Tuesday, May 23, 1995

LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA

Tuesday, May 23, 1995

The House met at 1:30 p.m.

At 1:30 p.m., the Sergeant- at- Arms, carrying the Mace on the crook of his arm and followed by the Clerks of the Legislative Assembly, entered the Chamber. The Sergeant- at- Arms remained at the mainentrance of the Chamber, and the Clerks took post on the west side of the Chamber, stood and awaited the arrival of His Honour the Lieutenant- Governor.

The Premier, members of the Executive Council, military and civil aides, and officers comprising the officer escort, met in the Lieutenant- Governor's reception room.

The Premier, members of the Executive Council, military and civil aides, accompanied His Honour from the reception room to the Chamber in the following order:

The civil aide on the right;

the military aide on the left;

the officer escort;

the members of the Executive Council;

the Premier; and then

the Lieutenant- Governor.

At the bar of the House, the military and civil aides, the officer escort, members of the Executive Council and the Premier halted and turned inward to allow the Lieutenant- Governor and the Premier to advance to the head of the escort, where His Honour was met by the Mace.

Deputy Sergeant- at- Arms (Mr. Garry Clark): His Honour the Lieutenant- Governor.

The Lieutenant- Governor then, preceded by the Mace carried shoulder high and followed on his left by the military aide, and on his right by the civil aide, proceeded along the west side of the Chamber to the throne. The Premier proceeded along the east side and stood on the floor on the east side of the Chamber. The members of the Executive Council took their places.

The military aide took up his position on the east side of the throne and the civil aide took up his position on the west side of the Chamber.

The officer escort positioned himself to the west side of the throne.

The Lieutenant- Governor seated himself on the throne; the Mace made obeisance and retired to the east side of the Chamber.

Hon. Rosemary Vodrey (Minister of Justice and Attorney General): I am commanded by His Honour the Lieutenant- Governor to state that he does not see fit to declare the cause of the summoning of the present Legislature of this province until a Speaker of this House shall have

been chosen, according to law.

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His Honour the Lieutenant- Governor retired.

The Mace then made obeisance before the Lieutenant- Governor and preceded His Honour along the east side of the Chamber to the bar of the House, accompanied by the Premier and the aides.

The Mace returned from the bar of the House and was placed under the table. The Premier re- entered by the north doors and proceeded to his seat in the Chamber, and the Clerks took their chairs at the table.

Hon. Gary Filmon (Premier): I move, seconded by the member for Concordia (Mr. Doer), that Mrs. Louise Dacquay, a member of the Electoral Division of Seine River, do take the Chair of this House as Speaker.

Motion presented.

Mr. Filmon: Mr. Clerk, it is my pleasure to move the appointment of Louise Dacquay, the member of the Legislature for Seine River. She has been a member of this Legislature since 1990 and has served in the role of Deputy Speaker where she has demonstrated both her skills and knowledge in the parliamentary process. Prior to that, Mrs. Dacquay was a member of Winnipeg City Council. She is a professional educator and has been an active volunteer. She is a mother of two and a grandmother of four. She is a dedicated and proud Manitoban, and it is my great pleasure to be able to recommend Mrs. Dacquay to the House as the Speaker.

Mr. Steve Ashton (Opposition House Leader): Mr. Clerk, our caucus is pleased to second the motion and to wish the member for Seine River well. We want to indicate as a matter of notice that we will be suggesting that in future the office of Speaker be an elected one as is the case with the House of Commons in Ottawa and many other jurisdictions.

We also want to take this opportunity, Madam Speaker, to thank the former Speaker who we believe was one of the best Speakers not only that we have seen in this province but throughout the Commonwealth and wish him well in his future endeavours.

Mr. Clerk (William Remnant): Is the House ready for the question? Is it the will of the House to adopt the motion?

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Some Honourable Members: Agreed.

Mr. Clerk: The motion is accordingly carried, and I therefore declare the Honourable Louise Dacquay, member for the Electoral Division of Seine River, duly elected as Speaker of this House.

The Speaker was then conducted to the Chair by the mover and seconder and was invested with the robes of office.

The Speaker then, standing on the upper step, returned thanks to the House, and then took the Chair.

Madam Speaker: Honourable members of the Thirty-sixth Legislature, I am not unmindful of the honour which you have conferred on me today in electing me to the highest office within the gift of the Assembly, that of your Speaker and your servant.

Je suis touchée de l'honneur que vous me conferez aujourd'hui en m'élisant à la plus haute charge qu'il est donné à l'assemblée de confier, à savoir celle de présidente de l'assemblée dont je suis le serviteur.

It will be my aim and duty to uphold the principles and traditions of the House and secure for each member the right to express his or her opinions within the limits necessary to preserve decorum; to recognize the rights and privileges of the honourable members, the political groups and the House itself; to facilitate the transaction of the public business in an orderly manner and, above all, to seek to be fair and impartial in the decisions you entrust to me.

If these are your objectives, and I believe they are, I ask your

patience and co- operation in approaching them.

I deeply appreciate your actions in elevating me to the Speaker's

Chair. With your assistance, I hope to fulfill this commitment

with dignity and honour.

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The Mace was then placed on the table.

The Premier left the Chamber to meet His Honour in the reception room. The Clerks took post on the west side of the Chamber.

The Mace proceeded to the bar of the House to meet His Honour, who re- entered the Chamber accompanied by the aides and the Premier, as on his first entry. The Speaker left the Chair and stood on the floor of the Chamber on the east side. The Mace made obeisance and retired to the east side of the Chamber.

Deputy Sergeant-at-Arms: His Honour the Lieutenant-Governor.

