Manitoba NDP’s Proposal: Freezing Hydro Rates and Commissioning Bison Statue

Manitoba Government Unveils Plans for the Coming Year in Throne Speech

The Manitoba NDP government has outlined its priorities for the upcoming year in its latest throne speech, focusing on key promises and initiatives to benefit the province. Premier Wab Kinew emphasized the government’s commitment to freezing Manitoba Hydro electricity rates for one year, a move that was pledged during the election campaign. This initiative aims to provide relief to residents and businesses dealing with rising energy costs.

In addition to addressing energy concerns, the government also plans to introduce legislation targeting anticompetitive contracts that contribute to higher grocery prices. By taking action in this area, the government hopes to make essential goods more affordable for Manitoba families.

A significant aspect of the throne speech was the announcement of a new statue to replace the vandalized Queen Victoria monument on the legislature building’s front lawn. The new statue, depicting a mother bison and her calf, symbolizes the importance of family and acknowledges the historical harm caused by the residential school era. The government will collaborate with cultural institutions and experts to decide on the most appropriate way to display the Queen Victoria statue, respecting its historical significance.

Healthcare remains a top priority for the government, with plans to address challenges in the system and improve patient care. A new strategy to reduce emergency room wait times and enhance surgical services, including 800 additional hip and knee surgeries at the Selkirk hospital, will be implemented. These measures aim to provide timely and effective healthcare services to Manitobans.

Overall, the throne speech highlighted the government’s continued efforts to support public safety, enhance family budgets, and address pressing issues faced by residents. Through a collaborative approach with various stakeholders, the Manitoba government aims to build a stronger and more inclusive province for all its citizens.

As the legislature session progresses until December 5, Manitobans can expect to see further developments and initiatives aimed at improving the quality of life in the province. Stay tuned for more updates on the government’s plans and actions in the coming months.

Copyright © 2024 The Canadian Press.

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Eby Reveals Overhauled B.C. NDP Cabinet

The newly sworn-in British Columbia cabinet led by Premier David Eby is focused on addressing the “kitchen table” issues that concern families across the province. With a mix of veteran ministers and newly elected faces, the cabinet is committed to listening to the needs of the people and delivering on key priorities.

Premier Eby emphasized the importance of good paying jobs, access to family doctors, safe communities, and affordable housing as top priorities for the government. The reshuffling of key ministers like Adrian Dix and Mike Farnworth reflects a strategic approach to addressing these priorities effectively.

Dix, who led the province through the COVID-19 pandemic, has been tasked with overseeing energy and climate solutions, while Josie Osborne, a former mayor, is now responsible for health care in the province. Farnworth has transitioned into transportation and transit, highlighting the government’s commitment to tackling critical issues like clean energy development and transportation infrastructure.

The appointment of new ministers from diverse backgrounds, like former broadcaster Randene Neill and Vancouver Police Department veteran Terry Yung, signals a fresh perspective and expertise in key areas such as land management and community safety.

Additionally, the cabinet includes a strong representation of women in leadership roles, with critical positions like Minister of Finance and Attorney General held by women leaders. This diversity and expertise are expected to shape the future of British Columbia in a meaningful way.

The government’s focus on affordability, including a proposed middle-income tax cut and support for families facing rising costs, underscores a commitment to making life more affordable for all residents. Premier Eby’s team aims to address the challenges faced by British Columbians and deliver on their promises to the electorate.

As negotiations with the Green Party continue, Premier Eby remains optimistic about working collaboratively to address the province’s pressing issues. Overall, the revamped cabinet embodies an experienced team dedicated to prioritizing the needs of British Columbians and delivering tangible results.

Source: ©2024 The Canadian Press

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Revival of Detroit’s Abandoned Entertainment District as Former Six Flags Park Comes Down Amid Construction Spending

The latest edition of the U.S. Spotlight by ConstructConnect’s Daily Commercial News highlights several significant developments in the construction industry. Here are the key takeaways from the featured articles:

1. Where are the U.S. construction spending dollars coming from?
The column sheds light on the sources of construction spending in the United States, providing valuable insights for stakeholders in the industry.

2. A former Six Flags park is finally being demolished after Hurricane Katrina’s devastation.
The demolition of the former Six Flags park, which was impacted by Hurricane Katrina, signifies a new chapter in the site’s redevelopment.

3. Hurricane-damaged Tropicana Field can be fixed for about $55 million in time for the 2026 season.
Efforts are underway to repair the damage caused by recent hurricanes to Tropicana Field, with the aim of restoring the venue for upcoming events.

4. Repurposed heritage buildings will bolster Detroit’s abandoned entertainment district.
The revitalization of Detroit’s abandoned entertainment district through the repurposing of heritage buildings will breathe new life into the area.

