Legislative reports: Manitoba.

On April 22, 2002, the Third Session of the Thirty-Seventh Legislature resumed with the presentation of the Budget Speech by Greg Selinger, Minister of Finance. Highlights of the budget, as outlined in a government news release included:

* $500 million more in spending for health, education, families and communities;

* $244 million annually in personal tax reductions;

* $288 million towards debt and pension liability reduction.

On April 23, 2001, a non-confidence motion was moved by Stuart Murray, Leader of the Official Opposition. The amendment was defeated on May 1, 2002 by a vote of Yeas 24, Nays 31. The budget motion was adopted on the same day by a vote of Yeas 31, Nays 24.

When the debate on the budget is concluded, consideration of the expenditure estimates will commence. Manitoba's Standing Orders allow for a maximum of 240 hours for consideration of the departmental expenditure estimates.

Motion of Condolence on Passing of Queen Mother

On April 23, 2002, Premier Gary Doer moved, seconded by Stuart Murray, a motion of condolence in remembrance of Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother. Following speeches, a moment of silence commemorating her life was held.

Committee Activity

Standing Committee activity was quiet during this quarter. The Standing Committee on Privileges and Elections met on February 11, 2002 to consider the recruitment of the Children's Advocate whose term was to expire on March 29, 2002, and the recruitment of the Ombudsman whose term was to expire on March 2, 2002. Both of these positions, in accordance with the legislation, could be renewed for a second term. By motion passed by the Committee, Janet Mirwaldt was appointed for a second three year term as the Children's Advocate, and Barry Tuckett was appointed for a second six year term as Ombudsman.

Expiration of Provisional Rules

The provisional changes to the Rules, Orders and Forms of Proceeding of the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba that were concurred in, by the House, on May 16, 2001 expired March 31, 2002, thereby returning Manitoba to pre-May 16 rules. Some of the rules that Manitoba will be reverting to are:

* 240 hours allotted for the consideration of ways and means and supply resolutions respecting main, interim, capital and supplementary estimates and for the consideration in the Committee of the Whole of the relevant Supply Bills.

* No Friday morning sittings of the Committee of Supply.

* Private Members' Business to be held each sitting day...