Madam Speaker: May it please Your Honour:

The Legislative Assembly has elected me as their Speaker, though I am but little able to fulfill the important duties assigned to me. If, in the performance of these duties, I should at any time fall into error, I pray that the fault may be imputed to me and not to the Assembly, whose servant I am, and who through me, the better to enable them to discharge their duties to their Queen and country, hereby humbly claim all their undoubted rights and privileges, especially that they may have freedom of speech in their debates, access to Your Honour's person at all reasonable times, and that their proceedings may receive from Your Honour the most favourable consideration.

Mrs. Vodrey: Madam Speaker, I am commanded by His Honour the Lieutenant- Governor (Mr. Dumont) to declare to you that he freely confides in the duty and attachment of the Assembly to Her Majesty's person and government, and not doubting that their proceedings will be conducted with wisdom, temper and prudence, he grants, and upon all occasions will recognize and allow their constitutional rights.

I am commanded also to assure you that the Assembly shall have ready access to His Honour upon all reasonable occasions and that their proceedings, as well as your words and actions, will constantly receive from him the most favourable consideration.

The civil aide advanced from the position he had taken on the west side of the Chamber and, after the usual obeisance on each step, handed the Lieutenant-Governor the Speech from the Throne.

The civil aide then retired, step by step, backwards and took up his position on the west side of the Chamber.

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SPEECH FROM THE THRONE

Hon. W. Yvon Dumont (Lieutenant- Governor of the Province of Manitoba):

Please be seated.

Madam Speaker and members of the Manitoba Legislature:

I welcome you to the first session of the Thirty-sixth Legislative Assembly of the Province of Manitoba.

Je vous convie à la première session de la trente- sixième législature de la province du Manitoba.

Congratulations and good wishes are very much in order for all new members of this Assembly and for those who are returning to this House. The people of our province have entrusted you with heavy responsibilities--at all times to advance the public interest and to provide leadership and vision in making decisions which will help shape the future of Manitoba.

Due recognition should also be given to all candidates who allowed their names to stand in the general election. All have made the highest possible commitment to public service.

Eleven days ago Manitobans celebrated our 125th anniversary as a province, celebrations which will continue throughout the year. In my capacity as the Queen's representative, I have been privileged to witness and to participate in memorable ceremonies throughout the province. Sometimes we take for granted the quality of life that we enjoy in Manitoba, but more and more our citizens recognize that we are blessed with a land and a sense of community which are unequalled anywhere. The commemoration of V-E Day reminded us all of our heritage of freedom and democracy and the sacrifices of those who fought and secured them for us.

In recent weeks our pride and sense of community have been strengthened further. Record flooding in several areas of the province presents a severe challenge which is being met successfully and with unprecedented co-operation from all concerned. The threatened loss of the Jets, Manitoba's National Hockey League team, has led to an unparalleled response from the citizens of this province which will be a source of inspiration for generations.

Manitobans have been brought closer together by these events. They have challenged our spirit, but that spirit has emerged more strongly than ever. Throughout our province there is a growing sense of confidence, direction, purpose and optimism.

My government feels honoured to have been given a strong and clear mandate by the citizens of this province, a mandate that will take Manitoba into the new century. My government will honour that mandate by proceeding to implement the commitments they have made to the people of Manitoba, commitments dedicated to strengthening our economy and protecting essential public services.

Many of those commitments were summarized in the agenda for action which my ministers put together in the last Speech from the Throne on December 1, 1994. Those measures were debated and received the approval of members at that time.

With the agreement of the official opposition, the Assembly will be asked to focus on immediate priorities in the coming weeks. Prior to the end of June, members will be requested to review the Estimates flowing from the 1995-96 budget which was passed shortly before the adjournment of the final session of the last Legislature and which has effectively been approved by the people of Manitoba in the election of April 25.

In addition to considering related budget legislation, members will also be asked to review other legislative priorities including The Maintenance Enforcement Act, the balanced budget legislation, and amendments to The Child and Family Services Act, The City of Winnipeg Act, The Real Property Amendment Act and The Manitoba Evidence Act. Legislation relating to the Northern Flood Agreement will also be put before the House. Where debate cannot be completed before the Assembly rises for July and August, I understand it will resume when the House reconvenes in September for about six weeks.

Throughout its previous terms, my government has worked hard to ensure public input and inclusiveness in establishing public policies and in implementing them. My ministers will continue to pursue public-private partnerships as proven instruments for developing new economic opportunities within the principles of sustainable development.

My ministers are also committed to building further understanding of the essential links between rural and urban communities. My government is proud of its strong and balanced representation from around Manitoba, representation which will ensure that the views of all regions will carry real weight in the proposals my ministers put forward for consideration in this Assembly.

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From time to time this Assembly will also be asked to review matters of federal policy affecting our province and others. As members are well aware, the Government of Canada is proposing profound changes in a wide range of national programs: health, higher education and training, social assistance and services, child care, agricultural support, transportation, regional development, and a great many more. Virtually every aspect of federal government activity is affected.

In some cases the federal proposals foresee a substantial shift in responsibilities to provincial and local governments, but without adequate accompanying resources. Reduced federal support for agriculture and transportation are major concerns, as are further instances of federal offloading of responsibilities for services for aboriginals living off reserves. Members must also remain vigilant in support of Churchill and efforts to assure its long-term viability.

Where federal policies may not be in the best interests of our province, members will be asked to set aside partisan views and to stand together to defend Manitoba's interests.

At the same time, I know all members will also stand together in strong support of a united Canada and of positive efforts to make our federal system more effective.

De la même manière, je sais que tous les membres de l'Assemblée législative soutiendront l'unité du Canada et les efforts qui contribueront à rendre notre système fédéral plus efficace.

