October 30, 2012

PROVINCE PRESENTS MANITOBA COUNCIL ON AGING RECOGNITION AWARDS

Eight dedicated Manitobans and a not-for-profit enterprise received Manitoba Council on Aging Recognition Awards today from Healthy Living, Seniors and Consumer Affairs Minister Jim Rondeau and Jean-Yves Rochon, chair of the Manitoba Council on Aging. 
The awards recognize the outstanding contribution each award winner has made within their communities.
“A community is only as strong and vibrant as the individuals who contribute to it, and today we honour a generous, committed group of volunteers who have given tirelessly of themselves to improve the quality of life for seniors and all Manitobans,” said Rondeau.  “I am delighted to present these individuals with a Council on Aging Recognition Award.”
“This is truly a celebration as we recognize and honour seniors and the invaluable resource that they are to our society and communities throughout Manitoba,” said Rochon.
The 2012 individual award recipients are:

• Earl Clayton, Gladstone;
• Phyllis and Nate Dana, Winnipeg;
• Robert Forbes, Winnipeg;
• Candace Maxymowich, Vita;
• Orville Towns, Killarney;
• John Quiring, Winnipeg;
• Bruce Wagg, Winnipeg; and
• The House of Economy, Selkirk.

In addition to the recognition award winners, honourable mention certificates were presented to the following individuals, programs and groups:

• Susan Bomak, MacGregor;
• Alice Brennan, Winnipeg;
• Peter Hamm, Portage la Prairie;
• Sylvia Jewar, Miniota; 
• Lena Kaminsky, Winnipeg;
• Ema Kehler, Winnipeg;
• Joe and Lois Mallet, Winnipeg;
• Christine Schroeder, Winnipeg;
• Joy McCharles, Winnipeg;
• Ernie Oliver, Winnipeg;
• Pat Porth, Seven Sisters Falls;
• Caroline Sanoffsky, Wabowden;
• Sid Slonim, Winnipeg;
• Dorothy Wilk, Winnipeg;
• Assiniboine Park Conservancy, Winnipeg;
• Grade 7 Class, St. Ignatius School, Winnipeg; and
• Pinawa Age-Friendly Committee, Pinawa.

Rondeau also presented the 2012 Murray Smith Award, which honours the late Murray Smith, a prominent educator, volunteer and seniors advocate, and former chair of the Manitoba Council on Aging.  This year’s recipient is Wilfred Hudson from Dauphin.  Hudson has been a leader in organizing and carrying on the work of many senior-serving organizations including the Dauphin Multi-Purpose Senior Centre and the Manitoba Association of Senior Centres.  He is a firm believer in the benefits of intergenerational work in serving the needs of seniors in his community.
The Manitoba Council on Aging Recognition Awards were established in 1996 to recognize extraordinary individuals and organizations for their exemplary efforts on behalf of seniors and to pay tribute to the seniors who continue to contribute to their communities.  The awards demonstrate the province’s interest in creating age-friendly environments for all, Rondeau said.
More information on the Recognition Awards is available at: www.gov.mb.ca/shas/manitobacouncil/recognitionawards.
For more information on seniors and healthy aging, visit www.gov.mb.ca/shas/index.html.

October 29, 2012

PROVINCE ANNOUNCES INTERIM MANAGER APPOINTED TO OVERSEE ADMINISTRATION OF MIDDLECHURCH HOME OF WINNIPEG

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Proper Oversight of Public Funds Top Priority Following Ombudsman's Report: Oswald

An interim manager has been put in place at Middlechurch Home of Winnipeg following the receipt and review of a Manitoba ombudsman’s report, titled Report on Investigations of Allegations of Wrongdoing at Middlechurch Home of Winnipeg Inc., which cites gross mismanagement of public funds at Middlechurch, Health Minister Theresa Oswald announced today.
“Manitoba families expect accountability for their tax dollars and that includes funding for independent personal-care homes,” said Oswald.  “Manitoba families have come to expect quality patient care and accountability from Manitoba’s personal-care homes.  The ombudsman has made it clear the administrators at Middlechurch failed to provide adequate governance and accountability, and that’s why we’re taking action.”
The ombudsman found that Middlechurch’s executive director and board committed several acts of gross mismanagement of public funds and acts of gross mismanagement arising from significant breaches to Winnipeg Regional Health Authority (WRHA) and Middlechurch policies and procedures.  The ombudsman concluded wrongdoing had occurred and made 10 recommendations, eight of which were directed to the management of Middlechurch, one to the Winnipeg Health Region recommending a review to ensure the financial practices of other personal-care homes are aligned with WRHA polices, and one to Manitoba Health and the Winnipeg Health Region recommending that appropriate action be taken to ensure proper governance and oversight of the operations of Middlechurch.
Manitoba Health accepts the findings and recommendations of the Manitoba ombudsman’s report, which was initiated by a whistleblower under Manitoba’s Whistleblower Protection Act.  The whistleblower initially brought their concerns to the WRHA, which initiated an audit.  These findings were passed onto to the ombudsman’s office to be included as part of its investigation. 
Given the findings of the ombudsman’s investigation, specifically the board’s systematic failure to provide an appropriate level of oversight in the expenditure of large amounts of public funds, and its failure to exercise due diligence with those funds, the minister has appointed an interim manager for the personal-care home.  Management of Middlechurch will be turned back over to the board of directors as soon as the minister is satisfied there is proper governance oversight at Middlechurch.

Manitoba Health, together with the Winnipeg Health Region, has initiated the following plan to immediately address issues raised by the report and to ensure all personal-care homes in Manitoba are in full compliance with conflict of interest polices and accepted accounting practices:

• appointing Ernst & Young Inc. as the interim manager to assume control of the facility;
• referring the report to the police for further review out of an abundance of caution;
• initializing a review of accounting practices and procedures at other personal-care homes to ensure they are in full compliance with policies and procedures; and
• incorporating the ombudsman’s findings into new, tougher regulations already being developed to improve financial transparency and accountability in regional health authorities (RHAs), hospitals and personal-care homes.

“Over the last year, we have engaged in a number of public discussions regarding the need for increased transparency and oversight of publicly funded health organizations,” said Oswald.  “This instance, though rare, reinforces the need for these conversations to continue, with a view toward implementing even stronger standards for accountability and public oversight.”
Manitoba has high standards for transparency and accountability in health care, the minister said. CEOs of personal-care homes are already required to publicly disclose their salaries and recent amendments to the Regional Health Authorities Act will strengthen the transparency and accountability of public funding in the health-care sector by:

• implementing tighter controls on executive compensation in RHAs, hospitals and other health corporations;
• requiring that CEO expenses for RHAs, hospitals and personal-care homes be posted online; and
• ensuring that if a health organization has a surplus of public funds, there is improved accountability and transparency for how those funds are used.

