May 30, 2013

PROVINCE INTRODUCES BUDGET IMPLEMENTATION BILL THAT WOULD REDUCE PUBLIC SUBSIDIES TO HORSE RACING

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Legislative Changes would allow $5 million in Subsidies to be Redirected to Priorities of Manitoba Families: Ashton, Struthers

Bill 47, the budget implementation and tax statutes act (BITSA) was introduced today, which would implement various provisions of Budget 2013 including reducing public subsidies to horse racing by $5 million annually, Finance Minister Stan Struthers has announced.
To achieve these savings, the bill would eliminate the existing Manitoba Jockey Club video lottery terminals (VLT) agreement, which provides 100 per cent of VLT revenue to the Manitoba Jockey Club in the form of commissions and grants for its annual operations, Struthers said.  The Manitoba Jockey Club (MJC) would still have the opportunity to retain the 140 VLTs presently located at the Assiniboia Downs, on the basis of the same VLT commission structure as other regular commercial establishments, such as bars and restaurants, he added.
“The current agreement with the Manitoba Jockey Club is simply not good for Manitoba taxpayers,” said Infrastructure and Transportation Minister Steve Ashton, minister responsible for lotteries.  “We believe the right thing to do in these uncertain economic times is to redirect funding from horse racing into priorities like health care and education.”
Ashton said the bill includes legal protection for taxpayers against civil claims brought by MJC.
“We are not going to leave taxpayers on the hook as we end this agreement and offer the jockey club the same share of VLT revenue that other businesses receive,” he said.
“The horse racing industry in Manitoba must be sustainable and less dependent on public subsidies,” said Struthers.  “Gaming revenues support the services that Manitoba families depend on.  The courts have already agreed this revenue is no different and can be redirected through legislation.”
The bill would also make changes to the Pari-Mutuel Levy Act in order to dedicate 15 per cent of levy revenue to the consolidated fund, which would now be used to support the rural harness racing circuit in communities throughout the province.  The remaining 85 per cent of levy revenue would continue to be available through the Manitoba Horse Racing Commission to continue to support the horse racing industry including thoroughbred racing, Struthers said. 

“The Great Western Harness Racing Circuit is pleased to benefit from Manitoba’s continued support for rural racing,” said Roland Rey, president, Manitoba Standardbred Industry.  “These events provide tremendous benefit to many communities and support Manitoba’s homegrown horse breeding industry.”
Struthers said today’s legislation would come into effect in two phases:  changes to the VLT agreement would take effect 60 days following royal assent and changes to the Pari-Mutuel Levy Act would be effective for the 2014 racing season.

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Premier Greg Selinger Officially Announces the Construction of Amber Trails a New School for Northwest Winnipeg

May 31, 2013

BUDGET 2013: BUILDING, IMPROVING MANITOBA SCHOOLS: PREMIER

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Construction to Begin on Amber Trails Kindergarten to Grade 8 School to Serve Families in Northwest Winnipeg

Construction is now underway on Amber Trails, a kindergarten to Grade 8 school that will serve families in the northwest area of Winnipeg, Premier Greg Selinger announced today.
“In a little over a year’s time, there will be a modern, environmentally friendly school that will enhance the quality of learning for students living in the Amber Trails neighbourhood,” said Selinger.  “Northwest Winnipeg is a vibrant community, attracting new housing developments and a growing number of families each year.  This new school will not only provide students with a quality education but will bring families together as a gathering place for community events.”
As a result of funding in Budget 2013 and from the Manitoba Building and Renewal Plan, construction has begun and is scheduled to be completed in the fall of 2015. 
The 85,000-square-foot Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Gold Standard school will respond to enrolment growth in northwest Winnipeg, the premier said, adding Amber Trails School will include a child-care centre that will provide a warm and caring environment for 64 infant and preschool students, 40 spaces for kindergarten/nursery, and before- and after-school students.
The premier said students attending the school will come from new housing developments in Amber Trails, West St. Paul and the Maples.
Amber Trails School will initially accommodate 625 students and could expand to have space for 800 students if needed in the future, he said.  Enrolment in Seven Oaks has increased by approximately 2,000 students since 2007.
“We are very excited for construction to begin,” said Edward Ploszay, chair, board of trustees, Seven Oaks School Division.  “This new school will help to alleviate overcrowding at four schools in the Maples area and will provide much needed daycare spaces, which is welcome news for families in this area.”
Since 1999, the Manitoba government has invested more than $845 million in public school capital projects including 18 new schools and 13 replacement schools, and has completed extensive renovations and additions to dozens of existing schools.

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Jim Rondeau, Minister of Healthy Living, Seniors and Consumer Affairs marks World No Tobacco Day by announcing a pilot project to help patients at HSC stop smoking

May 31, 2013

PROVINCE INTRODUCES PILOT PROGRAM TO HELP HOSPITAL PATIENTS STOP SMOKING

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Thousands of Patients could Benefit: Rondeau

The provincial government is investing in Manitoba families’ long-term health by launching a three-year pilot program to help hospital patients stop smoking, Healthy Living, Seniors and Consumer Affairs Minister Jim Rondeau announced today.
“Our government is helping Manitobans who smoke take the first steps towards quitting,” said Rondeau.  “Manitobans staying in hospitals will be able to meet with medical staff who will help them make healthier choices.”
The provincial government announced the allocation of $450,000 over three years for the pilot program today on World No Tobacco Day.  The pilot program will offer training to staff at the Health Sciences Centre in Winnipeg to offer support to patients who want to stop smoking and give patients access to stop-smoking medications such as nicotine gum, a nicotine patch or drugs like Champix.  The program will also support patients after their hospital stay.  Up to 10,000 patients could benefit from this initiative, the minister noted.
“We want to learn how best to help people be comfortably smoke-free, whether it’s the options being offered for nicotine withdrawal or the way they are being offered,” said Margie Kvern, program specialist, tobacco reduction, Winnipeg Regional Health Authority.  “That way we can build on our successes and have a real and long-lasting impact on our patients’ health.”
The minister said the benefits to a patient quitting smoking include:

• getting home from the hospital sooner,
• reduced risk of surgical infection,
• reduced risk of respiratory complications, and
• less likelihood of needing admission to intensive care.

Today’s announcement of $450,000 furthers the government’s commitment to allocate two per cent of tobacco taxes to tobacco control over the next four years.  Manitoba was the first province in Canada to implement a provincewide indoor smoking ban and many hospitals throughout Manitoba, including all Winnipeg hospitals, ban smoking on their grounds, Rondeau said. 

“MANTRA is supportive of all efforts to assist any smoker who would like to be smoke-free,” said Murray Gibson, executive director of the Manitoba Tobacco Reduction Alliance (MANTRA).  “We are particularly pleased to see our health-care facilities reaching out to provide support during a hospital stay, and even more pleased to see that support continue when a patient returns to their community.”

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Jobs

DIRECTOR

A St. Vital community based not-for-profit organization is seeking to hire a Director for their well established Employment Assistance program. 

