspired by the energy of those events, they decided to revive the Guns N' Hoses charity event, which had been sleeping like a baby for about eight years.
Now they've turned the event into a non‑profit, ensuring the tradition rocks on for years to come.
This year, the Winnipeg fire department claimed a sweet child of mine victory with a 7‑4 win, raising a total of $46,400 for the charities: $6,400 for Project 11, $16,000 for Special Olympics Manitoba and $24,000 for the Never Alone Foundation. Talk about welcome to the jungle of charity raising.
So please join me in giving a November rain of applause to Roman Naumiuk and Tim Ringland, who join us from the gallery today, for their dedication and hard work in making a difference in our community.
Thank you.
Mr. Trevor King (Lakeside): Honourable Speaker, it is with profound sadness that I rise today to honour the life of a remarkable young woman, Kellie Verwey, who was tragically and senselessly taken from us, both by a repeat offender and a justice system that failed to protect her.
Kellie attended Warren Collegiate alongside my eldest son, Colton, and many cherished classmates who join us in the gallery today. She was a dedicated community leader, athlete, volunteer and entrepreneur, always eager to contribute to her community, just as her mother, Meechelle, and stepfather, Ron, have done in the village of Warren and surrounding area.
Kellie was a beloved friend to her classmates, welcome guest in our homes and the ultimate hostess when bringing together family and friends. Her smile, laughter and quick sense of humor could brighten any room. She embraced every opportunity to engage with yet uplift those around her, making a lasting impact on our community.
A true role model for future generations, Kellie was a passionate advocate for initiatives that made our communities better places to live, work and play.
Kellie continued to excel beyond high school, earning a commerce degree with honours from Asper School of Business at the U of M. Her entrepreneurial spirit led her to co‑found Roasts and Toasts with her best friend and life partner, Travis. Together, they grew their business into an award‑winning success, poised for expansion.
Kellie meant so much to so many. Today, on what would have been her 29th birthday, her family and friends have gathered in the gallery with a shared hope: to push for change in our justice system so that no other family has to endure such a tragic and preventable loss.
I want to share some words of Kellie's mother, Meechelle: She was family first, always. It is too hard to put into words what our family has felt, and from every day for the rest of our lives, we will bear the immerse loss of her presence. We miss who she was, and we grieve all that she was going to be.
May Kellie's memory serve as a call to action, inspiring us to fight for a system that truly protects the innocent.
Honourable Speaker, I submit some of the names of Kellie's friends and family in attendance in the gallery today for inclusion in Hansard.
Thank you.
Adam Blight, Connie Boyachek, Ken Boyachek, Reigan Buchanan, Todd Buchanan, Sam Campbell, Suzanne Donley, Cassidy Faurschou, Jody Fisher, Josh Hofer, Paula Hofer, Colton King, Kim King, Patrick Krawec, Quinn MacDonald, Tricia MacDonald, Morgan McCormick, Lyle McDonald, Melody McDonald, Kelcey McPherson, Brady Moxham, Miles Moxham, JoAnne Procter, Courtney Ross, Tucker Ross, Rebecca Schott, Jessica Stewart, Patricia Trandefer, Alaina Verwey, Beckie Verwey, Conrad Verwey, Michael Verwey, Shianne Verwey
MLA Jennifer Chen (Fort Richmond): Honourable Speaker, today I rise to speak about an inspiring initiative that is making a real difference in Fort Richmond: Afri Inspire Concepts, founded by two incredible women, Princess Adjekum‑Mari, a proud constituent of Fort Richmond, and Jacinta Uramah‑Eze.
Launched in 2022, Afri Inspire Concepts was born from Princess and Jacinta's vision to create a platform that empowers Black entrepreneurs and small business owners. Their mission is clear: to provide visibility, foster collaboration and drive economic growth for Black‑owned businesses. Through their work, they have built a bridge between Black vendors and the wider community, offering opportunities for growth through well‑organized markets, networking events and business development workshops.
This past February, I had the privilege of attending the Black Diamonds vendor market in Fort Richmond. It was a fantastic event that showcased dozens of Black-owned businesses creating a space where these entrepreneurs could thrive. But their impact doesn't stop there.
In just a few short years, Afri Inspired Concepts has connected with over 100 local vendors. They continue to expand opportunities and ensure these vendors have the resources needed to grow. Many of these vendors are from Fort Richmond; individuals who came to Manitoba with big dreams and immense potential.
Princess and Jacinta have shown us that when we support local businesses, especially those that nurture inclusivity and economic empowerment, we help build a stronger, more united community.
I invite my colleagues to join me congratulating these remarkable individuals: Princess, Jacinta, Naana, Edwin, Olayinka, Joy, Philomena, Tochukwu, Ibukunoluwa and Fransica. I would like to enter the names into Hansard.
Thank you, Honourable Speaker.
Princess Adjekum-Mari, Olayinka Akintola, Ibukunoluwa Ashefon, Adebisi Ayowole-obi, Joy Idoko, Philomena Monofi, Naana Konadu Nyamekye, Edwin Osei Tutu, Tochukwu Uche-Ukah, Jacinta Uramah-Eze
Introduction of Guests
The Speaker: Prior to oral questions, I'd like to introduce some guests and draw attention to all honourable members to the public gallery where we have with us today Davinder Kaur, Loveleen Kaur, Varinder Rakhra, who are guests of the honourable member for The Maples (MLA Sandhu).
And on behalf of all honourable members, we welcome you here today.
Mr. Wayne Ewasko (Leader of the Official Opposition): Honourable Speaker, on a very emotional day, and I'd like to welcome everyone into the gallery and those of you that are viewing today's proceedings from home. Condolences go out to Kel's family, fiancé Travis and, of course, all the friends that have additionally joined us in the gallery.
Honourable Speaker, we know that violent crime has risen in our province over the last 14, 15 months. Seniors are afraid to go out. Cars are being hijacked. Life‑altering injuries are happening on a day‑to‑day basis.
So I'd like to ask–start by asking the Premier a question: When is he going to move forward with the bail reform that you promised–that the Premier promised–within his first hundred days of being elected? We're well over 500 days, Honourable Speaker. When are we going to see some action?
Hon. Wab Kinew (Premier): We've already taken action. We did so within the first months of taking office, but we'll get to the politics in a second.
On behalf of the Province of Manitoba, I want to offer Kellie Verwey's family our sincere condolences. Having your loved one taken from you far, far before her time was very, very unjust. We all know that it was very unjust, but that injustice was compounded by those lingering unanswered questions which remain, and the fact that the bail system has been the source of some of those unanswered questions that leave you wondering what if, what might have been, calls all of us to action.
So we're willing to work across the aisle here to ensure that Manitobans are safer. We have taken steps, but clearly there is much more work to do. But in the first instance, the compassion, the empathy, the sympathy that we feel for you is very strong, and that extends to every Manitoban in every corner of this–
The Speaker: Member's time is expired.
The honourable Leader of the Official Opposition, on a supplementary question.
Mr. Ewasko: It gives us encouragement that the words from the Premier that we should be seeing the opposition day motion this afternoon receive full‑party, all-party consent to move it forward.
Honourable Speaker, we've had three shootings in our area, 10 to 12 days–within the last 10 to 12 days. It appears that there is a gang situation brewing.
* (13:50)
This is a quote from the Winnipeg Police Service: Just days ago, the Premier's Justice Minister released an individual that was charged with five counts of making, printing, publishing and possessing child pornography.
So I'd like to ask the Premier, what level of crime does it take to have an individual stay locked up?
Mr. Kinew: Okay, so on the first part, the opposition day motion that was brought forward by our colleague from Portage la Prairie, we will support this motion.
However, the members opposite know that there's a bit of, maybe, wordsmithing that would improve this thing. Typically, it's not the sheriffs who do bail enforcement, it's police officers such as the former officer sitting to his left.
So again, we're going to bring forward a friendly amendment, and if this feeling of working across party lines is to hold, then perhaps they'll accept our amendment so that we can focus on what matters: keeping you safe in the community.
Our Attorney General, the Minister of Justice (Mr. Wiebe), has brought in millions of dollars more in funding to hire more police officers here in the city of Winnipeg and right across this great province of Manitoba–$4 million also to co‑ordinate bail enforcement measures here using the provincial Department of Justice as that centrepiece, that co‑ordinating hive.
Again, we have taken some steps, but I fully acknowledge that there is much more work to do. And let us also recognize that the federal government has a role to play. We've been active on that side as well. So–
The Speaker: Member's time has expired.
The honourable Leader of the Official Opposition, on a final supplementary question.
Mr. Ewasko: Fact, Honourable Speaker: the Premier has not changed the violent reality on our streets in well over 500 days. Winnipeg and communities across Manitoba are begging this NDP government to take some action. The Association of Manitoba Municipalities, in its submission to the Minister of Justice just last month, called, and I quote: Municipalities have been ringing the alarm on increasing crime rates in their communities. End quote.
Pedophiles released, gang war erupting, seniors afraid. Premier promised to tweak and fix bail reform in his first hundred days of being elected. It's 523 days now.
How much louder does the bell have to ring, Honourable Speaker, for this Premier to take visible action and not just words?
The Speaker: The honourable leader of the–the honourable First Minister.
Mr. Kinew: The National Police Federation endorsed the actions that our government has taken on bail–the National Police Federation, okay. That is the representative of RCMP officers across this country.
What did they endorse? Well, they endorsed the fact that we invested $4 million in bail enforcement; we've added a tonne more cops to streets and highways and communities right across the province; we've hired Crown attorneys and, something that didn't happen when the member opposite was in government, we provided direction to Crown attorneys to be tough on bail so that we can be tough on crime in this province.
But here's the thing: the National Police Federation‑endorsed plan of action is just the start. We are working with the Association of Manitoba Municipalities. I'll table for the member opposite the joint letter from the organization that he just referenced, signed by them, the AMM, and the Attorney General to the federal government asking them to match the leadership that Manitoba has shown.
So again, the National Police Federation–
The Speaker: Member's time has expired.
The honourable Leader of the Official Opposition, on a new question.
Mr. Ewasko: Honourable Speaker, August 17, 2023, the Leader of the NDP told Manitobans unequivocally that, I quote: I will implement stricter bail measures to keep violent criminals out of our communities. End quote. That was his hundred‑day promise.
On November 19, 2024, the Leader of the NDP doubled down on this sound bite, telling Manitobans that he would, and I quote, stop violent crime. End quote.
On January 15, 2025, Kel Verwey, of Portage la Prairie, had her life taken in a senseless and preventable tragedy involving a stolen vehicle driven by a criminal released by the Justice Minister.
Why'd the Premier fail to protect Kellie–had the pleasure of meeting the family earlier today–after he had promised within a hundred days to fix the bail reform, and it's now over 523 days?
The Speaker: Member's time has expired.
Mr. Kinew: To Kellie's family: I am absolutely sorry for your loss. The fact that you've come down here to your building, the people's building, the Legislature, to get action, that's democracy. That's how our system works. You have a voice; you're using it. I commend you.
I will not be able to give you what you really want, which is your dear Kellie back. However, I will work to ensure that we toughen bail in Manitoba. We have started to deliver on these measures, and again, I recognize, with the greatest of compassion, that this will not provide comfort, but there is much more work to do.