The issue of poverty in all its dimensions must be a high priority for the years ahead, both in our province and across the country. Provinces on their own can take some positive steps, but fundamental solutions can only be found in a national context and with ongoing co-operation among governments. My ministers will seek such co-operation as the national debate continues on social security reform.

As members of this Assembly, you will have the opportunity to address these kinds of challenges directly and to contribute in a major way to shaping public policy.

Je vous laisse maintenant aux nombreuses tâches que vous allez être appelés à accomplir fidèlement. Que la divine Providence vous éclaire au cours des délibérations nécessaires à l'exécution de ces tâches.

I leave you now to the faithful performance of your duties and trust that in meeting them you may benefit from the guidance of Divine Providence in all your deliberations.

The civil aide advanced and, after obeisance, received the

speech from the Lieutenant- Governor and retired to the west side of

the Chamber.

The Mace then made obeisance before the Lieutenant- Governor and

preceded him along the east side of the Chamber to the bar of the

House, accompanied by the Premier and the aides.

God Save the Queen and O Canada! was sung.

The Premier returned to his seat in the Chamber.

The Speaker proceeded to the Chair after His Honour passed the bar

of the House.

The Sergeant- at- Arms proceeded to the Speaker who was standing

before the Chair. The Mace made obeisance and returned to the

table.

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Madam Speaker: O Eternal and Almighty God from Whom all power and wisdom come, we are assembled here before Thee to frame such laws as may tend to the welfare and prosperity of our province. Grant O Merciful God, we pray Thee, that we may desire only that which is in accordance with Thy Will; that we may seek it with wisdom, know it with certainty and accomplish it perfectly for the Glory and Honour of Thy Name and for the welfare of all our people. Amen.

The Speaker bowed to the members and seated the House.

INTRODUCTION OF BILLS

Bill 1--An Act Respecting the Administration of Oaths of Office

Hon. Gary Filmon (Premier): Madam Speaker, I move, seconded by the

Minister of Industry, Trade and Tourism (Mr. Downey), that leave be given to introduce Bill 1, An Act Respecting the Administration of Oaths of Office; Loi sur la prestation des serments d'entrée en fonction, and that the same be now received and read a first time.

Motion agreed to.

Madam Speaker: I wish to inform the House that in order to prevent

mistakes, I have obtained a copy of the address of His Honour which was read.

I am further pleased to inform the House that Dennis Gray has been appointed Sergeant- at- Arms, and Garry Clark has been appointed Deputy Sergeant- at- Arms for the Thirty- sixth Legislature.

I am also pleased to introduce to the House the six young people who have been selected to serve as Pages at this session. Beginning at my right, they are: Karen Remus from the Boundary School Division No. 16; Ivan Holloway, Morris-MacDonald School Division No. 19; Corinne Maes, Morris-MacDonald School Division No. 19; Jeff Browaty, River East School Division No. 9; Jaime Henkel, River East School Division No. 9; and Davyd Hooper, St. James-Assiniboia School Division No. 2.

House Business

Mr. Filmon: Madam Speaker, I move, seconded by the honourable Minister of Environment (Mr. Cummings), that the Votes and Proceedings of the House be printed, having first been perused by the Speaker, and that the Speaker do appoint the printing thereof, and that no person but such as the Speaker shall appoint do presume to print the same.

Motion agreed to.

Mr. Filmon: I move, seconded by the honourable Minister of Finance (Mr. Stefanson), that the standing committees of this House for the present Legislature be appointed for the following purposes:

Agriculture, Economic Development, Industrial Relations, Law

Amendments, Municipal Affairs, Private Bills, Privileges and Elections, Public Accounts, Public Utilities and Natural Resources, Rules of the House, Statutory Regulations and Orders, which several committees shall be empowered to examine and inquire into all such matters and things as may be referred to them, and to report from time to time their observations and opinions thereon with power to send for persons, papers and documents and examine witnesses under oath.

Motion agreed to.

Mr. Filmon: I move, seconded by the honourable Minister of Justice (Mrs. Vodrey), that a special committee of seven persons be appointed to prepare and report with all convenient speed a list of members to compose the standing committees ordered by this House, and that such committee shall be composed as follows: the honourable Minister of Consumer and Corporate Affairs (Mr. Ernst), the member for Gimli (Mr. Helwer), the honourable Minister of Urban Affairs (Mr. Reimer), the member for Gladstone (Mr. Rocan), the member for Thompson (Mr. Ashton), the member for Burrows (Mr. Martindale), and the member for Point Douglas (Mr. Hickes).

Motion agreed to.

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Mr. Filmon: Madam Speaker, I move, seconded by the honourable Minister of Health (Mr. McCrae), that Mr. Marcel Laurendeau, member for the Electoral Division of St. Norbert, be Chair of the Committees of the Whole House and Deputy Speaker.

Motion agreed to.

Mr. Filmon: I move, seconded by the honourable Minister of Natural Resources (Mr. Driedger), that Mr. Ben Sveinson, member for the Electoral Division of La Verendrye, be Deputy Chair of the Committees of the Whole House.

Motion agreed to.

Mr. Filmon: I move, seconded by the honourable Minister of Family Services (Mrs. Mitchelson), that the speech of His Honour the Lieutenant- Governor be taken into consideration today.

Motion agreed to.

Madam Speaker: I wish at this point to inform all present that I am now going to recess the House for approximately an hour, and that a receiving line composed of their Honours, the Lieutenant-Governor and Mrs. Dumont, the Premier and Mrs. Filmon, and the Speaker and Mr. Dacquay will form shortly in Room 200 at the north end of the building and that refreshments will be served in Room 254 at the south end of the building in approximately five minutes.

The division buzzers will sound for one minute to indicate that the House is resuming and on return it will begin consideration of the Speech from the Throne.

