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In the quiet corners of southeastern Manitoba, the fate of Sio Silica hangs in the balance, caught between the promise of economic prosperity and the imperative of safeguarding the region’s drinking water. As the new Premier and his cabinet undertake the duties of governing, the eyes of the province are fixed on the newly appointed Minister of Environment, who shoulders the daunting responsibility of making a pivotal decision on this contentious project. Springfield councillors Mark Miller and Andy Kuczynski, are local community champions, vehemently opposed Sio Silica’s ambitious plans to drill beneath an aquifer that serves as a lifeline for several communities. Their concerns are not unfounded; a survey commissioned by these councillors resoundingly echoed the sentiments of the people. An overwhelming 96.4% of respondents voiced a resolute ‘no’ to the project. Such strong opposition led to a dramatic escalation at a council meeting, where the presence of law enforcement underscored the gravity of the situation, forcing elected officials to adjourn the session prematurely. This isn’t merely a matter to be taken lightly — it’s a crisis demanding immediate attention. The political arena has been rife with contradictory statements and actions, adding layers of complexity to the issue. As Minister of Environment and Climate, I immediately released the Clean Environment Report, emphasizing my commitment to evidence-based decision-making. I made it clear that the decision-making process would be guided by scientific insights rather than political inclinations. It was of paramount importance to me to preserve drinking water and reassure the public of my dedication to this cause. However, the real quandary lies in deciphering the stance of the newly elected NDP government. The party’s position on this matter and several others remain difficult to interpret. Discrepancies within the party have only added to the confusion. Two prominent MLAs have offered contrasting views, reflecting the internal cracks within the party. NDP Leader Wab Kinew, once a signatory of the LEAP Manifesto—a radical declaration to keep natural resources untouched—has vacillated in his public statements. His campaign manager, Brian Topp, disparaged natural resources as a detriment to the Canadian economy, highlighting a conflicting internal narrative. During his campaign, Kinew performed a complete U-turn, pledging to bolster the mining industry—a stance in stark contrast to his earlier position. Additionally, NDP MLA Mark Wasyliw’s persistent opposition to the Sio Silica mine on the floor of the Manitoba Legislature further muddies the party’s stance. During a pre-election debate on the Environment at the University of Winnipeg, NDP candidate Lisa Naylor voiced the party’s commitment to scientific guidance, disappointing some of the attendees who had hoped for a more definitive stance. This complicated situation places Premier Wab Kinew and his NDP government in a severe test of leadership. The residents of southeastern Manitoba are clamouring for their drinking water to be shielded from the uncertainties of untested drilling methods. Conversely, others are enticed by the prospects of revenue and employment opportunities that the project could bring to Manitoba. This critical juncture demands unwavering leadership and clarity of purpose. The NDP’s decision on Sio Silica will be a litmus test for Kinew’s ethics and credibility and the party’s commitment to environmental preservation—an issue that neither the PCs nor the winning NDPs prioritized during their campaigns. In these pivotal moments, the citizens of Manitoba anxiously await the government’s decision, hopeful that it will reflect a steadfast dedication to the well-being of its people and the preservation of its natural resources. The Sio Silica saga is not merely a political conundrum; it is a test of the moral compass guiding Manitoba’s leaders, a measure of their commitment to the environment, and, ultimately, an embodiment of their responsibility to the people they serve. — Kevin Klein is a former Tory cabinet minister, a former city councillor and a former CEO and Publisher for the Sun Media in Manitoba and Northwestern Ontario. This column was published in the Winnipeg Sun on October 27, 2023

