LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA

Thursday, November 26, 1992

The House met at 1:30 p.m.

 

            At 1:30 p.m., all members and guests standing, the Sergeant-at-Arms, carrying the Mace shoulder high and followed by the Speaker and the Clerks of the Legislative Assembly, entered the Chamber and proceeded along the west side.  The Speaker took post on the east side of the Chamber and the Clerks took post on the west side of the Chamber and the Sergeant‑at‑Arms returned along the east side of the Chamber to the main entrance where he stood and awaited the arrival of His Honour the Administrator.

            The Premier, members of the Executive Council, military and civil aides, and officers comprising the officer escort, met in the Lieutenant‑Governor's reception room.

            The Premier, members of the Executive Council, military and civil aides and officer escort accompanied His Honour from the reception room to the Chamber in the following order:

            The civil aide on the right;

            the military aide on the left;

            the officer escort;

            the members of the Executive Council;

            the Premier; and then

            the Administrator.

            At the main entrance, the military and civil aides, the officer escort, members of the Executive Council and the Premier halted and turned inward to allow the Administrator to advance to the head of the officer escort, where His Honour was met by the Mace.

Deputy Sergeant‑at‑Arms (Mr. Roy MacGillivray):  His Honour the Administrator.

            The Administrator then, preceded by the Mace carried shoulder high, and followed on his left by the military aide and on his right by the civil aide, proceeded along the west side of the Chamber to the throne.  The Premier proceeded along the east side and stood on the floor on the east side of the Chamber.  The members of the Executive Council took their places.

            The military aide took up his position on the right of the throne and the civil aide took up his position on the west side of the Chamber.

            The officer escort was positioned to the left of the throne.

            The Administrator seated himself on the throne; the Mace made obeisance and retired to the east side of the Chamber.

            The civil aide advanced from the position he had taken on the west side of the Chamber and, after the usual obeisance on each step, handed the Administrator the Speech from the Throne.

            The civil aide then retired, step by step, and took up his position on the west side of the Chamber.

                  (The Administrator seated the House)

 

SPEECH FROM THE THRONE

 

Hon. Chief Justice Scott (Administrator of the Province of Manitoba): Mr. Speaker and members of the Manitoba Legislature.

            I welcome you to the Fourth Session of the Thirty‑fifth Legislature of the Province of Manitoba.

            May I express the wish of His Honour that your goals and aspirations and the needs of the people you represent be met through your service as members of this Legislature.

            The winds of change are sweeping the globe.  Walls and boundaries that have traditionally defined nations, international trade, national economies and individual lifestyles are tumbling down.  This revolutionary process is affecting every continent and touching virtually every nation and every community.

            History teaches us that the most durable and enduring societies are those best able to cope with change, adapt their way of life and take advantage of new opportunities.

            Canadians and their governments are facing an array of new challenges which, at times, seem to present themselves in rapid fire and random order.  From coast to coast, Canadians are confronting changed circumstances and new realities while their local, regional, and provincial economies are reacting to increased competition and new opportunities half the world away.

            Meeting these challenges and capitalizing on new opportunities requires a co‑ordinated and concentrated effort from all sectors of our society.  We must have the courage to make difficult decisions as well as the wisdom and skill to ensure the most positive results possible.

            The decisions we make today will be pivotal in determining what kind of world we will leave our children.  My ministers believe these key decisions and choices cannot be made lightly, nor should they be made in isolation.

 

Manitoba at a Crossroads

 

            Manitoba has reached an important crossroads.  To ensure that our province continues to be an enviable place to live, work and raise a family, we must clearly recognize and prepare to deal with the challenges before us.

 

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            Manitobans want a strong economy capable of creating new opportunities for themselves and their children, and supporting vital human services upon which we all rely.  The decisions and choices we make together in the coming months and years will determine our success in reaching that goal.

            My government is committed to implementing its plan for economic renewal, a plan that looks to the future and focuses on new ideas and new ways of thinking rather than relying on past approaches and outdated thinking.  This innovative approach is the key to a strong and prosperous Manitoba.