The Director is responsible for the program’s wide strategic plan, development and delivery of the day to day program and services that support clients endeavours. The Director will oversee staff and delivery of operational objectives.  The successful candidate should be outgoing and personable with post secondary education, experience working in the not-for-profit sector, strong proposal writing skills with the ability to develop budgets and cash flows, excellent communication skills and strong multi-tasking and time management capabilities.  Experience working with individuals from diverse cultural and economic backgrounds and able to work in collaboration with other stakeholders and external agencies is also important.

Application Deadline:  Noon, June 14, 2013 to joan@edgeinc.ca  or

Gerry at 533 St. Anne’s Road.  

Upcoming Event - Need Your Input

The Jamaican Association of MB; in conjunction with Shaw Cable are looking at providing a day or weekend workshop to provide information and opportunities with the technical side of Shaw Cable. Basically it would be a job fair sort of premise where you would have an opportunity to get a more hands-on look at the different career opportunities offered by Shaw. This project is directed towards people of visible minorities and/or who are new to this country.

The hope is to get leaders of our community groups to have their members come and participate with the program. This email is to see if there is an interest for this kind of project.  If you think this would be something you would like more information on please contact the project lead – Pat Moore by phone 204.254.3823 or via email pnbmoore@shaw.ca

Please forward this email to all your contacts that may be interested.

Healthy Living, Seniors and Consumer Affairs Minister Jim Rondeau (left) joined the celebrations launching the 2013 Commuter Challenge, encouraging Manitobans to leave their cars at home and choose healthy forms of transportation.

Premier Greg Selinger (right) today announced $5 million in provincial funding for the expansion of Molson Street. Dr. Tom Turgeon (left) with the Hip and Knee Replacement Clinic congratulated the premier on the project that will make access to the clinic safer and easier for patients

 

May 30, 2013

MANITOBA BUILDING AND RENEWAL PLAN INVESTS IN NORTHEAST WINNIPEG ROADS

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Provincial Funding of $5 Million for Molson Street Twinning Project Included: Premier

Residents of Winnipeg will soon experience a safer and smoother drive with improved traffic flow through the vibrant residential and commercial northeast sector of the city as the result of provincial investments to improve critical infrastructure, including the twinning of Molson Street, Premier Greg Selinger announced today.
“Safe, well-maintained roads are important to Manitoba families, and the Molson Street-Panet Road area is an essential route.  That’s why we are investing in projects like this one through the Manitoba Building and Renewal Plan,” said Selinger.  “Enhancements to Winnipeg’s streets and roads are vital to the continued well-being of our residential communities and the businesses that serve them.”
The premier noted the province is contributing $5 million to the Molson Street project.  The total cost of the project is $10 million and is funded in partnership with the city, which has already announced its funding.  Work is scheduled to begin this summer and will result in reconstruction of Molson Street and Panet Road between Munroe Avenue and Concordia Avenue, turning the street into a four-lane divided roadway.
The project also includes the addition of separate left-turn lanes and right-turn cut-offs at the Concordia intersection to help with traffic flow, bike lanes in both directions, sidewalks on both sides and other active transportation amenities, landscaping and improved land drainage.  The project is expected to be completed in 2014, Selinger said.
Funding for the Molson twinning project is in addition to a $19-million provincial investment that will result in improvements to 47 city streets this year, including the following in northeast Winnipeg:

• Watt Street from Sydney Avenue to Bronx Avenue,
• Brazier Street from Jamison Avenue to Donalda Avenue,
• Dunrobin Avenue from Raleigh Street to Golspie Street,      
• Fraser’s Grove from Henderson Highway to Woodvale Street,
• Kildare Avenue from Brewster Street to Plessis Road,
• Walden Crescent from Blue Heron Crescent to Victoria Avenue East,
• Grandview Street from Irving Place to Henderson Highway, and
• Irving Place from Henderson Highway to Grandview Street.

Budget 2013 doubles the level of provincial funding available to repair residential streets in Winnipeg from $7 million to $14 million.  Beyond this commitment, the province is providing additional funding for larger priority projects such as the Molson Street twinning, the premier said.
Residents in this area will also soon see construction start on the new Plesiss Road twinning and underpass project.

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May 30, 2013

JACKSON KATZ JOINS PROVINCE TO PROMOTE BREAK THE SILENCE CAMPAIGN

Jackson Katz, a well-respected educator, author and co-founder of a violence prevention program used by the American military and several professional sports leagues, is in Winnipeg to help the province promote its multi-year domestic violence prevention strategy, Labour Minister Jennifer Howard, minister responsible for the status of women, announced today.
Katz will help reinforce the province’s campaign message that men need to join the stand against violence inflicted on women, she said.
“Our multi-year strategy encouraging male role models has been widely embraced by many
high-profile men including members of the Winnipeg Blue Bombers and our guest speaker Jackson Katz,” said Howard.  “We appreciate their support in promoting the Break the Silence message.”
Katz presented a lecture on An Evening with Men:  Solutions to End Violence in Winnipeg yesterday.
Today, Katz appeared at a Sport Manitoba workshop for Sport Manitoba executive and staff.  This will be followed by the Break the Silence luncheon at the Legislative Dining Room where he will meet with MLAs, city councillors, business leaders and Winnipeg Blue Bomber board members among other guests.
Howard noted the province launched an Aboriginal component to the campaign earlier this year with the message ‘End violence against Aboriginal women and girls’ being promoted through a public awareness campaign.  The promotion, supported in partnership with a variety of First Nations groups, encourages Aboriginal men to speak out against domestic violence.
The province has also developed a significant inventory of Blue Bomber video clips in both French and English, encouraging men of all ages to understand the message that violence against women under any circumstance is not acceptable.  Information about the campaign and new videos by Blue Bombers are available at www.manitoba.ca/stoptheviolence.

Jackson Katz - Ted Talk - Gender Violence and more

http://youtu.be/KTvSfeCRxe8

Education Minister Nancy Allan participates in ribbon cutting ceremony at Landmark Elementary School for a new greenhouse which was supported in part by the province. Left to right: Randy Hildebrand (Board Chair, Hanover School Division), Val Ginter (Principal, Landmark School) and Russ Dirks (teacher, Landmark School) Nancy Allan, Minister of Education

 

 

Arlene Wilgosh (WRHA), Minister of Health Theresa Oswald, Premier Greg Selinger, Carolyn Strutt (WRHA), Dr. Murray Enns (WRHA), Craig Heisinger (Wpg Jets),Kathleen Crosby (Artist) and Nigel Bart (Artbeat) celebrate the opening of the new Crisis Response Centre at the Health Sciences Centre

May 28, 2013

MENTAL HEALTH CRISIS RESPONSE CENTRE TO PROVIDE CRITICAL HELP DURING TIMES OF NEED: PREMIER

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First-of-its-kind Centre in Canada Officially Opens June 3

