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Crossroads
BUSY WORK
DARRELL NESBITT/CROSSROADS THIS WEEK
Snow clearing operators were found working throughout area communities on Monday, Nov. 25, after a second winter storm hammered down on the area with snow and light freezing drizzle, causing icy and treacherous highways. Here, a private contractor focused on clearing a residential driveway in Shoal Lake, prior to moving on to larger tasks. Travellers can check out current road conditions on manitoba511.ca before heading out on the highways.
Rural Manitoba a focus of throne speech
RACHEAL FLINTOFT
Crossroads This Week
The autonomy of rural Manitobans was a notable focus at this year’s annual throne speech on Nov. 24, marking a significant moment for rural Manitoba during the year to come. On account, Budget 2024 will include $221 million in unconditional funding to all municipalities, as well as a two percent escalator to the Municipal Operating Grant to help municipalities. Premier Wab
Kinew also emphasized the government’s commitment to empowering rural municipalities by allowing them the option to participate in regional planning groups.
“Rural Manitobans want a government that listens to them and respects their autonomy,” he stated.
The speech also addressed the critical issues of inflation and rising living costs, which have heavily impacted families throughout the province.
“The impact of inflation and ris-
ing costs has hit Manitobans hard,” Kinew acknowledged, outlining several initiatives geared at providing immediate relief.
These initiatives include a oneyear freeze on Manitoba Hydro rates starting in 2025, legislation to combat anti-competitive contracts that inflate grocery prices, and a gas tax reduction that results in a savings of 14 cents per litre at the pump. Additionally, the new Homeowners Affordability Tax Credit promises up to $1,500 in relief for
eligible homeowners.
Healthcare improvements were another main theme, with the government announcing a new Emergency Room Wait Times Strategy in collaboration with hospital leaders, which will specifically address long wait times and enhance patient care across the rural region. In education, the speech also highlighted the hiring of 630 new educators to create smaller class sizes and allow for more personalized attention in schools. The province plans to up-
date the science curriculum and introduce financial literacy for Grade 9 students.
Public safety initiatives were outlined as well, including a new strategy aimed at increasing police presence and providing mental health support to first responders. Overall, the throne speech gave an optimistic outlook for Manitoba, focusing on cost-of-living relief, healthcare improvements, educational reforms, and respect for rural communities’ autonomy.