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October 26, 2012

CONNECTION BETWEEN WINNIPEG'S DOWNTOWN AND OSBORNE VILLAGE COMPLETE

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Osborne Bridge refurbishment features numerous enhancements

For Immediate Release
Friday, October 26, 2012
 WINNIPEG – Motorists, cyclists and pedestrians are now fully able to cross the Assiniboine River between Osborne Village and the city’s downtown via a newly refurbished Osborne Street Bridge, which was built in 1882 and reconstructed in 1977.  This refurbishment project has extended the service life of the structure by 75 years.
Today, Premier of Manitoba Greg Selinger, City of Winnipeg Mayor Sam Katz, Winnipeg Arts Council Executive Director Carol Phillips and Nick Kowalchuk of the Osborne Bridge Neighbourhood Advisory Committee joined together to officially reopen the bridge.
 “The Osborne Bridge is one of Manitoba’s busiest routes for vehicle, cyclist and pedestrian traffic. Whether you’re in a car, on a bike or walking, the new, wider Osborne Bridge will get you where you’re going more safely and efficiently,” said Premier Selinger. “Investing in roads and bridges like this is a priority for Manitobans and it’s part of our commitment to keep improving infrastructure across the province.”
“This extremely well executed project has brought new life back to this critical structure with features that range from the thought-provoking public art to safety provisions for cyclists and pedestrians,” said Mayor Katz. “And all of this was accomplished without having to close the bridge completely.”
The $16.8-million project, which began in the spring of 2011, took less than two years to complete and was finished both on time and on budget.
Costs of $7.2 million were covered by the Province of Manitoba.

This project also involved the input of a Neighbourhood Advisory Committee (NAC) made up of stakeholders that included businesses and the cycling community. This committee developed project goals and worked closely with municipal representatives and the consulting team to ensure the needs of the community were considered.
Recommendations through this collaborative process led to many additional enhancements, including:

• Separate accommodation for cyclists leading from the bridge to the Assiniboine Avenue-Granite Way half signal crossing, including Winnipeg’s first dedicated bike signal.
• Well-aligned pedestrian pathways to the Legislative Building grounds and river walks.
• Permanent bike entry point to the Active Transportation system on the upper bank at Mostyn Park.
• Widened transition for cyclists from the bridge to the roadway at the southwest corner.

“I thoroughly enjoyed serving on the NAC and being involved in the rehabilitation process,” said Shauna Charmichael who represents the Osborne Village Community Garden Group. “I was able to give valuable feedback from my community easily, and it has been amazing to observe the construction process watching everyone’s ideas, hard work and vision come to fruition.”
The City of Winnipeg also partnered with the Winnipeg Arts Council to integrate public art into the design of the bridge structure.
Titled From Here Until Now, artists Eduardo Aquino and Karen Shanski created a design that marks and celebrates two distinct neighbourhoods on each side of the Assiniboine River.  The art project consists of three main components:

• The sidewalk, integrating the neighbourhood’s physical map translated into contrasting concrete tones and stainless steel trimming.
• The bridge handrails, featuring LED lighting and inscribed text reflecting historical, social and cultural neighbourhood moments.
• Two illuminated gateway zones at both bridge entries, celebrating four important architectural elements of the neighbourhood’s history.

“The neighbourhoods surrounding the Osborne Bridge have a rich history and an active present,” said Tricia Wasney, Public Art Manager for the Winnipeg Arts Council. “This artwork highlights that vibrancy and community spirit.”
Each day, 42,000 vehicles travel over the Osborne Bridge.

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October 26, 2012

PROVINCE URGES CAUTION TO PROTECT AGAINST EXPOSURE TO HANTAVIRUS

Manitoba Public Health is urging Manitobans to use caution when working around or cleaning out areas where it appears that mice are living.
Hantavirus infection, also known as hanta virus pulmonary syndrome (HPS), is a very rare viral disease which can be fatal.  The virus is found in urine, feces and saliva of infected deer mice.
There have been four lab-confirmed cases of HPS in Manitoba since 1999 when record keeping began in the province.  Manitoba Health has confirmed a recent death from complications due to HPS.  This is the first recorded death in Manitoba from HPS since 2000.
Hantavirus infection usually occurs when people are working in an enclosed space and breathe in the air-borne virus.  Early symptoms of hantavirus infection include fever and muscle aches, possibly with chills, headache, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain and cough, which progresses to respiratory illness.  These symptoms develop within one to six weeks after exposure to deer mouse excreta.
Although there is no specific treatment for HPS, chances for recovery are better if medical attention is sought early.
People are advised to be very careful when they are involved in activities which may put them in contact with rodents or their droppings.  The best defence against hantavirus is to avoid disturbing areas of rodent infestation including nests and droppings.  Other recommended precautions include:

• sealing up homes and cabins so mice can’t enter;
• airing out enclosed areas or closed-up buildings as much as possible before entering;
• wearing gloves and appropriate masks when cleaning up nests, droppings and areas that may be contaminated with the virus;
• dampening areas contaminated with mouse droppings with bleach disinfectant and removing droppings with a damp mop or cloth to reduce the chance the virus may become airborne (not vacuuming or sweeping);
• ensuring hand washing takes place after cleanup is complete;
• putting hay, wood and compost piles as far as possible from homes;
• cleaning up trash and junk piles; and
• not leaving pet food and water where mice can get to it.   

More information on hantavirus is available at: www.gov.mb.ca/health/publichealth/cdc/fs/Hantavirusfs.pdf.

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October 26, 2012

PROVINCE ADVISES THE CASH STORE AND INSTALOANS NO LONGER LICENSED TO OFFER PAYDAY LOANS

The Manitoba Consumer Protection Office is notifying consumers that The Cash Store Inc. and Instaloans Inc. have advised they will no longer be issuing payday loans in Manitoba but will offer other credit products to their customers.
The Cash Store and Instaloans, having voluntarily given up all of their payday lending licences in Manitoba, are no longer legally authorized to offer, arrange or provide payday loans anywhere in the province.  The Consumer Protection Office is monitoring these and other new financial products to ensure they comply with Manitoba’s consumer protection legislation.
Provincial law requires that all payday lenders offering, arranging or providing payday loans to Manitobans be licensed by the Consumer Protection Office and comply with the Manitoba regulatory framework.  These protections only apply if the consumer is obtaining a payday loan.
A payday loan is a loan of $1,500 or less, borrowed for 62 days or less, where the money is advanced in exchange for a post-dated cheque, a pre-authorized debit or a future payment of a similar amount.  Payday loans do not include margin loans, pawnbroking, lines of credit, credit cards or any guarantee, suretyship, overdraft protection or security on property.
Consumers obtaining payday loans should know that:

• the maximum charge allowed for payday loans in Manitoba, including interest and fees, is $17 per $100 borrowed;
• a person cannot be charged more than the maximum, but they can be charged less;
• different payday lenders may charge different rates as long as they respect the maximum; and
• borrowers cannot be required to buy prepaid cards or insurance in order to obtain a payday loan.

Consumers taking out any loan should ask questions about anything they do not understand and should not sign any documents or agree to any loan conditions that are not clear.  It is particularly important that customers understand the total amount of interest, fees and other charges they will have to pay during the course of the loan. 

