Post by : Meena Ariff

Manitoba's Premier Wab Kinew announced on Friday the launch of a public inquiry set for 2026, focusing on the past Progressive Conservative (PC) government's attempts to expedite an environmental license for sand-mining firm Sio Silica. This decision follows a recent ruling by the provincial ethics commissioner, which found that former Premier Heather Stefanson and two cabinet members breached conflict of interest laws shortly after the 2023 election by advocating for this license.

In May, Ethics Commissioner Jeffrey Schnoor determined that Stefanson, Cliff Cullen, and Jeff Wharton improperly lobbied for Sio Silica, leading to $18,000 in fines for Stefanson, $12,000 for Cullen, and $10,000 for Wharton, who still serves as the PC MLA for Red River North.

Despite the ethics commissioner's findings, Kinew stressed that numerous questions about the intentions of the former PC government remain unresolved. He questioned, “Why put so much at stake for this project? What were the underlying motives?” pointing out that the investigation could not delve into financial connections or other potential conflicts.

The NDP is currently drafting terms for the inquiry and looking for an appropriate commissioner to lead it. The inquiry is anticipated to take two to three years, aiming to conclude before the provincial election set for October 2027.

Additionally, Kinew indicated plans to enhance Manitoba's lobbying regulations, which he described as currently inadequate. He emphasized the importance of transparency in government activities to ensure that the populace remains informed and democratic procedures stay intact.

This inquiry into Sio Silica marks the third significant public investigation launched by Kinew's administration. A separate inquiry is currently examining the procurement and construction of Winnipeg’s police headquarters, with public hearings anticipated to commence in early 2026. An earlier commitment to review pandemic response measures has been postponed in favor of more pressing issues.

However, not all are in favor of the inquiry's launch. Paul Thomas, a professor emeritus at the University of Manitoba, raised concerns about its efficacy, labeling it as “politically motivated.” He questioned whether it would genuinely benefit the public or simply serve the NDP's political agenda. Thomas also cautioned about the financial implications, pointing out that public inquiries can accumulate costs running into millions of dollars, especially as the province deals with a projected $1.6 billion deficit.

The PC Party criticized Kinew’s plans, with PC leader Obby Khan accusing him of engaging in 'political games' over an already resolved matter through legislative actions and fines.

Meanwhile, Carla Devlin, president of Sio Silica, expressed the company’s readiness to cooperate fully with the forthcoming inquiry while continuing its responsible approach to developing Manitoba’s silica resources.

In related news, Premier Kinew has dismissed rumors of an early election in 2026, clarifying his government’s focus on essential issues like healthcare improvement, expansion of the Port of Churchill, addressing living costs, and combatting homelessness.

He emphasized recent actions targeting grocery competition to help reduce prices and cautioned against direct financial assistance to residents, which he warns might escalate inflation. Plans are also underway to increase the transition from homelessness to stable housing in the upcoming year and to open a supervised consumption site in Winnipeg, despite resistance from some locals and business owners, while remaining open to feedback and support for those affected.

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