Local News Archives for 2020-12

Plans are Developing For Manitoba First Nations to Receive Vaccines While a COVID Outbreak at a Jail Increased Saskatchewan Numbers.

Manitoba public health reported 187 new cases of COVID-19 this afternoon with a five day test positivity rate of 11.2 percent.  They also reported six additional deaths with four in the Winnipeg region and one each in Prairie Mountain and Southern health regions.  Of the new cases 91 were in the Winnipeg region, 38 in Northern health and 33 in Southern health with lower numbers in the other regions. Of the total 24,700 reported cases 4505 are active, 19,528 individuals have recovered and 337 are in hospital with 37 in intensive care.

             

With the first shipment of the Moderna vaccine expected to arrive in Manitoba this week the government is working in collaboration with experts in First Nations health to position immediately the first doses of vaccine for deployment to northern and remote communities across the province.

             

Saskatchewan health reported 190 new cases this afternoon. They also reported one additional death which was in the Saskatoon zone.  Of the new cases 47 were in Saskatoon, 37 in North Central, 23 in Regina and 22 in Far North East with smaller numbers in other zones.  There are now 54 active cases among inmates and three among staff at the Regina Correctional Centre.  Of the total 15,350 reported cases 2699 are considered active, 12,496 individuals have recovered and 142 are in hospital with 30 in intensive care.  The seven day average of daily new cases is 157.

Your Support Helped the Salvation Army Have a Successful Christmas Season.

Salvation Army Major Al Bain reports despite COVID they again had a successful Christmas kettle and hamper program in the Flin Flon area.  He says they raised approximately 23 thousand dollars on the kettles and approximately 18 thousand dollars in mail ins from individuals and organizations so they had a total of approximately 41 thousand dollars so they met their goal and would like to say a terrific thank you to the community for their support.  He noted they had an increase in the number of hampers going out with approximately 120 last year increasing to about 170 this year approximately a 40 percent increase over last year.

             

Major Bain adds because of COVID they were not able to continue with their soup kitchen so they were handing out bag lunches and were making about 480 a week for individuals and families.  He stated it was a great year to be able to help those in need and thanked all the volunteers who made it so much easier.

COVID Vaccines Will Be Coming North in Saskatchewan.

           

Health Minister Paul Merriman reports they have received 49 hundred doses of the Moderna vaccine in Saskatchewan. He explains the Moderna vaccine can be transported and stored easier than the Pfizer vaccine so the first doses of Moderna vaccine will be sent to northern Saskatchewan where it will be given to long term care home residents and staff and other priority health care workers.  He adds they also expect to receive more doses of the Pfizer vaccine in Saskatoon and Prince Albert next week.

             

Merriman says they so far have received only a small supply of vaccines from the federal government so they are trying to get a clear indication from them as to the number of vaccines they will be sending them each week so they can plan the next steps in their vaccine program but they are ready to administer all of the vaccines they get as soon as they receive them.

A COVID-19 Related Death Has Been Reported in Thompson While Saskatchewan Numbers are Trending down,

Manitoba Public Health reported 128 new cases of COVID-19 this afternoon with the five day test positivity rate at 12.6 percent.  They also reported two COVID related deaths with one in Prairie Mountain and the other in the Northern health region being a woman in her 70s linked to an outbreak at Thompson General Hospital MSP ward.

             

Of the new cases 92 are in the Winnipeg region, 11 each in Interlake Eastern and Northern regions and eight each in Southern and Prairie Mountain health regions. Of the 24,513 reported cases 4444 are active, 19,408 individuals have recovered, 337 are in hospital with 36 in intensive care and related deaths total 661.

             

Meanwhile Saskatchewan health reported 147 new cases this afternoon.  They also reported three related deaths all in the Saskatoon zone.  Of the new cases 44 are in Regina and 25 in the Far North East with lower numbers in other zones.  Of the 15,160 reported cases 2949 are considered active, 12,057 individuals have recovered and 151 people are in hospital with 32 in intensive care.  Health Minister Paul Merriman says what they are doing in the province is working so they must keep at it.

 

A Lot of Children Received Gifts With Your Help.

The Christmas Gift Program run by the Flin Flon Friendship Center went well again this year.  The program allows parents to give their children a gift at Christmas when circumstances prevent them from doing so.  The Center’s Program Events Coordinator Tieryn Steele says donations and gift pick up ran well.  She explains it was her first year running it but all things considered with COVID and the changes they had to make they were able to give over 300 gifts to families this year.  She adds thank you to everyone who donated as you made Christmas special for lots of families this year.

             

This was the 26th year for the Christmas Gift Program.

Theatre Workshops Will Be Available Online in Flin Flon and Thompson.

Starting next month, the recently minted Mall of the Arts in Thompson will be offering free youth theatre workshops in partnership with the Flin Flon Arts Council and the Manitoba Theatre for Young People.

 

Andria Stephens, the Co-Founder of the Mall of the Arts, explains she met with Crystal Kolt from the Flin Flon Arts Council and she’s very excited about what they’re doing in Thompson and she thought it would be an excellent idea for them to start collaborating with each other in the north so the pandemic has actually given them an opportunity now for Flin Flon kids to meet Thompson kids online virtually so she reached out to the Manitoba Theatre for Young People and they’re very excited about it because they are doing classes in Winnipeg and they’re happy to reach out to northern children and get them online with the virtual performance classes.

There are three different types of classes to pick from, and they’re offered to kids ages four and up.

 

The virtual theatre workshops will begin January 9th to February 13th and to register visit www.flinflonartscouncil.com or call 204-687-5974.

 

Reported Cases of COVID-19 Have Topped 15 Thousand in Saskatchewan.

Saskatchewan health reported 208 new cases of COVID-19 this afternoon with 94 on Monday and 114 today. They also reported ten related deaths with three in Regina, two each in Saskatoon and North Central and one each in the Far North West, North West and Central East zones. Of the new cases there were 39 each in Regina and Saskatoon, 36 in Far North East and 33 in North Central with lower numbers in other zones.

             

Of the 15,022 reported cases 3191 are considered active, 11,680 individuals have recovered and related deaths total 151.  They also noted as of Monday 2371 health care workers in Regina and Saskatoon had been vaccinated.  The seven day average of daily new cases is 154.

 

COVID-19 New Case and Reported Death Numbers are Dropping in Manitoba.

           

Manitoba Acting Deputy Chief Public Health Officer Dr. Jazz Atwal reported 133 new cases of COVID-19 this afternoon with a five day test positivity rate of 12.4 percent.  He also reported five additional deaths with four in the Winnipeg region and one in Southern health.  Atwal says this is good news but 133 cases and five deaths does not mean we can be careless with our actions, this does not mean we can take the restrictions currently in place less seriously, it does not mean you can go see friends and family outside our households or host people this Thursday to celebrate the new year, it means that our hard work is starting to pay off, it means limiting our contacts and working from home is making a difference, it means we need to keep doing what we are doing.

             

Of the new cases 97 are in Winnipeg region, 22 in Southern health and single digit numbers in other regions including three in Northern health.  Of the total 24,385 reported cases 4424 are active, 19,302 individuals have recovered and 338 are in hospital with 36 in intensive care.