The House is accordingly recessed.

The House recessed at 2:15 p.m.

________

After Recess

The House resumed at 3:33 p.m.

ORDERS OF THE DAY

THRONE SPEECH DEBATE

(First Day of Debate)

Mr. David Newman (Riel): Madam Speaker, it gives me great pleasure to move, seconded by the honourable member for Turtle Mountain (Mr. Tweed), that an humble address be presented to His Honour the Lieutenant-Governor as follows:

We, Her Majesty's dutiful and loyal subjects, the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba, in session assembled, humbly thank Your Honour for the gracious speech which Your Honour has been pleased to address us at the opening of the present session.

Motion presented.

Mr. Newman: It is an honour, privilege and pleasure for me today to move the Speech from the Throne and I would like to thank the Premier and Executive Council for having given me this opportunity. I would also like to begin by saying that it is an honour for me as well to be addressing this Assembly for the first time. I am joining an exceptional group of people, and I look forward to working with all honourable members. I would like to welcome all honourable members to the House for another session. For some, like myself, it will be for the first time.

To supplement the excellent MLA orientation provided by Assembly staff, we will from time to time seek advice and counsel from honourable members who have returned. They are a source of abundant knowledge and varied experiences. It is a privilege for me, during our 125th anniversary as a province, to join the current Assembly of honourable members. Members of this House have been working diligently and conscientiously on behalf of Manitobans for 125 years. We are grateful for their efforts.

I would also like to thank the honourable member for Gladstone (Mr. Rocan) for his years of service as Speaker of this House. His calm as he presided over this House, his dedication to the needs and integrity of this Assembly, and his guidance to honourable members will serve as a model for his successors.

Madam Speaker, I would like to welcome you as well. Several years as Deputy Speaker have gained you the respect of this House due to your fair and prudent decisions. I look forward to your continuing in the tradition which has been set by the honourable member for Gladstone and his predecessors in the office of Speaker. I have no difficulty picturing how an effective and respected Speaker can contribute significantly to bringing out the best in all of us in the House, individually and collectively.

I would like to extend a sincere welcome to the Pages who have returned for this session of the Legislature. I thank them in advance for all their help and I know their time here will be both interesting and enjoyable.

I look forward to getting to know everyone in this Assembly better. This being my first and perhaps only opportunity to share for the record who I am and where I stand, I decided to take advantage of the opportunity in the hope that other newcomers will do the same. This will help us to understand each other better as we develop our relationship in this House.

In my 26 years as a lawyer, I have been an advocate, negotiator, arbitrator, educator, employer, manager and motivator. My primary mission has been on one hand to advise people in positions of power about how to use it constructively and humanely, and on the other hand to represent victims of abuses of power to achieve just relief. My field of practice has been mostly labour relations and employment law. In addition, more recently, I have performed an educational role in relation to environmental matters. My clients for the most part have been employers and individual employees. Occasionally I have represented employee associations.

Volunteer time has been invested in using my experience training and skills to help others. I have held many positions in my past, including partner in a medium-sized law firm, sole proprietor of my own law firm, chairman of a large law partnership, president of the Kinsmen Reh-fit Centre, chairman of a church council, president of the Manitoba Chamber of Commerce, president of the Rotary Club of Winnipeg, representative of management-at-large in the Labour Management Review Committee, and the chair, organizer and participant in numerous educational events for professionals, employers and employees.

In these roles, I have been encouraging volunteerism, management which is ethical, caring and effective with freedom to manage effectively, enlighten free enterprise, guided by overriding moral imperatives of environmental stewardship and respect for human rights and freedoms has been my goal. I believe that spirit and initiative can be discouraged by elitist and controlling notions and practices. My experience has motivated me to invest my volunteer energy to stimulate pride in volunteerism, enterprise and self-responsibility. More recently, my volunteer time has been spent promoting Manitoba as a place to invest, live and visit.

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I believe changes have been unfolding over the last seven years which have enhanced our reputation as a province in the national and world community. I believe we are at a critical point and must continue to move forward. I believe the state-of-the-art prerequisites for survival and success in this rapidly changing world are sound values. I believe these include sufficient freedom to make our own decisions as individuals and as members of the family, workplace and community, faith in the ultimate goodness of most people, valuing self-responsibility highly, yet encouraging and rewarding volunteer service above self, striving for equal opportunity for all and respect for the rule of law, freedom of expression and democratic institutions.

In my view, support for private enterprise and effective and prudent management of public funds and services is fundamental. The purpose of this support is to enable Manitobans to earn a livelihood, to fulfill themselves, to promote a safe, healthful and pleasant living environment and to provide protection and insurance against misfortune and wrongdoing.

If we were to envisage a stately old tree along the Red River, think of this fundamental commitment to entrepreneurship as the roots and effective management as the trunk of the tree of policy. Picture the policies as the branches; seeds and saplings are health care, old age security and educational opportunities. They depend on those roots and that trunk for quantity and quality. It is up to us to ensure that the trees are fed and protected from even well-meaning people who can do them harm by killing the tree with too much water or the wrong kind of nutrients.

I believe our way of being a friend to the less privileged in society, our way of providing the most effective public service is to be caring and loving, honest, disciplined, responsible, wise, good managers, courageous and persistent, and to be conscientious stewards of our resources and all living things. These qualities put into practice will over time contribute to improving the formidable challenges of poverty, disease, environmental degradation and people's inhumanity to others.

I am proud of the sound ethical approach of our government. Weeping openly does not make one more compassionate, throwing money at problems does not make them go away, but moving people to act, energized by positive emotion, reason and good faith can overcome the most difficult challenges. Our challenge is to motivate, educate and help nongovernmental bodies and individuals take more responsibility for themselves and others. At the same time, we must be tolerant, understanding and supportive of the needs of the disadvantaged so they are not left behind. We must promote and facilitate partnering of diverse groups in this endeavour.

