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Manitoba must change its attitude towards the private sector



The backbone of any thriving society is its private sector. A robust private sector drives innovation, creates jobs, and funds essential social programs. Yet, we’ve allowed a culture of dependency on government to creep in, with the unfortunate result that the private sector is frequently misunderstood, mischaracterized, and even openly attacked by those who would most benefit from its strength. To move forward, we need to reduce this dependence on government, encourage private enterprise, and eliminate the layers of red tape and taxes that stifle business growth.

 

There’s a troubling irony in our society today. The same groups dependent on government support are often the first to criticize the private sector, viewing it as a problem rather than an opportunity. This mindset ignores a crucial truth: our ability to fund social services depends on a thriving economy, and a thriving economy requires a flourishing private sector. Without successful businesses, there are fewer jobs, lower tax revenues, and a diminished capacity to provide the very services people rely on.

 

At a recent political event, a small businesswoman shared her frustration with the endless hoops and hurdles she must jump through to keep her doors open. Despite her willingness to pay taxes and work hard, she’s met with obstacle after obstacle. Excessive taxes, mountains of paperwork, and government overreach have left her wondering if it’s even worth it. She’s responsible for five employees, and if she closes her business, they lose their jobs and likely turn to the government for support. Instead of contributing to the economy, she’d become part of the taxpayer-funded network that is increasingly unsustainable. Yet, she’s expected to pay even more to keep up with government spending.

 

This business owner’s experience is not unique. Across Manitoba, doctors, too, are reconsidering their careers here due to punitive taxes, especially the Capital Gains tax, which discourages professionals from remaining in the country. I know of at least three doctors who have left or are seriously considering relocating. The loss of even one healthcare professional, let alone many, is a hit to our already struggling healthcare system, and it’s a situation that shouldn’t be happening at all.

 

The private sector in Manitoba also faces significant challenges in attracting larger corporations. I’ve seen firsthand how companies hesitate to set up operations here due to a hostile business environment. The number of major corporations relocating to Manitoba could be counted on one hand, while places like Edmonton and other cities have pulled ahead. It isn’t because we lack the resources or the talent—Manitoba has an abundance of both. But we lack the policies that make it easy and attractive for businesses to set up shop, invest, and grow.

 

Our leaders, including those at the municipal level, have failed to create an environment that encourages private-sector investment. The business tax in Winnipeg is one of the highest deterrents, discouraging expansion and job creation. Mayor Gillingham and a group of city councillors seem intent on imposing additional taxes, pushing away businesses and people that are already struggling to stay. Instead of promoting growth, these policies ensure that we continue on a path of economic decline, chasing away opportunities for Manitobans.

 

It’s worth looking beyond our borders to see the consequences of too much government control. Countries like Russia and China stand as clear examples of societies where reliance on government isn’t just encouraged but enforced. There, government control limits freedom, stifles innovation, and ultimately harms the citizens it’s meant to protect. Although we are not at that extreme, the more we rely on government, and the more we overburden businesses, the closer we inch toward a society where individual initiative and innovation are stifled.

 

Manitoba has so much to offer the world in terms of investment opportunities, especially in sectors like mineral mining. With an abundance of natural resources, we could easily become a leader in this field, boosting our economy and providing countless job opportunities. However, to attract these investors, we need to eliminate roadblocks. Investors are more likely to bring their ventures here if they know they won’t be taxed out of profitability. Cutting red tape is also essential. When I speak of reducing red tape, I’m talking about real, impactful changes—not the kind of nominal adjustments often touted by politicians. We need to let businesses operate without having to navigate a bureaucratic labyrinth.

 

We also need to address government overreach, which has far too many companies thinking twice about investing in our province. If Manitoba wants to position itself as a destination for private investment, it has to embrace a new approach that supports business growth rather than stifling it. This means scaling back government intervention, reducing the layers of permits and restrictions, and making it easier for businesses to establish themselves here. The truth is, without a strong private sector, we cannot support essential public services. The taxes and revenue generated from businesses are what fund healthcare, education, and other social programs. Every time we make it more difficult for businesses to thrive, we make it harder to provide these services. Dependency on government isn’t the solution; it’s part of the problem.

 

We must abandon this notion that the private sector is the enemy. It is not. The private sector is our greatest ally in creating a prosperous future for Manitobans. Rather than burdening businesses with higher taxes and more regulations, our leaders should be working hand-in-hand with them, creating policies that encourage innovation, investment, and growth.

 

The NDP’s introduction of new labor laws will only add to the difficulties companies face in setting up here. It’s another example of government action that seems designed to hinder rather than help the very people it’s meant to serve. These laws may be introduced with good intentions, but they ignore the real-world challenges of running a business and the long-term impact these changes will have on Manitoba’s economy.

 

Our province has an opportunity to attract significant private sector investment, but we need to make real, substantial changes to achieve this. Cutting taxes, reducing red tape, and scaling back government overreach aren’t just talking points; they’re necessary steps if we are to avoid economic stagnation. Manitoba has incredible potential, but only if we create an environment where businesses can succeed. The choice is ours to make, and if we want a prosperous future for Manitoba, it’s a choice we must make now.

 

A strong private sector is the foundation of a strong society. By supporting businesses, reducing their burdens, and fostering a spirit of cooperation rather than contention, we can build a brighter future for everyone in Manitoba.

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