University College of the North held its convocation ceremony in Thompson this week, and I want to congratulate all of the graduates and thank retiring UCN president Konrad Jonasson for his years of dedicated service. I wish everyone all the best in their future careers and challenges.
The graduates should all be very proud of their accomplishments. Their families, friends, instructors and administrators are proud of them, and their province is proud as well.
Severe flood-related damage to the Hudson Bay Railway is a challenge our government is dealing with. I have met with provincial Infrastructure Minister Blaine Pedersen and Churchill Mayor Mike Spence at the legislature to discuss it. As Premier Brian Pallister has said, we’re looking at alternatives with Churchill officials and others to address the town’s immediate and longer-term needs. However, other partners involved in this issue are First Nations, railway line owner OmniTrax and the federal government, the latter of which has a responsibility to provide financial support at this time. This is a difficult and complicated issue. We’re focusing immediately on the health and safety of northern residents, and are talking to Mayor Spence about shipments of food and other essentials for everyone affected.
The new $7.7-million, 9,000-square- foot Hope North Recovery Centre for Youth has opened in Thompson. Youth in northern Manitoba dealing with mental health issues or addictions can now get access to the care and services they need. This facility will make a significant difference in assisting youth and their families here in Thompson and across our region.
Although Vale recently announced, due to low world nickel prices, the closure of its Birchtree Mine in October 2017, I’m not worried about the future of mining in our province. With the proper policies, agreements and incentives in place, and with plenty of mineral potential in the ground throughout Manitoba, this province is becoming more competitive and more attractive for investment in mineral exploration, tourism and agri-business. I will continue to support and promote the northern region, and continue to focus on results for northern Manitobans.
Finally, I had the pleasure of welcoming Grade 6 students and teachers from Split Lake’s Sam Cook Mahmuwee Education Centre to the legislature this week, and enjoyed visiting with them and answering their questions. I hope they enjoyed the rest of their field trip to Winnipeg.