Why did I seek to become an MLA? I love Manitoba. It is my home. I was born and raised here. I decided that to become an MLA was the best way for me to contribute to our community. There are many ways to serve. My father voluntarily delayed entering the legal profession after graduating with a gold medal in Law from Manitoba Law School in 1939 to spend six years overseas fighting a war for the freedoms we enjoy today. My mother volunteered to leave Winnipeg to serve as a nursing superintendent of a Canadian Red Cross army hospital in England during the war until she married. She later returned to Winnipeg to raise my elder sister and I while Father fought in Europe. This sort of sacrifice was typical of my parents' generation. Those who did not go overseas contributed millions of dollars to Victory Bonds to support the war effort.

Manitobans owe it to themselves, to their children, to their grandchildren to use their best efforts to make sure Manitoba is managed by ethical, courageous, capable leaders, leaders who have demonstrated that they have the maturity, wisdom and experience to lead Manitoba into the 21st Century in a progressive, responsible and visionary way.

Constituents choose who are the honourable members, first by encouraging qualified people to run for office or by running themselves, then a majority who vote make the choice. Having met most of the honourable members here, it is clear that Manitobans have chosen well.

During the election campaign, I began my relationship as an MLA with my Riel constituents. For the most part, I found them to be interested in the issues of the campaign and anxious to learn the facts so they could make an informed choice on voting day. They have demanded strong, knowledgeable representation, sound management practices, adherence to unwavering moral principles, and positive human relations within and between organizations related to government. They want me to listen to their ideas and concerns and to keep them updated on material developments affecting them.

Madam Speaker, I am looking forward to serving the constituents of Riel in this House. Without their support, I would, of course, not be here today. Their input will serve as a guide for me for the next four years. It will help me to define my role in the Legislature. My challenge will be to help the people of Riel adapt to the changing circumstances which are so much a part of the dynamic nature of Manitoba.

Manitoba has long been a place where the rights of diverse segments of society were protected. This is evident in the story of Louis Riel, a man who had a fierce pride in Manitoban society and who provided the impetus for creating the province of Manitoba.

The story has great significance for me. Not only is my constituency named after the Riel family, but the Manitoba of his day was still part of the fur frontier, and the main colony was on the banks of the Red and Assiniboine rivers. The area which is called Riel today bears little resemblance to the Red River Colony of the late 19th Century, but it is bordered on the west side by the Red River. It is virtually impossible to see the river and not be struck by the importance it has and has had on the creation of this province.

The rivers opened up the West to civilization and formed the backbone of the early economy of Manitoba.

A great deal may be learned from the struggles of Louis Riel. He and many others like him were driven by that same community spirit which is so much required of Manitoban character today. By virtue of their vehemence to ensure their rights were respected, they earned provincehood for Manitoba. Riel's struggle was to make Manitoba a community with its own government and rights, where both French-speaking and English-speaking settlers were treated justly and equally.

This sense of justice and equality and of responsibility to the community guided Riel. One can see those same values reflected in our society today, 125 years after our creation.

The desire to protect the interests of the group to which he belonged, the Metis, is not what is surprising about the story. What transcends it from the ordinary is the fact that Riel did not try to take away from other settlers in order to grant more to his people. It is that kind of representative which I hope to be. While representing the interests of my constituents, I will strive to do my best for all Manitobans. To this Assembly, everyone is a constituent.

I will have large shoes to fill as the member for Riel. For four consecutive terms in the 1960s and 1970s the people of Riel and the rest of the province were served by the late Mr. Donald Craik, supported by his devoted wife Shirley. During his time in this House he filled several portfolios as well as serving as Deputy Premier. His involvement stretched from finance to public libraries, from education to economic development.

My immediate predecessor, Mr. Gerry Ducharme, fully supported by his dedicated and loving partner, Yvonne, is another whose performance set a high standard. First elected in 1986 after many years of service to the City of Winnipeg as a councillor, he made his mark as Minister of Housing, Minister of Government Services and Minister responsible for Seniors. He provided the impetus for amendments to The City of Winnipeg Act and changes to The Landlord and Tenant Act.

Under his direction the government of Manitoba moved into the future by creating three self-operating agencies: Fleet Vehicles, Materials Distribution, and Land Management. These special operating agencies are examples of innovative ways of operating government: more responsible, accountable and efficient. Mr. Ducharme helped improve housing for Manitoba's senior citizens and increased funding to women's shelters. He proved again how much a member of this House can contribute, not only to his own constituents but to all Manitobans.

On behalf of the constituents of Riel, I would like to thank my two predecessors for their commitment, their dedication and all their efforts. like them, will endeavour to be a conscientious, accessible and helpful friend to those in Riel who seek my help.

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The people of Riel have given me a clear mandate. They have consistently supported the need of a government which will keep its finances in order. This, Madam Speaker, is what they will receive. They will have a balanced budget, the first in over 20 years, without any increase in major taxes.

To ensure that Manitobans will enjoy all the advantages and opportunities presented by living with a deficit-free government, there is not only a commitment to balanced budget legislation, but also a manageable plan for accumulated deficit reduction. Our long-term plan for sustainable job creation and income growth is intended to build on the commitment. Changes in health care, education, family and justice systems and policies are intended to ensure their long-term effectiveness and to update and improve services for the benefit of all Manitobans.

Sustainable development initiatives ensure a caring and responsible protection and use of our physical environment. Manitoba is leading the way in Canada in this respect. Our economic, social and spiritual environment for living, working and investing and raising a family is treated like an ecosystem. Nurturing and occasionally cautious intervention with maximum knowledge of the implications is offered when necessary.

