Manitoba Minister’s Business Sale Stalled Nearly One Year Later

UPDATE: Nearly one year after Manitoba’s Natural Resources and Indigenous Futures Minister Ian Bushie pledged to sell his business due to a violation of provincial ethics rules, the sale remains unfinalized. This alarming delay raises questions about accountability as the public awaits clarity on the future of Grandpa George’s gas station and convenience store located in Hollow Water First Nation.

A spokesperson for Minister Bushie confirmed on Tuesday that a sale is “now underway” but provided no specific details on the timeline or prospective buyers.

“The ethics commissioner has been notified and will be kept updated on its progress,”

said spokesman Caedmon Malowany, emphasizing the ongoing nature of the process.

Bushie’s commitment to divest from the family-owned business came after an ethics investigation found he inadvertently breached the Conflict of Interest (Members and Ministers) Act. Last September, he announced plans to sell the store, which had been in his family for 28 years, stating, “I want to go above and beyond.”

Despite this assurance, the sale has yet to materialize, prompting concerns from constituents and ethics watchdogs about transparency and compliance. Questions surrounding the lack of progress, the date the store was officially put on the market, and who the potential buyers are remain unanswered.

Historically, Grandpa George’s has played a significant role in the community, providing essential supplies to workers combating wildfires. The store had a government contract allowing it to bill up to $100,000 for groceries and supplies, although the highest amount billed in the last fiscal year was only $44,549.80.

The ethics commissioner ruled that Bushie had violated the law by renewing a contract with the provincial government on April 1, 2024. Following this, the government swiftly cancelled the agreement on June 3, 2024, the same day the issue was raised in the legislative assembly. Under new regulations enacted after the 2023 provincial election, existing contracts are permissible, but renewals and extensions are strictly prohibited.

Moreover, Bushie failed to disclose this contract renewal in his required statements, further complicating his situation. According to ethics commissioner Jeffrey Schnoor, MLAs are mandated to file amendments to disclosure statements within 60 days of any material changes, including acquisitions or disposals.

As the public waits for the conclusion of this ongoing situation, the implications for Minister Bushie’s political future and community trust hang in the balance. Will the sale of Grandpa George’s finally proceed? The community is keenly watching for updates on this developing story.

For now, the clock is ticking on Bushie’s promise, and constituents are left wondering if accountability will prevail.