View From the Legislature

In only a few days 2011 will come to an end and a new year will begin. As every year does, 2011 had its fair share of highs and lows.

One of the key challenges that faced the province in 2011 was the spring flood that devastated large parts of western Manitoba and residents living along Lake Manitoba. The flood resulted in the unprecedented action of the provincial government deliberately breaching a dike along the Assiniboine River. Because of the poor forecasting and some concerns with the response to the flooding, there have been several calls for an independent review on how the flood was handled. As well, there remain many residents who have not received the flood assistance that they were promised.  As a result, the spring 2011 flood could be examined for a long time to come.

Partially as a result of the flood, but mostly as a result of years of mismanagement, the NDP government announced late in 2011 that the provincial deficit for the current year would be just under a billion dollars, or double the original forecast. Because of this massive deficit, it is unlikely the NDP will be returning the provinces books to black anytime soon.

2011 also saw another increase in violent crime in Manitoba and in particular in Winnipeg, where a new record for murders was set. The violent crime downtown Winnipeg led to some businesses taking their business elsewhere in the interest of employee safety. Unfortunately, violent crime in Winnipeg and Manitoba doesn’t seem to be a problem that is getting better.

Some of the most positive news for the province came as a result of the return of the NHL to Manitoba. The return of the Winnipeg Jets was welcomed right across the province and the new Jets colours and logo have become a hot seller and a great source of pride for the province. Mark Chipman and True North Entertainment are to be congratulated for the steps they have taken to make the dream of many become a reality. Also in the sporting world, while the Winnipeg Blue Bombers fell short of winning the Grey Cup, they provided a season of entertainment and excitement and also brought pride to the province.

Locally, there are a number of important projects that are taking shape, not the least of which is the new Middle School in Steinbach with the construction of the new High School expected to be in full swing in 2012. And while there is now work being done on what will be the temporary Emergency Room at Bethesda Hospital, the long delayed and much needed new ER did not begin in 2011 as anticipated and it can only be hoped that 2012 is the year the provincial government finally gets this project going.

With 2011 almost in the books, I want to wish you and your family all the best for 2012!