 

Hudbay Has Announced a Camp Agreement and Subdivision Investment in Snow Lake.

Hudbay has reached a long-term camp agreement with the Town of Snow Lake. In a notice to all Hudbay Manitoba Employees the Vice-President of their Manitoba Business Unit Rob Assabqui states after the fire at the old camp located near the New Britannia Mill in the summer of 2019 the Town of Snow Lake worked with Hudbay to set up a new temporary camp.  Over the course of the year they have been meeting regularly with the town council to discuss potentially making this a permanent camp.

             

Assabqui explains the new agreement spans the life of the Snow Lake operations and involves expanding the footprint to accommodate the relocation of trailers from the old camp to the new camp, establishment of a new permanent dormitory, a new business development park and expanding parking facilities.  In addition he adds Hudbay is supporting the Town with a two million dollar investment in the development of a new thirty lot subdivision in English Bay which will help the town create more sustainable housing solutions for the community.

             

Assabqui notes this significant milestone provides multiple living arrangement options for their employees and their families as they transition to a larger operation in Snow Lake in 2022.

Operators of Off Road Vehicles Must Obey Laws and Safety Rules.

Manitoba RCMP report every year they respond to numerous calls about snowmobiles, all terrain vehicles, dirt bikes and other off road vehicles. They remind you when operating off road vehicles on public land such as ditches, roads or groomed snowmobile trails the vehicle must be registered. You must be at least 14 years old to operate the vehicle without supervision, must not operate on a roadway or shoulder, may only cross a roadway or shoulder at an intersection or designated off road vehicle crossing such as a snowmobile trail crossing while holding a valid driver’s licence and must not carry open liquor or cannabis.

             

Sergeant Mark Hume with Westman Traffic Services notes this past year 50 percent of fatal ORV collisions involved alcohol and or drugs.  He pointed out in 60 percent of the collisions reported to police the operator was found to be driving too fast and either lost control or struck an object and of those killed one in three were not wearing a helmet adding all of these deaths could have been prevented.

 

COVID-19 Numbers Continued to Climb Over the Holiday Weekend.

Manitoba Public Health reported 631 new cases of COVID-19 Thursday to Monday.  They also reported 37 additional deaths with 28 in the Winnipeg region, three each in Northern and Southern regions, two in Interlake Eastern and one in Prairie Mountain.  Of the new cases 288 are in the Winnipeg region, 119 in Northern and 106 in Interlake Eastern with lower numbers in other regions.  Of the 24,252 reported cases 4442 are active, 19,156 individuals have recovered, 343 are in hospital with 37 in intensive care and related deaths total 654.  An outbreak has been declared at St. Paul’s Personal Care Home in The Pas and has moved to critical or red.

             

Meanwhile Saskatchewan health reported 559 new cases from Friday to Sunday.  They also reported seven related deaths including three in the North West, two in North Central and one each in Regina and the South East zone.  Of the new cases 126 were in Saskatoon, 104 in North Central, 70 in Regina with smaller numbers in other zones.  Of the 14,814 reported cases 3398 are considered active, 11,275 individuals have recovered and 182 are in hospital with related deaths totaling 141.

 

New COVID-19 Cases Are Going Up Again in Manitoba With New Cases Spread Across Zones in Saskatchewan.

Manitoba Public Health reported 244 new cases of COVID-19 this afternoon with a test positivity rate of 10.6 percent. They also reported 12 additional deaths with nine in Winnipeg, two in Southern health and one in the Northern health region. Of the total new cases 114 are in Winnipeg, 44 in Interlake Eastern, 42 in Southern health, 41 in Northern health and three in Prairie Mountain health region.  Of the total 23, 624 reported cases 4489 are active, 18,518 individuals have recovered, 254 are in hospital with active COVID-19 as well as 92 who are no longer infectious but continue to require care with 41 in intensive care and related deaths total 617.

             

Saskatchewan health reported 154 new cases this afternoon. They also reported four additional deaths with two each in the North West zone and Regina zone.  Of the total new cases 30 are in Saskatoon, 28 in North Central and 25 in Regina with lower numbers in other zones including 14 in the Far North East.  Of the 14,255 reported cases 3346 are considered active, 10,775 individuals have recovered, 125 are in hospital with 21 in intensive care and related deaths total 134.

Manitoba's Lieutenant Governor Has Praise for the People in the Province.

Manitoba Lieutenant Governor Janice Filmon in her Christmas message notes the festive season always seems to bring out the best in our province. She says our shared community spirit and willingness to work together for the common good will guide us through these troubled times just as surely as they will shine again this holiday season.

             

Filmon adds she is proud of our citizens, charities and numerous other organizations throughout the province who have shown remarkable resilience and creativity in continuing their good works noting they reflect the prairie ingenuity and dedication to purpose and to each other that is so Manitoban.

             

She concludes as the Queen’s representative in Manitoba she extends season’s greetings to all citizens along with her best wishes for a safe and happy holiday.

Saskatchewan's Lieutenant Governor Has Been Inspired by People in the Province.

In his annual Christmas message Saskatchewan Lieutenant Governor Russ Mirasty say he is grateful to live in a province surrounded by so many thoughtful and caring people…..

                                                             

“I am so grateful to our health care workers, educators, and others who continue to serve throughout our communities.

 

Many people are experiencing stress right now, especially business owners, workers in grocery stores and restaurants, performing artists, and leaders who must make difficult decisions in every sector. Thank you, everyone, for doing your best to support public health guidelines.

 

I’m grateful every day for all of our First Responders and Military personnel, who work in high risk situations to serve and protect us throughout the year. I also want to recognize and thank our Saskatchewan volunteers, who are the backbone of our many cultural, sports, youth, and seniors’ organizations.”

 

             

Mirasty wishes you season’s greetings adding he and his wife Donna look forward to a time when they can greet you in person with a handshake or a hug.

 

Saskatchewans Premier is Impressed with How People in the Province Support Each Other.

In his annual Christmas message Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe spoke on how people are supporting one another as we head into the Christmas season. He noted we have been through a lot this year but we’re going to get through this together like we always do….

                                                             

“The meaning of Christmas hasn’t changed. This is a time of reflection, of reverence, a time to reconnect with the ones we love. For many of us, this is the season when we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, the Saviour.  Jesus calls on us to love another, to carry one another’s burdens. Those of us who have been blessed in our lives have a sacred obligation, a duty, to reach out to, to provide comfort, love and support where we can.

That’s the spirit of Christmas.

 

And this year, one of the most difficult years we have ever experienced, we have seen the spirit of Christmas at work in every corner of this province.”

 

             

 Moe wishes everyone a Merry Christmas and Happy New year on behalf of his family and his colleagues in the Saskatchewan Legislature.

 

Saskatchewans Vaccine Program Moves Forward Next Week.