My commitment to the people of Riel, to all Manitobans, and to the values of this Legislature, includes my commitment to the implementation of the goals of the throne speech. Manitobans deserve to live in an environment which allows them the freedom and the opportunity to prosper, with less dependence on government. We need to remove the debt burden from young Manitobans and thereby give them back the ability to make their own decisions freed from those constraints.

The debt which was created and subsequently tolerated by our generation of representatives must be eliminated. We have recognized this fact. Our new balanced budget legislation will allow individuals, families, businesses and nongovernmental organizations to build up Manitoba for our future. Investing in Manitobans is a priority of this government. We fully believe in the need to facilitate development of the capacity of all generations of Manitobans to live as healthy and productive citizens.

We can do anything up to world standards right here in Manitoba. We have the abilities, confidence, community support and privileges and freedoms necessary. Manitobans have the capacity to turn realistic dreams into fulfilling lives. Manitoba is respected and valued by the majority of us as our home.

We treat each other like family. Our strong community spirit has proven itself time and time again to be the driving force behind success. Manitobans have always stood and will continue to stand firm against abuses of power, injustice and the mistreatment of each other. I am heartened by the support, caring and love for the disadvantaged which is continually being demonstrated by Manitobans.

I have mentioned our community spirit. This is yet another manifestation of our solidarity. Each and every one of us contributes to the best of his or her ability to make Manitoba the best place in the world to live, to work, to invest and to raise a family.

Manitobans are constantly donating their time, their money and their talents wherever they see a need, whether it be hosting world curling championships, the Pan Am Games, the Grey Cup or supporting the Save the Jets campaign or fighting wars or floods. Manitobans respond to every challenge which enhances or threatens to limit what we are and what we can become individually and collectively as citizens of this great province.

Manitobans also reach beyond themselves and serve others less fortunate by continuing to share services, wealth and ideas which contribute to making both Canada and the world safer, healthier, more peaceful and, above all, more loving, tolerant and caring.

I pledge to do my best as a member of this Assembly to perpetuate and enhance the culture of volunteerism and community spirit and working together in a common cause for the betterment of Manitoba.

As an MLA, I serve the people of the constituency of Riel and the province of Manitoba. I am humbled to represent the roughly 18,000 people of my constituency, and I vow to be conscientious in the performance of my new duties. I am fully committed to serving them to the best of my ability.

I am looking forward to working not only with my colleagues in government but also with those who are on the opposite side of the House. I am proud of all members for seeking public office and proud to have the opportunity to serve with them.

I am more grateful than I can possibly express for all who have done so much for the people of Manitoba in the past, those who have devoted their time, their talents, their wisdom and their vision. Because of them, I have been able to enjoy this paradise on the prairie and the privileges of a career in the private sector for 26 years.

I fully believe that I am ready to take on the challenging role of an MLA, but I realize that I have a lot to learn. I am comforted by the knowledge that the newly elected MLAs share the common goal of serving Manitobans well, both in this House and beyond. We are all equally anxious to learn and conduct ourselves in a manner which will earn the respect of future generations.

Therefore, if in the heat of debate we offend one another by words, words which could be better or more sensitively spoken, I suggest that we share that with each other and resolve not to repeat it, so that mutual respect and collegiality will prevail. This approach will promote the dignity and purpose of this Assembly for the benefit of Manitobans.

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Before closing, I would like to spend a few moments to share some thoughts about several issues dear to my heart--youth potential, health and wellness, and friendship.

To youth: I have three children, a daughter, 19, and two sons, one almost 22, the other 24 years of age. I think I understand that generation. I respect them highly. If we continue to provide necessary guidance and an environment which permits them to become the best contributing adults that they can be, our future will be in good hands.

I know most of the children who grow up in Riel will be contributors to the world. You in Riel have so much going for you. You are amongst the most privileged and fortunate people in the world. Never forget how much you can contribute and how the future of this planet depends on your conscientious service for the benefit of future generations. World peace has never been more possible. It is up to you, in co-operation with our generation and those behind you in a caring and understanding and knowledgeable way, to strive to attain healthful lifestyles and constructive attitudes and habits. The objective is to ensure life on Earth of the highest quality possible. Peace, prosperity and health of all living things depend on you.

Health and wellness: I am a promoter of lifetime involvement in athletics, hobbies or other forms of active play. As a runner, I have completed many marathons and training runs with friends. Through the thousands of miles of training and moments of exhilaration when we have finished a race, we have become better people, devoted friends, and relive again and again the joys of childhood games and personal achievement. Whether it be golf, curling, baseball or any other sport, or hobbies like gardening or walking, I encourage energetic activity for fun, relaxation, and physical, mental and spiritual health and wellness.

About friendship: There is a wonderful fable related by Leo Buscaglia on the art of loving that tells of a young girl who is walking through a meadow. She sees a butterfly start to fly away. Then it comes back and changes into a beautiful good fairy. For your kindness, she tells the young girl, I will grant your wish. The little girl thinks for a moment and replies, I want to be happy. The fairy leans toward her and whispers in her ear and then suddenly vanishes. As the girl grew, no one in the land was more happy than she. Whenever anyone asked her for the secret of her happiness, she would only smile and say, I listen to a good fairy. As she grew older, the neighbours were afraid the fabulous secret might die with her. Tell us please, they begged, tell us what the fairy said. The now lovely old lady smiled and said, she told me that everyone no matter how secure they seemed had needed me. We all need each other. I submit the lesson of this story applies to labour-management relations, family relationships and this Assembly.

I intend to conduct myself with that sense of mutual need in relation to all honourable members. I invite you to do the same. Thank you.