We are going to continue that work, and we will do so with compassion for victims and a steely resolve when it comes to those who bring toxic drugs into our communities, cause violent actions in our streets, or break bail. We have started; we've done it by working with law enforcement, by working with municipal leaders. We're extending the handshake to work with the affected family and community from the–
The Speaker: Member's time has expired.
The honourable Leader of the Official Opposition, on a supplementary question.
Mr. Ewasko: Honourable Speaker, 523 days. The Premier had promised in the last election, he ran on it, promised it, and today we still see no action. Portage Mayor Knox wrote to the minister about this tragedy, calling it, quote, both devastating and infuriating. I table that letter.
James Hilton has been charged with dangerous driving causing death, driving while impaired and failing to stop at the scene of the accident. RCMP confirmed at the time of the crash, he was wanted on an arrest warrant. Court records show Hilton pled guilty to possession and charged last year.
On behalf of the family of Ms. Verwey, her family, her community and Mayor Knox, how can this be acceptable? And to the Premier, can you move forward on the promises you made over 523 days ago, Mr. Premier?
Mr. Kinew: Two questions there. Here are two answers: the first one; it is not acceptable. It will never be acceptable. Nobody is arguing that it is acceptable. What we are arguing is, let's work together. Let's address what's going on here.
I think everybody who looks at this issue, not through a partisan lens, will understand that there are long‑standing issues at play here that we need to work together to respond to. Here's a letter that all of the premiers and I wrote–I will table for the House–to the Prime Minister. The federal government has an important role to play in this initiative.
Second part of the question: when it comes to the commitments that I made in the election, I committed to a five-point plan to strengthen bail. Under the leadership of our Minister of Justice (Mr. Wiebe), we have implemented all five of those points. The National Police Federation said that our province is a leader.
But again, clearly, as long as things like this are happening, there is more work to do. So let's work together, communities across the province, to make people safer in Manitoba.
The Speaker: The honourable Leader of the Official Opposition, on a final supplementary question.
Mr. Ewasko: So the family wants to see positive change, not partisan politics on this topic, Honourable Speaker. They're not my words. They're his words. He ran in the last election to fix–to do bail reform, and he said he would do it in the first hundred days. We're 523 days.
As Mayor Knox said, and I quote, this individual, known to the police, had an active arrest warrant at the time of the crash. He should have been in custody, not behind the wheel of a stolen truck on our highways. This is a systematic failure plain and simple, and it cost an innocent young woman her life.
He promised he would stop violent 'clime'–crime. He promised that he was going to make bail reform.
Why was James Hilton not in custody the day that he was driving that stolen vehicle, Honourable Speaker?
Mr. Kinew: Extending condolences to the family of Kellie is important, because it is to serve people like these family members that we come to work each and every single day.
* (14:00)
Within the first three months of taking office, we had enacted the five points of the bail plan that we committed to in the last election. But we also know that the provincial government doesn't appoint the judges or control the Criminal Code, which is why both the minister and myself have been advocating fiercely to the federal government.
And so long as a partisan clock is happening in this Chamber, let's recognize that we are digging out of a significant hole: 50 police officers cut in the last administration. Is that being mentioned when the conversations are happening in the community, being led by the PCs?
I will gladly engage in a fulsome debate on public safety with any Manitoban at any time. The challenge I would put to the PCs is to engage in this debate in a straightforward, straight‑up, common sense way. We're willing to act and invest when it comes–[interjection] Oh, no, that comment was to the PCs.
The Speaker: Member's time has expired.
MLA Jeff Bereza (Portage la Prairie): Honourable Speaker, Mayor Knox's open letter to this minister states, and I quote: Enough is enough. We as leaders need to step up. They need to make hard decisions and really show some courage to implement bail reform and mandatory treatment programs. End of quote.
I table that letter, and I have enough copies for the entire caucus to please read it.
To the minister, I ask if this–if his bail monitoring program works, why are families like Kellie's torn apart by the actions of repeat offenders?
Thank you, Honourable Speaker.
Hon. Matt Wiebe (Minister of Justice and Attorney General): Honourable Speaker, I wanted to publicly offer my condolences to the family; to the friends; to the whole community of Portage la Prairie, many of whom–who've taken the opportunity to come here today.
I had an opportunity to chat with them before coming into the Chamber here today to offer those condolences privately, but I wanted to do so publicly as well. I've done so also with the mayor of Portage and other leadership in the area, and I want ensure them–assure them that their efforts here today go a long way and we appreciate them stepping up in such a difficult–
The Speaker: Time has expired.
The honourable member for Portage la Prairie, on a supplementary question.
MLA Bereza: Honourable Speaker, Manitobans have joined us here in the Chamber from all over the province to demand change. We can start the pathway to meaningful, non‑partisan change today.
The minister can commit to striking an all‑party 'committitee'–committee where PC, New Democrat, Liberal and independents can come together to address one of the defining issues of our times.
Manitobans are demanding action.
Will the minister answer the call and create and empower that committee today, yes or no?
Mr. Wiebe: As I've said, having family, friends, supporters here today helps to shape how the debate goes down. It helps shape how we as legislators are able to respond. And to me that's what's important.
It's about response; it's about taking action. It's not about blame; it's not about kicking a political football down a field. It's about actually taking real action here in the province of Manitoba.
That's what I've been focused on; that's what our government has been focused on. That's what I'm committing to the families here today to honour Kellie, that we today are committed to taking further action. I'm happy to work with members opposite. Of course, members of our team have been laser‑focused on this.
There's lots that we can do. We're going to continue to work, and I'm happy to work with–
The Speaker: Member's time has expired.
The honourable member for Portage la Prairie, on a final supplementary question.
MLA Bereza: Honourable Speaker, it was a really simple question: yes or no?
The minister had clear choices: yes, I want to work across party aisles to address the fact that our criminal justice system is leaving Manitobans feeling alone and abandoned; or no, I don't.
Unfortunately, he chose wrong. I suggest the minister shouldn't speak to me or the camera. He should speak to the families that have come here today, the families that aren't here today but have suffered through this.
Why does this minister refuse to put party politics aside and give Manitobans what they so desperately need–action on public safety, not a lot of talk?
Thank you.
Mr. Wiebe: As I said to the member opposite, I'm happy to work with him and with any member of this Chamber that's willing to come to this issue honestly and want to make change.
I'd also like to reiterate my invitation to the families. I had, again, a chance to speak with many of them before coming into the Chamber. I offered a meeting, a personal meeting, in my office. I'd extend that meeting again after question period or this afternoon, after debate, or at any time.
Manitobans who are concerned about these issues, we ask them to come along with us to continue to hold the federal government to account, but to join with us in taking action here in the province of Manitoba to save lives and to honour Kellie Verwey's memory.
Mr. Trevor King (Lakeside): Honourable Speaker, time and time again we have heard this minister talk and talk but not act. The Premier (Mr. Kinew) promised meaningful changes to bill reform within a hundred days of taking office.
Well, that was 523 days ago. He failed his promise five times over. If the minister had done his job then a man would not have been in a position to breach conditions of his release on four separate occasions. He would have been in jail instead of behind the wheel of a stolen truck, and the people that join us in the gallery today would be celebrating the birthday of a remarkable young woman instead of demanding that no family ever have to go through this again.
When is this 100‑day solution coming, or does the minister think Manitobans are safe already?
Hon. Matt Wiebe (Minister of Justice and Attorney General): Honourable Speaker, in fact we didn't wait until 100 days was–had arrived. We started to work on this on day one.
The path forward that we implemented was at the guidance of the National Police Federation, the representatives of RCMP in this province and across the country. And what we saw was–under their specific plan and their recommendations–there were, in fact, actions that we could take at the provincial level. We could send a clearer director–directive–to our Crown prosecutors. We could enhance enforcement in community by adding law enforcement by beefing up our own resources in department, that we could better share data amongst jurisdictions to make a real difference.
That work has been recognized at the federal government level, but we're going to keep working–
The Speaker: Minister's time has expired.
The honourable member for Lakeside, on a supplementary question.
Mr. King: Honourable Speaker, there are other anniversaries. Thursday will mark one year since that Minister of Justice stood in this House and promised that his five‑point bail plan will solve everything. He promised it would address repeat offenders. He promised public safety. He promised a lot of things. He delivered on nothing. Empty promises, that's all.
The minister said we were leading the country on this file a year ago. I challenge the minister to look to the people that have joined us today and stand by his words and his declaration of mission accomplished.
Mr. Wiebe: As I said, Honourable Speaker, I had a chance to personally talk with many of the folks in the gallery here today, to shake their hands, to offer my condolences personally. And my commitment to them, my commitment to all Manitobans, is that we're going to take action when it comes to bail reform.
We're going to take the action that we can take here in the province of Manitoba. We're not going to turn it into a political issue. We're not going to kick it down the field and say maybe some other level of government should deal with this. We're going to take the action that we can here in the province of Manitoba. That's what we're committed to.
So, this is more funding for officers. This is more funding for enforcement. This is better systems to protect communities and protect people who are put at risk because these folks are out on bail. That's the real action that we're committed to taking. And I invite them to stop with the partisanship and let's get to work–
The Speaker: Minister's time has expired.
The honourable member for Lakeside, on a final supplementary question.
Mr. King: Honourable Speaker, Mayor Knox put words to how everyone in the gallery today and many, many Manitobans are feeling in their homes, at work, and on our roads.
Quote: Kellie's death is a call for urgent systemic reform. Our community demands answers and action. We demand a justice system that prioritizes the safety of law-abiding citizens over the convenience of leniency for repeat offenders. This cannot and must not be allowed to happen again.
The mayor of Portage is absolutely right. This cannot and must not be allowed to happen again.
What has this minister done since January 15 to ensure this does not happen again?
* (14:10)
Mr. Wiebe: I want to thank the leadership of the mayor of the city of Portage, of so many others in community who have–we've had a chance to talk with, to learn from and to respond to.
I want to share some words from Mayor Knox on this specific issue. Quote: I just wanted to thank you for your support in pushing for bail reform at the federal level alongside AMM. I truly appreciate the Province's leadership on this issue. I believe in the Province's new five‑point bail reform plan, and I look forward to seeing the impact. I'm grateful for your continued efforts. Thanks again for your support. It really makes a difference.
Now, I know that there's more work to do, but I appreciate that other leaders have seen the value in working together and coming together on an issue that's important. We're going to continue to do that work and we're going to continue to push the federal government.
The Speaker: Time has expired.
Mr. Wayne Balcaen (Brandon West): Honourable Speaker, the AMM, the Association of Manitoba Municipalities, told the Justice Minister, and I quote: The flaws in the NDP's catch‑and‑release system have resulted in devastating consequences, with innocent lives lost at the hands of individuals out on bail for previous offences.
The family and friends of Kellie Verwey deserve more than this minister has delivered. The family and friends of Kellie deserve accountability. The minister, this Premier (Mr. Kinew) and this government have failed.
How many more innocent lives need to be lost before this minister wakes up to the fact that he has failed to make our communities safer?