5. ‘Humanized’ development coming to affluent Detroit suburb of Troy.
The Forbes Company’s construction project on the former Kmart HQ site in Troy promises a ‘humanized’ development that will cater to the needs of the affluent suburb.

These updates showcase the dynamic nature of the construction industry and the ongoing efforts to transform and revitalize various spaces. Stay informed and follow ConstructConnect’s Daily Commercial News for more industry news and insights.

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Ottawa Unveils 2025 Budget with Focus on Transportation and Affordable Housing

The City of Ottawa has released its draft budget for 2025, focusing on transportation improvements and expanding affordable housing options. This budget reflects the city’s commitment to maintaining essential services while addressing current financial challenges.

Over the past two years, the city has implemented strong financial planning, conducted service reviews, and adopted innovative solutions. The 2025 draft budget identifies $54.2 million in savings through service reviews and efficiency measures, bringing total savings since 2023 to $207.7 million.

Mayor Mark Sutcliffe stated, “This budget has been difficult to prepare, especially with the affordability crisis facing many residents. In order to invest in what matters most—emergency services, public transit, affordable housing, roads, and supports for the most vulnerable—we’ve had to make tough decisions. This budget strikes a responsible balance, keeping tax increases low while addressing Ottawans’ top priorities.”

The draft budget includes significant investments in affordable housing to address Ottawa’s housing crisis. Key initiatives include funding from various programs to support shelters, housing loss prevention programs, and supportive housing initiatives. The City is also working to streamline housing development through zoning updates and faster approvals.

In terms of transportation, the draft budget includes major investments in transportation infrastructure to improve mobility across the city. Investments in road rehabilitation, resurfacing, pedestrian and road safety initiatives, and public transit are highlighted. Public transit improvements include the opening of new O-Train lines, replacing aging buses with zero-emission vehicles, implementing service efficiency programs, and expanding Para Transpo service.

The draft budget will be reviewed by city council committees in the coming weeks and could be approved by city council on December 11. City Manager Wendy Stephanson sees the budget as a pivotal step in addressing the city’s most pressing issues, showcasing the city’s commitment to tackling challenges and making prudent investments in the city’s future.

Residents can visit ottawa.ca for more details on the 2025 draft budget and its impact on the city’s development and growth.

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Construction at Red Deer Justice Centre is Finished

The construction of the new Red Deer Justice Centre in Alberta is a significant development for the region, with the completion of the 312,000-square-foot facility now handed over to Alberta Justice for final preparations. Slated to open in early 2025, the centre will feature 16 courtrooms, with potential for future expansion to add four more courtrooms as needed.

Replacing the outdated court facilities in the city, the new centre will alleviate the strain of operating at full capacity. Designed by Group2 Architecture and Interior Design in collaboration with DLR Group, the project created around 1,100 construction-related jobs and had a total project funding of approximately $203.1 million.

Notably, the Red Deer Justice Centre includes innovative spaces for alternative dispute resolution services, such as judicial dispute resolution, family mediation, civil mediation, and an Indigenous courtroom with accommodations for traditional practices like smudging. The facility is also built to LEED Silver standards, emphasizing sustainability and environmental responsibility.

With five courthouse capital projects in various stages of planning or design across the province, the completion of the Red Deer Justice Centre marks a milestone in enhancing access to justice and modernizing court facilities in Alberta. Stay tuned for the official opening in early 2025, where the facility will serve the public with state-of-the-art amenities and improved functionality.

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Rebecca Bligh, Vancouver councillor, named president of the FCM

Vancouver Coun. Rebecca Bligh Appointed President of FCM

Vancouver City Council member Rebecca Bligh has been appointed as the new president of the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM), a significant achievement that highlights her dedication to addressing critical issues facing communities across Canada.

In a statement, Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim extended his heartfelt congratulations to Bligh on her appointment, emphasizing her unwavering commitment to the city and her leadership qualities. As a director for the FCM since 2018, Bligh has already made a significant impact through her roles as a table officer and chair of governance for the past three years.

Bligh’s appointment to the FCM will allow her to bring valuable insights and a strong voice for Vancouver and municipalities nationwide. She has also been actively involved in various committees, including those focused on community safety and crime protection, municipal infrastructure, and social economic development.

Overall, Bligh’s new role as president of the FCM positions her as a key figure in shaping policies and initiatives that will benefit communities across Canada. Her leadership and dedication to public service make her a fitting representative for Vancouver, and her appointment marks a significant milestone in her career. We look forward to the positive impact she will undoubtedly make in this new role.

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BC Cancer receives $45,000 donation in honour of John Horgan from BC Building Trades

John Horgan, the former Premier of British Columbia, is being fondly remembered by BC Building Trades unions and their members after passing away at the age of 65 following his battle with cancer. To honor his memory, BC Building Trades unions are donating $45,000 to cancer research in British Columbia, with each member contributing $1.