Saskatchewan Health reported this afternoon 159 new cases of COVID-19.  They also reported five additional deaths with three in Regina and one each in the North West and Central East zones.  Of the new cases there were 50 in Regina, 24 each in the North West and North Central zones and 21 in Saskatoon with lower numbers in other zones.  Of the total 14, 101 cases reported 3850 are active, 10,121 have recovered, 125 people are in hospital with 21 in intensive care and related deaths total 130.

             

Saskatchewan is expecting to received 4900 doses of the Moderna vaccine next week with Moderna shots going to care home residents, front line health workers, those over 80 and residents in northern and remote communities who are over 50.

The Vaccination Program in Manitoba Will Increase Next Month.

Manitoba Acting Deputy Chief Provincial Health Officer Dr. Jazz Atwal reported this afternoon 201 new cases of COVID-19 with a five day test positivity rate of 10.4 percent.  He also reported 15 additional deaths with nine in Winnipeg, three in the Southern region, two in Interlake Eastern and one in the Northern region.

             

The provinces COVID-19 Immunization Lead Dr. Joss Reimer explained with the approval of the Moderna vaccine their team is working to determine how many doses will be received and where these need to be prioritized.  She reported the closest estimate she has today is they are planning to provide ten thousand doses of vaccine per week in January but those numbers do change on a day by day basis as they get updates from the manufacturer and the federal government so the best she can do is provide that estimate today.

             

Of the new cases 118 are in the Winnipeg region and 31 in the Northern region with lower numbers in other regions.  Of the 32,381 reported cases 4427 are active, 18,349 individuals have recovered, 259 people are in hospital with 37 in intensive care and related deaths total 605.

Have You Ever Wondered What to do With Your Old Christmas Lights?

When it’s time to pack up your Christmas items the Flin Flon Recycling Centre Administrator Deb Odegaard reminds you there are items they can and can’t take.  She explains they take the usual materials like cardboard, paper and plastic containers and that sort of thing but they don’t accept wrapping paper, Christmas bows, gift bags, Styrofoam or any of the plastic bags sometimes they have.  She adds they’re excited to announce they are collecting Christmas lights for recycling so they can be dropped off at the Recycling Centre, the trailer in a bag or at the landfill given to one of the attendants.

             

For more information on recycling visit their website www.flinflonrecycling.org or call them at 204-687-6169.

Support is Coming For Manitoba Restaurants.

Manitoba Premier Brian Pallister has announced five million dollars in support for Manitoba restaurants.  He explained the Dine In Restaurant Relief Program is going to be delivered by the Manitoba Chambers of Commerce in partnership with the Manitoba Restaurant and Food Services Association and it will provide a rebate to restaurants across Manitoba to offset costs related to food delivery services.  He notes the Chambers and Restaurant Association will have more information about the rebate for eligible businesses in the near future.

             

Pallister adds many businesses have taken on additional costs to adapt their operations to comply with public health orders and safely provide Manitobans with the services they rely on while supporting their efforts to stay home.

New Cases of COVID-19 Continue to Drop in Manitoba and are Mainly Spread in Four Zones in Saskatchewan.

Manitoba Public Health reported 155 new cases of COVID-19 this afternoon bringing the five day test positivity rate to 11.5 percent.  They also reported 18 additional deaths with 14 in the Winnipeg region, two in Prairie Mountain and one each in Interlake Eastern and Southern health regions.  Of the new cases 92 were in the Winnipeg region, 27 in Northern health and 17 in Southern health with lower numbers in other regions. Of the total 23,180 reported cases 4382 are active, 18,208 people have recovered, 275 are in hospital with 36 in intensive care and related deaths total 590.  They note Intensive Care Units are still running above their normal capacity.

             

Saskatchewan health reported 181 new cases this afternoon.  They also reported three additional deaths one in the North West zone and two in the Regina zone.  Of the new cases 43 were in Regina, 36 in North Central and 35 each in North West and Saskatoon with lower numbers in other zones including two in the Far North East.  Of the 13,942 reported cases 3945 are considered active, 9872 individuals have recovered, 124 are in hospital with 21 in intensive care and deaths total 125.

The Flin Flon Arts Council Has A Special Virtual Christmas Concert Thursday Afternoon.

The Flin Flon Arts Councils Crystal Kolt says they have an amazing line up for a special concert called Christmas Time is Here.  She describes it as an old fashioned holiday Christmas variety show special.  She explains they are going to be having singers that we know really well here, there’s Lane Laderoute and Kim Jones that are going to be performing, there’s key note speakers like our Mayor has a greeting as well as other guests, a few other people will be coming to say some greetings including someone from the Flin Flon Aboriginal Friendship Centre.  She adds they have a special segment Home for the Holidays and its going to be caroling that people can sing along with so it’s going to be just a beautiful Christmas hug.

             

You can view the concert on Youtube or hear it on CFAR Thursday afternoon at 2.  You can find the link on the Flin Flon Arts Council website or on their Facebook page.  It will also be available for you to watch later on Youtube.

You Can Still Recycle Over the Christmas Season.

Workers at the Flin Flon Recycling Center will be taking only one day off over the holidays.  Administrator Deb Odegaard explains Christmas is one of their busiest seasons so the only day they’re actually going to be closed is Christmas Day but people can always leave their recyclables in the trailer or at the Recycling Centre and they will have someone there for Boxing Day and on to next week so please bring the recyclables in.

             

For more information on recycling you can visit their website www.flinflonrecycling.org or call 204-687-6169.

 

There are Lower COVID-19 Numbers in the Larger Saskatchewan Cities.

Saskatchewan Health reported this afternoon 206 new cases of COVID-19.  They also reported four related deaths all in the Regina zone.  Of the new cases 46 were in Saskatoon, 38 in North Central, 37 in North West and 26 in Regina with lower numbers in other zones.  Of the 13,761 reported cases 3990 are considered active, 9649 individuals have recovered, 130 are in hospital with 20 in intensive care and related deaths now total 122.  The seven day average of daily cases is 291.

COVID -19 New Case Numbers are Down in Manitoba.

Manitoba Acting Deputy Chief Public Health Officer Dr. Jazz Atwal announced this afternoon 166 new cases of COVID-19.  That brings the five day test positivity rate down to 11.5 percent.  He also announced four additional deaths with three in Winnipeg and one in Southern health. Health Minister Cameron Friesen says like the seasons things will change.  He explains just like with the winter solstice change takes time to become perceptible but the change is there and so it will be in Manitoba. He says they are making plans right now for what comes next, what comes after this current shutdown and these current restrictions.

               

Of the new cases 83 are in Winnipeg region, 43 in Southern health and 25 in Northern health with lower numbers in other regions.  Of the 23,025 reported cases 5736 are active, 16,717 individuals have recovered and 310 are in hospital with 42 in intensive care.

The RCMP Have Offered Safety Tips to Protect Your Parcels.

The RCMP remind you with the holiday season in full swing parcel theft is a growing concern this year with the increase in online shopping. With home deliveries expected to hit an all-time high during the holiday season packages left unattended on your door step make for easy targets for would be thieves.