Hon. Matt Wiebe (Minister of Justice and Attorney General): Again, over the last year, our department has undertaken–myself, personally, have undertaken–a listening tour, a tour of all municipalities across this province. We remain open to working with municipalities. We know that this is an issue that they're hearing directly from their electorate, and we are working with them to respond.
That's why we were very proud to send the letter, joint letter, with AMM to the federal minister, calling collectively for bail reform at the federal level. The onus is on that level of government. We're going to take action provincially, but we're ultimately going to work with partners, including the AMM.
I'll table that letter for the opposition critic.
The Speaker: The honourable member for Brandon West, on a supplementary question.
Mr. Balcaen: So this listening tour with the AMM has failed as much as their other listening tours because what has the AMM said? This revolving door of offenders reoffending has contributed significantly to rising property crimes, petty theft and violent offences, often committed by the same individuals. End quote.
We've already seen that the Minister of Justice has no issue with releasing pedophiles, career criminals and anyone else that asks, straight back into the community to once again reoffend.
When will this minister close his revolving door to offenders? It certainly was not in the first 100 days as promised, Honourable Speaker.
Mr. Wiebe: Well, again, I'll leave it to the member opposite to criticize the work of the AMM. I believe that they do a good job in reaching out to members across this province and listening to people. We were very proud to join with them in that endeavour, to work with them, to continue to listen.
That is part of the work that we are undertaking, because it–we're–really matters if we're working with our partners in municipalities, in cities and towns across this province and with the City of Winnipeg and the City of Brandon and the City of Portage. This is where we're going to have the biggest impact.
So, again, we've got support from Mayor Knox, we got support and we're working with AMM. We asked the members opposite to put down their partisan approach and work–
The Speaker: Time has expired.
The honourable member for Brandon West, on a final supplementary question.
Mr. Balcaen: Oh, Honourable Speaker, there was certainly no attack to the AMM. If the minister would listen in this Chamber like he says he listens in the community, then he would've heard the message loud and clear: The AMM call for bail reform continues to grow across the province as communities grapple with violent, repeat offenders who wreak havoc, committing random and brazen acts, only to be released back into the streets within hours. End quote. The AMM said this last month.
This failed minister stood with the Premier, saying they would, quote, implement stricter bail measures and keep violent criminals out of our communities.
When is this minister going to wake up to the reality that what's needed is sanctions and not just sound bites?
Mr. Wiebe: As I said, Honourable Speaker, this is about action, and that action started with our government committing to a 28 per cent increase in funding to municipalities to support law enforcement. That's to make up for, of course, seven and a half years where there was a freeze to this municipalities.
So that support for municipalities isn't just words; it is action. We've committed to a 2 per cent escalator going forward.
But beyond that, within the Department of Justice, we're willing to take the steps necessary. We're adding additional officers, we're bringing in more enforcement measures. In fact, we're in fact bringing back the electronic monitoring program that was unfortunately cut by the previous government.
This is the kind of action that will make a difference. And we ask them to join us–
The Speaker: The member's time has expired.
Ms. Jodie Byram (Agassiz): Over the weekend, the MMF issued two separate news releases correcting the Families Minister. Despite claiming over $11 million in funding, the reality is MMF are only receiving $2.4 million, which is just not enough to prevent the layoffs of 63 staff members and cuts to essential programs.
The MMF said, and I quote, which I'll table: Regrettably, by virtue of the provincial and federal governments laying blame at each other's feet, we are still being forced into the position where we must lay off blameless, hard‑working employees.
The audacity of this minister to stand in this House and make a statement that is so inaccurate it required the public correction.
Why did the minister mislead Manitobans about the actual funding amount and the devastating impact these cuts will have? Will she apologize?
Hon. Nahanni Fontaine (Minister of Families): Again, once again, I want to say as the Minister of Families, I appreciate all of those social service workers that are on the front lines of caring for our most vulnerable children.
And to correct the record of what the member opposite just put on–in Hansard here: What I had said was that we had increased an additional $11.3 million to the CFS system for CFS operations. I didn't say that it was 11.3 just for MMF. So that is what I said last week and I stand by that. We've increased operations in the amount of $11.3 million.
The Speaker: Time is expired.
The honourable member for Agassiz, on a supplementary question.
Ms. Byram: I spoke with individuals working in Métis CFS, one of whom has already received a layoff notice. They confirmed that vital programs have been cut and vulnerable children will be impacted.
The Circle of Life Program, which provides children with one-on-one support workers to connect them with their families and Métis culture, has been cut. The life skills–or, The Skills for Life Program has been cut. A cultural-based care committee that once had 14 members has been cut just to two. One‑on‑one supports have been drastically reduced, nearly eliminated.
The minister can continue blaming everyone else, but the fact remains: children are losing essential supports because of this government's failure to act.
Will this minister commit to doing what is in the best interest of these children and youth at risk?
MLA Fontaine: Our government understands and appreciates the importance of social service workers and our responsibility of ensuring that the most vulnerable children are cared for in the best possible way.
We also know–and let me put this on the record–that we hope that the federal government will join us at the table, as according to MMF, this was–and I quote, fuelled in large part by the federal government's failure to make the promises of Bill C‑92 a reality for us. End quote.
Further, and I quote: This issue remains squarely on the shoulders of the Minister of Indigenous Services Canada. End quote.
I would encourage members–
The Speaker: Time is expired.
The honourable member for Agassiz, on a final supplementary question.
Ms. Byram: A CFS worker who is afraid to speak publicly due to fear of retribution from this minster has described the situation as a crisis. They warn that because of these cuts, Métis CFS group homes could be forced to close, leaving children with nowhere to go.
A community addictions response team, which supports youth struggling with addiction, has been impacted by layoffs, putting vulnerable children at greater risk.
* (14:20)
Now is not the time for this minister to blame the federal government over who should take responsibility. At the end of the day, it's this Minister of Families who's responsible for the welfare of these children and youth in Manitoba.
Will the minister commit right now to taking immediate action to protect these kids before it's too late?
MLA Fontaine: Last week, the member for La Vérendrye (Mr. Narth) said that service–social service workers, and I quote, are out of touch with reality and, I quote again, are protected by the government and the taxpayers of our province in a job they don't need to show their value to our economy.
That's what members opposite think about those that are on the front lines of child welfare. So while the member gets up and feigns some type of, you know, concern, I would tell her to look behind her and ask her member opposite if the sacred work of taking care of children is not something that they believe in.
And here's the reality, is that members opposite only care about their friends and they don't care about ensuring that children, the most–
The Speaker: Member's time is expired.
MLA Cindy Lamoureux (Tyndall Park): Unfortunately, this government's commitment to improve our health-care system continues to fail. As evidence indicates, things have only become worse under the Kinew government over the past 18 months.
There has now been two health-care unions having to resort to striking, and the minister waited until the final hours in both instances to make only tentative agreements with the Canadian Union of Public Employees and the Manitoba Association of Health Care Professionals.
Does this supposed pro‑union government feel tentative agreements at the final hour is the most effective way to fix health care?
Hon. Uzoma Asagwara (Minister of Health, Seniors and Long-Term Care): Honourable Speaker, on this side of the House, we've been very clear: We respect health‑care workers and all of the incredible value they provide to Manitobans at the bedside.
Which is why, when we came into government, the Premier (Mr. Kinew) was very clear that it's so important that we push employers to be at the collective bargaining table and get fair deals on the table for workers. That is in contrast to every member opposite who froze the wages of allied health‑care professionals for two terms of government.
On this side of the House we will always ensure that those negotiations happen. We want for all workers to be happy, healthy and at the bedside of Manitobans.
The Speaker: The honourable member for Tyndall Park, on a supplementary question.
MLA Lamoureux: Honourable Speaker, the Manitoba Association of Health Care Professionals released a survey indicating 96 per cent of allied health workers voted in strike.
In addition, an alarming 59 per cent of staff said morale has only gotten worse since this government was elected. I table a graphic from the Manitoba Association of Health Care Professionals.
Honourable Speaker, what is this government going to do to improve the morale that has continued to decline since this government came into power?
MLA Asagwara: Honourable Speaker, we respect health‑care workers. On this side of the House, we have a belief fundamentally that they should be treated with respect and that we have to take care of the people who take care of us.
That is something that has informed our listening tour. It's why we've invested in having more allied health‑care professionals on the front lines–net hundred new health-care workers–allied health‑care professionals at the bedsides of Manitobans.
For two terms of a PC government, those health-care workers had their wages frozen and their voices ignored. There are impacts as a result that our government is working very hard to repair. We're–we want to continue to respect them and work with them and listen to them as we work–make health care better by working together.
The Speaker: The honourable member for Tyndall Park, on a final supplementary question.
MLA Lamoureux: Honourable Speaker, last month, the MNU president, Darlene Jackson, said that there's very little transparency from the provincial government regarding the state of health care, and nurses aren't seeing any significant changes despite the NDP's plan to fix the system.
Furthermore, Jason Linklater, the MAHCP president, stated 96 per cent of workers voting to strike shows a profound level of disappointment, and what sticks out the most to me is it indicates a profound lack of trust. I table these quotes in the House.
Honourable Speaker, after hearing these comments from union presidents, will this government acknowledge the concern about the lack of transparency since they've taken office?
MLA Asagwara: Honourable Speaker, we have hundreds, almost 500, new–net‑new nurses on the front lines of our health-care system, hundreds of net-new allied health‑care professionals.
We recognize that one of the most important things to change in a health‑care system to benefit health-care workers is the culture. We also know that it takes time to change culture, and when you have a previous failed PC government that disrespected workers, fired them, froze their wages and didn't care about listening to their voices, those efforts take time.
But our government is committed to doing that work on behalf of Manitobans each and every day. We will put in tireless efforts to make sure we're moving health care in a better direction, which we're seeing.
That member would be served well to ask the members on that side of the House why they treated health‑care workers with disdain for seven and a half years of government.
MLA Jelynn
(Radisson): Honourable Speaker, the former PC government had a record of combative relationships–combative with cities, with health‑care workers, with each other and combative with the federal government.
But, Honourable Speaker, those dark days are behind us, and our government has been working with all partners to get good things done for all Manitobans.
Earlier this year, our Health Minister signed a historic deal to bring Pharmacare to our great province, in addition to our universal birth control program launched last year.
Can the Minister of Health share the impact of this historic deal with the House and how it will bring Manitobans the support that they need?
Hon. Uzoma Asagwara (Minister of Health, Seniors and Long-Term Care): I am so proud to share that with the House today that Manitoba is the first jurisdiction in Canada to reach this historic deal that will see more Manitobans getting access to the Pharmacare they need.
Our deal with the federal government secured $219 million to extend universal birth control, diabetes medication coverage and gives us the ability to cover hormone replacement therapy for mature women and those who need it in Manitoba. Our negotiations also secured $10 million for the Women's Health Clinic.
In a world, Honourable Speaker, where Conservative politicians feel emboldened to attack reproductive freedoms and a woman's right to choose, our government is clear: women must have full autonomy over their reproductive and health choices.
I hope every member of this House will join me in affirming this.
The Speaker: Member's time has expired.
The time for oral questions has expired.
* * *
Hon. Matt Wiebe (Minister of Justice and Attorney General): Honourable Speaker, I would like to ask leave of the House that we observe a moment of silence in honour of Kellie Verwey and in memory of the impact that she's had in our community, and–alongside her family and friends who have joined us in the gallery today.