Manitoba Politics, October 22, 2023 - In a time when political trust is at a premium, Manitobans find themselves questioning the alignment of Premier Wab Kinew's priorities with the needs of the province. As the premier outlines his agenda, one can't help but wonder if these priorities truly reflect the multitude of promises made during the election. Sadly, the answer is a resounding "no." Premier Kinew has stated, "Manitobans have told us what their priorities are—they want to see a safer, healthier province." However, a closer look at his chosen committees reveals significant gaps in addressing these concerns. While committees like the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and Two-Spirit (MMIWG2S+) and Gender-Based Violence Committee, as well as the Poverty Reduction Committee and the Healthy Child Committee, are undoubtedly important, the glaring omission of healthcare is baffling. It's worth recalling that healthcare was the focal point of Kinew and the NDP's campaign. How can healthcare not be a priority? Furthermore, there is a conspicuous silence regarding the issue of crime, which recent polls indicate as the number one concern for most Manitobans. The absence of any commitment to making the province safer is a troubling oversight, especially for those who expected to see a focus on public safety. Premier Kinew's initial actions, including firing senior departmental staff and reshuffling crown corporation boards, seem to reflect personal agendas rather than the interests of the province. This raises the question of why it is so challenging for political leaders to keep their promises, especially when an election campaign is akin to applying for a guaranteed four-year job, with a salary that places elected officials in the top 1 percent of wealthy Canadians. What Manitobans truly need is stability. The cost of living has soared, and the Canadian economy is facing serious challenges. The lack of a clear plan for addressing these pressing issues only deepens the sense of uncertainty. Instead of rushing to implement changes, a government's first priority should be to create an atmosphere of stability for its citizens. This can be achieved by taking the time to assess the current situation and listening to the valuable insights provided by civil servants. Hasty decisions often lead to failure, both in the political and private sectors. Change for the sake of change will not benefit our province. Manitobans need to see their elected officials delivering on the promises they made during the campaign. Failure to do so only exacerbates the growing disillusionment with our political leaders. As Premier Kinew charts his course, he would do well to remember that the province's well-being depends on delivering what was promised to the people of Manitoba.

As published in the Winnipeg Sun October 22, 2023 - It seems our news feeds have been inundated with distressing tales of teenagers succumbing to unthinkable impulses: shootings, assaults, and thefts that are becoming more and more common. These headlines, however, conspicuously lacked any mention of the decisive measures being taken by our elected officials to confront one of Winnipeg’s most pressing concerns, as indicated by recent polls. Curiously absent from the discourse was any direct comment from our city leaders. The burden of ensuring the safety and well-being of Winnipeg’s residents falls squarely on the shoulders of our elected council. Yet, it appears that our representatives have turned a blind eye to the alarming escalation of violent crimes, especially among our youth. No young individual aspires to a life of crime and violence. My tenure as chairman of the Winnipeg Police Board provided me with a unique vantage point, allowing me to attend numerous community gatherings where dedicated officers shed light on how vulnerable kids are exploited by gangs. In response to this grim reality, I relentlessly championed the cause of confronting violent criminal activities head-on and advocated for increased investments in youth programs designed to extricate children from the clutches of these nefarious gangs. Our city’s leaders must recognize the urgency of this situation by prioritizing investments in public safety and youth initiatives, especially in our most vulnerable communities. I recall a time in my own youth when community activities were not contingent upon the financial status of one’s family. Arnold Sagalyn’s poignant words, published in the Notre Dame Law Review in 1965, continue to resonate today: “We cannot meet the needs of our society within our time unless we mobilize and utilize all of the resources of our communities.” This statement serves as a timeless reminder of our collective responsibility to act. While it is true that the federal government must urgently address bail reform, this issue should not be a pretext for our city leaders to remain idle. The onus is on them to seize the initiative. There are noteworthy examples from other jurisdictions, such as Detroit’s Project Greenlight, which demonstrate proactive approaches to combating rising crime. Acknowledging that solving this problem won’t happen overnight, it is imperative that our leaders prioritize this issue. Regular and public meetings could be convened to deliberate on the necessary actions within the city’s jurisdiction, fostering a secure and nurturing community for all its residents. The time for action is now, and our city deserves nothing less than a resolute commitment to its safety and well-being. — Kevin Klein is a former Manitoba cabinet minister, a former city councillor and Chair of the Winnipeg Police and a former Winnipeg Sun CEO & publisher.