             

To keep your parcels safe the RCMP recommend installing security camera or a smart doorbell, choose an alternate delivery location for your packages such as a nearby Post Office or your place of employment, consider the use of a delivery locker on your property or request a signature on delivery.  They add a good way to defend against this type of crime is working together with you neighbors and make arrangements to pick up your packages if you won’t be home for an extended period.  If you believe you may have been a victim of theft or witnessed a porch theft contact the police immediately.

 

UCN is Offering a Extended Option for Students.

To help its students who may be struggling academically during the COVID-19 pandemic University College of the North is extending the voluntary withdrawal deadline for the Fall Term to January 8th.

 

 Vice-President of Academic and Research Dan Smith explains the pandemic has created all kinds of stresses and they may not have achieved the grades they had hoped to achieve as they went through and there’s all kinds reasons for that like working from home, they’ve got kids at home, a million different reasons why students may face some pressure so they’ve taken the voluntary withdrawal date from November and extended it to the 8th of January and that’ll allow students to know what their grades are for the fall term so they can make an informed decision about whether or not they want to drop that course.

 

Smith says this will be a difficult decision for students as they would not receive a credit for the course and they would have to take the course again if it’s a prerequisite to continue their program.

 

He goes on to say students should discuss their situations with an academic advisor or their instructor and their funders before making a final decision.

 

Both Manitoba and Saskatchewan Reported Well Over 400 New Cases of COVID-19 Over the Weekend.

Manitoba public health reported 464 new cases of COVID-19 over the weekend.  They also reported 22 related deaths with 16 in Winnipeg, two each in the Southern and Northern regions and one each in Interlake Eastern and Prairie Mountain regions.  Of the new cases 234 were in Winnipeg with 82 in the Northern region and lower numbers in other regions  Of the 22,859 reported cases 5749 are considered active, 16,541 individuals have recovered, 302 are in hospital with 43 in intensive care and related deaths total 569.  On Saturday they reported an outbreak was declared at the Northern Spirit Manor in Thompson.

             

Saskatchewan health reported over the weekend 478 new cases.  They also reported 11 related deaths with six in Regina, two each in Saskatoon and North Central and one in South Central.  Of the new cases 112 are in Saskatoon, 71 in North West and 61 in Regina with lower numbers in other zones including 32 in the Far North East.  Of the 13,555 reported cases 3880 are considered active, 9557 individuals have recovered, 123 are in hospital with 19 in intensive care and related deaths total 118.

 

Reported COVID-19 Cases Have Topped 13 Thousand in Saskatchewan.

Saskatchewan Health reported 245 new cases of COVID-19 this afternoon.  They also reported two additional deaths both in the Regina zone.  Of the new cases 53 are in the North West, 46 are in Saskatoon, 42 in Regina and 28 in the Far North East with lower number in other zones.

             

Of the 13,077 reported cases 3736 are considered active, 9234 people have recovered, 121 are in hospital with 17 in intensive care and related deaths total 107.  The seven day average for new cases is 230.

 

COVID-19 Cases Are Up Again In Manitoba.

Manitoba Acting Deputy Chief Public Health Officer Dr. Jazz Atwal announced 350 new cases of COVID-19 this afternoon.  He also announced ten additional deaths with five in Southern Health, three in Winnipeg and one each in Interlake Eastern and Prairie Mountain regions.  Of the total new cases 133 are in the Winnipeg region, 89 in the Northern region and 57 in Southern Health with lower cases in other regions.

             

Atwal commented on the vaccine roll out noting there’s no timetable at the present time, they don’t have any more vaccine available in Manitoba but there are plans for more vaccines to come in but they’re going to have to plan and that planning process is underway and they’re going to work with their partners to look at the operationalization, the distribution, the inoculation of vaccines for all Manitobans.

             

The total number of lab confirmed cases in the province is 22,397with 5602 being active.

             

An outbreak has been declared at Thompson General Hospital MSP ward and the site has moved to critical or red on the Pandemic Response System.

The Manitoba Government Has Released a Mid-Year Financial Report Capturing the Fiscal Challenges Created by COVID-19.

Finance Minister Scott Fielding reports since March they’ve had to raise their outlook as they address Manitoba’s largest health, financial and economic challenge of a lifetime. He projects for the 2020-21 fiscal year a revised deficit of just over two billion dollars.  He explains they’ve committed 3.2 billion dollars to address the pandemic including spending to address its impact this year and spending to help recover in future years.  He notes COVID-19 related health expenditure is approximately 633 million dollars above what they budgeted in the initial budget which includes over 522 million related to personal protective equipment and supplies.

             

Fielding adds they received 648 million dollars from the federal government which is about 20 percent of the total commitment.

 

You Can Attend An Annual Open House By Going Online.

The annual Legislative Building open house is moving online this year so Manitobans can continue to celebrate the holiday season with their elected officials.  Lieutenant Governor Janice Filmon says this celebration is just one of the ways to embrace the holiday spirit, enjoy fabulous homegrown talent and reflect on the many reasons we are so grateful to call Manitoba home.

              The virtual open house launches at six this evening and will feature a concert with a talented assortment of artists to highlight the very best of Manitoba.  It will feature performances by the Royal Winnipeg Ballet, William Prince, Sweet Alibi, JP Hoe, Al Simmons, Rayannah and Duncan Mercredi.

              You can find the link to watch the Legislative open house and view a copy of the event agenda visit:https://safeathomemb.ca/events/the-legislative-holiday-show/.

 

 

 

Lab Confirmed Cases of COVID-19 in Manitoba Have Topped 22 Thousand While Related Deaths in Saskatchewan Have Topped 100.

Manitoba Public Health reported 221 new cases of COVID-19 this afternoon.  The five day test positivity rate is 13 percent. They also reported 14 additional related deaths ranging in age from their 30s to their 100s with ten in Winnipeg and two each in Interlake Eastern and Southern health regions.  Of the new cases 111 are in the Winnipeg region and 51 in the Northern Health Region with lower numbers in the other regions.

             

Of the total 22,047 lab confirmed cases 5829 are considered active, 15,681 individuals have recovered, 314 people in hospital with 42 in intensive care and related deaths now total 537.

            

 Saskatchewan Health reported 238 new cases as well as seven related deaths with three in Regina and one each in the South East, North Central, Saskatoon and South West zones. Of the new cases 81 were in Saskatoon, 40 in Regina, 32 in North Central and 26 in North West with smaller numbers in other zones including 15 in the Far North East.  Of the 12,832 reported cases 3978 are active, 8749 have recovered, 126 are in hospital with 22 in intensive care and related deaths total 105.

 

Santa Claus is Coming to Creighton Saturday Afternoon and Flin Flon Friday Evening.

Members of the Creighton Fire Department will be escorting Santa around Creighton on Saturday afternoon. Recreation Director Channa Senyk explains they are heading out from the Fire Hall at 3 o’clock Saturday and he will be touring down Main Street and down each street in Creighton so you’ll hear the sirens as they are taking two or three trucks out and you can stand in your window and wave or go to your back or front yard and wave to Santa as he goes by.

             

Due to COVID-19 protocols Santa will not be stopping for pictures or to hand out candy.            