Consumers should be aware that a high interest loan must comply with the Criminal Code of Canada, which prohibits lenders from issuing loans where the charges and expenses, including most fees, commissions and penalties, result in an interest rate that is higher than 60 per cent per year, unless the loan is a payday loan provided under a provincial licence and certain strict requirements are met. 
Consumers who have questions about whether financial products offered in Manitoba are payday loans, Manitoba’s payday lending rules, or who are concerned about their payday loans, can contact the Consumer Protection Office at 204-945-3800 or 1-800-782-0067 (toll-free), or by email consumers@gov.mb.ca.

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Province celebrates official opening of new affordable housing: Cutting ribbon left to right. Sitting Sandy Hiebert, first tenant of Place la Charrette, Rod Bruinooge, Member of Parliament for Winnipeg South, Kerri Irvin-Ross, Manitoba Minister of Housing and Community Development

 

 

October 26, 2012

GOVERNMENTS OF MANITOBA AND CANADA CELEBRATE OFFICIAL OPENING OF NEW AFFORDABLE HOUSING IN WINNIPEG

Winnipeg, Manitoba – The governments of Manitoba and Canada today celebrated the opening of Place La Charrette, a 37-unit building that will enhance housing quality and accessibility for low- to moderate-income families and persons with disabilities in Winnipeg.
The announcement was made by Kerri Irvin-Ross, Minister of Housing and Community Development, and Rod Bruinooge, Member of Parliament for Winnipeg South, on behalf of the Honourable Diane Finley, Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development and Minister Responsible for Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC)
“Every family should have access to safe, affordable housing and that’s why your Provincial Government is proud to have been a part of creating this new, accessible apartment complex,” said Irvin-Ross. “Working with strong community organizations like Ten Ten Sinclair, the federal government and the private sector, we can focus on the priorities of families and ensure Manitobans living with disabilities have a decent place to live.”
“Our Government is providing a hand-up to those who need it most here in Winnipeg and in all corners of the country,” said MP Bruinooge. “Funding projects like Place La Charrette will not only improve the overall housing conditions for persons with disabilities, but also helps to stimulate the local economy and create jobs.”
The apartments, located at 3389 Pembina Highway in Winnipeg, received more than $10.7 million in federal and provincial investment under the 2009 Extension of the Canada‑Manitoba Affordable Housing Program Agreement and through Canada’s Economic Action Plan, the federal government’s plan to stimulate the economy and create jobs during the global recession. The 37-unit rental complex was developed by Ten Ten Sinclair Housing Inc. for low- to moderate-income families and persons with disabilities. The apartments are heated by a geothermal system providing lower operating costs and reduced greenhouse gases; the project met or exceeded Power Smart standards overall.
HOMEWorks! is Manitoba’s long-term housing strategy. Under this strategy, the province, through Manitoba Housing with the financial support of the Government of Canada, continues to make significant investments in social and affordable housing. The province has committed to the development of 1,500 affordable housing units across the province and has already approved to the development of more than 1,000 homes. HOMEWorks! supports ALL Aboard, Manitoba’s poverty-reduction strategy, by increasing the supply of quality, affordable housing for low‑income Manitobans. More information about HOMEWorks! is available at www.gov.mb.ca/housing.
The Government of Canada, through CMHC, will invest more than $2 billion in housing this year. Of this amount, $1.7 billion will be spent in support of almost 605,000 households living in existing social housing. In Manitoba, this represents some 40,700 households. These investments are improving the quality of life for low-income Canadians and households living in existing social housing, including individuals who are homeless or at-risk of homelessness, seniors, persons with disabilities, recent immigrants and Aboriginal people.
To find out more about how the Government of Canada and CMHC are working to build stronger homes and communities for all Canadians, call CMHC at 1-800-668-2642 or visit www.cmhc-schl.gc.ca.

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Local Government Minister Ron Lemieux and Mayor Sam Katz say construction will begin soon on new and enhanced recreation facilities for Elmwood-area residents, ensuring local families have increased options for year-round activities and fun.

October 25, 2012

CHILDREN AND FAMILIES FROM ELMWOOD AREA TO HAVE MORE RECREATION OPTIONS SOON AT BRONX PARK COMMUNITY CENTRE (KELVIN SITE)

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A $700,000 redevelopment construction project is ready to begin

A construction project is about to begin that will give Elmwood area residents new recreational facilities through the Manitoba/Winnipeg Building Communities Initiatives II partnership, Local Government Minister Ron Lemieux and Winnipeg Mayor Sam Katz announced at the Bronx Park Community Centre (Kelvin site) redevelopment site today.
“The Bronx Park Community Centre is an important part of this community and with input and advice from local residents, we’re moving forward with improvements that will ensure families can take even better advantage of this centre,” said Lemieux. “Building and improving our community infrastructure makes a difference in the lives of local families and helps enhance the whole city.”
“The upgrading and enhancement of this recreational facility is another example of governments working together to provide families with another safe, fun, recreational option in support of active, healthy lifestyles,” said Katz.
Planning for the project involved a series of five community meetings, workshops and open houses to define community priorities, needs and project scope. The scope includes redevelopment of the former Kelvin Community Centre site to provide a new entry plaza, skateboard amenity, accessible playground, basketball and hockey skills area, skating rink, toboggan slide, site furnishings and landscaping.
The redevelopment project is receiving a $600,000 contribution from Building Communities Initiative II, cost-shared equally by the Manitoba government and the City of Winnipeg.  The city is allocating a further $100,000 to the project.

Construction on the redevelopment will start soon with the majority of work scheduled for completion in spring 2013. Renovations to the existing building for changing skates are also being planned by the General Council of Winnipeg Community Centres and Bronx Park Community Centre in partnership with City of Winnipeg staff. Work will begin in spring 2013 with completion in fall 2013.
Since 2010, the Building Communities Initiative II has committed $10 million to 38 approved neighbourhood infrastructure projects throughout Winnipeg and work on many of the projects has been completed.
The Building Communities Initiative is a multi-year, cost-shared capital initiative developed jointly by the Manitoba government and the City of Winnipeg. The goal of the funding initiative is to support community revitalization through improvements to local community infrastructure in targeted older neighbourhoods and contribute to the vitality, safety and health of communities throughout the city.

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October 25, 2012

PROVINCE NAMES NEW CHAIR TO MANITOBA LABOUR BOARD

Family Services and Labour Minister Jennifer Howard has named Winnipeg lawyer Colin S. Robinson as the new chair of the Manitoba Labour Board.
“Mr. Robinson brings experience on the board with him, as well as a background in law as the new chair of the Manitoba Labour Board,” said Howard.  “We are fortunate to be able to tap into his background in the community and experience as a vice-chairperson of the board since 2003.”
The Manitoba Labour Board is an independent body with a wide range of responsibilities under provincial legislation including resolution of labour matters, certification or decertification of bargaining agents, and the review of alleged unfair labour practices or violations of employment standards.
The board includes a full-time chair, six part-time vice-chairs and 28 part-time members equally divided between labour and employer organizations.  The chair is appointed for a five-year term.
“I also wish to thank our outgoing chair William Hamilton for the valued contributions he made since joining the board as a vice-chair in 2002,” said Howard.  “The province will continue to benefit from his professionalism and commitment as he will continue serving as a vice-chair on a part-time basis.”
Robinson assumes his full-time responsibilities effective Nov. 1.

