Urgent Vote Tuesday on Ethics Fines for Ex-Premier Stefanson

UPDATE: Manitoba MLAs face a “very late” workday on October 7, 2023, as they are set to debate and vote on significant ethics fines for former premier Heather Stefanson and two of her cabinet colleagues. This urgent session follows a report from ethics commissioner Jeffrey Schnoor, who recommended fines totaling $40,000 after an investigation into actions taken just before the NDP government took office.

Government house leader Nahanni Fontaine confirmed the late session, stating, “It has to be done by tomorrow’s sitting,” indicating that discussions could extend into the early hours of the morning. This vote comes after a critical report accused Stefanson, former deputy premier Cliff Cullen, and former minister Jeff Wharton of breaching the Conflict of Interest Act in their push to authorize a controversial Sio Silica sand mine.

In his report presented to the legislature on May 21, Schnoor recommended fines of $18,000 for Stefanson, $12,000 for Cullen, and $10,000 for Wharton. The ethics commissioner concluded that the trio acted against the interests of the incoming government, which opposed the licensing of the mine.

The assembly must vote on these recommendations within ten sitting days, with October 7 marking the final opportunity. Fontaine emphasized, “If we go until midnight or 1 or 2 (a.m.), it’s still considered (an October 7) sitting.” The urgency is palpable as the NDP caucus prepares for an extended debate, ensuring members receive dinner and childcare arrangements.

During Monday’s session, the NDP demanded that Stefanson, Cullen, and Wharton be summoned to answer questions regarding their actions related to the mine. Education Minister Tracy Schmidt called for Stefanson to testify, but Speaker Tom Lindsey ruled the request out of order, citing prohibitions against discussing matters already referred to the ethics commissioner.

Fontaine expressed frustration, stating, “It would be nice for those individuals mentioned in the report to come before the house and answer questions about why they did what they did.” The report detailed that both Stefanson and Cullen were aware of the incoming government’s opposition but sought ways to advance the licensing process anyway, implicating Wharton in their efforts.

In the legislature, NDP leader Wab Kinew and his cabinet criticized the Progressive Conservatives for allegedly obstructing the debate on the ethics report. PC Leader Obby Khan countered, labeling the accusations as “revisionist history” and urged the government to move forward with the vote.

Kinew posed pointed questions regarding whether the PC caucus would address Wharton’s $10,000 fine. Khan clarified that Wharton would personally handle his financial penalty, dismissing claims of any party or caucus involvement as mere theatrics.

As the clock ticks down to the deadline, all eyes are on the Manitoba legislature. With the implications of this vote resonating through the political landscape, the outcome could have significant consequences for the former leaders involved and the governing party.

Stay tuned for live updates as the situation develops, and share this critical story with others to keep them informed about the latest developments in Manitoba politics.