As Published in the Winnipeg Sun October 22, 2023 - In the wake of a defeat in the provincial election, the Progressive Conservative Party of Manitoba finds itself at a critical crossroads. Defeat is a bitter pill, often triggering a knee-jerk reaction to cast blame. There is no time for various agendas and divisions within. This juncture presents a priceless opportunity for the party – a moment for deep introspection, a chance to rediscover its foundational principles and embark on a transformative journey. Central to this transformative process is the careful selection of a new leader, a decision that demands meticulous contemplation and strategic foresight. In any democratic society, political parties are not mere electoral machines; they are vessels through which citizens channel their aspirations for a better future. These parties are the custodians of ideals, representing the collective vision of their members. In moments of triumph, they revel in shared victories. However, in times of defeat, they face the challenge of introspection and evolution. While this process is painful, it is indispensable for growth. The appointment of a new leader stands as the linchpin in this transformative odyssey. It signifies more than a mere changing of the guard; it embodies a symbolic reaffirmation of the party’s core values and a tangible demonstration of its responsiveness to the people it serves. For the PC Party of Manitoba, this transition demands patience; hasty decisions could lead to misplaced hopes and shattered dreams. Instead, this is a moment for careful consideration, where party members must engage in a thorough and thoughtful process to identify a leader who embodies the essence of their beliefs. Returning to the party’s origins is not a regressive step but a strategic move toward consolidation. Core values form the bedrock upon which enduring political movements are constructed. By revisiting these principles, the party can re-establish connections with its base, rekindle loyalty among its supporters, and attract new members inspired by its unwavering commitment to its founding ideals. During this process, leadership candidates must not only articulate their vision for the future but also demonstrate a profound understanding of the party’s history, acknowledging both its triumphs and learning from past missteps. Rebuilding a party is akin to nurturing a garden. It requires patience, dedication, and a deep understanding of the environment in which it thrives. Leaders must be cultivators, tending to the needs of the grassroots, listening to the concerns of the people, and fostering an inclusive atmosphere where every member feels valued and heard. Authentic leaders inspire not just through rhetoric but through their actions, fostering unity and purpose throughout the party. The responsibility of selecting a new leader for the PC Party of Manitoba is a solemn duty – a commitment to the party’s legacy, its members, and the citizens it represents across Manitoba. This moment calls for wisdom and a profound dedication to the democratic ideals that define the party. By embracing change, revisiting its roots, and painstakingly rebuilding from the grassroots, the party can emerge stronger, more resilient, and better prepared to face the challenges of the future. The party stands at a crossroads, faced with a pivotal decision. It can opt for a new approach within the legislature, spending the next two terms (eight years) in vehement opposition or, under the guidance of a new leader, it can hold the new government accountable while offering reasonable alternative solutions. This approach provides Manitobans with a stable alternative to consider in four years, fostering a healthy democratic process and ensuring the party’s relevance in the political landscape. The choice is paramount, shaping not only the party’s destiny but also influencing the future of Manitoba. — Kevin Klein is a former Manitoba cabinet minister, a former city councillor and Chair of the Winnipeg Police Board and a former Winnipeg Sun CEO & publisher.

October 18, 2023 - I extend my heartfelt congratulations to Premier Wab Kinew, the newly appointed Ministers, and all the dedicated MLAs, whether they are returning or newly elected. Your roles are crucial; you have been chosen to represent all Manitobans without bias. It is paramount to recognize the significance of honouring your constituencies, the very individuals who have bestowed upon you this esteemed responsibility. The voices of the people of Manitoba have spoken, and now, it is our collective duty to collaborate diligently toward building a resilient and prosperous Manitoba. I encourage all Manitobans to embrace this task with unity and determination. Best wishes to each of you in your new endeavours. Wab Kinew (MLA for Fort Rouge) – premier, minister of intergovernmental affairs and international relations, minister responsible for Indigenous reconciliation; Uzoma Asagwara (MLA for Union Station) – deputy premier, minister of health, seniors and long-term care; Ron Kostyshyn (MLA for Dauphin) – minister of agriculture; Matt Wiebe (MLA for Concordia) – minister of justice and attorney general, keeper of the great seal of the province of Manitoba, minister responsible for the Manitoba Public Insurance Corporation; Nahanni Fontaine (MLA for St. Johns) – minister of families, minister responsible for accessibility, minister responsible for gender equity; Bernadette Smith (MLA for Point Douglas) – minister of housing, addictions and homelessness, and minister responsible for mental health; Nello Altomare (MLA for Transcona) – minister of education and early childhood learning; Ian Bushie (MLA for Keewatinook) – minister of municipal and northern relations, and minister of Indigenous economic development; Malaya Marcelino (MLA for Notre Dame) – minister of labour and immigration, and minister responsible for the Workers Compensation Board; Jamie Moses (MLA for St. Vital) – minister of economic development, investment, trade and natural resources; Lisa Naylor (MLA for Wolseley) – minister of transportation and infrastructure, minister of consumer protection and government services; Adrien Sala (MLA for St. James) – minister of finance, minister responsible for the Public Utilities Board, minister responsible for Manitoba Hydro, minister responsible for the Manitoba public service; Renée Cable (MLA for Southdale) – minister of advanced education and training; Tracy Schmidt (MLA for Rossmere) – minister of environment and climate change, minister responsible for Efficiency Manitoba; and Glen Simard (MLA for Brandon East) – minister of sport, culture, heritage and tourism, minister responsible for francophone affairs, minister responsible for the Manitoba Liquor and Lotteries Corporation.