Throughout his political career, Horgan was a staunch supporter of construction workers and a dedicated advocate for working people. He was the only politician to ever be named a lifetime honorary member of the BC Building Trades, highlighting his commitment to supporting unionized workers and their families.

Brynn Bourke, the executive director of the BC Building Trades Council, expressed profound appreciation for Horgan’s contributions to construction unions, the labor movement, and the province of British Columbia as a whole. She emphasized Horgan’s belief that by supporting unionized workers, he was also supporting families and communities.

The donation to BC Cancer in Horgan’s memory not only pays tribute to his legacy of advocacy and leadership but also provides support to those in British Columbia who are facing their own battles with cancer. Sarah Roth, the president and CEO of the BC Cancer Foundation, commended the heartfelt tribute from the BC Building Trades Council, stating that it will help enhance BC Cancer’s care for families across the province.

In conclusion, John Horgan’s impact on the construction industry, his unwavering support for unionized workers, and the lasting legacy of his advocacy and leadership are being honored through this generous donation to cancer research in British Columbia. His memory will continue to inspire positive change and support for those in need.

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Union to challenge Ottawa’s interference in B.C. port labor disputes

The recent lockouts at ports in British Columbia and Montreal have caused disruptions in the supply chain, impacting businesses, workers, and Canada’s reputation as a reliable trading partner. Following the government’s intervention to end the work stoppage and order binding arbitration, the unions representing the locked-out workers are planning court challenges.

Labour Minister Steven MacKinnon’s decision to intervene was met with mixed reactions, with unions denouncing the move as an infringement on workers’ rights and a setback for collective bargaining. Business groups, on the other hand, welcomed the government’s intervention to restart operations and alleviate the economic toll caused by the disruptions.

However, experts warn that government intervention in labour disputes could set a dangerous precedent, undermining workers’ rights and potentially discouraging negotiated agreements at the bargaining table. The need for long-term solutions to prevent future disruptions and ensure industrial peace was reiterated by MacKinnon and business organizations.

As the court challenges unfold and discussions continue, the ultimate goal is to reach a resolution that benefits all parties involved while maintaining a stable and efficient supply chain. The ongoing tensions highlight the complexities of labour relations and the delicate balance between protecting workers’ rights and ensuring economic stability.

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Hamilton buildings collapse prompts city to request emergency demolition

The recent incident of two buildings partially collapsing near Gore Park in Hamilton, Ontario has raised concerns about neglected heritage buildings in the area. The buildings, located at 24 and 28 King St. E., had been boarded up and vacant for some time before the collapse occurred. Fortunately, there were no injuries reported, and the fire department’s drone unit conducted inspections to ensure the safety of the surrounding area.

City officials have been actively monitoring the properties and enforcing compliance with building code requirements. Despite issuing an order to comply with the building owner in July, concerns about the structural integrity of the buildings remained unaddressed. As a result, further enforcement actions were initiated last week to hold the property owner accountable and ensure the safety of the structures.

Moving forward, the city is working with the owner to conduct thorough evaluations of the buildings and plan for their demolition. Efforts will be made to salvage any heritage features that can be safely retained during the demolition process. Mayor Andrea Horwath has emphasized the importance of strengthening enforcement processes to prevent similar incidents and protect the community.

The recent building collapse serves as a reminder of the need for proactive measures to maintain the safety and integrity of heritage structures in Hamilton. By prioritizing compliance with building codes and conducting regular inspections, the city aims to prevent future incidents and preserve the architectural significance of historic buildings.

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Union accuses port employers of refusing to negotiate, abruptly ending discussions within an hour

In a recent development in British Columbia, the union representing locked-out port workers has faced a setback in negotiations with the BC Maritime Employers Association. Despite efforts to reach a resolution through the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service, talks were abruptly terminated by the employers after just under an hour.

According to a statement released by the International Longshore and Warehouse Union Ship & Dock Foremen Local 514, the employers have been unwilling to compromise and have attempted to impose unfavorable terms on the union. President Frank Morena has expressed frustration with the employers’ tactics, describing them as evasive and coercive.

Despite efforts to continue bargaining with the assistance of a federal mediator over the weekend, the employers association chose to end discussions after a mere 12 minutes. Morena has denounced the proposed concessions as inflammatory and unacceptable, highlighting the impact on shipping companies and retailers awaiting a resolution to the lockout.

In response to the breakdown in talks, the employers association has indicated that no progress was made, and no further meetings have been scheduled at this time.

This development highlights the ongoing labor dispute impacting the port workers in British Columbia and underscores the challenges faced in reaching a mutually acceptable collective agreement. As the situation unfolds, stakeholders will be closely monitoring for updates and potential interventions to address the impasse.

For the latest updates on this story and other developments in British Columbia, stay tuned to reliable news sources for further information.

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