            The foundation for my government's plan for economic renewal is our ability to control taxes and create an internationally competitive climate for investment and sustainable growth.

            My ministers are encouraged by recent Conference Board of Canada projections that place Manitoba tied for second in the country with respect to 1992 growth in gross domestic product, and by forecasts of investment intentions well above the national average.

            My government will continue to choose its priorities carefully, exercise moderation in public sector bargaining, and implement the process of internal reform in government.

            Two of my government's key economic development departments, Rural Development, and Industry, Trade and Tourism have been restructured to improve and focus the delivery of programs and services to Manitoba businesses.  A government‑wide review of economic development programs is being conducted to further improve the quality and availability of these government services.

            My government is committed to providing all Manitoba businesses with improved access to business assistance programs.

            In addition, my ministers advise that they will bring forward plans for the application of video lottery terminal revenues to promote economic development and community support throughout Manitoba.

            Excessive regulations and paperwork are a significant burden for Manitobans competing for jobs and investment.  My government is committed to continuing reforms to the regulation‑making and review process by providing a mechanism for individuals and businesses to help reduce the costs of regulation.  Specific approvals processes will be reviewed with a view to streamlining and better co‑ordinating the efforts of provincial regulatory bodies.

 

New Ways for a New Age

 

            Manitobans' capacity to be innovative will determine our ability to compete in the global economy.

            A few weeks ago the newly established Economic Innovation and Technology Council organized the Manitoba Economic Innovation Forum which brought together close to 400 representatives of business, labour, the education community, and government to examine mutual challenges and discuss potential solutions.  My ministers advise that this unprecedented gathering of Manitobans will result in new and broader partnerships, more innovative development, and a consensus approach to economic challenges and opportunities.

            To build on these efforts, my government has charged the council with providing recommendations on further steps in support of innovation‑based development, including initiatives to improve the co‑ordination and effectiveness of expenditures by government and its agencies in this area.

 

Marketing Manitoba to the World

 

            With a population of 1.1 million people, Manitoba is a relatively small market.  Sustained economic growth requires Manitoba firms to sell their products and services to other provinces and countries.  In 1991, Manitoba's merchandise exports were nearly $3.1 billion, up 4.5 percent from 1990.  So far in 1992, our exports to the world have increased close to 13 percent from 1991 levels.

           

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            In an increasingly competitive environment for international trade, it is vital that Manitobans work together to take advantage of new opportunities.  My ministers advise me that the Manitoba Trading Corporation will be activated and refocused with a new mandate to connect Manitoba businesses with emerging export opportunities.

            My ministers advise that they continue to closely monitor developments in the federal government's trade negotiations on two important fronts, to ensure that the best interests of Manitobans are represented.  My government has indicated to the federal government that we cannot support the proposed North American Free Trade Agreement unless it meets six conditions, and we are concluding our discussions on the current proposals with Manitobans.

            In the discussions towards a General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade, our single most important objective is to achieve a positive resolution to the agricultural subsidy war between the United States and the European Economic Community.  We are encouraged by apparent progress and hope that it will shortly be translated into a successful conclusion of the Uruguay Round.  Manitoba farmers traditionally bring the best products in the world to market.  Their excellence deserves to be rewarded with fair prices on a level international playing field.

 

Investing in Ourselves

 

            In an increasingly competitive world, closer management‑labour partnerships are needed to build successful enterprises.  My ministers advise me that the newly created Crocus Fund will be funded by employee contributions and through the sale of shares to the public.

            My government will continue to push for changes to federal tax legislation to encourage employees to participate in the ownership of their businesses.

 

Strengthening the Rural Economy

 

            Building a stronger rural economy is essential to economic renewal and sustained growth in Manitoba.  Since 1988, my government has introduced several key initiatives to stimulate growth including the Rural Development Grow Bond and the Rural Economic Development Initiative.

            My government's strategy for rural economic renewal will continue to be based on local business development, regional capital market development, international marketing initiatives, investment in infrastructure, and diversification of agriculture and resource‑based activities.