             

Santa will also be visiting Flin Flon on Friday evening starting at 5:30. RCMP Constable Jordan Tost explains Santa will be riding around with members of the Flin Flon RCMP and the Flin Flon Fire Department noting he is hoping to hit as many houses as he can during the evening beginning at 5:30 and he’ll he waving to the kids through the windows of their houses. 

                Again due to COVID-19 protocols you are asked to watch for Santa from your windows.

Harvest Manitoba has a Goal to Ensure no Manitoban Goes Hungry.

Late last month Winnipeg Harvest merged with the Manitoba Association of Food Banks to form Harvest Manitoba.  CEO Keren Taylor-Hughes says the new name better reflects who they serve, where they serve and the contributions they receive uniting food banks across the province. She point out collectively they’re an organization taking in and distributing almost 11 million pounds of food per year.  She says they see over 70 thousand Manitobans including hungry children, hardworking families and struggling adults who rely on Harvest every month noting their volunteers donate almost 200 thousand hours of hands on service annually and they would never have lasted this long, 35 years, or help as many people as they have if it were not for people who support them.

             

Hughes adds with the continued support of Manitobans the Harvest Manitoba Food Network can serve those across the province faster and more efficiently than ever before.  You can learn more about Harvest Manitoba and how to support them at www.harvestmanitoba.ca.

 

Rockcliff is Developing a Path to Copper Production in the Snow Lake Area.

Rockcliff Metals Corporation has announced the results of a Preliminary Economic Assessment for their Tower and Rail Project in the Snow Lake area.  The assessment indicates the Project has the potential to generate positive economic returns through its extremely low capital intensity and low operating costs validating the development strategy pursued by the Company.  President and CEO Alistair Ross says the PEA envisions developing the Tower Deposit in parallel with the refurbishment of the leased Bucko Mill facility followed by the development of the Rail Deposit resulting in a combined life of mine of seven years. He says clearly they need a bit more resource to really hit the home run and what he’s excited to say is they’ve got a lot of targets out there to look at and they’ll be putting a work plan together to share with the Board so they can get to work early in the new year on exactly where those resources can be added.  He notes clearly the targets around Tower  have not yet been exhausted and Rail is open in a few directions.

             

Ross adds the overall results provide Rockcliff with exiting opportunities to further assess its extensive property portfolio including five other named deposits and help prioritize a large number of exploration targets yet to be tested.

The Average Number of New COVID-19 Cases is Down in Saskatchewan.

Saskatchewan Health reported 169 new cases of COVID-19 this afternoon.  Of the new cases 38 are in Saskatoon, 35 in the North West, 30 in Regina and 28 in North Central with lower numbers in other zones including13 in the Far North East. Seven previously reported cases were deemed to be out of province residents.

             

Of the 12,594 reported cases 4213 are considered active, 8283 individuals have recovered and 124 are in hospital with 30 in intensive care.

             

The seven day average of daily new cases is 243.  It’s the first time in weeks that number had dropped below 250.

Two COVID-19 Outbreaks in Our Area are Over.

Manitoba Chief Public Health Officer Dr. Brent Roussin announced 291 new cases of COVID-19 this afternoon.  The larger numbers are in Winnipeg with 158 and Northern health with 47. He also reported 15 additional deaths with ten in Winnipeg, two each in Interlake Eastern and Prairie Mountain and one in Southern health region.  He also announced outbreaks declared at St. Paul’s Residence in The Pas and the Personal Care Home in Flin Flon are declared over. Roussin had a message for children concerned about Santa Claus.  He explained he and Premier Pallister have worked with others in the government and have made special changes for Santa Claus and so Santa is certainly an essential worker which means he is allowed to travel to Manitoba and able to come to anyone’s house.

             

Roussin added with the first vaccines in the province we are now fighting back but COVID-19 is not over so we have to continue to be focused on public health protocols knowing we have something on the horizon.

It Was a Quiet Month for the Fire Department.

At their meeting last night Flin Flon City Council received the Fire Chiefs report for November indicating only two calls in the month.  On the 5th they were called to a vehicle collision with a garage on Callinan Street.  On the 20th they were called to a two vehicle collision on Green Street. The vehicles had minor damage.  In both cases there were no injuries and they left the scene in control of the RCMP.

             

Council approved a Municipal Right of Way Application from Bell MTS to install a vault with a fiber distribution cabinet at the side of 105 Flin Flon Highway.  The vault and cabinet will be used to expand their fiber network to residents of Channing.

             

Council renewed their membership for 2021-22 in the Federation of Canadian Municipalities at a cost of 1192 dollars plus GST.

             

Mayor and Council wished all a safe and Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays and Happy New Year with Mayor Cal Huntley adding celebrate as best you can within the public health rules as they are out there. He also noted with recent changes in those rules the bunks around the city are now open for skating.

Your Local Purchase Can Be Delivered Free.

The Flin Flon and District Chamber of Commerce has started a free delivery service from local businesses. Chamber Co-Vice-President Dianne Russell says the best way to explain it is that the Chamber is covering all the costs so its free for the business and its free for the customer so when they call to place an order with a local business they can just ask if they can have the Chamber delivery and the business will tell them what to do next and then the volunteer with the delivery service will go to the place pick it up and deliver it to their home.

             

The free delivery service is available in all areas from Denare Beach to Bakers Narrows and in between Monday to Saturday until December 24th.

Winnipeg and Saskatoon Still Account for the Larger Numbers of New COVID-19 Cases.

Manitoba Chief Public Health Officer Dr. Brent Roussin announced 271 new cases of COVID-19 this afternoon bringing the five day test positivity rate to 14.2 percent.  He also reported nine additional deaths with seven in Winnipeg region and one each in Interlake Eastern and Prairie Mountain health regions. Of the total new cases 130 are in the Winnipeg region, 49 in Prairie Mountain with lower numbers in other regions except the Northern region with 53.  Of the total 21,535 reported cases 5762 are active, 15,265 have recovered, 311 people are in hospital with 44 in intensive care and related deaths total 508.

             

Meanwhile Saskatchewan Health announced 194 new cases this afternoon.  They also reported seven additional deaths with four in Saskatoon and one each in Regina, the Central West and North West.  Of the new cases 53 were in Saskatoon, 37 in Regina and 28 in the North West with lower numbers in other zones including 11 in the Far North East.  Of the 12,430 reported cases 4204 are considered active, 8130 people have recovered, 124 are in hospital with 26 in intensive care and related deaths total 98.

 

 

New Public Health Measures are Coming to Saskatchewan.

Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe has announced COVID-19 cases continue to create significant ongoing community transmissions. He introduced new public health measures effective Thursday morning in addition to those already in effect running until January 15th.  He explains private indoor gatherings will be limited to immediate household members only, single individuals are permitted to meet with one consistent household of less than five individuals for the duration of this order, there are exceptions for co-parent arrangements as well as care givers.  He adds outdoor gatherings can be up to ten people which is a reduction from 30 provided that physical distancing between households can be maintained at such gatherings.

