Manitoba (a summary of legislative activity).

• Author: McKerlie-Korol, JoAnn

Since the last report Manitoba has been in the midst of a busy legislative session.

On May 1, 2000, Rosann Wowchuk, the Minister of Agriculture and Food, introduced a government resolution urging the Federal Government to reconsider its decision with regard to the 1999 flooding which occurred through southwestern Manitoba. On May 2, 2000, Jack Penner moved an amendment to this motion. On May 8, 2000, the amendment was voted on and was defeated. A subsequent amendment was moved but to date, neither the amendment nor main motion have been voted on and therefore remain on the order paper awaiting future debate.

Ruling

On May 8, 2000, Speaker George Hickes brought down his ruling on the application of the sub-judice convention. During Oral Questions on April 27, 2000, a point of order was raised by the Government House Leader, Gordon Mackintosh regarding the content of a question asked. The question referenced a civil case that Premier Gary Doer had personally been named in. The Speaker took the matter under advisement. On May 8, 2000, Speaker Hickes delivered his ruling, even though the civil case had been settled without a trial. The Speaker ruled there was no point of order and offered the following reasons".

... the matter in question was a civil case that had not yet commenced trial proceedings. I would rule that it would be appropriate for the Member asking the question, and the Minister answering the question to determine the appropriateness of discussing the matter in the House, but I would offer the caution that Members should be cognizant that discussion of the matter in the House could impact on the outcome of the trial. Such questions should be very carefully asked. In addition, the Minister could choose to not answer the question."

On May 10, 2000, Finance Minister Greg Selinger, introduced the first balanced budget of his government's mandate. Total expenditures and revenues for the province were forecast at 5.9 billion and 6.4 billion respectively. The budget included increased spending for health care and education and reduced personal income tax reductions. Highlights from the budget address included:

* new personal income tax reductions to exceed $100 million annually by 2002;

* lower property taxes by way of a $75 increase to the Property Tax Credit;

* reduction in the Small Business Tax from 7% to 5% by 2002.

Mr. Selinger also indicated that there would be "a long-term plan for comprehensive debt retirement that includes...