            My ministers are also examining the feasibility of a new initiative on rural gasification, to help strengthen rural economies by providing a more diversified energy supply.

            My ministers look forward to receiving the report of the Northern Economic Development Commission in 1993.  They are heartened by the positive reaction of the international mining industry to the policy and taxation changes introduced last session.

 

A Foundation for Growth

 

            Manitoba's transportation and telecommunications networks play a vital role in our ability to do business and compete in international markets.  My ministers recognize that investment in needed infrastructure not only provides the lasting benefits of improved facilities, but also creates spin‑off opportunities for the production of transportation and telecommunications equipment, and construction and engineering services.

            Since 1988, my ministers have made substantial investments in infrastructure projects, including large capital outlays for highways, roads, sewer and water infrastructure, airports, hospitals and schools.  This year, total capital expenditures rose to an historic high of over $300 million.

            My government will continue to place a high priority on investment in infrastructure, and will introduce policies and programs to ensure that Manitoba's infrastructure is capable of meeting the challenges of the 1990s.

           

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Agriculture

 

            My government will intensify efforts to strengthen Manitoba's presence in new and emerging markets for primary and processed agricultural products.

            Manitoba's sugar beet industry is an example of our producers' innovative and competitive abilities.  However, the national sugar beet industry across Canada is struggling to cope with a series of problems. My ministers will press the federal government to act on its responsibility to strengthen and promote this industry in Canada.

            My ministers advise that they will bring together the strategic partners in the agricultural industry with a forum to identify future directions in diversification, value‑added processing and exports.

 

Building on our Strengths

 

            With an eye to the future, my ministers will continue to focus particular efforts on sectors of emerging opportunities, where significant potential for growth and innovation exist.  Dynamic clusters of related businesses within these areas, which have already produced significant results, will continue to be challenged to work together to meet the growth opportunities of the 1990s.  These sectors include health care industries, information and telecommunications, tourism, aerospace, environmental industries and value‑added agriculture.

 

Health Care Industries

 

            My government's strategic focus on the health industry has produced significant results over the past four years.  The number of health product manufacturers in this sector increased by 250 percent to more than 60 companies employing over 1,000 Manitobans.  Health industry developments have resulted in investments such as the Laboratory Centre for Disease Control and the Animal Virology Laboratory in Winnipeg; Trimel Corporation in Steinbach; Ayerst in Brandon; and Novapharm, Otto Bock and Medix in Winnipeg representing $500 million in public and private sector investment in Manitoba.

            My government will continue its focus and build on the important infrastructure that has been created.  In August of this year, Canada and Manitoba agreed to extend the Canada‑Manitoba Health Industry Development Strategy supporting health industry development for another five years, until 1998.

 

Information and Telecommunications

 

            Since 1988, my ministers have taken several steps to strengthen the information and telecommunications industry.  The sale of Manitoba Data Services to ISM Manitoba, a strategic partnership with Linnet Graphics International, competition in the provision of long distance telephone services and investments by companies such as Hughes Acoustic Technology will set the stage for the future development of this $400 million industry in Manitoba.

            A strategy to capture opportunities in this growing sector will be launched, supported by a Canada‑Manitoba agreement in communications technology research and industry development.  My ministers advise that special emphasis will be placed on the development of technologies and services to support the economic development and growth of rural and northern Manitoba.

 

Tourism

 

            Manitoba's ability to compete as a world‑class tourist destination depends on our capacity to create attractions of an international calibre.  Recently, The Forks was recognized by the International Downtown Executive Association for its vision in developing its waterfront and greenspace as an international showcase.

            My government advises that we will further commit to the enhancement of this site by contributing towards the relocation of the Manitoba Children's Museum to the Forks.  In addition, a state‑of‑the‑art tourism centre will be built.

            My government advises that it has unveiled plans to introduce Sunday shopping on a trial basis and will put forward legislation to make Manitoba more competitive with neighbouring jurisdictions.

 

Federal-Provincial Priorities

 

            My ministers recognize that their efforts to encourage economic recovery will be most effective if they are co‑ordinated closely with those of other governments, both federal and provincial, within a national economy which is competitive and growing.