             

In addition effective Saturday morning personal services such as hair dressers may operate at 50 percent capacity and event venues like arenas and banquet facilities may have events up to 30 individuals. Effective Christmas morning retail services must reduce their capacity to 50 percent with large retail locations limited to 25 percent.  More details can be found online at www.saskatchewan.ca/covid19-healthorders.

 

Reported COVID-19 Cases in Saskatchewan Have Topped 12 Thousand.

Saskatchewan Health reported this afternoon 269 new cases of COVID-19. They also announced two additional deaths one each from the Saskatoon and North West zones in the 80s age group.  Of the new cases 59 are in Regina, 51 in Saskatoon and 50 in North Central with lower numbers in other zones including Far North East with 14.  Of the 12, 328 reported cases 4380 are considered active, 7767 individuals have recovered and 124 are in hospital with 27 in intensive care.

             

The Saskatchewan government has announced nearly two million dollars in funding for licensed child care centers and family child care homes across the province to support the safety of children and staff by assisting with the cost of personal protective equipment, cleaning and sanitizing supplies.

Demand for Vaccinations is High in Manitoba.

Manitoba Chief Public Health Officer Dr. Brent Roussin announced 241 new cases of COVID-19 this afternoon bringing the five day positivity rate to 13.6 percent.  He also announced nine additional deaths with eight in Winnipeg and one in Southern health region.  Of the new cases 158 were in Winnipeg and 38 in Southern health with smaller numbers in other regions including 23 in the Northern health region.  Roussin says plans are to go ahead with vaccinations according to schedule.  He explained they knew that the priority group was going to be larger than the 900 initial doses of vaccine available and they know for the coming months demand for the vaccine is going to be much higher than supply.  He notes they do expect more vaccine to be arriving as early as next week so then they can move to protect even more health care workers through vaccination.

             

Of the total 21,262 reported cases 14,974 individuals have recovered, there are 303 people in hospital with 39 in intensive care and related deaths total 499.

 

The Manitoba Government Should Look at Northern School Boards.

The President of the Manitoba School Boards Association Alan Campbell has written an article on the importance of continuing the role of local School Boards in the province especially in the north.  Campbell praised the handling of COVID-19 in northern School Divisions writing in part…. 

 

During the pandemic school districts such as Mystery Lake, Kelsey and Flin Flon continued to provide open door access to school facilities while for Frontier early mandated closures among First Nation communities meant seeking alternative solutions to meeting students needs.  Together these divisions continued delivery of education.  How this was done was undeniably subject to the local character of each community where they operate.  In respect Flin Flon can be as far apart from Frontier as Kelsey is from Cranberry.  One size does not fit all when it comes to public education in a region where boats can be used as often as school buses and where the outdoor classrooms have long been used for centuries among Manitoba’s northern communities.  Again a unique way of life that only those living in northern communities can understand.

 

            You can find the complete article attached to this story.

 

STEAL CHRISTMAS, BUT PLEASE LEAVE LOCAL DIVISIONS UNDER THE TREE

 

Last Thursday, Premier Brian Pallister offered up an emotional appeal as the self-identified “guy who was coming to steal Christmas this year.” Made in the context of recent encouragements for Manitobans to limit personal contacts to their own households only through to the end of the holiday season, these comments have resonated with mainstream media across the continent.  

 

The cautions issued by our Premier find resonance with school boards province-wide. Since March, school divisions have undertaken significant efforts to limit close contacts in an ongoing effort to keep our communities safe. We have striven to deliver the good of public education amidst the ongoing challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

From delivering meals to those in need during the spring shutdown, to innovative work-arounds given the state of existing internet connectivity throughout the north, everything has been undertaken to ensure that students continue to be provided with meaningful learning opportunities. We know that Northern Manitoba thrives based on how well our young people are equipped, to sustain a unique way of life that only northerners understand.

 

To say that this period will go down in history as one of the most focused efforts of the modern public school system to meet the needs of communities, is an understatement. At the best of times, the vast expanse above the 53rd parallel is as varied geographically as it is demographically. During the pandemic, school districts such as Mystery Lake, Kelsey and Flin Flon continued to provide open door access to school facilities, while for Frontier, early mandated closures among First Nations communities meant seeking alternative solutions to meeting student needs.

 

Together, these divisions continued delivery of education. How this was done, was undeniably subject to the local character of each community where they operate. In this respect, Flin Flon can be as far apart from Frontier as Kelsey is from Cranberry. One size does not fit all when it comes to public education in a region where boats can be used as often as school buses and where the “outdoor classrooms” (which Winnipeggers felt to be a truly innovative distancing requirement!) have long been used for centuries among Manitoba’s northern communities. Again, a unique way of life that only those living in northern communities can understand.

 

With the arrival of September, northern needs have continued to evolve. If emerging staffing challenges continue to be felt across all school divisions, how much more so is this true in the land where tundra meets the tree-line? Amidst shifts to critical restriction levels as set by Drs. Roussin and Lavallee, our school board members have remained focused on addressing the twin conditions of shortage and change according to varied requirements. That the 2019/20 and 2020/21 school years are not complete write-offs for our students reflects the courage, dedication, adaptability and flexibility of school leadership and staff to “making it work”.

 

This is why we were surprised last month, to see Bill 64 “The Education Modernization Act” being tabled by Education Minister Kelvin Goertzen in the Manitoba Legislature. Back in March, one week after the pandemic started in this province, Minister Goertzen postponed release of the K-12 Education Review Commission’s final report. If the commissioners heard the same thing in Thompson and The Pas that they heard across southern Manitoba it was this: that local voices and local choices through our communities’ elected school boards, remains a vital feature of what education ought to look like in Manitoba. And so the first reading of “The Education Modernization Act”, coming in the middle of a soaring pandemic, was very unexpected.

 

Unexpected because we have yet to see what the Review Commissioners recommended for northern Manitoba. Unexpected still because, back in 2002, the similarly titled “Public Schools Modernization Act”, introduced by the former government, provided demolition orders for school boards to be randomly swept off of the Manitoba map. At the time, this included the elimination of the Churchill, Lynn Lake, Leaf Rapids and Snow Lake school districts, leaving only four school boards to serve northern interests. Four school divisions that, as outlined, have more than demonstrated why local choices made for the benefit of local education continue to have very real application in places like northern Manitoba. We don’t know what is in Bill 64 because the Government has not published its contents. What we can say is this, while we understand the need to steal Christmas Mr. Premier, please leave democratically elected school boards, and the local school divisions they serve, under the tree.

 

Alan M. Campbell

President

Manitoba School Boards Association

Having a winter emergency kit for your vehicle is important in Manitoba especially in our region.

CAA Manitobas Christa Mariash is stressing the importance of being prepared for the winter roads this season.

 

She explains there are some ways to make sure you and your vehicle are ready to hit the winter roadways.  She says a couple of ways you can do that is making sure you check your tire pressure, your battery and your fluids as well as your windshield wipers on your vehicle, do a quick go around of your vehicle to make sure that everything is in top shape and making sure you are dressed warm and having that emergency kit will really help when you’re on the road this winter.