Manitobans who need urgent help when experiencing a mental health crisis will now be able to easily access the care they need, Premier Greg Selinger announced today at the official opening of the Mental Health Crisis Response Centre (CRC).
“Families dealing with a mental health crisis no longer have to go to an emergency room for care as we open Canada’s first dedicated facility for mental health crises and emergencies,” said Selinger. “Highly skilled mental health professionals will be available 24 hours a day, seven days a week for those who need them.”
Every year, over 10,000 people visit Winnipeg emergency rooms (ERs) for mental health crises, with less than 15 per cent requiring hospitalization. The new Mental Health CRC will accommodate at least 10,000 patient visits and will be closely linked with Health Sciences Centre ER.
“This centre of excellence in mental health care will mean a lot to Manitobans,” Health Minister Theresa Oswald said. “With nearly one in four Manitobans experiencing mental illness in his or her lifetime, this resource will be an invaluable service to those who need it.”
Over 35 mental health professionals will work together at the CRC to provide services such as integrated mental health assessment, crisis intervention and mental health crisis treatment. They will also connect patients to key resources for appropriate followup care as needed.
Craig Heisinger, assistant general manager of the Winnipeg Jets and an advocate for mental health issues, called the CRC an invaluable resource.
“Ensuring people in crisis have a place to turn to when they need help will prevent tragic outcomes for Canadian families,” he said.
Heisinger developed a close friendship with Rick Rypien who played off and on from 2004 to 2011 for the Manitoba Moose where Heisinger served as general manger.  Rypien, who also played for the NHL’s Vancouver Canucks, suffered from depression and took his own life in August of 2011, shortly before he would have started with the Winnipeg Jets.

Arlene Wilgosh, president and CEO, Winnipeg Regional Health Authority (WRHA), thanked Heisinger for his comments and for attending the announcement.
“Timely access to a variety of crisis service options reduces unnecessary hospitalization and improves the quality of life for individuals experiencing a mental health crisis.It is important for these individuals to have both a place to easily access help, but also to have the support of those around them – their families and people like Mr. Heisinger.”
Dr. Murray Enns, medical director, Adult Mental Health Program,said the centre, the first of its kind in Canada, will meet the unique needs of its clients.
“Providing an accessible, safe environment for people experiencing a mental health crisis is vital to their treatment,” he said.“The emergency department, by its nature, cannot provide the calm and supportive environment that is ideal for working through a mental health crisis. The CRC can.”
The idea for the centre was born out of recommendations from individuals who have experienced a mental health crisis and their families, from service providers and from Emergency Care Task Force members, all of whom expressed a need to provide those working through a mental health crisis with an alternative to the emergency room.
The crisis response centre will also provide individuals with mental health issues, and those with co-occurring mental health and addiction issues, with links and referrals to specialized treatment, rehabilitation and support services.
The centre is designed to be a central access point for adults experiencing a mental health crisis and expressing concerns such as:

•     personal distress and the risk of potential harm associated with an immediate crisis including suicidal behaviour;
•     signs and symptoms of a condition requiring urgent mental health assessment and treatment;
•     intense emotional trauma where assessment, crisis intervention and linkage to other services can occur; and  
•     an immediate risk after hours when the ongoing mental health service provider is not available.

The new centre will also be home base to the Adult Mobile Crisis Service, which currently provides crisis intervention and suicide-prevention services to 10,000 adults in Winnipeg every year.
The new Mental Health Crisis Response Centre is located on the corner of Bannatyne Avenue and Tecumseh Street and was built with $12.3 million in health infrastructure funding from the Manitoba government.

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The Province of Manitoba is distributing this release on behalf of the Government of Manitoba and the Winnipeg Regional Health Authority.

This email is sent on behalf of the Manitoba Women’s Advisory Council

On May 29, 2013 Henry Morgentaler, a committed activist and crusader for women’s reproductive rights, passed away at the age of 90. Mr. Morgentaler was a trailblazer in the eyes of many Canadians. His advocacy efforts to legalize abortion services in Canada empowered generations of women with this fundamental right, and resulted in the creation of a system of safe abortion access for Canadian women.

Mr. Morgentaler’s lobbying efforts included appearing before a federal judicial committee in support of legalizing abortion and bringing forward the Supreme Court case which ultimately struck down Canada’s abortion law as unconstitutional. He also worked towards universal access by establishing abortion clinics across Canada, including in Winnipeg in 1983. He received the Order of Canada in 2008, recognizing his contributions to health care reform for women.

Mr. Morgentaler’s work was rooted in deep compassion and a sense of justice for women’s right to safe and adequate reproductive health services. His legacy will live on through the enduring impact of his legal reforms, and by the future generations of women who now have this fundamental right.   

Education Minister Nancy Allan and Family Services and Labour Minister Jennifer Howard meet with staff of the Rainbow Resource Centre after announcing the development of resources to support gay-straight alliances in Manitoba schools.

May 27, 2013

PROVINCE PARTNERS TO DEVELOP RESOURCES THAT SUPPORT GAY-STRAIGHT ALLIANCES IN SCHOOLS

The provincial government is partnering with Egale Canada Human Rights Trust to develop resources that will help schools establish gay-straight alliances (GSAs) and create safer schools for all Manitoba students, Education Minister Nancy Allan announced today.
“Manitoba has been at the forefront in Canada in taking action to prevent bullying.  Today we want to give students more power and the right tools they need to create a more caring and inclusive school for all students,” said Allan.  “This new resource will support Bill 18 which will require all schools to accommodate students who want to form GSAs.”
Allan noted the number of GSAs in Manitoba has grown quickly during the past few years.  In 2009, there were only two in the province but by 2012 there were approximately 35 and there are currently about 60 in operation or in the process of being developed this year.
The province will partner with Egale Canada Human Rights Trust to develop Safe and Caring Schools:  A Resource for Equity and Inclusion in Manitoba schools(MyGSA).
Egale Canada Human Rights Trust, located in Toronto, is Canada’s only national charity promoting lesbian, gay, bisexual, and trans-human rights through research, education and community engagement.
“We are delighted to be working with the Government of Manitoba on this initiative,” said Helen Kennedy, executive director of Egale.  “We are very proud of this government’s commitment to safe and caring schools for everyone, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.”
The resource guide will provide foundational resources and will contain specific sections with information tailored to youth, educators, guidance counsellors and administrators in secondary schools as well as extensive directories and references relating to role models, symbols, terms and concepts, and community services.  The resource guide will include:

• tools for assessing school climate;
• a step-by-step guide to establishing a GSA or lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans or queer(LGBTQ) safer space at school;
• information and activities regarding the creation of safer school communities;
• information, strategies and ideas to help educators create and maintain safer school communities;
• information on challenges frequently faced by LGBTQ youth and their families;
• information on best practices for counsellors working with LGBTQ youth;
• data and analysis explaining the significance of educator-initiated safer schools work; and
• information on Manitoba legislation and policy regarding safe and inclusive schools.

In December 2012, the province consulted with the Safe Schools Manitoba Advisory Council, which recommended that government develop safe and caring school resources to support GSAs in schools.  The council encouraged developing a resource kit in collaboration with Egale Canada.
Egale has already partnered with Ontario, and Newfoundland and Labrador to develop equity and inclusive education resource kits.
Other actions the province has taken to stop bullying include:

• expanding the Tell Them From Me online survey so that schools can hear directly from grade 4 to 12 students in 550 schools across Manitoba on how they can improve safety and prevent bullying;
• providing new resources and supports to educate parents, teachers and students to help them identify, prevent and deal with bullying; and 
• continuing to support Safe Schools Manitoba, a unique partnership between the provincial government, schools, law enforcement, social service agencies, parent councils, professional associations and community agencies.