The Speaker: Is there leave for a moment of silence to honour the memory of Kellie Verwey? [Agreed]
A moment of silence was observed.
The Speaker: Thank you.
MLA Jeff Bereza (Portage la Prairie): Honourable Speaker, I wish to present the following petition.
To the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba, the background to this petition is as follows:
(1) Kellie Verwey, a beloved young woman from Portage la Prairie, Manitoba, was tragically killed in a car crash caused by a repeat violent offender with a long criminal history.
(2) Despite repeated violations of his bail conditions, the offender was free to roam the streets and to ultimately claim Kellie's life. This tragedy was entirely preventable.
(3) While the Criminal Code falls under federal jurisdiction, provinces have been given the responsibility for administration of justice, allowing for meaningful provincial action on bail reform to ensure public safety.
* (14:30)
(4) Other provinces have taken proactive steps to strengthen bail enforcement, but Manitoba has not used all the available tools to address this issue effectively.
(5) The provincial government has the ability, and the responsibility, to advocate for and implement measures that protect its citizens by ensuring that repeat offenders are not released into our communities without proper safeguards.
(6) Immediate action is required to close the gaps in the justice system that allows criminals in–to remain free which puts innocent Manitobans at risk.
We petition the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba as follows:
To urge the provincial government to take immediate and decisive action on bail reform to address serious deficits in enforcement by utilizing all available provincial mechanisms to strengthen warrant enforcement, increase bail supervision, oppose release of offenders, thus ensuring that repeat violent offenders are held accountable and the public safety is prioritized over leniency; and
(2) To urge the provincial government to lobby the federal government to immediately repeal provisions of the Criminal Code that allows for continued victimization of law-abiding Manitobans while granting repeat offenders additional rights.
This has been signed by Travis Lundy, Vyra MacDonald, Ronald Best, Meechelle Best and many, many thousands of others.
Thank you.
The Speaker: Before we proceed, I would remind members that, according to the rules, you're allowed to read three names only.
Mr. Trevor King (Lakeside): I wish to present the following petition to the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba.
The background to this petition is as follows:
(1) Kellie Verwey, a beloved young woman from Portage la Prairie, Manitoba, was tragically killed in a car crash caused by a repeat violent offender with a long criminal history.
(2) Despite repeated violations of his bail conditions, the offender was free to roam the streets and ultimately claim Kellie's life. This tragedy was entirely preventable.
(3) While the Criminal Code falls under federal jurisdiction, provinces have been given the responsibility for the administration of justice, allowing for meaningful provincial action on bail reform to ensure public safety.
(4) Other provinces have taken proactive steps to strengthen bail enforcement, but Manitoba has not used all the available tools to address this issue effectively.
(5) The provincial government has the ability, and the responsibility, to advocate for and implement measures that protect its citizens by ensuring that repeat violent offenders are not released into our communities without proper safeguards.
(6) Immediate action is required to close gaps in the justice system that allow dangerous criminals to remain free which puts innocent Manitobans at risk.
We petition the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba as follows:
(1) To urge the provincial government to take immediate and decisive action on bail reform to address serious deficits in enforcement by utilizing all available provincial mechanisms to strengthen warrant enforcement, increasing bail supervision and opposing releases of offenders, thus ensuring that repeat violent offenders are held accountable and that public safety is prioritized over leniency; and
(2) To urge the provincial government to lobby the federal government to immediately repeal provisions of the Criminal Code that allow for the continued victimization of law-abiding Manitobans while granting repeat offenders additional rights.
This petition is signed by Darren MacDonald, Tricia MacDonald and Quinn MacDonald, and many, many other Manitobans.
Thank you.
The Speaker: Further petitions? Grievances?
House Business
Mr. Josh Guenter (Chairperson, Standing Committee on Public Accounts): I would like to announce that the Standing Committee on Public Accounts will meet on Wednesday, March 26, 2025, at 6 p.m., to consider the Auditor General's report, Operations of the Office, performance for the year ended March 31st, 2021; and the Auditor General's report, Operations of the Office, performance for the year ended March 31st, 2022; and the Auditor General's report, Operations of the Office, for the year ended March 31st, 2023; and the Auditor General's report, Operations of the Office for the year ended March 31st, 2024.
The Speaker: It has been announced that the Standing Committee on Public Accounts will meet on Wednesday, March 26, 2025, at 6 p.m., to consider Auditor General's report, Operations of the Office, performance for the year ended March 31st, 2021; Auditor General's report, Operations of the Office, performance for the year ended March 31st, 2022; Auditor General's report, Operations of the Office, for the year ended March 31st, 2023; and Auditor General's report, Operations of the Office, for the year ended March 31st, 2024.
Hon. Nahanni Fontaine (Government House Leader): Can you canvass the House to see if it's a will of the House to take a five minute recess? Two minute ringing of the bells?
The Speaker: Is it the will of the House to take a five minute recess with the ringing of the bells for two minutes to call us back? [Agreed]
The House is accordingly recessed for five minutes.
The House recessed at 2:37 p.m.
____________
The House resumed at 2:42 p.m.
The Speaker: Order, please.
The two‑minute warning of the ringing of the bells has expired. I'm calling the House back to order.
All right. I believe we're ready to resume proceedings.
MLA Jeff Bereza (Portage la Prairie): Honourable Speaker, an opposition day motion.
I move, seconded by the MLA from Lakeside, that the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba call on the provincial government to take immediate and decisive action to create a bail condition enforcement branch within the Manitoba sheriffs department to protect and safeguard Manitobans from individuals that violate conditions of their release. I so move.
Motion presented.
Hon. Nahanni Fontaine (Government House Leader): On House business, Honourable Speaker.
Could you please canvass the House for leave to allow the Minister of Justice (Mr. Wiebe) to move an amendment to the opposition day motion, moved by the member for Portage la Prairie (MLA Bereza), despite rule 33(16)–[interjection]–31(16).
The Speaker: Is there leave to allow the Minister of Justice to move an amendment to the opposition day motion, moved by the member for Portage la Prairie, despite rule 31(16)?
Is there leave? [Agreed]
The honourable member for Portage la Prairie, to speak to the motion.
MLA Bereza: Honourable Speaker, we all know that there is a problem at the very heart of our justice system. The problem is that the criminals are running the justice system in Manitoba. Kellie Verwey tragically lost her life on January 15 of this year as a result of one such criminal who should've been behind bars.
Kellie's family and friends are here today to make sure we all understand that changes can occur. The people of Manitoba have sent hundreds of petitions calling for immediate change.
The individual who killed Kellie Verwey had breached bail conditions many times and yet was out of custody and free to commit more crimes between July 24 and January 25. James Hilton was released several times despite possession of meth, opioids, breaking and entering, trespassing. He was charged with violating his release conditions on December 14, 17, 31 and January 1, 2025–four times in just two weeks. Yet instead of being in jail where he would be unable to commit further crimes, he was out.
Manitobans have told me they're afraid to leave their homes for fear of criminals, because they know there will be no repercussions and they will simply commit crimes.
An example of that is just in a few petitions we read today. Those petitions were signed from every corner of Manitoba. In just two short weeks, over 3,000 Manitobans have signed this petition. There are still over 70 petitions sitting in my office. People are so passionate about this issue, we have a petition returned from Manitobans wintering in Mexico.
To all of you that are in the gallery today, and all of you that have signed the petition, thank you for sending this clear message: We need to do better.
Our RCMP and police officers are doing everything they can to protect our communities, but they are hampered by our current laws.
An example of this is an ongoing issue happening right now in Portage la Prairie. The actions of one individual have resulted in 80 pages of issues compiled by Safer Communities Manitoba. Over 40 reported calls to the RCMP, 19 calls to the Portage fire department, yet this person is currently allowed to roam freely.
This individual is conducting illegal activities ranging from trading stolen goods, dealing drugs, sexual exploitation and terrorizing other tenants in a Manitoba Housing complex. This individual is creating a huge cost, not only to the taxpayers of Manitoba, but the taxpayers of Portage la Prairie.
It is time to put the responsibility on the people that can make a difference to this revolving door. According to federal Department of Justice, provincial governments are responsible for prosecuting most criminal offences in their jurisdictions, conducting bail hearings in relation to the–those offences and–and–enforcing any conditions attached to a person who has been released on bail, including if there is a breach of bail conditions.
* (14:50)
It is our current government's responsibility to make these changes. The people that can make a difference are right here today in this Chamber. The opposition day motion that I introduce today states those facts.
Today, the Minister of Justice (Mr. Wiebe) has an opportunity to stand in his place and commit to that change for Kellie's family and friends and so many others who have lost loved ones to criminal activity. I would challenge all members opposite to stand in their place today and agree to the declaration: We need bail condition enforcement branch to protect and safeguard Manitobans from individuals who–that violate conditions of their release.
I encourage members opposite to reflect on Mayor Knox's letter to the Justice Minister and understand the pain and frustration within our community. Agreeing to make this change to create greater safety and justice for all Manitobans is something we must all do.
On January 15, our community was shaken to the core. What occurred was a senseless and preventable tragedy. The system can do better, it must do better and failure is not an option.
I am so incredibly humbled to represent the people of Portage la Prairie. It takes incredible strength to be faced with adversity and loss and to channel that into something productive. Travis, Meechelle, Gerry and everyone else who's in the gallery today, your strength through this has been astounding.
Thank you for the opportunity to walk this path alongside you and for the opportunity to make our province safer and to ensure no family has to go through what you have. And I know that Kellie would be sitting up there with you if this was another family.
We've talked a lot about justice in the Chamber over the last 17 months. The Premier (Mr. Kinew) promised to enact bail reform within the first hundred days. We are now way over 500 days. The Justice Minister has spoken at length about bail monitoring being equivalent to bail reform, but I want to be abundantly clear: they are not.
Bail enforcement would've ensured the first time that law enforcement was aware James Hilton violated the conditions of his release; he would be safely behind bars. Everyone has the right to bail until their rights grind up against the rest of society's right to safely go about their day. The current system allows second, third, fourth chances to be dangerous to society.
We have the opportunity today to change that, to bring comprehensive systems where bail conditions are monitored and then act when those are violated. We've called for this time and time again, and every time the minister has insisted that ankle monitors and police in Winnipeg will keep all of us safe, there are more families that are paying the price of government inaction. Enough is enough.
Today, that needs to end. Today, we must bring in real, meaningful action. We have laid the path in front of the government, and I believe you have the courage to do what is needed. Bring back to this Chamber a real bail enforcement system. Tell the gallery you will do the right thing. Create a system that doesn't allow repeat offenders to walk free and violate conditions of their bail again and again. Tell them that you are not okay with the status quo.
I encourage each member of the House to rise in your place, commit to working together to get through this. We know how fast the wheels of government can turn when it's a unanimous consent. We can pass this motion, and the minister can get to work and bring something back that can be sent off to committee for Manitobans to have their say.
I know NDP members will get on board with Manitobans and pass this motion. I look forward to seeing this happen.
Honourable Speaker, Kellie Verwey would've been 29 years old today, and that's just a few years younger than my two daughters. And I want everybody to think in here: this could be their brother or sister or mother or aunt or someone that we know.