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upcoming event -

LITE’s 16^th Annual Wild Blueberry Pancake Breakfast

Mark your calendars and pick up your tickets! LITE's Annual Wild Blueberry Pancake Breakfast is on November 23rd from 7-10 am at the Indian and Métis Friendship Centre. 

This year marks the Breakfast's 16th anniversary; its sweet 16! To mark this special occasion, we're having a pancake eating contest! What better way to celebrate 16 year than to watch people chow down on as many pancakes as possible! 

The Breakfast is the biggest celebration of Community Economic Development in Canada, and is a fundraiser for LITE's Alternative Christmas Hamper Initiative, which purchases food from inner-city businesses. 

Stop by, enjoy some delicious pancakes, listen to fantastic local entertainment (including Fred Penner!), watch the pancake eating contest, and get some holiday shopping done at the local crafters market. The pancake mix, eggs, and meat all come from local farms; the cutlery and plates are all compostable; the coffee is fair trade and organic; all of the caterers who cook the food are LITE partners, and the crafters are all local inner city residents. This truly is a community minded event! 

Tickets are $15, or $5 for low income/children 6-12. Children 6 and under are free!
Call the LITE office at 204-942-8578 or email lite@mymts.net to arrange for tickets.

Visit www.lite.mb.ca for more information about LITE.

Hope to see you there!

____________________________

About LITE...

LITE’s mission is to promote Community Economic Development (CED) by supporting inner-city initiatives in Winnipeg that build capacity and provide jobs among the chronically underemployed. We do this annually through strategic small- and medium-sized grants and purchases: our Working Solution Fund.

LITE's CED Grants Program supports locally-initiated programs for underemployed residents, especially at-risk youth, single mothers, and ex-offenders. These residents join one of our Grant Partner projects, where they receive job skills training, along with much needed job experience in supervised and mentored settings.

LITE's Alternative Christmas Hamper Program addresses both short-term and long-term needs by purchasing exclusively from inner city resident-owned-and-operated grocery and catering businesses in the poorest neighbourhoods -- for example, from Neechi Foods Co-operative. LITE then donates the food to the Christmas hamper programs.

Every year we aim to raise over $130,000 from generous Winnipeggers and leading businesses, such as Canadian Pacific and Great West Life, for LITE's "Working Solution Fund". We believe this charitable investment, which builds skills, experience, and responsibility among the poor who stand to benefit most, is the key to long-term health of our inner city communities. Instead of a handout, it's a hand up! 

LITE (Local Investment Toward Employment)

Phone: 204.942.8578

Fax: 204.586.3492
*Please note that LITE's office has moved to Winnipeg's new Social Enterprise Centre:

765 Main Street, Unit 203 Winnipeg, MB  R2W 3N5

APCMAs ANNOUNCE LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT RECIPIENT Winnipeg, MB -A descendent of one of Northwest Territories' founding families is adding yet another honour to his list. Louie Goose - leader of Louie Goose and the Mackenzie Delta Band - will receive the Lifetime Achievement Award at the upcoming Aboriginal Peoples Choice Music Awards, held Nov. 2 at Winnipeg's MTS Centre as part of the Manito Ahbee Festival. Louie joins an elite group of celebrated artists who have also received an APCMA Lifetime Achievement Award; Buffy Sainte-Marie 2009, John Kim Bell 2010 and Errol Ranville 2011. "We so cherish the fact we get to acknowledge the achievements of iconic music makers who preserve and pave the way for young artists who follow in their footsteps," says Lisa Meeches, Chair of the Manito Ahbee Board of Governors. "It's with great pride that this year we get to honour Louie Goose, a man who has dedicated his life to family, community and song." Louie was born on the west coast of Victoria Island, near what is now Ulukhaktok, NT, to a line of hunters, trappers and whalers. The Goose family moved to Aklavik in the mid 1950s and helped form the Northwest Territories we know today. "Louie is one of the best-known northern musicians and is an excellent choice for this award," says Northwest Territories Premier Bob McLeod. "When Louie comes to town, there's no doubt there will be music and dancing. He's played a big part in keeping his Aboriginal culture vibrant and has had me jigging Delta style more than a few times. I look forward to doing it again to Louie's music on my next visit to the western Arctic." Louie began playing guitar at age 10 and was accompanying local fiddlers and singers before he hit adolescence. Louie formed his first band at 16 years with friends from the Grollier Hall Catholic Residential School and is credited with introducing live music to much of the region. A regional manager for CBC Inuvik in the 70s and 80s, Louie's listeners helped develop a stage persona that's captivated his audiences for going on 45 years. "He really led the way for many up and coming musicians," says Louie's daughter Leanne Goose. "He kept the music scene active in the remote western arctic. He's the house band for almost every community carnival, jamboree and talent show." Louie has helped performers like Dennis Allen, Delta Flood and his own daughter Leanne play their way into a life of music and he still hosts the weekend jam, going on 30 years - much to the delight of tourists who visit the legendary Mad Trapper in Inuvik just to hear Louie' rendition of 40 Days. Louie will receive his award live on APTN during the Nov. 2 APCMA broadcast - and the broadcaster couldn't be more delighted to join in honouring such an influential musician. "On behalf of APTN, it gives me great pleasure to congratulate Mr. Goose on his glorious achievement, said Jean LaRose, Chief Executive Officer of Aboriginal Peoples Television Network. "The Aboriginal Peoples Choice Music Awards (APCMA's) Lifetime Achievement Award is one of the highest musical honours bestowed to our people and Mr. Goose is very deserving of this award. Not only did he introduce live music to the community, he ensured its' growth and survival by sharing his talent and wisdom with so many. Mr. Goose truly has made and continues to make a profound musical impact on your community. Congratulations." FOR MEDIA ENQUIRIES CONTACT: Julie Horbal - Publicist 204.771.3793 publicity@manitoahbee.com

October 22, 2012

PROVINCE ANNOUNCES NEW SUSTAINABLE ENERGY PROGRAM IN ALTONA

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First-of-its-kind in Manitoba Program Will Prepare Students for Green Jobs: Allan

ALTONA—An innovative new program at W.C. Miller Collegiate will introduce students in the region to the skills needed to work at green jobs, Education Minister Nancy Allan announced here today.
“Demand for skilled labour in Manitoba continues to grow, particularly in the emerging industries of the green economy,” said Allan.  “With its focus on energy sources that are common in Manitoba, the Sustainable Energy Program, a first in Manitoba, offers students an introduction to the core skills needed to work in these industries and trades.”
The program includes eight courses on sustainable/green energy and is available to all students in the Red River Technical Vocational Area, which includes the Border Land, Garden Valley, Red River Valley and Western school divisions as well as the Division scolaire franco-manitobaine.
Instruction will focus on four main technology areas including heating and electrical systems such as biomass, wind, geothermal and solar.  Wind and biomass are the two most common types of renewable energies in southern Manitoba.
The provincial government has provided $30,000 towards program development through the Technical Vocational Initiative and Allan announced $50,000 in new funding to purchase equipment for the current school year.
“Green businesses and jobs help to protect our natural resources and enhance our global competitiveness,” said Allan.  “This investment will help to ensure that Manitoba is well-positioned to participate in the new global green economy.”
The program was developed in partnership between the Borderland School Division, the Red River Technical Vocational Area and the provincial government.
The new program meets the key priorities of TomorrowNow – Manitoba’s Green Plan, an eight-year strategic plan for protecting the environment while ensuring a prosperous and environmentally conscious economy, said Allan.