“Let us all continue to work together to prevent bullying,” said Allan.  “We must ensure all students feel safe and respected in the schools they attend.”
Manitoba’s resource material will build on existing resources but will be tailored to Manitoba students, she said, adding the resources will be available to both public and funded, independent schools in the 2013-14 school year in both English and French.

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May 24, 2013

MANITOBA GOVERNMENT EXPRESSES DISAPPOINTMENT WITH U.S. COUNTRY OF ORIGIN LABELLING REGULATIONS

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Province Stands behind Manitoba Hog, Cattle Producers against Changes: Kostyshyn

The province has expressed its disappointment in the United States’ continued unwillingness to comply with its obligations under the World Trade Organization (WTO) for country of origin labelling (COOL), Agriculture, Food and Rural Initiatives Minister Ron Kostyshyn said today.
“The United States’ changes to COOL will further discriminate against our cattle and hog producers and negatively impact industries on both sides of the border,” said Kostyshyn.  “As a province, we will continue to work with industry, other provinces and the federal government to stand with our hog and cattle producers against these unfair measures.”
The WTO ruled last June that COOL discriminates against exports of Canadian livestock.  The United States had until today to implement regulatory or legislative changes to COOL.  However, the final rule amending COOL, published by the United States Department of Agriculture yesterday, does not include changes needed to bring COOL into compliance with its WTO obligations.  In Manitoba’s view, these changes will worsen the barriers facing Canadian livestock since COOL regulations were first implemented in 2008, Kostyshyn said.
“Manitoba’s hog and cattle farmers have already been hit hard by the effects of COOL and these new changes will only worsen the negative impact by making the COOL system more complicated,” said Entrepreneurship, Training and Trade Minister Peter Bjornson.
Bjornson also noted that in 2012, slaughter hog exports were down 77 per cent as compared to 2007, pre-COOL numbers.  Isowean/feeder pig exports were 28 per cent lower and slaughter cattle exports also saw 74 per cent decline over the same period, he noted.
Kostyshyn raised concerns with the COOL changes in March of this year during a trade mission to Minnesota at meetings with U.S. legislators, agricultural officials and industry representatives.  Manitoba also wrote to the United States Department of Agriculture to express concern with the regulatory changes.
The province supports the federal government’s consideration of all options at its disposal to assist the industry including, if necessary, the use of retaliatory measures.  Kostyshyn also recognized the work of federal Agriculture and Agri-Food Minister Gerry Ritz and federal International Trade and the Asia-Pacific Gateway Minister Edward Fast to lobby the United States to change COOL.  The province will continue to work with the federal government to address this significant trade barrier and to open up new markets for Canadian cattle and hogs, Kostyshyn said.

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May 21, 2013

NEW LEGISLATION WOULD HELP MANITOBA GOVERNMENT FIGHT FOR BETTER DRUG PRICES, DRUG SUPPLY: OSWALD

Proposed legislation would give the Manitoba government new tools to fight for more competitive drug prices and a more reliable drug supply for Manitoba families, Health Minister Theresa Oswald announced today.
“We want to ensure Manitoba continues to get drug prices that are competitive with other jurisdictions,” said Oswald.  “The competitive drug pricing act would give Manitoba Health officials the tools they need to negotiate fair, competitive prices for drugs while also ensuring those drugs are available in Manitoba for patients when they need them.”
The proposed amendments would support the government’s ongoing work to achieve more competitive generic drug pricing, the minister said.  Manitoba Health would have the authority to cancel a product listing agreement with a drug manufacturer if it isn’t able to supply the drug in Manitoba.  The legislation would also allow for the removal of a generic manufacturer’s drug from the pharmacare formulary if, for example, another manufacturer is offering lower pricing or if there are matters of public interest such as potential safety or quality issues with a specific drug.
The provincial government has worked to broaden the number of generic versions of prescription drugs, which save money for Manitoba families and reduce provincial drug costs, said Oswald.  According to the Canadian Generic Pharmaceutical Association, generic drugs accounted for 65.1 per cent of prescriptions in Manitoba in 2011, the highest use of generics in Canada.
“Over the last year, we have negotiated lower generic drug prices that will save Manitoba families and the provincial government over $30 million,” said Oswald.  “By negotiating lower drug prices under pharmacare, we’re able to reinvest those savings to offer better drug coverage under pharmacare and the new Home Cancer Drug Program.”
Pharmacare is a universal prescription drug program for Manitobans, with benefits based on family income.  It covers 100 per cent of eligible drug costs once the income-based deductible is reached regardless of medical condition or age.  More information about the Manitoba Pharmacare Program is available at www.gov.mb.ca/health/pharmacare.

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May 22, 2013

PROVINCE CELEBRATES 10 YEARS OF OFFERING AWARD-WINNING ROOTS OF EMPATHY PROGRAM

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Program Essential Tool in Reducing Violence, Bullying, Helping Children Reach Their Full Potential: Chief

The province is celebrating 10 years of offering the Roots of Empathy program to Manitoba children to help reduce bullying, aggression and improve social relationships, Children and Youth Opportunities Minister Kevin Chief said today.
“The Roots of Empathy program has been shown to reduce violence and increase positive behaviours in our children by helping them understand the perspective and feelings of others,” said Chief.   “We are proud to have offered this program for over a decade in Manitoba and have seen how it helps children and youth reach their full potential by developing greater empathy.”
To celebrate the decade of Roots of Empathy in Manitoba, Chief is meeting with Mary Gordon, director and founder of Roots of Empathy, in the St. James-Assiniboia School Division, one of eight school divisions celebrating 10 years of offering the program.
“I want to congratulate the Province of Manitoba for offering Roots of Empathy to children and for their decade of work,” said Gordon.  “They’ve recognized that this program helps children find humanity in others and apply that to themselves.”
During the 2012-13 school year, the program has been delivered to approximately 5,500 students across Manitoba including 26 school divisions and 15 First Nations communities.  The province is investing $356,400 in Roots of Empathy programs during the 2013-14 school year, said Chief.
Certified instructors provide classroom training three times a month throughout the school year and each class receives a monthly visit from a neighbourhood parent and their baby.  The parent and baby visits are a cornerstone of the program, enabling students to observe the parent/child bond and learn about our shared responsibility for vulnerable members of the community, the minister said.
“Over 35,000 Manitoba students have participated in Roots of Empathy since the program’s inception,” said Chief.  “As a province, we are unique in North America in supporting the training of volunteer instructors from the community and this allows us to deliver programs across the province, from small, isolated rural schools to large urban classrooms.”
Gordon is recognized internationally as an award-winning social entrepreneur, educator, author, child advocate and parenting expert.  In 2000, she established the national and international Roots of Empathy organization, which now offers programs in every Canadian province, as well as England, Germany, the Isle of Man, New Zealand, Northern Ireland, the Republic of Ireland, Scotland, the United States and Wales.

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Health Minister Theresa Oswald presents Winnipeg Blue Bomber COO Jim Bell with one of the 18 defibrillators donated to the new Investors Group Field through the Manitoba Government's 1,000 free defibrillators campaign.