Mr. Mervin Tweed (Turtle Mountain): Madam Speaker, it is my great privilege to rise today to second the Speech from the Throne for the first session of the Thirty-sixth Legislature of the Province of Manitoba. I would like to take the opportunity to welcome and congratulate the new Speaker of the House (Mrs. Dacquay) and the new Deputy Speaker of the House (Mr. Laurendeau). Although new to your respective positions, I know you both have extensive legislative experience to draw upon, and I am looking forward to your guidance and instruction as I acquaint myself with this new and unfamiliar environment.

Madam Speaker, let me also commend the mover of the throne speech for his appropriate and fitting comments. He spoke of things which certainly struck a chord with me and, I am sure, with many other members of this House.

I extend sincere thanks to the Premier and to his colleagues on the Executive Council for granting me the privilege of seconding the Speech from the Throne, and I would also like to welcome our new legislative Pages. It is a wonderful opportunity for you to learn our democratic and legislative process first hand, a process that I too will be learning with you. I wish you all the best during your time here at the Legislature and in your future studies.

Finally, I would like to congratulate those of my colleagues on this side of the House who are returning to the Chamber and to those, like myself, who come to this Chamber for the first time. Welcome. I am looking forward to developing a long-term working relationship with all of you, and I hope that is for three or five or six terms.

I, of course, would also like to welcome back the Leader of the Opposition (Mr. Doer) and the members opposite.

Madam Speaker, I must extend a special thank-you to the people of Turtle Mountain. Their tremendous support and encouragement sustained me throughout the often arduous election process. Being part of the parliamentary system is a humbling honour, and to be chosen to sit as part of the government of Manitoba is a great privilege. But as we all know, with privilege come responsibility and accountability. I intend to repay the faith that my constituents have shown in me by dedicating myself to work on their behalf and on behalf of all people of Manitoba.

I would also like to take this moment to thank my family for their dedication and support throughout the campaign. I am depending on it to continue as we all make major adjustments to our lives in the coming years.

Madam Speaker, as this is my maiden speech and with the full attendance, or near full attendance and attention of the House, I would like to speak to all the members of the Legislature about the constituency of Turtle Mountain.

Turtle Mountain is located in southwest Manitoba and is comprised of 44 communities. We are an agriculturally based constituency with most communities being developed around servicing the needs of agriculture. Recently there has been a shift in that direction as communities within Turtle Mountain recognize the benefits of a strong tourism industry and the development of markets for secondary agriculture-produced products.

With our numerous lakes to provide swimming, fishing, boating and camping, plus a variety of wildlife and plants found alongside hiking, skiing and horseback trails, Turtle Mountain represents one of the richest recreational areas in Manitoba, and I would like to invite you, Madam Speaker, and all members of this House to visit the riding of Turtle Mountain to see first hand the many beautiful lakes, the historical sights, and experience the charm of Turtle Mountain.

Agriculturally based, Turtle Mountain farmers take pride in their ability to recognize the ever changing needs of the communities in which they live. Effective and efficient through diversification and innovative farming techniques, these people have found ways to survive and succeed in a rapidly changing system. Again, Madam Speaker, I wish to invite all members to visit Turtle Mountain and see the pride, the resilience and the determination of the Manitoba farmer.

There are 20 schools and seven hospitals providing education and health care to the constituents of Turtle Mountain. These facilities provide employment to many Turtle Mountain residents and in most cases are considered to be the building blocks of our community. Distant from urban centres, the continuation and development of health and education programs and facilities is a must for the people of Turtle Mountain and for all of rural Manitoba. Good education and good health care must be a priority for all.

When you visit Turtle Mountain you will be impressed by the friendly and outgoing manner with which you are treated. Through hard work and a vision of the future, the people are determined to succeed. The decisions that must be made to move Turtle Mountain into the next century are now taking place, and I am very proud to represent those people.

As I stand here before all of my colleagues and speak about my home constituency, I cannot feel anything but pride over the fact they have placed such trust in me and in this government to do the right thing. And, Madam Speaker, let there be no doubt that this government is doing the right thing.

I believe that as a result of the mandate given to the government by the people of Manitoba, Manitoba will continue to enjoy the benefits of a sound economy, forthright leadership and responsible and accountable government. I cannot even begin to express how proud I am to be part of this process.

Regarding the mandate which we have been given by the people of Manitoba, I want to speak now about five specific areas which are of significance to my constituents and to the people of Manitoba.

Madam Speaker, my government has been a leader in reforming health care and I am excited over the prospect of being involved in further reforms. My government's first objective is to protect the health and well-being of all Manitobans. Our focus is and will continue to be focused on patient care. We plan to continue to bring health care closer to the people in their homes, neighbourhoods and communities. This can be seen in our overall approach to the health care system in Manitoba. This approach focuses on promoting wellness and a healthy life style.

Our health care system is increasingly recognizing the relationship between healthy individuals and healthy communities, and our emphasis will continue to be on wellness and creative and innovative prevention strategies.

Hospitals and health care providers have been important partners in assisting my government to undertake much-needed reforms in the health care system. I am depending on these professionals in my home riding of Turtle Mountain to continue to provide quality care along with new and innovative ideas for further reforms.

Madam Speaker, education is another area that my constituents and I feel strongly about. The government has made incredible strides in working with educators, parents and students to improve our education system, and there are further exciting changes still to come. Many rural communities, and I speak from experience, have fears over losing their small schools. I believe that reforms initiated by my government regarding education renewal will enable these schools and therefore many rural communities to survive.