            All governments in Canada face similar economic and fiscal challenges, and there is much common ground for positive action.

           

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            The Premier has proposed that federal and provincial First Ministers meet in the near future to review a wide range of priorities for co‑operation, including the National Highways Program and interprovincial trade barrier reductions.

            For several years, all provinces have expressed concerns about a persistent pattern of federal government offloading of costs and responsibilities onto provincial and local governments.  Federal offloading has affected virtually the entire range of public services, including training, off‑reserve social services, and agricultural support.  The negative effects of offloading have been compounded by very substantial cutbacks in federal transfer payments under the equalization system and the Established Programs Financing Arrangements for health care and higher education.  These reductions will have an impact on all Manitobans, and all of us must re-examine the way in which we deliver services as a result.

            My ministers will continue to oppose unilateral federal reductions and, at the same time, will work to ensure fair and adequate federal support for key economic priorities, such as the Port of Churchill; a speed‑up in the construction of the Laboratory Centre for Disease Control; a renewed urban development agreement for the City of Winnipeg; and new measures to enhance Manitoba's role as Canada's leader in sustainable development.

 

Education and Training

 

            My government realizes that Education and Training are the keys that unlock a world of opportunity and a future of economic growth and prosperity.  To this end, my government will chart a course to equip Manitobans with the knowledge and skills they require to meet the challenges of a new century.

            My government has listened to public demands for accurate student achievement measures and will, therefore, be examining options to improve standards and increase province-wide testing and evaluation in critical areas, such as language arts, mathematics, and sciences.

            Further, my government will examine options to offer parents more flexibility in choosing the public school best suited to the needs of their child.

            My government will place greater emphasis on policies and programs directed towards producing sound reading, mathematics and learning skills.

            My ministers are firmly committed to an increased role of parents in education and will introduce related initiatives during this session of the Legislature.  My government will establish a program to recognize "Excellence in Education" among teachers who are the pivotal component in preparing our youth for the demands of today's world.

            My ministers are aware of the importance of the roles that both teachers and parents play in the education system.  I am advised that my government will host a Manitoba Education Innovation Forum to provide leadership in the discussion of implementing important educational reforms.

            Mon gouvernement proposera une loi sur la mise en oeuvre de la gestion des ecoles franco‑manitobaines conformement a l'article 23 de la Charte canadienne des droits et libertes et a la decision de la Cour supreme du Canada.

[Translation]

            Legislation to implement francophone schools governance in accordance with Section 23 of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms and the Supreme Court of Canada ruling will be introduced.

[English]

            A previously announced move to college governance is proceeding. The recently announced University Review is underway and is expected to be completed in 1993.  My ministers look forward to receiving the recommendations of this review.

           

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            The Workforce 2000 Program is in its second year of operation, and private sector businesses throughout our province are receiving new and expanded education and training supports.  As a result of the extension of the eligibility of the Payroll Tax Refund Program, Workforce 2000 is expected to serve approximately 25,000 employees through more than 200 companies this year.

            A new Canada/Manitoba Labour Force Development Agreement will soon be signed and my ministers advise me that they look forward to working with the federal government and other partners to create a made‑in‑Manitoba approach to the structure of the training boards.

            My ministers will pursue with the federal government the creation of a tax‑advantaged savings plan to encourage Manitobans to invest in upgrading their education.  By providing leadership and working closely with parents, students, and the education community, my ministers are confident that our education system will provide a solid foundation upon which to build our future progress.

 

Quality Health Care for Manitoba

 

            One of the fundamental values that unites us as Manitobans and Canadians is a commitment to the health and well‑being of all our citizens.  Manitobans want and need a dependable health care system that provides quality care for themselves and their families.

            My government realizes that every province and territory in Canada faces significant challenges to the future of medicare as we know it. Many provincial governments are only beginning to confront these challenges and search for solutions.

            In May of this year, my government presented a plan to preserve our medicare system and provide Manitobans with quality care closer to home.  The "Quality Health for Manitobans' Action Plan" is aimed at assuring the future of a dependable and effective system for all Manitobans by striking a better balance among prevention, community‑based and institutional services.