May 23, 2013

HEALTH MINISTER DELIVERS LIFE-SAVING HEART DEFIBRILLATORS TO NEW STADIUM

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1,000 Free Machines Being Installed in Over 250 Communities Across Manitoba: Oswald

Today’s presentation of 18 heart defibrillators to Investors Group Field is part of the Manitoba government’s initiative to place 1,000 life-saving defibrillators in public places to ensure crucial help for cardiac arrest victims is nearby, Health Minister Theresa Oswald announced today.
“With thousands of families attending Blue Bomber games, concerts and using the new Investors Group field for community events, we want to ensure the stadium includes defibrillators to meet today’s standards for public safety,” said Oswald.  “Cardiac arrest can strike without warning and having a heart defibrillator nearby can mean the difference between life and death.”
The Manitoba government funded the Heart and Stroke Foundation in Manitoba to provide 1,000 free automated external defibrillators (AEDs) to non-profit and community-owned public facilities, such as Investors Group Field.
“We want families to know when they attend games and events at Investors Group Field that we take their safety and well-being extremely seriously,” said Jim Bell, chief operating officer of the Winnipeg Blue Bombers.  “While we hope the new defibrillators are never needed, the new devices are now located throughout the new stadium in advance of our first public event this weekend."
Free defibrillators are being installed in over 250 communities across the province including schools, community halls, recreation centres, curling clubs, airports, major tourist destinations, golf courses and other sports venues.  A full list of the public facilities receiving the 1,000 free AEDs, as well as information about Manitoba’s first-in-Canada defibrillator legislation, is available at www.gov.mb.ca/health/aed.
“Providing 1,000 defibrillators to high-traffic public places will help save lives when cardiac arrest strikes and we thank the Manitoba government for recognizing this as an important public safety initiative,” said Debbie Brown, CEO of the Heart and Stroke Foundation in Manitoba.  “In fact, one of the 1,000 free defibrillators has already helped to save a life.”

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BACKGROUND INFORMATION ATTACHED

PRESS RELEASE

The Eritrean-Canadian community is deeply saddened by a consistent pattern of media attacks in clear disregard of the proud history of a vibrant African community in Canada. As several media outlets continue to report about Eritrean-Canadians without consulting the communities that represent them, it has resulted in a growing discontent among Eritrean-Canadians.

The media outlets also appear to be disinterested in hearing the views of the majority of Eritrean-Canadians who are law abiding and hard-working people that have contributed in making Canada the mosaic of cultures that it is.
CECCO would like to take this opportunity to address the fact that none of the members of our coalition have ever been approached by the media or the Federal Government or its agencies to determine if our community in Canada has ever been a victim of the serious allegations of “extortion” by the Eritrean Consulate. Our communities have existed for several years and some for decades in service to the community and should be the reference point for understanding the Eritrean-Canadian community in Canada.

We fear that the media’s tone and lack of due diligence is seriously distorting the picture of our community in Canada. For example, the National Post ran a story on November 05, 2011 titled “Eritrea raising money in Canada, financing terrorists to attack Canada” – this is a serious and dangerous misrepresentation of our community and works to paint a picture that Eritrean-Canadians sympathize with, or are supportive of, terrorists – this could not be further from the truth.

Given the fact that our communities have never been consulted, it appears that the media is intentionally ignoring the voices of the majority of Eritrean-Canadians who may have a different story to tell.

Our communities are finding it increasingly difficult to express themselves, on May 16, 2013, the Eritrean Cultural & Civic Centre of Calgary was advised that their application to raise the Eritrean flag at City Hall in commemoration of Eritrea’s 22nd year of independence was rejected. The City of Calgary’s protocol office maintained that, “as the UN Security Council currently has sanctions against Eritrea, The City of Calgary will not be flying the Eritrean flag outside City Hall.”

The Eritrean Flag is a non-controversial national symbol that belongs to all Eritreans regardless of their political stripes. The decision by the Calgary protocol office puts into question whether Eritrean-Canadians will continue to benefit from all the rights afforded to them as dual citizens.

CECCO reached out to the City of Calgary to inquire about the decision on Tuesday May 21, 2013 and it received assurance that it would hear back from the protocol office in 24 hours. This evening, in an email to CECCO, The City of Calgary replied “our original decision remains and we will not fly the Eritrean flag outside City Hall this year.”

We call upon the media to reach out to our communities across Canada and the CECCO so as to provide a story that is reflective of facts on the ground.

We call upon the Canadian government to protect our rights and ensure that our community is not a target of hate crimes or other forms of discrimination by individuals, the media or public institutions.

As Eritrean-Canadians continue to grow in numbers and integrate into the fabric of Canadian life, CECCO believes that good relations between Canada and Eritrea are essential to promoting an atmosphere of understanding; CECCO is committed in working to improve this relationship in the interest Canada, Eritrea and our local communities.

Background:

CECCO is an organization that represents the following communities across Canada, The Eritrean Canadian Association of Ontario, The Eritrean Canadian Community of the Prairie Inc., The Eritrean Cultural & Civic Centre of Calgary, The Eritrean Community Cultural Centre of London, The Eritrean Community in Quebec, The Eritrean Community in Winnipeg Inc., and The Eritrean Cultural Centre of Greater Vancouver.

Press Contact:
Email: contactcecco@gmail.com
Twitter: @eritreacanada

http://news.nationalpost.com/2011/11/05/eritrea-is-raising-money-in-canada-and-financing-terrorists-that-want-to-attack-canada/

http://news.nationalpost.com/2013/05/22/documents-show-eritrea-defying-canadian-government-by-using-toronto-consulate-to-raise-money-for-regime/

http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/story/2013/05/21/eritrea-consul-canada-rick-macinnes-rae.html

http://news.nationalpost.com/2013/05/22/documents-show-eritrea-defying-canadian-government-by-using-toronto-consulate-to-raise-money-for-regime/

http://news.nationalpost.com/2012/09/21/it-is-our-right-eritrea-vows-to-continue-taxing-citizens-in-canada-despite-warning-from-ottawa/

http://news.nationalpost.com/2012/09/20/ottawa-forces-eritrea-to-nix-2-extortion-tax-on-citizens-in-canada/

http://www.madote.com/2012/12/eritreas-economy-to-grow-by-85-in-2013.html
http://www.madote.com/2010/11/eritrea-has-3rd-fastest-growing-economy.html
http://www.madote.com/2012/07/eritrea-on-track-to-meet-six-of-eight.html

http://www.tesfanews.net/canada-must-protect-eritrean-canadians/#more-14257

May 17, 2013

MANITOBA HYDRO BONDS INTEREST RATES ANNOUNCED

Finance Minister Stan Struthers today announced the interest rates for Manitoba Hydro Bonds, Series 12, on sale May 21 to June 4 throughout the province.
Rates on 2013 bonds are:

• Five-year floating-rate bonds:  1.60 per cent for the initial year.  The bonds will pay interest on an annual basis and will be redeemable annually.  The interest rate on the bonds will be reset annually.
• Three-year fixed-rate bonds:  1.65 per cent.  The bonds will pay interest on an annual basis and will not be redeemable prior to maturity.
• Five-year fixed-rate bonds:  1.75 per cent.  Purchasers can choose either annual or compound interest and the bonds will not be redeemable prior to maturity.