We all know there is nothing more important than a solid education. Knowledge, education and the skills our children learn are fundamental to economic opportunity, personal security and responsible citizenship. That is why it is so important to make the correct choices. The choices we make now in improving our education system will help to determine the future strength and direction of Manitoba in the changing global economy. Our world is changing rapidly, and as it changes, so too must the education system in Manitoba. I believe it is imperative to work in partnership and co-operation with parents, with the community, with teachers, students and leaders at all levels of our education system to ensure our children adapt, grow, learn and move forward.

We hear from many critics, and we certainly heard it during the election campaign, that we are not targeting enough financial resources to education, that we as a government devote over one in every five dollars of provincial program expenditures to education, and as we prepare for the next century, the challenges to do better within existing resources have never been greater. Madam Speaker, let me assure you and the members of this House that I am more than ready to face these challenges.

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Agriculture is of course another subject which I feel I must speak about on this my first speech in the Manitoba Legislature. As someone from a community in a riding which is based on agriculture, I speak from personal knowledge when I say that communities such as mine need the support and leadership of government. There are several issues which confront agricultural communities, issues such as crop diversification, secondary agricultural services and finding ways to ensure the agricultural sector can succeed in a changing global environment.

These issues are issues which I have spent considerable time speaking to my constituents about. For me, there is no doubt about the importance of the industry, and since agriculture plays such a vital role in the Manitoba economy, a healthy farm economy is important to the well-being of all Manitobans. By estimates, the agricultural industry and associated activities provide one out of every eight jobs in Manitoba. Madam Speaker, in Turtle Mountain I would suggest that would be seven out of eight jobs.

Manitoba produces and exports quality agricultural commodities and food products to customers around the world. The government has provided considerable support to agriculture in order to assist in the expansion of markets and also to encourage innovation, diversification and value-added processing activities. As a direct result, Manitoba agriculture today is significantly more diversified than it was seven years ago. In the last four years alone, agricultural commodity exports have increased by one-third, while value-added food products have grown at a faster pace of over 50 percent.

The new world trade environment affords Manitoba's agricultural industries new opportunities to develop higher value-added products for export markets. Madam Speaker, I have complete confidence in the ability of the government to continue its current direction regarding agriculture in Manitoba, and since the federal government decision to terminate transportation payments under the Western Grain Transportation Act, the need for strong leadership is more important now than ever.

I look forward to assisting in this important time of change and transition in the farm economy.

Tied closely with agriculture is rural development. The government must be congratulated on its strong initiatives to ensure the quality of life for rural Manitobans. It is my government who understands the unique needs and recognizes the many contributions made by rural communities, and it is my government who has long been active in supporting rural development.

I have been impressed by the practical and common-sense approach to rural communities that this government has always assumed. Through innovative programs such as Community Choices, the Rural Economic Development Initiative, REDI, and Grow Bonds, communities have been able to invest in themselves in order to start or expand local businesses. REDI and Grow Bonds have brought $180 million in new investment and 1,400 new jobs to rural communities, while rural youth training programs have generated over 2,100 part-time positions for youth since 1992, and it will help all young Manitobans follow their entrepreneurial path.

Many government operations have been decentralized to rural areas bringing jobs and services closer to the people who need them, and there have been major infrastructure investments made across rural Manitoba. Further, rural forums have brought together rural businesses, community leaders to share ideas, display their products, build new partnerships and develop strategies for a stronger rural Manitoba.

I am counting on the support and assistance of all members of this House to ensure that these and other initiatives will be continued, thereby contributing to the good of the entire province.

Madam Speaker, I have spoken about four areas: health care, education, the farm economy and rural development. Further success and growth in these areas can only be achieved, however, by the fifth topic that I wish to discuss, that being a balanced budget.

From my business background, I know that ongoing deficits can only lead to higher debt, higher interest rates and growing interest payments. It does not take the wisdom of Solomon to come to the conclusion that these all severely limit our ability to create jobs and fund vital services. The 1995 budget introduced the first balanced budget in Manitoba in over 20 years.

As a taxpayer and business person, this was the best news I had heard in a very long time. To add to this good news was the fact that the 1995 budget also contains the largest budget surplus in Manitoba's history. To ensure that future generations of Manitobans continue to benefit from the advantages and opportunities made possible by deficit-free government, the government has introduced the toughest balanced budget legislation in Canada. The balanced budget, debt repayment and taxpayer protection legislation will strongly bind the province to continue to achieve balanced budgets.

This legislation will achieve balanced budgets, maintain expenditures without increasing taxes and set out a debt repayment plan to reduce the burden of interest costs. In addition, the legislation prohibits any increases in major taxes unless Manitobans give their approval in a province-wide referendum.

Madam Speaker, I believe that balanced budgets will allow us to sustain vital services for future generations, and balanced budgets mean jobs. But most important for me and the constituents of Turtle Mountain, balanced budgets are about accountability to the taxpayer. I believe that it is my and my government's job to restore accountability to the budgeting process. Once this is achieved, the government which has devoted itself to rebuilding Manitoba's economic environment can then focus on integrating our social and economic agendas in order to make sustainable improvements in the living standards of all Manitobans. I am proud, honoured and humbled to be a part of this historic process.

Madam Speaker, as this is the springtime and as I am from a rural constituency and the farmers are out in the field, I think that as a government, the seeds for a stronger, better Manitoba have been planted.

Today, Madam Speaker, I stand before you and encourage all members to support the future of Manitoba. Thank you.

Mr. Gary Doer (Leader of the Opposition): I move, seconded by the member for Wolseley (Ms. Friesen), that debate on the speech be now adjourned.

Motion agreed to.

Mr. Filmon: Madam Speaker, I move, seconded by the honourable Government House Leader (Mr. Ernst), that this House do now adjourn.

Motion agreed to, and the House adjourned and stands adjourned until 1:30 p.m. tomorrow (Wednesday).