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Upcoming-Event - Dalight Saving Time

October 23, 2012

DAYLIGHT SAVING TIME ENDS SUNDAY, NOV. 4

Manitobans are reminded that daylight saving time will end in the province early Nov. 4 when clocks will be set back one hour.
Under the Official Time Act, daylight saving time ends on the first Sunday in November and resumes the second Sunday in March.
The official time change back to standard time will occur this year at 2 a.m., Sunday, Nov. 4 at which time clocks should be set back to 1 a.m.

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October 23, 2012

TENDER AWARDED TO BUILD NEW EXPANSION TO STEINBACH'S HIGH SCHOOL

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Vocational Space to be Added to Existing Regional Secondary School: Allan

PennCo Construction, a local Steinbach firm, has been awarded the tender to build a major 105,000-square-foot expansion to the Steinbach Regional Secondary School (SRSS), Education Minister Nancy Allan announced today.
The new construction, along with renovations to the existing SRSS and the existing high school, will be reconfigured as the SRSS campus with the newly constructed portion forming a foundations academy for grades 9 and 10 and the existing SRSS facility becoming a specialized academy for grades 11 and 12.
“This new school will enhance the quality of learning by giving students a new, spacious and modern environment built with the students needs in mind.  It will also serve as a focal point for families as they will use the new high school to gather and participate in community activities,” said Allan.
The new school will be approximately 92,400 square feet, will accommodate 675 students and will be located adjacent to the existing Steinbach Regional Secondary School.  Along with spacious new classrooms, the new high school will include band and choral, wood manufacturing, cosmetology and human ecology rooms with a daycare with space for 20 infants and 54 preschool children, the minister said.
“The new daycare will provide much-needed child care for families in Steinbach and will give children a supportive, caring environment in which they can develop the building blocks they will need to be successful during their school years and beyond,” said Allan.
The minister also announced PennCo has also been selected to add over 10,100 square feet of vocational space and upgrade 2,500 square feet of previously renovated space at Steinbach Regional Secondary School.  The addition and renovation will include a new welding and power mechanics shop to help address the growing demands for vocational education.
These projects are expected to be completed by the fall of 2014.

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Upcoming-Event - November 7

Sarasvati Productions of Winnipeg presents

DISS

Touring Communities and Schools in Winnipeg and Surrounding Areas:
October 15 – December 14, 2012

Directed by Hope McIntyre
Featuring: Eugene (GeNie) Baffoe, Lacina Dembele, John Echano, Cherrel Holder, Braiden Houle and Lorraine James

After a successful tour of Toronto schools, we are excited to have worked with playwright Rex Deverell to adapt his play Diss to a Winnipeg setting. We can’t wait to take the play to youth and into high schools where it truly needs to be seen. This no-holds-barred, interactive theatrical experience features youth performers tackling the issue of youth gangs, gun violence and how the marginalization of immigrant youth makes them susceptible to gangs.

Diss tells the story of a brother and sister, newcomers to a big Canadian city. As they search for belonging and a sense of status, the male is lured into dangerous behaviour by so-called friends who are actually recruiting for a gang. Their mother is a single mom working long hours at menial jobs to make ends meet. As the play unfolds the audience sees the changes in this family as they struggle to adjust to their new home and are affected by discrimination. Ultimately the story builds to gang violence. The structure of the play allows youth watching to see how discrimination affects people and to identify the signs of gang recruitment.

What makes Diss so unique, is that it allows students to share their thoughts and suggestions about situations that are played out in front them on stage. It is performed in Forum Theatre style. Forum Theatre is a lively and effective way to look at and counter issues that our community faces today. After the play is performed, scenes are replayed and the audience is able to stop the action and step in with solutions. This provides a chance for those watching to discuss what happens and participate in changing the ending.

We are offering a one-night-only, free performance of Diss! 
Wednesday, November 7th -  6:30pm
@ the Millennium Library (251 Donald)
Carol Shields Auditorium
Admission is free but donations are greatly appreciated!
Space is limited so please call 204-586-2236 to reserve a spot.

Introduction to Technical Drawings

FREE 3-Day Workshop

Course outline:

Drawing Standards and Convention

Ø Title block, paper sizes and sheet format (zoning)

Ø System of projection

Ø Metric and Imperial Conversion

Ø Navigating Documents

Mechanical Drawing

Ø Lines and interpretation

Ø Views (Isometric, orthographic, section, auxiliary, oblique and perspective)

Ø Basic Sketching

Ø Dimensioning, Tolerances and Symbols

Ø CAD- Computer Aided Design software and peripheral

Architectural Drawing

Ø Plan, elevations, sections and details

Ø Types of roofs, foundations and details

Ø Wood frame construction

Ø Abbreviations

Ø Basic Sketching

Ø Live and dead loads

Ø Zoning requirements

Ø Calculation take-offs

Ø Reading engineering and Architectural Scales

Ø Electrical – House wiring

Next Session

November 9, 16 and 23, 2012

From 9:00 am to 3:30 pm

1000 Waverley Street

NOTES:

·        Plan to attend all 3 days.

·        This course requires an intermediate to advanced level of English.

o   Contact us if you have any concerns or questions about English levels.

·        Class size is limited to 12 people.

To Register: Contact Phyllis Mann at Workplace Education Manitoba

·        Phone: 272-5044 or email at: pmann@wem.mb.ca

Phyllis Mann

Program Coordinator for Essential Skills for Immigrants

Workplace Education Manitoba

1000 Waverley Street                    Tel:   204-272-5044

Winnipeg, MB                                  Fax:  204-272-5031

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Education Minister Nancy Allan kicks off Manitoba School Library day by reading to Grade 1 students at Wellington School in Winnipeg.