October 4, 2023 - Today, reflecting on the past nine months serving as your MLA and the four years as a City Councillor for a significant portion of this vibrant community, I am filled with an overwhelming sense of gratitude and appreciation. It has been an incredible honour and privilege to represent you, and I want to express my heartfelt thanks for your trust and support. Our journey together has been marked by dedication, resilience, and a shared commitment to making Kirkfield Park and Manitoba a better place for all. Throughout this time, I have had the privilege of meeting countless incredible individuals who are deeply passionate about our community and our province. Your unwavering spirit and determination have been a constant source of inspiration for me. I must extend my deepest appreciation to all the volunteers who have played an integral role in our journey. Without your tireless efforts, dedication, and selflessness, I would never have come this far. Your support has been invaluable, and I am truly grateful for the countless hours you have devoted to our cause. In my life and my career, I have always been guided by a favourite quote: “It doesn’t matter how many times you get knocked down. What’s important is that you keep getting up and moving forward.” While the recent election results may not have gone our way, I firmly believe there is still much important work to be done in government. Our society is facing significant challenges, and it’s evident that we are too divided. I remain committed to the ideals and values that have driven me throughout my tenure, and I will continue to work tirelessly to make Manitoba better for each and every one of us. Our community is a tapestry woven together by the diverse experiences, backgrounds, and perspectives of its residents. I have been honoured to be a part of this tapestry, and I will always carry with me the lessons and memories from our time together. Though my role may be changing, my dedication to Kirkfield Park and its residents remains steadfast. I look forward to finding new ways to contribute to the well-being and progress of our community, and I am excited to continue working alongside you all. Together, we can overcome challenges, bridge divides, and build a brighter future for all of our city and Manitoba. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for your support, your trust, and the opportunity to serve you. Let’s keep moving forward, working hand in hand to make our beloved community and province a better place for everyone. With sincere gratitude and warm regards,

October 1, 2023 - We live in a challenging world where misinformation and lies are more common than truth. I value integrity more than anything, and the constant attacks that Kevin has faced have caused much distress in our family. I would like to take a few moments to let you know who Kevin really is. Kevin and I have recently celebrated another anniversary. We have a blended family of six grown children, four grandchildren and two dogs. Kevin is a fighter for good. He is always trying to help others. I watched his private career soar because of his commitment to the people around him. I have also been with him during bad experiences. One time that troubles me the most is the personal attacks he faces from political opponents and the media, which have been complete lies. They are incredibly harmful to our family. I supported Kevin when he decided to run for city council in 2018. We saw the city’s challenges, and he knew he could help improve things. During his time with the city, Kevin stood up to the bureaucracy and corruption and fought to make the city a better place to live, even though it often made him a media target. It is not easy being the lone voice that fights back, but Kevin has rarely chosen the easy path. Kevin is a creative thinker and enjoys the challenge of finding solutions to difficult problems. He loves this province and knows that it can be better. When he says that he will do something, you can count on him to get it done. While on city council, he was known for his commitment to return every resident’s phone call. More than once, he returned a call to have them say, “I heard you return every phone call, and I just wanted to see if it was true.” As Kevin transitioned to provincial politics, he brought those same values and has worked hard for his constituents. I am incredibly proud of what he has accomplished and know he has much more to offer. Kevin is a fighter and will not give up until he gets the job done. You can count on him to be a strong voice for Kirkfield Park. Kevin and I are facing new challenges as well, as I have recently been diagnosed with breast cancer. He is my biggest cheerleader and is an incredible support. He attended my appointments with me and refused to leave the hospital on the day of my surgery. He is always there when I need him, and I know that he will be there for you too. Please vote for Kevin on October 3. Heather Klein

