Progressive Conservatives Restructure Critics Amid Legislative Session

UPDATE: The Manitoba Progressive Conservative party has just announced a significant reshuffle of its critics as the legislature reconvened today, October 25, 2023. This move, led by PC Leader Obby Khan, aims to enhance accountability against the NDP government, specifically targeting the party’s broken promises.

Khan stated, “The changes I’ve made to the critics’ duties will continue to hold Wab Kinew and the NDP accountable for the broken promises and failures they’ve made over the first half of their mandate.” This restructuring comes at a critical time as the party seeks to challenge the current administration’s effectiveness in governance.

The reshuffle impacts several key members of the party, particularly in the Westman region. Wayne Balcaen, MLA for Brandon West, retains his role as critic for justice and public safety but will now also oversee Elections Manitoba. Meanwhile, Doyle Piwniuk, MLA for Turtle Mountain, transitions from his previous role as transportation and infrastructure minister to the critic position for those same sectors.

In further changes, Jodie Byram (Agassiz) will expand her responsibilities to include culture, heritage, and tourism, while Greg Nesbitt (Riding Mountain) continues as the critic for environment and climate change, alongside Efficiency Manitoba. Additionally, Rick Wowchuk (Swan River) is now the critic for natural resources and Indigenous futures.

Newly elected MLA Colleen Robbins (Spruce Woods) steps into her role as the critic for Manitoba Liquor and Lotteries, as well as military affairs, marking her first significant task since joining the legislature.

Khan emphasized that these changes are designed to leverage the strengths of each MLA, providing them with broader expertise in their new roles. Currently, the PCs hold 21 out of 57 seats in the provincial legislature, with 20 members now assigned to critical caucus officer roles. The only exception is Jeff Wharton (Red River North), who has faced scrutiny after violating conflict-of-interest laws alongside former premier Heather Stefanson and former deputy premier Cliff Cullen.

As the NDP holds cabinet positions through Glen Simard (Brandon East), the minister of municipal and northern relations, and Ron Kostyshyn (Dauphin), the agriculture minister, the stakes are high for the Progressive Conservatives as they strive for a more potent opposition presence in the legislature.

This reshuffle is crucial for the PCs as they gear up for upcoming challenges against the NDP, which last shuffled its cabinet in November. Stay tuned for continuing updates on this developing story as the legislative session progresses.