 

October 22, 2012

PROVINCE PROCLAIMS TODAY MANITOBA SCHOOL LIBRARY DAY

– – –
Minister Encourages Students, Families to 'Drop Everything and Read'

Education Minister Nancy Allan proclaimed today Manitoba School Library day and kicked it off by reading to Grade 1 students at Wellington School in Winnipeg.
“School libraries are so important to vibrant and healthy schools where students gain the literacy skills they need to succeed in school and beyond,” said Allan.  “School libraries offer a wealth of information and knowledge and act as a active learning centres for students, families and educators.  Libraries Connect, the theme for this year is fitting because we’ve all seen and experienced how libraries can connect people to each other and we know the important role school libraries play in the academic and cultural lives of our students and educators.”
Manitoba School Library Day is celebrated annually on the fourth Monday in October and is dedicated to acknowledging the important role that school libraries and teacher librarians play in the academic success of our children by promoting literacy and making library resources available to students and educators.
“A school library supports the curriculum and provides an essential service to the entire learning community.  The staff of a school library inspires the love of reading, fosters literacy and critical thinking skills, and encourages a spirit of inquiry and positive attitudes for life-long learning,” said Joyce Riddell, president, Manitoba School Library Association.
Schools have been invited to participate today in the Manitoba School and Library Association’s Drop Everything and Read challenge to students and educators to read for 20 minutes at 11 a.m.
“Reading is one of the most enjoyable activities that we can do on our own or with our families.  Reading allows us to spend quality time with one another while taking an exciting journey to foreign lands or learning about fascinating new people,” said Allan.

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Housing minister officially opens Neeginan Village Phase II – affordable housing in South Point Douglas: Left to right: Kevin Chief, Minister of Children and Youth Opportunities, Bill Shead, Vice-chair for the Centre for Aboriginal Human Resource Develpment, Alma Hart, Neeginan Village tenant, Kerri Irvin-Ross, Minister of Housing and Community Development

 

October 22, 2012

MANITOBA GOVERNMENT OPENS AFFORDABLE HOUSING IN SOUTH POINT DOUGLAS AREA

– – –
Neeginan Village Helps Break Down Barriers for Aboriginal Students Seeking to Better Their Lives: Irvin-Ross

Neeginan Village Phase II, a new 15-unit housing complex for low-income families with a member upgrading their education at the Centre for Aboriginal Human Resource Development, was officially opened today by Housing and Community Development Minister Kerri Irvin-Ross.
“The construction of Neeginan Village Phase II helps Aboriginal families access better housing so they can put down roots and build a better life for their families,” said Irvin-Ross.  “By working closely with Aboriginal leadership and organizations to create this type of housing project, we create a stronger, more prosperous Manitoba.”
The apartments, located at 145 and 147 Higgins Ave., were supported by more than $3 million from the province’s HOMEWorks! Een Dah Aung Rental and Cooperative Housing Program.  The project was developed by the Centre for Aboriginal Human Resource Development (CAHRD).
As part of Phase II, the City of Winnipeg, through the Downtown Residential Development Grant Program, is contributing $141,747.  For Phase I, the City provided $153,000 from the Downtown Multiple Family/Mixed Use Building grant program, which is being distributed over a 10-year period.
“Having a safe place to call home is a critical part of daily life, and we are pleased to contribute to a project that will provide opportunities to Aboriginal families along with the support they need to help them succeed and thrive in the community,” said Mayor Sam Katz
 “Neeginan Village was developed so that our students could have safe and affordable housing close to CAHRD’s two campuses,” said Marileen Bartlett, executive director, CAHRD.  “Having the students live close by removes another barrier as they continue with their education and training so they can ultimately become successfully employed.  Our housing project is another support that CAHRD provides along with on-site daycare, tutoring, upgrading and literacy, and employment services.  We thank the Province of Manitoba and the City of Winnipeg for their continued support.”

Neeginan Village Phase II is a townhouse-style complex consisting of two buildings located in the South Point Douglas neighbourhood.  All units are three-bedroom.  One building includes 10 units while the other has five.  The buildings face each other and have a common green/play space between them.  Thirteen of the 15 units will be visitable and two of the units will be fully accessible.
Through Manitoba’s long-term housing strategy, HOMEWorks!, the  provincial government with financial support of almost $100 million from the Government of Canada, is contributing $378 million over two years for housing initiatives in Winnipeg and across the province.  More information about HOMEWorks! is available at www.gov.mb.ca/housing.

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BACKGROUND INFORMATION ATTACHED

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

INAUGURAL MANITOBA IMMIGRANT RECOGNITION AWARDS (MIRA)

HANDED OUT AT GOVERNMENT HOUSE

Winnipeg’s Largest Immigrant-Serving Agency Recognizes Inspirational

Immigrants at 65

th Anniversary Event

His Honour Philip Lee and Shirley Chang Immigrant Centre Staff and Board Fetno Kemo and Liz Redston, RBC

(Past President of the Immigrant Centre)`

The Immigrant Centre is pleased to announce that three Manitoba Immigrants were recently

honoured at the inaugural Manitoba Immigration Recognition Awards for their contributions

to the province of Manitoba as newcomers. The awards were presented during the Immigrant

Centre’s 65

th anniversary celebration held at Government House on October 2.

The recipients of the first annual awards were:

Lawyer Mario Santos, presented with the “Exceptional Friend Award” for his unfailing support

and legal guidance for the work of the Immigrant Centre and on behalf of newcomers to

Manitoba.

Former refugee Fetno Kemo, presented with the “Inspiring Newcomer” award, sponsored by

the Royal Bank of Canada (RBC), was honored for his personal story, motivation to succeed,

and as an inspiration to other immigrants who chose Manitoba as their home.

The Honourable Philip Lee, Manitoba’s first Chinese-Canadian Lieutenant Governor,

presented with the “Outstanding Contribution Award” for his lifelong commitment to the

Chinese and wider immigrant community through, his public service and volunteerism.

The awards ceremony was part of a reception hosted by His Honour Philip Lee and Her

Honour Anita Lee in recognition of Immigrant Centre’s 65 years of offering settlement

services in Manitoba. The event, which included live jazz and a light supper, was attended by

Friends of the Immigrant Centre including members of Winnipeg’s business community, staff,

board members, volunteers, and funders .

All three recipients gave heartfelt and moving speeches. Fetno Kemo spoke of his long

struggle to get himself and later his wife out of Ethiopia to the safety of their new home and

their future with their two young daughters in Manitoba:

“Finally, my genuine case was accepted and sent to Australia, USA, and Canada, I choosed

Canada and Canada choosed me. My hope was revived and my future became brighter…

you’ve brought me to Freedom, where I can be whatever I want and do it freely, the rest I will

do for myself.”

About the Immigrant Centre

The Immigrant Centre (formerly the International Centre), is based at 100 Adelaide Street in

Winnipeg’s Exchange district. Our vision is to be Manitoba’s community leader in providing

immigration and settlement services for immigrants to connect, integrate, and fully

participate in Canadian society.