Thank you for a great turnout for our Kirkfield Park Community meeting at ANAVETS. It was a good conversation with people on the hearing aid program, the seniors' action plan, and more. Special thanks to the members of the Winnipeg Police Service for their presentation on community safety. Our next community meeting with special guest from the Winnipeg Police Service. We will talk about the hearing Aid grant program, health care, community safety, and more. Will be help July 13th at the Woodhaven Community Centre beginning at 6:00 pm.

I was delighted to meet children from Greenway School in Winnipeg who worked hard on solutions to save our Polar Bears, and they wanted me to listen to them. I was happy to take the time and encouraged by their presentation. Thank you for all your work and your wonderful ideas! Although one student did say, "You look like Mr. Bean." 🙄

You are invited to a community meeting for Kirkfield Park this Wednesday. We will talk about the new hearing aid $2000 grant program, the Allard property, Costco, and neighbourhood safety concerns with members of the Winnipeg Police. Please join us. For more information, call 204-888-2211.

MLA Kevin Klein is pleased to announce that the Child Care Sustainability Trust has approved two childcare centers in the Kirkfield Park constituency. Our PC government is providing a total of $281,572.00 in grant funding to support 34 innovative projects to make facility improvements, enhance health and safety and support access and inclusivity at child-care facilities through the Child Care Sustainability Trust. “I am thrilled that these funds will provide much-needed program support to so many local childcare facilities in the province and communities,” said MLA Klein. “Our Government understands that access to quality child care that meets the needs of families is more important than ever.” Approved Applicants 2022-2023: • Westwood Community Childcare Inc. • Winnipeg Mennonite Early Learning Christian Centre The Child Care Sustainability Trust Grant Funding supports eligible licensed child-care facilities by providing one-time grant funding for projects directed at infrastructure improvements, program enhancements, equipment maintenance/ replacement and professional development, and learning opportunities. This Funding ensures that our children are getting the quality care they deserve.

The Manitoba government is taking action to bolster the Manitoba Prosecution Service and its ability to prosecute violent criminals with a $3.4-million investment to hire 19 new Crown attorneys and six new legal staff to support their work, as well as an additional six new Crown counsel for the Legal Services Branch to strengthen internal capacity, Justice Minister Kelvin Goertzen announced today. "The addition of 25 new Crown attorneys is a crucial step in ensuring the effective functioning of our justice system and demonstrates our government’s strong commitment to public safety and tackling the increase of violent crime we are seeing across the province," said Goertzen. "The addition of new attorneys will enhance our ability to prosecute serious criminal offences. These new positions, together with our calls for federal changes to the Criminal Code that will make bail harder to achieve for violent and repeat offenders, and our record investments as part of our Violent Crime Strategy, show we are taking meaningful steps to address crime on our streets.” The 25 new Crown lawyers represent the largest increase in Crown attorneys in the past 15 years and the increased support staff will help address increased workloads being faced by the Crown law division, assist in ongoing retention efforts, and enhance overall employee wellness. "Addressing workload concerns is a crucial step toward maintaining a high standard of legal services," added Goertzen. "By providing the additional resources and support, we aim to reduce the risk of burnout, ensure quality prosecutions, and handle more complex civil matters internally, thereby reducing costs associated with external counsel." Over the past year, there has been a net increase of six new Crown positions at the Department of Justice. This investment in new Crown attorneys builds on $1.4 million dedicated earlier this year for seven new Crown positions and three support staff, the minister noted, which increased the department’s capacity to address firearms trafficking, manufacturing and related violent crime in Manitoba.