 

Essential items to add to your winter emergency kit include a snow brush, ice scraper, small shovel, washer fluid, booster cables, a cell phone charger, and a first aid kit.

 

Mariash adds it’s also vital to have extra blankets, toques, mitts, and scarves, along with non-perishable food like granola bars and water in a container that won’t break or freeze.

 

Confirmed Cases of COVID-19 Topped 21 Thousand in Manitoba While Related Deaths were the Focus in Saskatchewan.

Manitoba public health reported 631 new cases of COVID-19 over the weekend.  They also reported 25 related deaths with 20 in the Winnipeg region, two each in Interlake Eastern and Southern and one in the Northern health region.  Of the total new cases 364 were in the Winnipeg region, 73 in Interlake Eastern and 102 in the Northern health region with lower numbers in other regions.  Of the 21,023 confirmed cases 5728 are active, 14,805 have recovered, 304 people are in hospital with 43 in intensive care and total related deaths are at 490.

             

Saskatchewan health reported 496 new cases over the weekend. They also reported 13 related deaths with 11 on Saturday which was the largest one day increase since the pandemic started.  The total included five deaths in Saskatoon zone, two in South East and one in the North Central zone.  Of the total new cases 131 were in Saskatoon, 114 in Regina with smaller number in other zones including 28 in the Far North East.  Of the total 11,971 reported cases 4188 are considered active, 1694 individuals have recovered, 117 are in hospital with 23 in intensive care and related deaths total 89.

 

Work is Ongoing in Saskatchewan to Review the Number of COVID-19 Cases Considered Active.

Saskatchewan Health reported 246 new cases of COVID-19 this afternoon. That brings seven day average of daily new cases to 282. Of the new cases 65 are in Saskatoon, 50 in Regina and 34 in North Central with lower numbers in other zones including 13 in the Far North East.

             

Of the total 11,475 reported cases 4547 are considered active, 6853 people have recovered, 133 people are in hospital with 27 in intensive care and related deaths total 75.

             

They note it is anticipated the number of cases designated as active will decline as older cases are reviewed and potentially shifted to recovered status.

Lab Confirmed Cases of COVID-19 have Topped 20 Thousand in Manitoba.

Manitoba Chief Public Health Officer Dr. Brent Roussin announced 445 new cases of COVID-19 this afternoon.  He also announced 14 additional deaths ranging in age from their 50s to 100s with 11in the Winnipeg region, two in Southern health and one in Interlake Eastern region.  Roussin says COVID-19 is having an impact on First Nations Communities both urban and rural. He reported in October we had no COVID-19 fatalities in our First Nations people now more than one in ten of daily deaths are in First Nations people, in October one in ten of the cases were in First Nations now it’s more than three in ten and about half of the hospitalizations are First Nations people.

             

Roussin adds these numbers and others across the province indicate the need to continue to be on our guard over the Christmas season as it’s critical to bring these numbers down.  Of the new cases 193 are in Winnipeg and 136 in the Northern Heath region with about one hundred of them in Shamattawa with lower numbers in other regions with total reported cases at 20,392.

The Bells Will Be Ringing Christmas Eve.

Flin Flon, Creighton and Denare Beach residents are urged to get outside and ring bells at 6 o’clock Christmas Eve.  Flin Flon Recreation Programmer Caitlin Bailey explains the idea behind it is getting our community involved in a COVID safe way for something that is a little bit holiday and a way for maybe those who aren’t spending time together to be connected over Christmas Eve and it’s also a great way to draw Santa and his reindeer to town so people are welcome to call any of the Rec offices on the 16th and 17th between 10 am and 5 pm and come to pick up bells.  She notes they’re doing curbside pickup so all you have to do is call and let them know you’re outside or let them know to keep an eye out for you and that you’re on your way.

             

The numbers to call are Flin Flon Recreation Cait at 204-681-7542, Creighton Recreation Channa at 306-688-3538 or Denare Beach Recreation Mel at 306-362-2054.  A candy bag will be included courtesy of Hudbay, CFAR and the Reminder and Bailey notes there are a limited number of bells so one or two per family and you can use other noise makers you have at home to join the celebration as well.

 

The Manitoba Arts Networks Indigenous Emerging Artist Mentorship Intensive is continuing to provide opportunities for up-and-coming singers and musicians across the province.

The Indigenous Program Coordinator with the network Rhonda Head explains this program is offered in partnership with Manitoba Music’s Indigenous Development Program.

 

She explains some of the things they learn in their workshop are how to get your music ready for recording, for distribution, where to go to get grant money , where to submit for royalties like Sound Exchange and they also do a song swap where they perform a song in front of the mentors and the mentors will give them positive feedback and where they can improve and for the really intensive two and a half days when they’re together there’s lots of talking, lots of information and lots of sharing.

 

Head adds due to the COVID-19 pandemic they had to cancel this year’s showcase concert that the participants perform in.

 

However she encourages Manitobans to check out the emerging artists performing on the Manitoba Arts Network Youtube channel which features northern artists as well.

 

Another 345 People Have Recovered from COVID-19 in Saskatchewan.

Saskatchewan Health reported this afternoon 324 new cases of COVID-19 bringing the seven day average of daily new cases to 283.  They also reported four additional deaths with one each in Regina, South Central, North Central and North East zones.  Of the new cases 109 were from Saskatoon, 53 from Regina and 47 from North West with lower numbers in other zones including Far North East with 15.  Of the 11,223 reported cases 4682 are considered active, 6466 people have recovered, 138 people are in hospital with 31 in intensive care and deaths total 75.

             

Health Minister Paul Merriman says residents will have to wait until next week to learn what public health orders will be in place over the holidays.

Manitobans are Again Encouraged to Stay Home This Christmas.

Manitoba Chief Public Health Officer Dr. Brent Roussin announced 292 new cases of COVID-19 this afternoon with a five day positivity rate of 13.3 percent.  He also announced 13 additional deaths with 10   in the Winnipeg Region, two in Southern Health and one in Interlake Eastern health region. Of the new cases 152 are in the Winnipeg region with lower numbers in other regions including 41 in the Northern health region.  Roussin reminds you to celebrate Christmas with members of your household only.  He explains we need to not let our guard down this holiday season noting if we gather over the season then we’re going to see that spike in cases and we’re going to see again much more increase in demand on our health care system.

             

Of the 19,947 reported cases 5380 are active, 14,116 individuals have recovered, 298 are in hospital with 43 in intensive care and related deaths now total 451.

 

Foran Mining is Expanding its Findings West of Flin Flon.

Foran Mining Corporation has announced an initial resource for its Bigstone deposit in the Hanson Lake District 65 kilometers west of Flin Flon. It shows two metric tonnes of indicated resources grading 2.2 percent copper equivilant. They report in 2015 they drilled one of the longest intersections ever in the region which returned a 104.9 meter intercept grading 2.03 percent copper.  They note this result is a highlight of the tenor of mineralization that has been intersected during drilling to define the deposit adding Bigstone represents the second National Instrument compliant resource defined by Foran within the Hanson Lake District and could be an important contributor to a long life mining camp that could be developed in the region.  Foran is eagerly anticipating returning to Bigstone during their 2021 exploration programs to further define and expand the deposit.