We are elected to make change and do things right for Manitoba, and it's time we stood up and did right for Manitoba. It is our responsibility today to honour her memory and do everything in our power to ensure that this never, ever happens again.
Thank you so much, Honourable Speaker.
Hon. Matt Wiebe (Minister of Justice and Attorney General): I wanted to start by once again offering my condolences to the family, but more than that, I guess recommitting to them here, again, in this debate, for further action around bail.
I think what I hope folks have heard here today is that our government has certainly taken a lot of action in the first, you know, 18 months that we've been in government, but that we're also committed to doing more, that we're going to continue to work on this issue, that we're going to continue to make the changes we can here in the province of Manitoba, to make the real investments when it comes to bail monitoring, when it comes to how our justice system, you know, puts conditions on folks who are out on bail, how we, as a provincial government, refocus and reorganize our department to ensure that bail is the No. 1 priority. And, of course, to refocus our efforts on lobbying the federal government.
That's the work that we're committed to do, that's the work that we have been doing as a government, and I don't want to–I know that there are passions and there, you know, are certainly strong feelings. I acknowledge the work of members opposite in bringing this issue forward. I know there's personal connections, and so I certainly recognize and appreciate the work that they have done, as well, in continuing to bring this issue forward.
But I hope that they come to this issue in a way that shows that bipartisanship that we're showing on the government side, that recognizes and acknowledges the fact that this is a federal government issue, that this is something that is ultimately incumbent on the federal government to make changes around.
And it would be nice for members opposite to, at the very least, acknowledge the work that's being done to this point. They may not agree with everything, they may think it needs to go further, but I think it's important to acknowledge the real investments that ultimately weren't made under the previous government.
This is the kind of the work, as legislators, that makes a real difference in community. I've had a chance to travel across the province to speak to folks from every walk of life, from every different kind of community, in the North, in the south of our province, east and west, I've had a chance to go out and hear the frustration that people have around their feelings of public safety.
And, you know, one of the members of the family, I think, put to me: you know, what would you do if this was your daughter? How would you react? And that's a question that's difficult for, I think, every parent to contemplate in this place.
But what I would hope that I would be able to say is that the actions that I'm taking would be no different, that we would still have the same focus, that we would be working day in and day out in the same way we're doing right now, whether it was my daughter or whether it was someone like Kellie.
Someone like Kellie who was not only an amazing person, but also had so much potential, had so much to look forward to. And I think, as I said, we have the family, we have the friends here, but we also have the wider community who has joined us in the gallery, that is willing to reach out to our office to work with us, to reach out to the mayor's office, Mayor Knox's office, and we value that input so much. That is so valuable, again, to the work that we do here as legislators.
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What I'm not willing to do–what I'm not willing to do–is to simply blame others, to simply say this is someone else's problem.
You know, the members opposite never missed a chance to blame the federal government when we raised the issue of bail reform in–when we were in opposition. They never missed a chance to say, well, it's not us; we can't do anything about it.
I refuse to take that approach. I refuse to sit on my hands while we can–we know we can make a difference.
The actions that we've taken already is $4 million specifically targeted towards bail. Now, that's in a few different areas, Honourable Speaker. Number 1, we want that more intensive bail supervision. And that's for those folks who are the most high risk and who are out in our communities. We want to ensure that we have that additional resources directly in the Department of Justice. That's province-wide. I know that the member opposite was concerned that we were only focused on one area or another. It is province-wide. That work is very, very important.
We've also been called on–when we met with the federal minister, he said, well, you need to do better on data collection and sharing. And we said, here, this is the actual numbers; this is the work that we've done. And he had to acknowledge that work and say that now it's incumbent on the federal government to step up and do their share.
We've also set clearer directives to our Crown prosecutors. Now, Crown prosecutors, they live and work in the communities across our province. They know the impact that public safety has. But we've asked them when they're going and they're talking about bail conditions, what can we do to listen to the concerns of the community? How can we keep these folks who are prolific offenders off the streets? And so we've made sure that we're supporting them.
And we're continuing to work with law enforcement. And I just can't be any more clear about this: under the previous government there was a freeze, which is essentially a cut, when it comes to the rising costs of policing across our province. Population went up. Of course, inflation. The members opposite froze municipal funding. They froze police funding across our province. These are the folks who are actually doing this work to apprehend people. So we've increased it by 28 per cent in last year's budget, but we've also committed to an escalator going forward, and that's going to be key to working on that partnership.
That's why the AMM came out. That's why they've supported us. That's why Mayor Knox came out and supported and endorsed our plan. That's why Bobby Baker, who's the National Police Federation, the representatives of RCMP across the country, that's why he came out to support our five-point bail plan. That's why Dave Dalal, that's why the Winnipeg Police Service is supporting our actions. That's why members across this province are supporting our action.
So we're going to continue to build those partnerships. We invite the opposition to come along on that journey. We want to make sure that we're doing that work together, because it's not a partisan issue, shouldn't be a partisan issue. It should be an issue that we can all find common ground on.
That being said, Honourable Speaker, and I've had a chance to mention this directly to the member for Portage la Prairie (MLA Bereza), other members in the Chamber, this is a–maybe just an oversight in terms of how the opposition day motion was worded. He specifically talks about the work of sheriffs.
And I want to just be clear to members in the Chamber, the sheriffs department here in our Justice Department, what they do is specifically around prisoner transport, supporting courts and security in courts. They don't do this work. We do have people in the field who do this work in probations and community corrections. That's where the money has gone, and that's why we want to make sure that we're funding them and we're continuing to build up, as he said, you know, capacity to make sure–yes.
So there's just some confusion, and so what we're hoping is that this can be treated as a friendly amendment that folks opposite will understand just the nuance here and that they'll understand that this small change will, you know, in no way change the intent of the–what the member opposite was bringing forward, but will simply just make sure that it can be implemented in the way I think that he's expecting, and it's certainly how members of the family and folks who have come in.
So, Honourable Speaker, I wanted to move, seconded by the Minister of Families (MLA Fontaine),
THAT the motion be amended by striking out all of the words after "that" and replacing that text with:
the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba call on the provincial government to take immediate and decisive action to further enhance bail enforcement with law enforcement agencies to protect and safeguard Manitobans–[interjection]
Let me try–should I start again? Apologies, Honourable Speaker. Let me start again.
THAT the motion be amended–striking out the words after "that" and replacing the text with:
the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba call on the provincial government to take immediate and decisive action to further enhance bail enforcement within law enforcement agencies to protect and safeguard Manitobans from individuals that violate conditions of their release.
Thank you very much, Honourable Speaker.
The Speaker: Been moved by the honourable Minister of Justice (Mr. Wiebe), seconded by the honourable Minister of Families (MLA Fontaine),
THAT the motion be amended by striking out all of the words after "that"–
An Honourable Member: Dispense.
The Speaker: Dispense.
The motion is in order.
The floor is now open for debate.
Mr. Trevor King (Lakeside): I've–too, want to recognize the Verwey families and their friends, and thank them for joining us today in the gallery and, of course, online, what would be Kellie's 29th birthday, today. Certainly not the way any of us wanted to remember this day, but it is with these people and their strength and their advocacy that bring us here for not just a time of remembering Kellie, but to fight for change in our justice system with this motion and to keep such a preventable tragedy from happening to other families across our province and our great country.
Kellie and her family were victims of serious deficits in enforcement and permissive release practices. They, myself and all Manitobans are fed up with and want to see immediate action going forward to correct these deficiencies in our system. So I'm happy to hear the Justice Minister wanting to work with us on this motion.
Kellie's mom's words, once again–I use them quite often here today and not–this is not politics, but this is proper. We don't want this to be a partisan issue. It shouldn't be a partisan issue. That's not why we brought the supporters of our people in the gallery today. We want action, and we do want to work with the other side to take that immediate action.
Mr. Tyler Blashko, Deputy Speaker, in the Chair
So with the change of a few words in a motion, I'm sure we can work together, but we're going to most definitely hold the government accountable to what they're proposing.
You know, I've got many memories of Kellie and I could stand here for my next 10 minutes and talk about them. You know, the short time that I did know her, there was memories made. And the one most that goes back to my days on council in the RM Woodlands when Kellie–we held at a community engagement party to recognize our community volunteers, and Kellie was the first one on the list every time to volunteer to make sure that that event went off without a hitch. And it was successful because of her participation.
Most recently, I got the opportunity to have a taste of her and Travis' business, Roasts and Toasts, at my own niece's wedding in Morden. It just seemed like they were having so much fun with that. And Travis, I wish you all the success moving forward. I know you'll carry that on in Kellie's memory.
Our 100th anniversary of our curling bonspiel just this past fall, Kellie participated in it with her friend, Sara Krym, who I think is here in the gallery today. So I want to thank those friends and family for being here today. You know, you're not just supporting one another; it's huge support for me down here, advocating for you for the action that we need taken.
I want to thank my colleague from the RM of Portage la Prairie, Jeff–oh, sorry, my colleague from the RM of Portage la Prairie for bringing this motion forward and this action forward. Our caucus is very supportive in what we're doing here today and the MLA for Portage has worked pretty darn hard on this, trying to organize what we did in the Rotunda today and what we're doing here this afternoon.
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So I put a lot of thought into some of the stuff that this motion could deal with. You know, there's a number of issues that need address. And I want to put them in simple terms that all my colleagues can understand, on both sides of the House, as to what's happening and what needs to change.
So we got tougher bail and sentencing laws for repeat offenders is what needs to happen here. We need stronger bail conditions. We need harsher sentences. We need mandatory risk assessments before releasing an offender, conduct more strict assessments to determine if they pose a danger into the community so things like this, they'll not happen again. They cannot happen again.
We need to strengthen our protection orders and our monitoring. We need stronger protection orders, just to make it easier to get strictly enforced; GPS tracking for high-risk offenders, which requires electronic 'montoring,' such as the ankle bracelets. And they need to track them. They need to enforce them. They need to monitor them. Need more support for victims and their families. Need more police training and resources. Ensure that the police have the resources and training to properly respond to threats from repeat offenders. Excuse me.
Need to keep dangerous offenders in jail longer. Need to expand on the dangerous offender designations. No automatic parole for violent offenders. And public awareness and accountability. Public 'lalerts' for high-risk offenders is a possibility, and, of course, hold the justice system accountable, demanding policy changes.
Manitoba has seen too many cases of repeat offenders hurting innocent people. The justice system needs to prioritize victims over offenders and take real action to keep violent criminals off the streets. Repeat offenders keep getting released for several reasons, and, unfortunately, this often leads to tragic consequences.
Here's why this happens and what needs to change: weak bail and parole laws. Bail is often granted too easily; parole boards can release offenders early. Judges sometimes have limited power. What needs to change? Stricter bail conditions; no automatic parole; longer sentences for repeat violent crimes.
Overcrowded prisons and justice system backlogs. Courts often prioritize reducing prison populations over public safety. This leads to early releases, plea deals and reduced sentences to keep jails from filling up. The justice system is overwhelmed and cases take too long to go to trial, so some offenders are released while they wait. What needs to change? More funding for courts and prisons to–so dangerous criminals aren't released just to free up space. Faster trials to keep repeat offenders off the streets while waiting for sentencing.