The interest rate for all outstanding floating-rate Manitoba Hydro Bonds and Manitoba Builder Bonds, which are adjustable and redeemable annually, has been set at 1.60 per cent effective June 15, 2013.                                                                                    
Hydro Bonds are on sale from May 21 to June 4 at banks, trust companies, credit unions, caisses populaires and investment dealers throughout Manitoba.  The finance minister may terminate the selling period or reduce the maximum individual purchase amount upon 24 hours notice.  The bonds may only be purchased by residents of Manitoba or by Manitoba-based trusts, estates, corporations or other organizations having permanent establishments in Manitoba.
Manitoba Builder Bonds Series 10 five-year fixed and five-year floating-rate bonds mature on June 15, 2013.  Builder Bonds Series 12 three-year fixed-rate bonds mature June 15, 2013.  All maturities will be deposited by direct deposit.
Manitoba Hydro Bonds Series 11 floating-rate bonds and Builder Bonds Series 11, 12 and 13 floating-rate bonds may be redeemed without penalty for their full principal amount plus interest annually during the redemption periods, by providing written notice to the registrar or by telephoning the registrar toll-free at 1-855-669-4999 (Valiant Trust Company) on or before June 11.
Further information may be obtained by calling the toll-free bond line at 1-800-565-0350 or by logging onto www.hydro.mb.ca/about_us/hydro_bonds.shtml.                                                                                     

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Children & Youth Opportunities Minister Kevin Chief today announced $100,000 in joint city/provincial funding for construction of a new playground at King Edward School. The project will begin this summer.

 

May 17, 2013

CONSTRUCTION OF NEW PLAYGROUND AT KING EDWARD SCHOOL TO BEGIN SOON

– – –
Children and families to have more recreation options

King Edward School children and their families will have an exciting new playground and recreation area thanks to a joint investment through Phase Two of the Manitoba/Winnipeg Building Communities Initiative (BCI) II partnership, announced Children and Youth Opportunities Minister Kevin Chief and, Councillor Mike Pagtakhan (Point Douglas) on behalf of Mayor Sam Katz.
“King Edward School is a vital part of the Point Douglas community and this new playground will be geared to the needs of the local children and their families,” said Minister Chief. “Projects like this support healthy active lifestyles, making a tangible difference in our quality of life. This school and community have worked hard at local fundraising and we are proud to help them make this wonderful project a reality.”
“All children need a safe place to play,” said Mayor Katz. “This new playground will be a place to learn, explore and have fun. These kinds of outdoor, community spaces are so vital for families with children and will be a welcome addition not only to King Edward School, but to the entire Point Douglas area.”
Plans for the new playground include an investment of $100,000 for open play and games areas, a picnic site, an amphitheatre, a hill with a slide and many smaller play structures like swings, spinners and a climbing net. The project is scheduled to begin as soon as the school year ends and should be completed by the time the 2013/14 school year opens.
“New play structures will mean so much to the Point Douglas community,” said Councillor Pagtakhan. “A lot of planning has gone into making this recreation area a welcoming space for people of all ages. When this project is complete, the new playground will become a community hub for the entire neighbourhood.”

“As a parent and member of this community, my family and I know first-hand how much this project will mean to our neighborhood,” said Sue Keller, King Edward School Parent Advisory committee member. “This project will be a welcoming place for Point Douglas families and it’s great to see our two years of hard work as a community start to pay off with help from the Province and the City.”
The King Edward School Playground project is one of 34 BCI II, Phase Two projects announced in March 2013. The BCI partnership is a multi-year, cost-shared capital initiative developed jointly by the Manitoba government and the City of Winnipeg. The goal of the funding 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. The projects supported through BCI II increase community confidence by attracting, supporting and helping retain local residents and businesses. Projects are selected in consultation with key stakeholders and community groups.
In addition to BCI funding, the City of Winnipeg is supporting the project with a $33,000 commitment through the Community Incentive Grant Program. The project’s other funding partners include the Children’s Heritage Fund ($20,000), King Edward School/Community and Student Council Fundraising ($13,200) and the Thomas Sill Foundation ($10,000) for a total project cost of $176,000.”

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May 17, 2013

MANITOBA HEALTH, BETHANIA GROUP AGREE TO INDEPENDENT INVESTIGATION INTO NEW ALLEGATIONS REGARDING PERSONAL CARE HOMES

The board of Bethania Group has agreed to place its CEO on administrative leave while an independent investigator is appointed to look into new allegations regarding the governance and management of its personal care homes, Health Minister Theresa Oswald announced today.
Since the March release of a financial audit of Bethania and Pembina Place personal care homes, several individuals have come forward with new concerns and allegations about the management of the facilities including potential financial mismanagement, staff intimidation by management and nepotism, said Oswald.
“These new allegations are numerous and serious and must be investigated,” the minister said.  “While inspections continue to show that the care at Bethania meets provincial standards, we also need to ensure that serious allegations about potential financial mismanagement and respectful workplace issues are investigated thoroughly.”
Manitoba Health raised the new allegations with the board of Bethania, which agreed that a fair, independent investigation is necessary to address the issues.
“We would like to assure all of our residents and their families that the Bethania board does take the concerns raised regarding governance and management at Bethania very seriously,” said Jake Neufeld, board chair of the Bethania Group.  “In good faith, we will work with the reviewer and Manitoba Health to achieve a speedy resolution.”
The minister noted, the board of Bethania Group has agreed to cancel the new contract with its CEO, return to the original contract and ensure the items in dispute are repaid, said Oswald.  This good faith gesture settles concerns raised by Manitoba Health after an earlier financial audit uncovered issues with the CEO’s contract, she said, adding the board of Bethania has also agreed to comply with all of the recommendations from the earlier audit.
In accordance with Section 56 of the Regional Health Authority Act, the minister is appointing an independent investigator to review the new allegations about Bethania and provide staff with a safe, confidential way to report their concerns.  The minister said the investigation will be released publicly at its conclusion.  Information about the investigation process and confidential contact information for the investigator will be posted by next week at www.gov.mb.ca/health/bethania.
 “Our government values the role of faith-based facilities in our health-care system and we want to ensure that continues.  It’s important to us that Bethania remain a Mennonite facility during the investigation and for years to come,” said Oswald.

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Subject: MEDIA RELEASE - EXCLUSIVE: Sarawak Dams to Flood 2,300 km2 of Rainforest by 2020

BRUNO MANSER FUND, BASEL, SWITZERLAND

Basel, 17 May 2013                                                         

 EXCLUSIVE: Sarawak Dams to Flood 2,300 km2 of Rainforests, Displace Tens of Thousands of Natives

30,000 to 50,000 indigenous people to pay the price for Chief Minister Taib Mahmud’s excessive dam plans in Malaysian Borneo

(KUCHING, SARAWAK / MALAYSIA) A new map released by the Bruno Manser Fund ahead of the International Hydropower Association’s World Congress in Kuching, Sarawak, is showing the massive detrimental effect of the Malaysian state’s dam plans on indigenous peoples and the Borneo rainforest.

