Manitoba’s NDP government has made significant promises in its third throne speech, pledging to construct an overpass at the site of a tragic bus crash that claimed the lives of 17 seniors, establish the province’s inaugural supervised consumption site within weeks, and build a new fuel-burning generation station to prevent an anticipated power shortage. The address, which outlines Premier Wab Kinew’s administration’s priorities for the upcoming legislative session, also emphasizes enhancing the healthcare system by focusing on reducing mandatory overtime and implementing staff-to-patient ratios.
One of the key commitments is the construction of an overpass at the current at-grade intersection of Highway 5 and the Trans-Canada Highway near Carberry, a move that has been met with approval from local residents who opposed the initial proposal. Following a fatal collision involving a semi-trailer and a bus carrying seniors to a casino, the government has acknowledged the need for this vital infrastructure upgrade.
Additionally, the throne speech vows to initiate the design work for the overpass next year and aims to open a supervised consumption site in Winnipeg by January. While the specific location of the site remains unspecified, Premier Kinew is confident in meeting the timeline, citing the province’s progress in the application process.
Furthermore, the government plans to construct a $3 billion fuel-generating system in Westman, a comprehensive project exceeding Manitoba Hydro’s original initiative to address potential winter power shortages. This updated facility will feature three turbines, generating 750 megawatts of power and utilizing natural gas, with future aspirations of transitioning to cleaner energy sources.
Other infrastructure projects outlined in the speech include commencing construction on the Victoria Hospital emergency department, establishing a new ER in Eriksdale, and constructing a correctional facility in Dauphin. The government also intends to implement legislation to set minimum staff-to-patient ratios in critical healthcare areas, beginning with emergency departments.
Premier Kinew emphasized the importance of addressing mandatory overtime for healthcare staff and criticized healthcare administrators for not taking adequate measures to alleviate the issue. The speech also mentions the creation of a patient safety charter and highlights upcoming digital health card access for patients.
Moreover, the government plans to ban machetes in certain public spaces, enhance drug interception efforts, and unveil the next steps in its carbon-neutral plan by spring. Efforts to assist Manitobans with grocery costs, honor individuals who have passed away, and maintain fiscal responsibility by balancing the budget are also part of the administration’s agenda.