(3) Lack of monitoring and weak enforcement of protection orders. What needs to change? Stronger monitoring, strict enforcement.
(4) I'm just hoping to get through most of these here before my time is up. Focus on rehabilitation instead of punishment. The justice system often prioritizes rehabilitation over strict punishment, assuming offenders can be reformed. Some programs work but many violent criminals re-offend and victims pay the price. What needs to change? Rehabilitation should not replace real consequences. Violent repeat offenders should serve full sentences before any rehabilitation efforts. And more risk assessments before release. Not everyone can be safely rehabilitated.
(5) Lack of victim-centred justice. The system often favours the rights of offenders over safety of victims and families. Victims and their families don't always have a say in parole hearings or sentence decisions. What needs to change? More victim advocacy in the justice system. Families should be heard in parole decisions. Stronger protection for survivors, including permanent restraining orders for repeat violent offenders.
But the bottom line here, honourable Deputy Speaker, is the system is too lenient. Repeat offenders know how to work the system. They get light sentences, early releases, second chances when they don't deserve it. Victims suffer while the justice system fails to protect them. Manitoba needs tougher laws, better enforcement and stronger victim protections.
With that, my time is just about done, so I encourage each and every member opposite to see and acknowledge the gallery today. We gather in this place and exchange words, but today we're reminded in a real and visceral way of the consequences of our action–or inaction. Put aside our talking points and look at the humanity of this situation. We as legislators can make change, but we need the will of the ones in government to do so.
Honourable Speaker, I thank you for the opportunity for me to put some words on record, and I strongly encourage all members of the House to support the motion coming forward.
MLA David Pankratz (Waverley): You know, there are some things in life that words will never be enough for. And I would say losing a loved one in a senseless act, especially one that was preventable, is one of those things.
And to the family of Kellie Verwey, I know that no speech, no policy, no promise can ever bring her back. I know that the grief that you carry is heavier than anything most will ever understand, and I know that anything I say here today–it will not make it hurt any less. But what I can do my best at is to try to honour her memory by speaking honestly and openly.
And so in my life prior to politics, I was a firefighter-paramedic. I have arrived at unimaginable scenes where families just like yours were about to experience the worst moments of their lives. I have seen the way that lives are changed in an instant; I have sat with families in that unbearable silence that follows that sound of sirens, and I know what it feels like to look into the eyes of a family who just lost someone they loved and know that there are no words that will ever be enough.
But I also know that we do owe more than just condolences here today. You know, we owe action; we owe accountability; we owe you a system that works to prevent tragedies like this to happen, and I hope that today we are showing you our sincere commitment to that work. Because Kellie should be here today; she should be with her family; she should be looking forward to a future that was stolen from her; she should be celebrating her 29th birthday.
And, honourable Speaker, we have a responsibility to ask how did this happen, you know, and how do we make sure it never happens again.
You know, our justice system has a fundamental duty, and that's to protect the innocent, to hold the guilty accountable and to prevent those who pose a danger from doing harm. And in this case, it wasn't able to protect Kellie, and because of that a family is left grieving.
So clearly, this is not just a statistic; this is not just a policy debate. This is a human life that never should have been taken.
And, honourable Speaker, if we don't learn from this tragedy, and I think that we are taking important steps here today, then we fail not only Kellie's family, we fail every Manitoban who believes in justice. And I know as a government, as a province and as a people, we can't allow that to happen again. But again, this is why we're taking real concrete action, and I appreciate the Minister of Justice (Mr. Wiebe) and the Premier (Mr. Kinew) for speaking to some of this action.
But, you know, we are putting more resources into law enforcement to track offenders who violate their bail conditions. We've expanded electronic monitoring. We are ensuring that those on bail are not just released into the community without oversight, and we're expanding resources for Crown prosecutors to ensure that when someone poses a danger to the public, they face the strongest possible case for detention at their bail hearing. Because while bail laws are controlled at the federal level, we do control how they are argued and enforced here in Manitoba, and I know that our Minister of Justice is making sure that our system works for victims and not just for offenders.
We're addressing the root causes that lead to these crimes in the first place, and this is something that I saw over and over again in my past work. You know, we can't talk about impaired driving or about violent offences without talking about addiction, about the gaps in mental health treatment, without systemic failures that allow people with a history of endangering others to continue walking free, and we are continuing to do that work as a government.
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Honourable Speaker, yes, we are tough on crime, but we also have to be smart about it, too, and that means not just responding after the fact, but preventing these tragedies before they happen, and that's why doing this work is so, so important.
So, to Kellie's family, again I want to say your grief is not invisible. Your loss is not just another case file. Your daughter, your sister, your friend, her life mattered.
I also want to say justice is not just about punishment, although that is a piece of it. It's about protection. It's about making sure that no other family has to go through what you've gone through. And we refuse to accept that tragedies like this are just an unfortunate reality because they're not, and we'll continue to do the work as a team and with community to prevent this from happening again, because we owe that to you and we owe that to Kellie and we owe that to every Manitoban who believes in a safer future.
Thank you.
Mr. Wayne Balcaen (Brandon West): Well, thank you, honourable Deputy Speaker, and more importantly I would like to thank everyone in the gallery this afternoon who's taken the time to come here, remember a remarkable young woman, a young woman I wish I would have had the opportunity to meet so I could speak even more eloquently on the loss that each and every one of you have suffered.
I also want to commend you for being here today to send a clear message to all of us here in this Chamber. We hear you loud and clear, and you are right: more needs to be done.
Every senseless tragedy, honourable Deputy Speaker, has a family that is left grieving, left with a hole in their heart that can never, ever be filled. As an emergency responder and as a police officer for 33 years, I've had to see that first hand through my career in law enforcement, and each pain is as unique as the person that is lost.
It shows incredible strength, resilience, to be here today, to stand united and to think not just of your own loss, but what can be done to ensure that no other family has to go through this again.
That, in my opinion, is what true leadership is about and in its most pure form.
I'm cautiously optimistic with the words of support from this Premier (Mr. Kinew) and Justice Minister, and I say cautiously, as I've heard these words many, many times before without substantial action.
So, to the family, we hear you. We know that more can be done, and we know more must be done. That's why Manitobans sent us all here to this Chamber to represent them, and we repeat that call each and every day when we sit here in this Chamber and we say to frame such laws as may tend to the welfare and prosperity of our province. The only way to tend to the welfare and prosperity of our province is to act and ensure that society is protected from repeat chronic and prolific offenders.
Last Thursday, in my hometown of Brandon, a man was grievously wounded in an armed robbery–multiple lacerations and fractures to his legs and arms–and, thankfully, he was upgraded to stable condition in hospital after officers on the scene had to apply tourniquets and ensure that his wounds were tended to.
One of the assailants, of course, was also charged with breach of a conditional sentence and another with failure to attend court for a previous charge. Media was reporting that only one of the three was denied bail, the one who failed to attend court previously. That is the current state of justice in Manitoba, and more must be done.
Officers are dedicating considerable resources into policing those that are known to be involved in our criminal justice system and who are chronically reoffending while out on bail release, enforcing these conditions with all of those existing limited police resources to be spent protecting the community. And we know this because law enforcement are some of the loudest voices calling for substantive reform.
We've also been here before. We've stood in this Chamber and heard from families that demanded justice, and with this government, they were promptly ignored. Justice is supposed to be blind, not deaf.
Repeat violent offenders are a problem that should not exist. That must be addressed at the national level regardless of what the Premier promised when he promised comprehensive bail reform. He promised that within his first 100 days in office, and he failed to meet that, because bail monitoring is not bail reform, but neither is bail enforcement.
But enforcement will help keep Manitobans safe. Manitobans need to feel safe, they deserve to be safe and we need to continue to call on the federal government to address these systemic problems.
The minister has promised that monitoring is enough. This tragedy should send a signal loud and clear just how strong we must oppose that, and we must make sure that bail is taken seriously. The system was aware of multiple violations of release, of the conditions that were breached, and a warrant was eventually issued, but the system as it exists today was unable to do anything to keep Kellie safe.
The inactions on this file culminated in January with this tragic event. Monitoring without action and enforcement is negligent. Manitobans don't need security theatre, they need security. All Manitobans need to feel safe.
Today, we stand united as legislators–at least I sincerely hope that we do. We have an opportunity to take a large step towards community safety. It's far from a solution, but it moves that goal ever closer.
I remind everyone in this Chamber that it is what we're here today discussing: that the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba call on the provincial government to take immediate and decisive action regarding bail enforcement, and we must do that. We must all come together.
I can talk for hours on my experiences as a front-line police officer just as how articulately it was explained by the member from Waverley–the hundreds of times that you must talk to an individual who has lost a family member due to a tragic and preventable incident makes law enforcement and makes first responders' guts churn.
It is something that is preventable, and I'm hoping that our calls to action today is the greatest birthday present that we could possibly give to you and your family on this–Kellie's 29th birthday.
* (15:30)
So, honourable Deputy Speaker, we must stand united on this because this is common sense. We must not let perfect be the enemy of good. Let us not fight over minor wordings of the sentiment and structure of this motion that is before us by the member from Portage la Prairie. It's to protect and safeguard Manitobans from individuals that violate conditions of their release.
I ask you: show me a Manitoban that is opposed to that statement. Let the justice system put reasonable restrictions on release, but let the hammer fall on those who take this leniency and abuse it.
Honourable Deputy Speaker, as the saying goes: Fool me once, shame on you. Fool me twice, shame on me. Violate your conditions of release multiple times, which causes the death of an innocent young woman, shame on government.
Thank you, honourable Deputy Speaker.
Hon. Renée Cable (Minister of Advanced Education and Training): I want to acknowledge these folks here. I struggled to think about what I could possibly say in a moment like this that would bring any level of solace, any peace. I am a mom, too, and I cannot imagine what you're going through. I cannot imagine the feeling of losing a daughter that you love so much in an unimaginable accident.
Please, I hope–you've come here today for justice, and I sincerely hope that what you take home with you is that we are with you. This is not a political issue. This is not worthy of debate. Human life is sacred and we stand with you, and I hope that you feel that and you understand that and you know that.
We are united in our desire to make change in this province, and today we are standing with the members opposite because it is so incredibly important. And I want you to know how much we value you coming here, how much I wish you didn't have to come here, and that you accept that we are with you and the Minister of Justice (Mr. Wiebe) is committed to moving forward on the recommendations.
I don't work in law enforcement. I've never worked in law enforcement. I have worked with many victims of crime. I have sat with families who have lost loved ones under other circumstances and I know that when there is an opportunity to do something good for society that when we're in this space, this sacred Chamber here, that that's the obligation. That's what the people of Manitoba put us here to do and that's what we are here to do.
Minister of Justice, as he's mentioned, a number of pieces have already been put into place to help strengthen the system, but we have more work to do, and I hope that what you've heard today is that this government is committed to doing that. This government is committed to the people of Manitoba and this government is committed to making investments in the places where we need to, in order to make communities safer.
We've committed to being tough on crime and tough on the root causes of crime, and I think that what you will see from our Premier (Mr. Kinew), our Minister of Justice, and everybody else around this Legislature is that there is a deep commitment to making all of this work together in a way that will make our community safer.