In 2011, the Immigrant Centre assisted over 16,000 newcomers to settle in Manitoba

through an extensive range of programs and services. Further information on the 2013

Manitoba Immigrant Recognition Awards, which will be expanded to include nominations

from across the newcomer community, will be available shortly on our website at:

www.icmanitoba.com

For more information about the work of the Immigrant Centre including tours, or to arrange a

meeting with Executive Director, Linda Lalande, please contact Vicki Sinclair,

Communications Coordinator, at (204) 943-9969 Ext 298, or by email at:

vsinclair@icmanitoba.com-

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October 19, 2012

PROVINCE ANNOUNCES NEW INITIATIVES TO HELP PEOPLE WITH BARRIERS TO EMPLOYMENT GET TRAINING, FIND JOBS

– – –
Non-profits' Clinets to Benefit from Driver's Training, New Job Opportunities, Targeted Benefits: Selinger

The Government of Manitoba will help community-based organizations, which support Manitobans with barriers to employment to get training and find jobs by supporting two new initiatives, Premier Greg Selinger announced today.
“Working together, the provincial government and our community-based organizations have a track record of helping many Manitobans get practical training and find work,” said Selinger.  “Today we’re building on that partnership so these organizations can support even more Manitobans who want to work and make a contribution to their community.”
The two initiatives are Citizen’s Bridge and Enterprising Non-Profits Manitoba, the premier said.  Enterprising Non-Profits will provide workshops, business plan support and grants to non-profits interested in starting new social enterprises.  The Citizen’s Bridge pilot project expands BUILD’s (Building Urban Industries for Local Development) successful driver’s training program to over 20 referral partners and will provide support in obtaining proper identification and financial literacy training to help people who have challenges connecting to employment.  Both projects will be based out of the Social Enterprise Centre.
“Every Manitoban who wants work should be able to find it and for some Manitobans that means breaking the cycle of poverty,” said Selinger.  “By directly partnering with community groups and employers, we’ll help more families get past their barriers to employment and into good jobs.”
At a combined cost of $355,000, the two projects are funded by the province’s Winnipeg Regeneration Strategy, which supports inner-city revitalization.
The province also announced it will expand the Rewarding Work health plan benefits to single parents and people with disabilities who move off employment income assistance and on to a provincial training allowance, supporting the transition to work.

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Winnipeg Free Press - PRINT EDITION

Justice system clogged

By: editorial

Posted: 10/15/2012 1:00 AM |

Comments: 0g

Enlarge Image

DALE CUMMINGS / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS

Manitoba has the highest incarceration rate in Canada, primarily because of the high number of

people in custody who are on remand waiting for their case to make it to court, according to the

latest report from Statistics Canada. Crime is on the decline and the province has expanded its jail

system with more beds, yet the squeeze continues.

The usual excuses for this sad profile -- not enough prosecutors and the two-for-one credit that was

given to defendants for the dead time spent on remand -- can no longer be trotted out by the

province.

The Manitoba government started hiring new Crown attorneys three years ago, including 10 last

year, with plans for more hiring over the next few years. A shortage of prosecutors, then, is not the

problem, if it ever was.

And the federal government eliminated the two-for-one protocol two years ago because it was

blamed for encouraging defendants to delay their sentencing so they would serve less real time in

jail.

The incarceration rate is unlikely to ease up on its own, particularly with the introduction of

mandatory minimum sentences and other initiatives that could result in more people being locked up

for longer periods of time, although it is too early to prejudge the impact of the federal crime

legislation.

The fact is there is still a major backlog in dealing with cases expeditiously and it can sometimes

take nine months or longer for a case to go to trial, or even to arrive in front of a sentencing judge.

The system seems like it is poorly organized and in chaos, without the organization or leadership

needed to clean up the mess.

The courts might start by putting in a full year's worth of work, instead of slowing down dramatically

during the summer months. There are no jury trials held in the summer, when you can shoot a

cannon through parts of the Law Courts without hitting anyone. If there aren't enough judges, then

the province could consider using more retired judges for summer sittings to clear up backlogs.

Another problem reported by some defence attorneys is a judiciary that is largely composed of

former prosecutors, some of whom may be more inclined to deny bail to people facing serious

charges, even if there is no evidence they won't appear in court or that they might reoffend if

released. Without a case by case analysis, however, it is impossible to say if this complaint is valid.

Many people on bail are often re-arrested for minor breaches of their terms of release, such as

adhering to a curfew or abstaining from alcohol, which also clogs up the system.

It must be acknowledged, once again, that aboriginals are over-represented in the justice system, a

fact that has been known and discussed for decades, without any meaningful response or reversal

of the trend.

The same problems and issues can be found in other provinces, but Manitoba leads the pack by a

wide margin. The adult incarceration rate of 213 per 100,000 people here is more than double the

provincial/territorial average of 90.

Justice Minister Andrew Swan needs to take another, harder look at the system to improve

efficiencies and, above all, justice. Manitoba has enough "firsts" to its reputation without also being

known as the incarceration capital of Canada.

October 18, 2012

PROVINCE ANNOUNCES SUPPORT FOR CO-OPERATIVE ENTERPRISES CHAIR AT UNIVERSITY OF WINNIPEG

The Government of Manitoba, in partnership with the co-operative sector, is providing funding to create a chair in co-operative enterprises for the development and delivery of a co-operative business program at the University of Winnipeg, Housing and Community Development Minister Kerri Irvin-Ross, minister responsible for co-operative development, announced today.
“A chair in co-operative enterprises will help the University of Winnipeg educate students about current business practices for co-operatives,” said Irvin-Ross.  “This new position will also bring much-needed awareness of the benefits of co-operatives to the general public and act as a resource for the business community.”
The chair in co-operative enterprises will be the first industry-funded chair at the University of Winnipeg’s faculty of business and economics and will be responsible for developing the faculty’s concentration in co-operative management.
The budget for this project includes the province’s contribution of $250,000, with the co-operative sector contributing $75,000 per year over five years.  Co-operative sector partners include Federated Co-operatives Ltd., The Co-operators Group, Credit Union Central of Manitoba, Assiniboine Credit Union, Arctic Co-operatives Ltd. and Red River Co-operative Ltd.  The University of Winnipeg will also provide $25,000 annually for five years to cover the expense of developing and delivering the academic program.
Today’s announcement celebrates Co-op Week which runs from October 14 to 20 and builds on the 2012 United Nations International Year of Co-operatives.
The chair in co-operative enterprises will be in place for the 2013-14 academic year.

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October 17, 2012

PROVINCIAL AND FEDERAL GOVERNMENTS WELCOME WINNIPEG AS FIRST CANADIAN MUNICIPALITY TO ADOPT NATIONAL BUSINESS NUMBER

– – –
Common Number to Smooth Services for City Businesses

The governments of Canada and Manitoba are partnering with the City of Winnipeg to introduce the national business number for city programs to reduce red tape for companies, Canada’s National Revenue Minister Gail Shea, Manitoba’s Entrepreneurship, Training and Trade Minister Peter Bjornson and Winnipeg Mayor Sam Katz announced today.
“I am pleased that Winnipeg is the first municipality to adopt the business number as a common identifier for its programs.  This initiative will simplify the way that businesses interact with different levels of government, making it easier for Canadian entrepreneurs to focus on growing the economy and creating jobs,” said Minister Shea.  “Through the Canada Revenue Agency’s partnerships, we now have over 100 federal and provincial programs using the BN as an identifier.  That means reduced red tape, which is good news for Canadian businesses and good news for the economy.”
“Assigning one number to a business for federal, provincial and municipal programs makes it easier for them to work with different levels of government,” said Minister Bjornson.  “The  business number eliminates the need for a business to manage different identifiers for different programs, reducing red tape for companies.  Manitoba remains committed to the concept of ‘one business, one number’ and we will continue to listen to Manitoba companies and introduce new ways of providing services to make doing business in the province even better.”
“Winnipeg is very proud to be positioned as the first municipality in Canada to adopt the business number concept,” said Mayor Katz.  “This process has proven to be advantageous in other jurisdictions by making it safe, easy and efficient for businesses to complete common registrations, and I’m confident our business community will embrace this new method.”