According to calculations by the Swiss Bruno Manser Fund, the dams, if realized, would flood over 2,300 km2 of tropical rainforests and native lands. This corresponds to one and a half times the area of Greater London.

Sarawak Energy, the state’s power monopolist, is planning to realize the dams by 2020. They would directly and indirectly affect at least 235 indigenous settlements with an estimated population of between 30'000 and 50'000 people.

The eleven dams, of which two have already been completed and one is currently under construction, would have an installed capacity of 7165 MW – seven times the current peak demand. According to the Sarawak state government, the dams should produce the power for new energy-intensive industries.

Ciritics, however, are saying that the dam frenzy would mainly benefit companies linked to the family of the Sarawak Chief Minister, such as Cahya Mata Sarawak (CMS). CMS holds a monopoly over cement production in the East Malaysian state.

One of CMS’ largest shareholders is the late wife of Sarawak Chief Minister Taib Mahmud. Four years after her death in 2009, Lejla Taib is still the registered owner of 11.48% of the company’s shares.

– Ends –

A high resolution version of the Sarawak dams map can be downloaded from:
http://stop-corruption-dams.com/resources/2013_05_17_Sarawak_Dams.pdf

For more information:


Bruno Manser Fund
Socinstrasse 37
CH-4051 Basel / Switzerland
www.bmf.ch, www.stop-corruption-dams.org

ASSINIBOIA YOUTH COMMUNITY RESOURCE CENTRE

Y.A.C. (Youth Action Centre)

The Youth Action Centre, located within Hedges Middle School, offers a variety of recreational activities for youth between the ages of 11-15.

We are currently looking to hire a spring/summer Green Team employee for the position of:

OUTREACH COORDINATOR

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:Working under the direction of the program coordinator, the successful applicant will:

-        Develop/implement a strategy to engage at-risk youth to participate in programming.

-        Develop/implement a needs assessment which will identify youth interest and inform programming.

-        Promote the YAC in the community through a variety of methods.

-        Co-ordinate, help administer/delegate and monitor all aspects of activities and programs developed for the Summer Green Team Program (i.e. scheduling, disbursements etc.) and to submit required program reports, and other administrative (i.e. weekly time sheets) and project related duties as required.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Post-Secondary Student or Mature Youth preferred (age 16-29*)

Criminal Record Check

Child Abuse Registry Check

First Aid and CPR training an asset

-        Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.

-        Past experience working with 11 to 15 year olds an asset.

-        Demonstrated leadership skills and ability to engage youth in a variety of recreation activities (on and off site).

* Funding through the Green Team is designed to create meaningful and career-oriented summer employment opportunities for youth.

Note: Employment Equity is a factor in selection. Applicants are requested to indicate in their covering letter or resume if they are from the following: Aboriginal people, visible minorities.

HOURS OF WORK/WAGE:

          ASAP – June 21/13:           4:00pm – 7:30pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays

          July 2/13 – August 30/13:   2:00pm – 9:00pm on Mondays to Thursdays
                                                  2:00pm – 9:00pm on Fridays      

                                            

          Salary:    $10.25/hour  

Note: During the school year, the YAC is open after school Mondays to Fridays. During the summer break (July & August), the program has expanded hours.

This position may be extended into the Fall.

Resumes are to be forwarded to:   

Leah Jones
c/o Hedges Middle School
369 Fairlane Ave.
Winnipeg, MB R2Y 0B6
Email: ljones@sjsd.net

Application closing date:   Thursday, May 23, 2013 by 4:00pm

May 15, 2013

MANITOBA TAKING ACTION THAT WOULD FURTHER PROTECT TENANTS, REDUCE RED TAPE FOR LANDLORDS: MINISTER

– – –
Growing Economy, Tight Rental Housing Market Signals Need for Changes: Rondeau

Legislation was introduced today that would improve the rent regulation system and better protect tenants by focusing on creating greater safety and stability for renters while reducing paperwork and red tape for landlords, Healthy Living, Seniors and Consumer Affairs Minister Jim Rondeau has announced.
“Manitoba’s growing economy and strong housing market, along with low interest rates, are motivating landlords to reinvest and upgrade their buildings.  These proposed changes will enable landlords to continue investing in their property while helping ensure tenants are treated fairly,” said Rondeau.  “We’re also giving landlords new powers to evict tenants who break the law, such as drug dealers, because illegal activity can create an unsafe living environment for tenants and real problems for landlords.”
Bill 40 would make changes to the Residential Tenancies Act to include:

• allowing landlords to end a tenancy in response to unlawful activity if it affects the security and well-being of other tenants or causes damage;
• requiring landlords to compensate tenants for moving costs, as well as for the expense of higher rent, when landlords have purposefully created an undesirable living environment during renovations to displace a tenant;
• providing for more transparency in setting the annual rent increase guideline, such as a prescribed formula or linking the increase to the Consumer Price Index;
• reforming the appeals process to allow for more expedient implementation of rulings where tenants have not paid their rent; and
• allowing landlords to charge a higher pet damage deposit for new tenants, to encourage more landlords to allow pets in their buildings.

The province also announced its intention to move forward with regulatory changes that would strengthen requirements for exemptions from rent regulation due to renovations and limit how often landlords can apply for those exemptions.  Rondeau said the government will also be revisiting the amount landlords are allowed to charge in extra rent to pay for renovations to spread the cost of less essential improvements over a longer period, with a focus on reducing rent increases.
The changes would be in addition to new housing supports in Budget 2013 including a new affordable rental housing construction tax credit, an increase of $6.3 million to RentAid shelter benefits for tenants and a commitment to build 1,000 new social and affordable housing units over the next three years, Rondeau said.

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May 16, 2013

FIRST APPLICATION MADE TO ADD HELLS ANGELS MOTORCYCLE CLUB TO SCHEDULE OF CRIMINAL ORGANIZATIONS

Manitoba Justice advises an application to have the Hells Angels Motorcycle Club declared a criminal organization and listed on a schedule of such groups was filed today with the provincial minister of justice.  If successful, it would eliminate the need to repeatedly prove the club is a criminal organization in future court proceedings under provincial laws.
This is the first use of the scheduling application process under amendments to the Manitoba Evidence Act and the first proceeding of its kind in North America.
Notice of the application must be publicized to give members of the organization an opportunity to review a summary of the case and object in writing.  An independent external review panel made up of at least three people who are not government employees or police officers will be appointed to review all of the material to determine if the group meets the test of being a criminal organization.
In cases where the panel and the minister agree the test has been met, the government can list the entity as a criminal organization in a regulation under the Manitoba Evidence Act.
The list of criminal organizations can be used in proceedings under any provincial law including the Safer Communities and Neighbourhoods Act, the Fortified Buildings Act and the Criminal Property Forfeiture Act.
While the list would be conclusive proof that certain groups are criminal organizations, it is not a registry of all gangs or gang members.
The legislation is available online at web2.gov.mb.ca/laws/statutes/ccsm/e150e.php and outlines the role of the director in Manitoba Justice who is responsible for submitting applications under the act.