            My government will continue to implement this plan by shifting services away from higher cost institutions to more personal methods of health care delivery.

            My ministers agree that we must move towards more health promotion, illness prevention, disability postponement and a refocused health services system in which individuals and families have the opportunity to participate in decisions affecting their health.

            The health care needs of Manitobans and their families will guide my government as they strive to provide the highest quality of care possible in the most appropriate setting.  My ministers will ensure that Manitobans receive the important benefits of continuing advances in medical science and technology.  With that goal in mind, my government will develop strategies to implement computerized health card technology with the first phase focusing on Pharmacare.

 

Family Services

 

            My government remains committed to strengthening and supporting Manitoba families, caring for those less fortunate and protecting Manitoba's vulnerable and disadvantaged citizens.

           

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            My ministers will continue to take action to protect and care for children at risk in Manitoba.  My government will proceed with plans to establish the Office of the Children's Advocate, implement recommendations of the Independent Review of Reporting Procedures in Children's Residential Care Facilities, and pursue ongoing reform of the child and family services system.

            My ministers will continue their efforts to ensure a high quality of life for disabled Manitobans by launching a pilot project aimed at helping disabled persons live more independently in the community.  My government will also introduce legislation to support and protect the rights of adult Manitobans living with a mental disability.

            Our province continues to be committed to combating elder abuse. In the coming year, we will co‑ordinate resources and develop multidisciplinary teams to respond to elder abuse concerns throughout the province.

 

Protecting the Environment and Conserving our Natural Resources

 

            My government will continue to place a high priority on the protection of Manitoba's environment and the proper stewardship of our natural resources in keeping with the principles of sustainable development.

            My ministers advise that the expected report of the Advisory Committee on Environmental Liability will be the first step towards legislation to ensure that environmental liability will be clearly and fairly assigned and past problems will be cleaned up quickly and effectively.

            My government continues to implement the necessary measures to control and properly dispose of hazardous wastes.  The Manitoba Hazardous Waste Management Centre in the Rural Municipality of Montcalm is now proceeding.  New initiatives to deal with biomedical wastes will also be announced.

            My government recognizes that the waste management burden can fall unequally on smaller municipalities, and in response, will be putting in place a program to assist these local governments to upgrade, relocate or regionalize their solid waste management facilities to meet more exacting provincial standards.

            A particularly troublesome problem is contamination caused by petroleum products leaking from underground storage tanks.  My government intends to enact new regulations which will impose substantially higher standards for new installations, and which will require testing of existing facilities and cleanup of problem sites.

            My ministers will introduce a new Park Lands Act to better meet the needs of today's park users and to reflect contemporary management techniques.  This act will play a key role in meeting our commitments under the Endangered Spaces Program.

            Our province is leading a national effort to produce and implement a new humane trapping technology to ensure a future for the wild fur industry which supports thousands of Manitobans and their families.

            My government will continue to enter into co-management programs with First Nations to assist in protecting wildlife populations in Manitoba.

            My government will introduce an amendment to The Provincial Fisheries Act which will expand the markets for commercial fish in Manitoba and provide greater opportunities for small businesses in the province.  This amendment will allow Manitoba commercial fishermen to sell their catch directly to Manitoba restaurants, retailers, and processors.

            My ministers will also establish a fund to support projects that will enhance the quality of our sport fishery.

            Energy efficiency is integral to all government‑owned and funded operations.  My government is introducing new policies to encourage the use of renewable and alternative energy sources.  Co‑generation projects and programs promoting the use of natural gas in school buses are two examples of potential energy cost savings.

            My government plans to introduce a comprehensive new Oil and Gas Act early in this session to encourage, promote and facilitate the exploration and development of Manitoba's petroleum resources.

 

A Strong and Prosperous Future

 

            My ministers believe that challenge brings opportunity; diversity brings strength; and competition brings progress and growth.