Selfishly, I don't want to have to come here if something happens to a loved one of mine. And I don't want to be sitting up there asking the next government to do something. So my commitment to you in this moment is that, one hundred per cent, we'll support what you need and continue to work on making all of this better.
There are times when we come into this Chamber and we debate things because we have a difference of opinion, a different of–difference of values, negotiate the validity of the facts, and today, we're not here to debate that.
So I hope that we can move forward with getting on with the business of the day.
Mr. Wayne Ewasko (Leader of the Official Opposition): To the family and friends and community members that have joined us today–Travis, Meechelle, Ron, Gerry and Taralea, Mike and Jessica, Ryan and Claire and all your families and extended families–cousins, nieces, nephews, community members–it's a very emotional day.
But having the conversation prior to lunch and talking about tone–talking about tone as we move forward–I know that the member for Portage la Prairie (MLA Bereza) and the member for Lakeside (Mr. King), they worked quite closely with all of you to bring forward this change. And what's nice that I've heard today–part of it–I'll say 90 per cent of today is been–going good. I see that the change is on the horizon, with some cross-party lines working together on this motion.
I mean, the original opposition day motion from the member for Portage la Prairie read: that the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba call on the provincial government to take immediate and decisive action to create a bail condition enforcement branch within the Manitoba sheriffs department to protect and safeguard Manitobans from individuals that violate conditions of their relief–release.
Then the Justice Minister stands up and does a friendly amendment to the motion. And I will read it, because I think it's important to hear the words and to see exactly what the government is committing to work towards: that the motion be amended by striking out all the words after that and replacing that text with the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba call on the provincial government to take immediate and decisive action to further enhance bail enforcement within law enforcement agencies to protect and safeguard Manitobans from individuals that violate conditions of their release.
Now, the reason why I'm rereading that is to point out how important that is where we're working across party lines and agreeing to an amendment to a motion put forward by our party, the opposition, is to do that–is just to do better.
And I thank Meechelle for the conversation, and sorry to highlight you right on the floor of the Legislature, but the conversation we had was the fact that we just–we want to take out the partisanship because we're all here to try to make sure that there's some form of change.
So I know that the member for Lakeside (Mr. King) had mentioned–had repeated the fact that, take out the partisanship and do proper. It's a proper thing to do, to move forward. Sometimes, you don't know what you don't know, and you find that, you know, for myself, coming up to my 14th year of being in this incredible, incredible place to work, this is not something on my radar to do. I was more than happy being a teacher and guidance counsellor working with youth, and at times some really difficult topics and situations, much like many of you have been dealing with for a few months now.
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The thing is, what I mean is–by, you don't know what you don't know–is that in the election, in the 2023 election, I think that was–some of the things that, I mean, today, the Premier (Mr. Kinew) is finding out that he maybe said things during that election that he didn't quite know that he either could do or couldn't do. But the fact is is that he was saying it.
Now I've got pages and pages and pages, and much like my friend and colleague from Brandon West, could talk hours on this subject. The fact is is that crime has gotten worse. The fact is is that some of our seniors are worried to get out.
I'm from rural Manitoba. So if we think that it's just happening in urban centres, it's not. It's happening all over the place, all across this great province of ours. And much like, you know, the Justice Minister stood up and talked about, you know–even though he doesn't want to, you know, talk about partisan stuff–he talked about the increased funding that they had given to AMM.
Well, if money was the be all, end all of everything, then crime would have improved over the last 14, 15 months–I guess 17 months now. So I'm just hoping, and as the opposition, we are going to hold the government to account. I am happy that we're going to see that this motion is going to pass this afternoon unanimously, which, to those of you watching from home and those of you in the gallery, that doesn't happen too often. And it has a lot to do with each and every one of you who've joined us in the gallery and those of you that are watching from home or will be watching on YouTube later on.
I couldn't imagine going through what a lot of you have gone through. I've lost my sister-in-law to cancer during the 2023 election. It's almost one of those things where, you know, you expect that to happen once in a while though, right? Cancer's taken many people. Accidents, Kel's death was preventable. We don't have a crystal ball. We don't have a DeLorean to jump into and reverse time and fix the things that maybe should have been fixed ahead of time.
But you've got our word as opposition, and now you're hearing it from the government benches. You have their word; they're taking immediate and decisive action to make changes. And we will work with them to have that bipartisan, tri-partisan, quadruple-partisan because we've got some independent members; everybody to come on board and try to make Manitoba a better and safer place to live, work and raise a family.
So with that, honourable Deputy Speaker, thank you for your time. Thank you to the family and friends and community members who have joined us here today. And I want to thank all members of this Chamber for working together. And I look forward to passing this motion this afternoon unanimously.
Thank you, Deputy Speaker.
Mr. Mark Wasyliw (Fort Garry): I wanted to put a few words on the record. This is obviously something that's very personal to me and touches me. I'm a criminal law practitioner. I've practised for 25 years, probably one of the few people in this room that has been in a bail court.
And I want to thank everyone in the gallery who's been here and I'm sorry for your loss, but I see the strength and the determination to come here. You don't need politicians saying nice words to you; that's not why you're here. You want this to end. You don't want anybody else to live through this and you want to see action.
And in the history of this building, there has never been a government that wasn't tough on crime. There has never been a government that wasn't tough on bail. Yet nothing seems to change. Why is that?
I think I have some ideas, because I think you deserve an answer. I think you deserve to be respected and told why things aren't seeming to change.
I'm going to give you a very brief story of something that happened in my career when I was a very young lawyer that really imprinted on me just the measure and scope and problems that we're facing that we can overcome, but we need to do the right things.
I had a young client who was walking home late at night by herself, and she was set upon; she was attacked by a stranger who sexually assaulted her in a violent and disturbing manner. She was devastated. There was no help for her. There was no resources, nobody to take care of her. She was on her own. As Manitobans, that should just be unacceptable to all of us.
So what did she do? She armed herself with a knife, because nobody was protecting her; she had to protect herself. And she was angry and hurt and upset, and so what'd she do? She drank–day in, day out, drank. She wanted to numb the pain. She wanted to forget what had happened to her. She was a zombie at that point, just basically walking through her life, constantly drinking.
Couple days later, after she was assaulted, she ends up at a party. And she's so angry and drunk and upset, for some unknown reason that, to this day, we will never know, she took that knife out that she had for protection and, with one motion, she slammed it behind her into the chest and heart of somebody else who was at that party, nearly killing them; left that person in a vegetated state for the rest of their life.
Those are the people that commit crimes in Manitoba. They are both victims and victimizers. So what do we do with somebody like that?
When somebody comes into the justice system, they're in crisis. They are hurting. They need help. And they are so focused on their pain and themselves that they aren't worried about anybody else, and that makes them dangerous.
And here comes the solution: What if we actually recognize that these people are in crisis? What if we took this as an early warning that we actually are going to help them with their addictions, help them with their mental health problems, help them with stable housing. Put those supports in place so the reasons that they lash out at their neighbour is taken away.
We have to monitor people who are in crisis better than we do, and other jurisdictions do it. They provide what are called bail hotels, where somebody who's arrested would be in a 24-7 halfway house where there are constant supports, where people can monitor their sobriety, where they can get assistance for work and education, that they can deal with issues if they're decompensating mentally. And if they're out of control with their substance abuse, it's noticed and picked up and dealt with immediately.
That works. That keeps us all safe, and it's the most humane way to deal with people who are in crisis.
What doesn't work is what we're doing right now; what we've done for the past 20 years; why we keep seeing here, as politicians, more and more Manitobans having to come into this room and beg this government for action. You don't want to be here, and I wish you didn't have to be. And we keep doing this over and over again, and we don't seem to learn those lessons.
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Because it is very easy for politicians to go out there and say, I'm tough on crime and we've got to throw the book at these people. It is a lot harder to find the money to put supports in place to deal with the people who are struggling in our community, who are our neighbours, and that keeps us all safe.
That's what's missing. That's what you haven't heard today, and when you leave here today you will not hear a commitment of any money or any investment in actually keeping us safe. Public safety is a political choice, and it's not a cheap one. And any politician tells you there's an easy fix, or we can fix this and do this right away, is lying to you.
Thank you so much for coming here. It means more than you could possibly know. I just hope that we rise to this challenge and we are not yet another disappointment to you.
Thank you.
MLA Cindy Lamoureux (Tyndall Park): Thank you, Deputy Speaker, for the opportunity to rise here this afternoon and share a few words.
I would like to begin by expressing my condolences to the friends and family of Kellie. After hearing so many stories here this afternoon, she sounds like she was an incredible woman who left such a profound and impactful mark on many Manitobans, and many of the relationships in her life.
I loved the comments that were made about welcoming all the friends and family around the table. I think that is often the goal of so many, but can easily be forgotten, and it sounds like she was quite the trailblazer. And it's very sad to hear of what happened, and inexcusable, and my hope is that through conversations that we are having such as these today, there can be changes made. We know that changes need to be made, Deputy Speaker.
It's an incredibly vulnerable experience to join us here in the galleries and to share the stories and allow for us to talk about the stories, but that's exactly how legislation is formed. It comes from real-life experiences that you're bringing to the House here today.
It's important that this this legislation is passed here today, Deputy Speaker. We reflect on the safety of Manitobans and how it has been too long since we've taken serious measures, as crime continues to worsen here in the province of Manitoba. I think every single MLA is on board with the idea of resolving more crime, of ensuring that there are less tragic and completely avoidable situations that continue to happen here in the province. We need to stay–take a stronger stance, and there needs to be investments made into it.
I echo a lot of the thoughts that my colleagues have shared here already. It's one thing to say that changes are going to be made, but actions need to be applied, Deputy Speaker. There's so much that we could be doing in addition to this, and it is–we need to think about the root causes as well.
And the Province has the ability to make some tangible changes, and just a few examples, Deputy Speaker, we can talk about mental health, for example.
There are tons of resources that we could be investing in right now instead of making cuts, but unfortunately, that's what we're seeing, and this is having a ripple effect, Deputy Speaker. It's the same thing with housing here in the province. We need to do more, to invest in all social areas of our life to ensure that Manitobans are safe as it ripples down. It's the bigger picture, and there needs to be a higher focus on it.
I heard someone say earlier that over 7,000 people signed the petition. That is incredible. That deserves to be talked about here in the House. That deserves action, not just words from the Manitoba Legislature, Deputy Speaker. So I would–I'd like to thank my colleague for bringing forward this legislation, for all of my colleagues; it sounds like there is a consensus on this legislation, and I hope to see it passed immediately.
Thank you.
Mrs. Carrie Hiebert (Morden-Winkler): I just want to say thank you for being here today, and for, well, giving me the opportunity to speak to you about this issue about bail reform.
I want to express my deepest condolences as well. I can't imagine what it would be like to lose a child. I have kids that are 29 and 31 years old, and I can't imagine what it's like to have to go through something like this.
But I want to thank you, everybody in the gallery, for being here today. This is how we make change. Legislators, the fact that you came here to support us when we're trying to bring something forward, is a huge part of what we do, and that's a team effort, and I really appreciate all of you being here. It really helps us see and the government see how important this is to the people in the province, so thank you very much again.