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BACKGROUND INFORMATION ATTACHED

Modernize Campsite

May 16, 2013

MORE WI-FI HOTSPOTS, MODERNIZED WASHROOMS, SHOWERS AVAILABLE TO CAMPERS THIS YEAR

– – –
Connectivity Will Improve Camping Experience: Mackintosh

Manitoba families will have access to more Wi-Fi hotspots, more modernized washrooms and showers, new yurts and a variety of other campground upgrades when they visit provincial parks this year, Conservation and Water Stewardship Minister Gord Mackintosh said today.
“We know an increasing number of Manitobans use mobile devices to get online, especially young people, and we are responding,” said Mackintosh.  “I want to enhance their camping experience whether they are using social networks to check in and post pictures of themselves in our beautifully diverse provincial parks, check weather forecasts or do other online errands while enjoying time away.”
Winnipeg Beach Provincial Park has three Wi-Fi hotspots operating now and nine new WiFi hotspots in Birds Hill and Falcon Beach provincial parks will come online over the next two weeks, the minister said.  Campers will receive passwords and coverage maps when they check in at campground offices.
Other new investments this year include upgrades to washrooms and showers in Birds Hill, Hnausa, Rainbow Beach and Manipogo provincial parks, and six new yurts at Childs Lake Provincial Park.
The minister noted repairs at campgrounds affected by the 2011 flood continue including work at
St. Ambroise and Watchorn provincial parks, and the lower Kiche Manitou campground at Spruce Woods Provincial Park.  The Kiche Manitou lower campground will open June 28 and every effort is being made to offer day-use recreation at St. Ambroise Provincial Park later this summer, Mackintosh said.  Black Lake campground in Nopiming Provincial Park also experienced wind damage last fall, delaying the opening of the campground until June 22.
Manitobans are also reminded the May long weekend will be liquor free in all campgrounds,
group-use areas and yurts, as well as cabins at Camp Morton and Hecla/Grindstone provincial parks.
Some liquor-free campsites will be available all season in designated spots at Grand Beach and Birds Hill provincial parks.  The sites are bays six, nine and 10 at Grand Beach, and Oriole and Grackle bays at Birds Hill.
Approximately 30,000 campsites have been booked through the made-in-Manitoba Parks Reservation Service so far this year, but many camping opportunities remain available at campgrounds across the province throughout the season.  To make a reservation, visit www.manitobaparks.com.
The minister noted parks investments and expansions support priorities outlined in Building the Parks Province:  Manitoba’s Parks Strategy,a review and public consultation document that outlines changes designed to strengthen the province’s parks system.
“Parks provide opportunities for a broad range of activities in the great outdoors that can create wonderful memories of good times with family and friends,” said Mackintosh.  “We want Manitobans to tell us about their thoughts on the future of parks and what more can be done to protect and enhance parks for the future.”
For information on how to send your advice and comments aboutthe strategy before June 1, visit www.gov.mb.ca/conservation/parksstrategy/index.html.

- 30 -

More Doctors for Manitoba

May 16, 2013 MORE DOCTORS TO PRACTISE IN MANITOBA, PROVIDE MORE CARE FOR MANITOBA FAMILIES: OSWALD Health Minister Theresa Oswald today congratulated the University of Manitoba faculty of medicine’s class of 2013, noting it is one of the largest graduating classes on record. The minister also welcomed those highly trained graduates who were successful in competing for a Manitoba residency. “I’m pleased that more than 70 per cent of Manitoba’s 105 medical school graduates plan to stay in Manitoba for their residencies,” said Oswald.  “These new, locally trained doctors will help provide timely access for medical care in hospitals and help bring us closer to our goal of ensuring all Manitobans have access to a family physician by 2015.” Dr. Brian Postl, dean of the University of Manitoba faculty of medicine, congratulated the graduates and recognized the value of Manitoba’s expanded residency program. “Many physicians build connections with the communities they work in during their residency training and as a result decide to work in that community once they have completed training,” said Postl.  “Creating additional residency spaces helps us to retain physicians and ultimately benefits our province overall.” Dr. Brock Wright, chair of the Provincial Medical Leadership Council, joined in congratulating the graduates. “I’m particularly pleased so many graduates have chosen to remain in Manitoba or plan to return here once they finish specialty training,” said Wright, who is also senior vice-president of the Winnipeg Regional Health Authority.  “These well-trained physicians, who already have experience in the Manitoba health-care system, can begin immediately benefiting patients from across the province.” The Manitoba government has made significant investments in the training of doctors including expanding medical school training to 110 seats after it had been reduced to 70 seats during the 1990s, Oswald said.  Earlier this month, the minister announced funding for 15 additional medical residencies in Manitoba, bringing the total first-year residencies to 136, the largest on record. “More doctors in our province is great news for Manitoba families,” she said.  “With investments in expanded medical training, new recruitment grants and improvements in health care, more doctors are choosing to practise in Manitoba at record levels.”  According to the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Manitoba, there are over 2,500 doctors working in Manitoba, over 500 more than there were in 1999.  Between 1993 and 1999, the college reported a decrease of 116 fewer doctors working in the province. - 30 -  BACKGROUND INFORMATION ATTACHED

Doctors in Manitoba

May 16, 2013 MORE DOCTORS TO PRACTISE IN MANITOBA, PROVIDE MORE CARE FOR MANITOBA FAMILIES: OSWALD Health Minister Theresa Oswald today congratulated the University of Manitoba faculty of medicine’s class of 2013, noting it is one of the largest graduating classes on record. The minister also welcomed those highly trained graduates who were successful in competing for a Manitoba residency. “I’m pleased that more than 70 per cent of Manitoba’s 105 medical school graduates plan to stay in Manitoba for their residencies,” said Oswald.  “These new, locally trained doctors will help provide timely access for medical care in hospitals and help bring us closer to our goal of ensuring all Manitobans have access to a family physician by 2015.” Dr. Brian Postl, dean of the University of Manitoba faculty of medicine, congratulated the graduates and recognized the value of Manitoba’s expanded residency program. “Many physicians build connections with the communities they work in during their residency training and as a result decide to work in that community once they have completed training,” said Postl.  “Creating additional residency spaces helps us to retain physicians and ultimately benefits our province overall.” Dr. Brock Wright, chair of the Provincial Medical Leadership Council, joined in congratulating the graduates. “I’m particularly pleased so many graduates have chosen to remain in Manitoba or plan to return here once they finish specialty training,” said Wright, who is also senior vice-president of the Winnipeg Regional Health Authority.  “These well-trained physicians, who already have experience in the Manitoba health-care system, can begin immediately benefiting patients from across the province.” The Manitoba government has made significant investments in the training of doctors including expanding medical school training to 110 seats after it had been reduced to 70 seats during the 1990s, Oswald said.  Earlier this month, the minister announced funding for 15 additional medical residencies in Manitoba, bringing the total first-year residencies to 136, the largest on record. “More doctors in our province is great news for Manitoba families,” she said.  “With investments in expanded medical training, new recruitment grants and improvements in health care, more doctors are choosing to practise in Manitoba at record levels.”  According to the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Manitoba, there are over 2,500 doctors working in Manitoba, over 500 more than there were in 1999.  Between 1993 and 1999, the college reported a decrease of 116 fewer doctors working in the province. - 30 -  BACKGROUND INFORMATION ATTACHED

Doctors in Manitoba