Manitoba's Justice Minister says changes are needed to the Criminal Code in Canada.

Steinbach MLA Kelvin Goertzen says there are people who are getting bail, almost by default, who should not be getting bail. He notes these are individuals who are proven to be violent or repeat offenders who are getting out on bail and creating more victims.

"Every Justice Minister in Canada, and I think I've been a leader in that, has said we need changes to the Criminal Code when it comes to people using knives for violent offenses," explains Goertzen. "Make it harder for those individuals to get bail and I'll continue to press the federal government for that, and I think I'll be joined by other ministers of justice in Canada."

Goertzen says Justice is a difficult file these days with increased crime across Canada. While places like Winnipeg might see an increase in violent crimes, he notes rural Manitoba is seeing more property crime, though violent crimes still happen too. 

 

He notes the provincial government has taken steps to try and address this problem, including integrating units, such as the Winnipeg Police Service and the RCMP. Goertzen explains this allows them to go after not only violent offenders but those who have warrants and have proven to be a danger to the community. He notes we can anticipate additional announcements on integrated units in 2023. 

Meanwhile, Goertzen says 2023 should see progress on some significant capital projects in Steinbach and area. For example, the renal dialysis unit, which saw construction officially begin in August, is expected to be completed this year. Goertzen notes Rest Haven personal care home, which officially opened in 2022, should also continue to add to its staff this year and see more of its units filled. 

 

Also in 2023, Goertzen says construction should start to take shape on the new Southeast Event Centre being built in Steinbach. And there is a chance that construction begins on the new elementary school in Steinbach. 

And, finally, Goertzen says Manitobans will be heading to the polls in October for a provincial election. The Steinbach MLA encourages Manitobans to not only consider their feelings towards the current government but also to look at the opposition and consider how our province might change if that party comes into power.