The national business number is a unique, nine-digit number that identifies a business and is assigned by the Canada Revenue Agency.  Each program area uses the same root nine-digit number to uniquely identify its program accounts, establishing a common business identity across departments and levels of government.
As electronic government programs continue to develop, the business number can support self‑service using the Internet.  Through a single window, a business could electronically register for multi-jurisdictional programs, or report a change of business address or phone number to different programs, making it easier to do business in Manitoba.
Businesses in Manitoba started using the number in 1995 for federal programs such as the GST and payroll deductions.  In 2002, the province invested more than $6.4 million in the database and network infrastructure that connects participating Manitoba programs and the Canada Revenue Agency, allowing the sharing of business identification information.
In 2003, the province began providing the business number to businesses upon registration at the Companies Office and the Manitoba Finance taxation division.  In 2009, the federal government amended legislation to allow municipalities to adopt the business number.
The city will begin introducing the business number as early as Spring 2013.  For more information on the national business number in Manitoba, visit: www.gov.mb.ca/business/onenumber/faq.html.
Other initiatives introduced to reduce red tape in Manitoba include AccessManitoba, BizPaL, the BizPaS directory and the Manitoba Business Gateways.  See www.Manitoba.ca/business to access these and other programs and services for businesses and entrepreneurs.
Today’s announcement was made in honour of Small Business Week in Canada and as part of national business number governance meetings being held in Winnipeg.

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October 17, 2012

PROVINCE ANNOUNCES MORE EMERGENCY BEDS, NEW PLACEMENT WEBSITE TO SPEED ACCESS TO FOSTER HOMES

– – –
Manitoba Continues Investing in Protection of the Province's Most Vulnerable: Howard

More emergency group-home beds and a new website to connect foster parents with children who need a temporary place to stay while waiting for a permanent placement will ensure children coming into care get faster access to safe, nurturing homes, Family Services and Labour Minister Jennifer Howard announced today.
“Over the last few months we’ve seen a growing demand for the services we provide to protect vulnerable children and an increase in the number of children staying in hotels temporarily when coming into care,” Howard said.  “We’ve made a lot of progress in connecting vulnerable kids with caring families through record foster-parent recruitment over the last six years.  Investing in new emergency group-home beds and launching a new website to recruit short-term foster care beds will help us place these children with nurturing families more quickly.”
Hotel beds may be used for temporary placement to keep sibling groups together, in the case of an emergency or natural disaster, or when a child’s needs cannot be met in another placement, the minister explained, adding the province has staff dedicated to working with child-welfare agencies to ensure children in care spend as little time as possible in hotels.  She noted the average number of children placed in a hotel any given day during the month of September was 29.
Howard said the province will increase the number of emergency beds to more than 290 in the next month and will also launch a website to match licensed foster families who have available beds in their homes on a short-term basis with children who are waiting for long-term placements.  Work with child-welfare agencies and authorities will continue to better co-ordinate foster care beds available for long-term placements, she said.
“I can’t overstate the exceptional role foster families in Manitoba help play in ensuring our province’s children are safe and empowered to live up to their potential,” the minister said.  “And in cases of emergency apprehensions, I want to make sure we connect these families with vulnerable children as quickly as possible.”
The minister invited licensed foster families who have short-term beds available to register at www.gov.mb.ca/fs/ or by calling 204-945-4091 in Winnipeg.

The minister also announced that, for the first time, Manitoba Family Services and Labour annual report will include the number of children who stayed in hotels while waiting for placement.  The number will be updated online quarterly.  The annual report will also include the number of children in care in 2011-12.  Last year there were 9,730 children in care, an increase of 3.2 per cent over
2010-11.  This is the lowest increase in the number of children in care in the last five years, Howard said, adding this number also includes 434 young people who have had their care extended beyond age 18 in order to pursue education or employment-related goals.
The information is available at www.manitoba.ca/fs/childfam/investments.html.

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Justice Minister Andrew Swan announces Property Forfeiture Act grants aimed at crime reduction and community safety with Acting Chief Devon Clunis of the Winnipeg Police Service

 

October 17, 2012

PROCEEDS OF CRIME TO HELP BUILD SAFER COMMUNITIES: SWAN

– – –
New Resources go to Police, Services for Victims

The sale of property seized under Manitoba’s Criminal Property Forfeiture Act will provide new grants to help police and victims of crime, Justice Minister Andrew Swan announced today.
“With this law we’re hitting criminals where it hurts most and we’re using that money to help build safer communities for all Manitobans,” said Swan.  “For our police, this means having access to more of the tools they need.  For victims of crime, this means better services and supports for them and their families.”
Today’s grants include $592,000 to support the Winnipeg Police Service (WPS) for:

• equipment and training to enhance its surveillance capabilities,
• a portable training lab at the WPS training academy,
• scanning sonar to assist the Underwater Search and Recovery Unit to make diving safer and more effective when searching large areas, and
• an automated licence plate reader to assist with rapid recognition of stolen vehicles or wanted individuals.

Grants to community agencies will result in enhanced services to victims and their families starting in 2013-14.  Grants of $30,000 each will be provided to:

• the Ka Ni Kanichihk’s Medicine Bear Counselling, Support and Elder Services Project to provide specialized support and counselling services to the families of missing and murdered Aboriginal women in remote and isolated northern communities; and
• the Eyaa-Keen’s Ni Mino Biimatiziiwin (My Good Life) project to provide specialized one-on-one support and group counselling sessions for the families of missing and murdered Aboriginal women.

Funding will also be granted to support provincewide Manitoba Justice Victim Services initiatives including:

• financial support for families of homicide victims for travel to court; and
• support for the National Aboriginal Women’s Summit III, a community forum and healing ceremony, and for the development of a national action plan to address missing and murdered Aboriginal women.

These initiatives will be funded from a portion of the $3.1 million in assets that has been successfully forfeited to Manitoba through the use of the Criminal Property Forfeiture Act, said Swan.  More forfeiture proceedings are in process, with 103 files being pursued involving numerous vehicles, houses, rural properties and cash, he added.
The province invited police services to apply for funding to support initiatives that enhance the practices and training of law enforcement agencies, or reduce or prevent crime.  Recent amendments to the Criminal Property Forfeiture Act allow money from the criminal property forfeiture fund to be used to support programs and services that benefit victims of crime.

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