            Shaping a strong and prosperous future for Manitoba will require innovation, skill and wisdom to meet new challenges posed by highly competitive economies, rapidly developing technologies and quickly changing circumstances in the world today.  My government is committed to building a competitive and innovative economy by helping Manitobans take advantage of their strengths, resources and talents to successfully pursue new opportunities for growth and development.

            My government's plan for economic renewal will focus on new ideas and new ways of thinking to ensure a strong future for Manitobans and their families.  My ministers will continue to bring forward new and innovative programs designed to turn today's challenges into the opportunities of tomorrow.

            A strong and prosperous Manitoba is within our grasp.  My government is confident Manitobans will have the courage and the ability to take tomorrow in hand today.

            Mes ministres soumettront aux deliberations et a l'approbation des membres de cette Assemblee legislative une vaste gamme de projets de loi.

[Translation]

            My ministers will lay before this Legislature a wide‑ranging array of legislation for debate and approval.

[English]

            Estimates for the requirements for the public services of the province for the next fiscal year and the public accounts for the last fiscal year will be placed before you for your consideration.

            Je vous laisse maintenant aux nombreuses taches que vous allez etre appeles a accomplir fidelement.  Que la divine Providence vous eclaire au cours des deliberations necessaires a l'execution de ces taches.

            I leave you now to the faithful performance of your many duties and trust that in meeting them you may have the guidance of Divine Providence in all your deliberations.

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            The civil aide advanced and, after obeisance, received the speech from the Administrator and retired to the west side of the Chamber.

            The Mace then made obeisance before the Administrator and preceded him along the east side of the Chamber to the main entrance, accompanied by the Premier, the aides and the officer escort.  All members and guests stood.

                 (God Save the Queen was sung)

            The Speaker proceeded to the Chair after His Honour retired from the House.

            The Premier proceeded to his seat in the Chamber.

            The Sergeant‑at‑Arms proceeded to the Speaker who was standing before the Chair.  The Mace made obeisance and returned to the table.

Mr. 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, 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.

 

INTRODUCTION OF BILLS

 

Bill 1–An Act respecting the Administration of Oaths of Office

 

Hon. Gary Filmon (Premier):  I move, seconded by the honourable Minister of Energy and Mines (Mr. Downey), that leave be given to introduce Bill 1, An Act respecting the Administration of Oaths of Office; Loi sur la prestation des serments d'entree en fonction, and that the same be now received and read a first time.

Motion agreed to.

 

House Business

 

Mr. Speaker:  I wish to inform the House that in order to prevent mistakes, I have received a copy of the Address of the honourable Administrator, which was read.

            I am pleased to introduce to the House the six young people who have been selected to serve as Pages at this session.  They are, beginning at my right:  Tina Sontag, from College Pierre‑Elliott‑Trudeau; Jeffrey Peters, from Portage Collegiate Institute; Gaetane Manaigre, from Lorette Collegiate Institute; Trevor Rudge, from Portage Collegiate Institute; Karen Tymofichuk, from Fort Richmond Collegiate; and Matthew Jenkins, from Lord Selkirk Regional Comprehensive Secondary School.

Mr. Filmon:  I move, seconded by the honourable Minister of the Environment (Mr. Cummings), that the Votes and Proceedings of the House be printed, having first been perused by the Speaker, and that the Speaker do appoint the printing thereof, and that no person but such as the Speaker shall appoint do presume to print the same.

Motion agreed to.

Mr. Filmon:  I move, seconded by the honourable Minister of Finance (Mr. Manness), that the speech of the honourable Administrator be taken into consideration tomorrow.

Motion agreed to.

Mr. Filmon:  Mr. Speaker, I move, seconded by the honourable Leader of the Opposition (Mr. Doer), that this House do now adjourn.

Mr. Speaker:  Before putting the motion to the House, may I inform all present that a receiving line composed of the honourable Administrator, the Premier and Mrs. Filmon, and the Speaker and Mrs. Rocan will form shortly in Room 200 at the north end of the building and that refreshments will be served in Room 254 at the south end of the building in five minutes time.

Motion agreed to, and the House adjourned and stands adjourned until 10 a.m. tomorrow (Friday).