I thank you for giving me the opportunity to speak to you today. I want to address the critical issue in our justice system that is directly affecting the safety and well being of our communities in Manitoba–the need for bail reform. Specifically, we need to rethink how we use bail to ensure that we are not releasing individuals who are more likely to reoffend and, in so doing, so taking innocent lives like we have experienced and what we've heard about today, and Kellie.
Currently, our bail system often fails to assess the real danger that certain individuals pose to public safety. We need to do better. There have been many tragic instances where people with a history of violence or criminal behaviour have been granted bail, only to go on and commit even more serious crimes, sometimes leading to the loss of innocent lives.
These situations highlight the urgent need for reform, and I want to ask the government again today, let's make a change. Let's not just talk about it. Let's not just say we're going to do something, but actually do it, and let's actually set a group together, a committee together, to start addressing these shortcomings. It's really important.
The Speaker in the Chair
The current system often focuses on the ability to pay for bail, rather than the risk individuals present. In many cases, individuals who can afford bail are released, even though the history of violent offences are–of reoffending–are high.
Manitoba needs a risk-based approach to bail, one that prioritizes public safety and the likelihood of reoffending. Someone–if someone has a violent past or has committed crimes before, they should not be released without a thorough risk assessment. We need to ask ourselves: Are we truly protecting the public by releasing someone who has repeatedly shown disregard for the law? This is the thing–the big job and the big task at hand is 'reafforming' and checking to see what is not working and how can we change it so that it works and protects those in our province.
Ultimately, reforming Manitoba's bail system is about more than just policy changes. It's about protecting innocent lives of our families, of our children, of those we love all around us. Every time a violent offender is released without proper scrutiny, the risk of harm to our communities increases.
It's time to act before more innocent people pay the price. It's all of us that need to work for change, and I'm really happy to see that we all are on the same page here today, that we want to make a change and we want to protect those that we love.
My–I have a family member who owns a business in Portage la Prairie, specifically, and he's a young adult, entrepreneur, loves the community, and in his experience in the community he has told me that he has come across situations that have been quite dangerous and had to go call 911. And those are situations that we don't want anybody to be in, and this is in the middle of the day.
I was talking to some of the family members during the lunch today and they expressed how they don't feel safe after 5 o'clock at night going out into Portage la Prairie in the community. This is something that we need to change. Why are these people out there in the community doing this–these things to these innocent people? It's like they're the ones who are out on bail and they have to be careful not to go out in the public. They're not the prisoners. We need to make sure that we keep people safe, but we also protect those that are in the common streets and in daily life in our communities across our province and in the city of Winnipeg.
I want to say thank you, again, to all of those first responders who do work really hard for all of us and keep us safe. There's so much that they do in every situation–the police officers, paramedics. There's so many instances where they go out and they take–and they deal with situations that are happening because of people out on bail and things that are happening in our justice system that are not working.
They are dealing with a lot of trauma, a lot of really violent situations, and I want to thank you and lift you up for the things that you do to keep us safe and to help protect us if something should happen.
* (16:00)
In conclusion, we must act now to reform bail in Manitoba. We can't make–let this wait. We need to do it now before more lives are lost, before more trauma happens and before more innocent people are victimized.
We need a system that puts safety first in our communities, that evaluates the true risk of offending, but ensures that those that are dangerous don't get a second chance to harm others, or a third chance, or a fourth chance. Let's work together for a 'safeter'–safer justice system that protects everybody.
Thank you.
Mrs. Kathleen Cook (Roblin): I want to begin my comments first of all by offering my deepest condolences to all of you who've joined us in the gallery here today.
I didn't know Kellie, but from listening to the stories that others who did know her or who know you have told us today, I know how great your loss is and I want to thank you for taking some of that pain and turning it into action and for coming here today.
My colleague here mentioned how rare it is that we work together across the aisle on anything in this Chamber. And I just want to impress upon you–I'm a fairly new MLA, but I've worked in this building for a long time–it is incredibly rare to have action promised as swiftly as it has been promised today. To have MLAs in different parties and independents working together on an issue is rare.
You being here made a difference today, and I think we all agree that it's remarkable that you're here in the wake of such fresh pain to make change. So thank you for that.
And I just wanted to add to some of the comments that have been put on the record about why this is so important, why we need this today.
And, you know, we'll pass this motion, but the critical part is what happens next. The motion is words; it has to be followed up with action. And though we all agree that action needs to be taken, the truth is that the only people who can take that action right now are the people on that side of the aisle.
So it's going to be up to them to stand by all of the words they've put on the record today and all of the words that are in this motion that they're agreeing to pass, and to follow it up with real action, to stop repeat offenders from walking our streets and hurting Manitobans.
I just wanted to read into the record a few of the words from Mayor Knox's letter, and for the benefit of members opposite and the clerks, this is the same letter that was tabled during question period by the member for Portage la Prairie (MLA Bereza).
Mayor Knox wrote: I implore you, Minister, to act decisively and immediately, strengthen enforcement mechanisms to ensure individuals with active warrants are apprehended and kept in custody–that's one; (2) prioritize public safety in sentencing and parole decisions, especially for repeat offenders; (3) increase resources and accountability within the justice system to prevent known criminals from endangering innocent lives; and (4) consult with communities and families affected by crime to develop meaningful, impactful reforms.
So those are the action steps. The motion today, all of this debate is words and it's meaningful, but it has to be followed up with those actions.
What happened to Kellie can't happen to any other Manitobans. But what concerns me as an MLA, and particularly an MLA in the city of Winnipeg, is that we continue to see examples of known offenders committing violent crimes while out on bail, while out released on an undertaking.
We had one such incident in my community, in Charleswood, on Friday night. Early in the evening, a man was brutally attacked with a machete at a convenience store on Dale Boulevard in my community, the same convenience store where my kids and I ride bikes to go get drinks and treats in the summer, just steps away from families' homes and a community centre and other local businesses.
And what makes this particularly troubling is that the suspect is a 15-year-old boy. A 15-year-old boy, a known offender who's now charged with, let me see here, failing to comply with his sentence and failing to comply with the conditions of an undertaking.
His victim had to have surgery. There were reportedly multiple tourniquets applied on the scene because he was so grievously injured.
So he had a machete. He's a minor. Legislation passed to prevent machetes from getting into his hands was ineffective. Any steps the government says that they've taken to keep violent offenders off the streets seems to have failed in this instance as well. And that's just one example.
Last month, just a couple of weeks ago, an 83‑year‑old grandmother was attacked on her way to buy milk at the corner store. Her injuries include a shattered pelvis. Doctors expect her to be in the hospital for another month, followed by months of rehab. A 27‑year‑old man has been arrested and charged with aggravated assault. He was out on bail facing charges for another violent attack in May of 2022.
Last year, closer to home for me and the other members of this House in west Winnipeg, the owner of the Cork & Flame, Kyriakos Vogiatzakis–I routinely butcher his name; I apologize–he was killed by a man with a lengthy criminal record who was repeatedly freed on bail and has been charged with manslaughter and uttering threats. And anybody from west Winnipeg knows how devastating that has been to our community and how beloved he was by members of our community who frequent the Cork & Flame.
There are other examples. Last Wednesday, police spotted a truck with an improper licence plate near Logan and Sherbrook. The Dodge Ram sped away at high speed, endangering everyone around him. Air 1 tracked the vehicle as it sped through city streets until it crashed at Higgins and Main. The driver was arrested and charged with stealing the truck, possessing a weapon and failing to comply with the conditions of a release order.
My point, Honourable Speaker, is that this continues to happen over and over, with life‑altering and often life‑ending consequences. So while I'm encouraged by the fact that the NDP government has agreed to pass this motion today, our job as opposition will be to continue to hold them to account, to follow up with action, to prevent something like what happened to Ms. Verwey from ever happening to another Manitoban.
Thank you.
The Speaker: Is the House ready for the question?
Some Honourable Members: Question.
The Speaker: So the question before the House is the amendment moved by the honourable Minister of Justice (Mr. Wiebe).
Do the members wish to have the amendment read?
Some Honourable Members: Yes.
Some Honourable Members: No.
The Speaker: Is it the–I heard a yes, so.
It's been moved by the honourable Minister of Justice, seconded by the honourable Minister of Families (MLA Fontaine),
THAT the motion be amended by striking out all the words after "that" and replacing that text with:
the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba call on the provincial government to take immediate and decisive action to further enhance bail enforcement within law enforcement agencies to protect and safeguard Manitobans from individuals that violate conditions of their release.
Is it the pleasure of the House to adopt the motion? [Agreed]
I declare the amendment carried.
Hon. Nahanni Fontaine (Government House Leader): On a recorded vote–I'm going to sit back down.
The Speaker: So it has been carried as amendment–as amended. The amendment has been carried.
We will now resume debate on the original motion, and the floor is open for debate.
Is the House ready for the question?
An Honourable Member: Agreed.
The Speaker: So the question before the House is the opposition day motion moved by the member for Portage la Prairie (MLA Bereza), as amended.
The motion reads as follows: that the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba call on the provincial government to take immediate and decisive action to further enhance bail enforcement within law enforcement agencies to protect and safeguard Manitobans from individuals that violate conditions of their release.
* (16:10)
Is it the pleasure of the House to adopt the motion as amended? [Agreed]
The motion is carried as amended.
Recorded Vote
Mr. Derek Johnson (Official Opposition House Leader): On a recorded vote, please.
The Speaker: A recorded vote has been requested, call in the members.
Order, please. Order, please.
* (16:20)
The question before the House is the motion brought forward by the honourable member for Portage la Prairie (MLA Bereza) as amended.
Do we want the motion read?
Some Honourable Members: Yes.
The Speaker: The amended motion reads as follows: that the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba call on the provincial government to take immediate and decisive action to further enhance bail enforcement within law enforcement agencies, to protect and safeguard Manitobans from individuals that violate conditions of their release.
Division
A RECORDED VOTE was taken, the result being as follows:
Ayes
Asagwara, Balcaen, Bereza, Blashko, Brar, Bushie, Byram, Cable, Chen, Compton, Cook, Cross, Dela Cruz, Devgan, Ewasko, Fontaine, Goertzen, Guenter, Hiebert, Jackson, Johnson, Kennedy, Khan, Kinew, King, Kostyshyn, Lagassé, Lamoureux, Lathlin, Loiselle, Maloway, Marcelino, Moroz, Moses, Moyes, Narth, Naylor, Nesbitt, Oxenham, Pankratz, Perchotte, Piwniuk, Redhead, Sala, Sandhu, Schmidt, Schott, Schuler, Simard, Smith, Stone, Wasyliw, Wharton, Wiebe, Wowchuk.
Clerk (Mr. Rick Yarish): Ayes 55, Nays 0.
The Speaker: The motion is accordingly passed as amended.
* * *
Hon. Nahanni Fontaine (Government House Leader): Is it the will of the House to call it 5 p.m.?
The Speaker: Is it the will of the House to call it 5 p.m.? [Agreed]
The hour now being 5 p.m., the House is adjourned and stands adjourned until 10 a.m. tomorrow.
LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA
Monday, March 10, 2025
CONTENTS