             

Their Executive Chairman Dan Myerson states the Bigstone resource is one of many satellite deposits that will serve as additional feed for nearby McIvenna Bay as they develop the Hanson Lake District into Canada’s next mining camp.

The Flin Flon School Board Learned Tuesday Night How Well Schools are Doing With Required Changes.

In her report Superintendent Tammy Ballantyne let parents know the schools are doing an excellent job.  Despite some difficult questions from concerned parents the Division has made the necessary systemic changes to address those concerns.  She said when we know better we need to do better thus changing the way the normal school day would look ultimately wanting what’s best for the students and staff for their safety from COVID.  She also assured parents students are getting a mind and body break in the afternoons based on when students need that time for a break.

             

Board Chair Murray Skeavington thanked everybody for making the adjustments with changes this past week. If parents have any questions regarding remote learning for grades 7 to 12 in the new year contact your child’s school.  The same goes for parents with children in K to 6 if you want to go with remote learning contact your child’s school.  At news time McIsaac had 101 students doing remote learning while Ruth Betts has 45 and 6 medically advised students at Hapnot.  Parents without home computers can sign out a Chromebook from the schools and if no access to WIFI or internet arrangements can be made to come to the school for access.

             

The Fllin Flon School Board wishes all students and staff a safe and relaxing holiday.

 

Recovery Numbers are Increasing in Both Manitoba and Saskatchewan.

Manitoba Chief Public Health Officer Dr. Brent Roussin announced 280 new cases of COVID-19 this afternoon.  He also announced 18 additional deaths with 14 in Winnipeg, three in the Southern health region and two in Prairie Mountain.  Of the new cases 193 were in the Winnipeg region lower numbers in other regions including 19 in Northern health region.  Of the total 19,655 reported cases 5348 are active, 13,869 people have recovered, 300 people are in hospital with 38 in intensive care and related deaths total 438.  Outbreaks at Grace Hospital unit four south and Health Science Centre unit GH3 in Winnipeg have been declared over.

             

Saskatchewan Health reported 302 new cases bringing the seven day average of daily cases to 273.  They also reported five deaths people in their 80s from the Regina zone.  Of the new cases Regina reported 131 and Saskatoon 59 with lower numbers in other zones including 15 in the Far North East.  Of the 10,899 reported cases 4707 are considered active, 6121 people have recovered, 140 people are in hospital with 27 in intensive care and deaths total 71.  They note active case numbers will be adjusted as recovered cases are reconciled.

 

Manitoba is Ready to Move Forward With A Vaccination Program.

Manitoba Premier Brain Pallister says planning for the COVID-19 vaccination program has been underway for months and they are ready to receive the first doses as early as next week.  He says they’re going to be focusing their initial efforts on those most at risk including seniors, those working in the health care system with seniors and others, long term care facilities, Indigenous people First Nations and Metis.  He notes the first doses of the Pfizer vaccine will be enough to vaccinate 900 people to be administered to frontline health care workers in our province’s four critical care units.  He says the COVID-19 vaccination task force is working on delivery, priority populations, immunization clinics, logistics and monitoring.

             

Pallister adds there is a limited supply of this vaccine available so we cannot let our guard down and must continue to follow the fundamentals. He notes more details on how the program will proceed will be announced as they develop.

The Saskatchewan government says it's ready to begin immunizing critical health-care workers against COVID-19 starting next week.

The Ministry of Health says it expects to receive 1,950 doses of Pfizer's vaccine by Tuesday.

There is to be a pilot vaccination program at the Regina General Hospital for health-care workers in intensive and emergency care, COVID-19 units and testing and assessment centres.

The province plans to move into its first official stage of its vaccination program in late December as it receives more doses.

More health-care workers, staff and residents in long-term care, seniors over 80 and people in remote areas like the far north, who are at least 50, are to get those shots.

The government plans to move from vaccinating some of its most vulnerable residents to the general population beginning in April.

A New Award Will Honor a Former Flin Flon Hospital Pharmacist.

The Canadian Society of Hospital Pharmacists has introduced a new award the Lois Cantin Excellence in Rural Practice Award.  In presenting the award it was noted Lois was a long standing member of the Society who passed away last year.  Her experience in pharmacy was broad working in retail pharmacy for several years and then she embarked on a hospital pharmacy career in Portage La Prairie, Flin Flon and as director of pharmacy for the Norman Regional Health Authority and eventually moving to Winnipeg as the Pharmacy Manager at Concordia Hospital and in recent years her practice took her most to Churchill.  It was also noted Lois won numerous awards including Pharmacist of the year and CSHP Manitoba branch award of excellence.  In addition to her numerous roles in Pharmacy Lois was an avid sports enthusiast and held a Third Dan Black Belt in Tae Kwon Do and was a member of the Canadian National Alpine Ski Team prior to becoming a Pharmacist.

             

The first recipient of the Lois Cantin Excellence in Rural Practice Award was Jamey Willsey at Portage Clinic in Portage La Prairie.

 

You Are Again Urged to Stay Home in Manitoba While Recoveries Set a High Mark in Saskatchewan.

Manitoba Chief Public Health Officer Dr. Brent Roussin announced 245 new cases of COVID-19 this afternoon with a five day test positivity rate of 13.3 percent.  He also announced 13 additional deaths with ten in the Winnipeg region, two in Southern and one in Prairie Mountain health region.  Of the new cases 123 were in the Winnipeg region with lower numbers in other regions including 23 in the Northern health region.  Of the total 19,376 reported cases 5379 are active, 13,577 individual have recovered, 311 are in hospital with 38 in intensive care and related deaths are 420.

             

Roussin again urges Manitobans to only leave their homes for essential purposes.

             

Saskatchewan Health reported 183 new cases this afternoon along with six additional deaths.  They include three from Regina and one each from the North West and South East zones all in their 80s and one in their 30s from the North Central zone.  Of the new cases 62 were from Saskatoon and 25 from Regina with lower numbers in other zones including 10 from the Far North East.  Of the 10,597 reported cases 4663 are considered active, 5858 people have recovered the largest one day increase in recoveries with 279 and 140 people are in hospital with 27 in intensive care.

Manitoba Has Extended Critical Public Health Orders into the new year.

Manitoba Premier Brian Pallister has announced the extension of the critical red level restriction public health orders until January 8th with minimum adjustments.  He explained the current public health orders were scheduled to be in place until this Friday and today we are announcing they will be extended until January 8th of next year and it’s because they’re working they’re beginning to make a difference and you’re beginning to make a difference and that is critical as we move forward.

             

Among the adjustments are allowing thrift stores to open, clarifying the operation of food banks and food hamper services, encouraging safe outdoor physical activity by clarifying people not from the same household need to keep two meters apart and gathering sizes must not exceed five people, adding school supplies as an essential item and allowing drive in events as a temporary measure subject to compliance with the restrictions with no one leaving their cars during the event and allowing the sale of holiday decorations and religious items. Complete details can be found by visiting www.manitoba.ca/covid19

 

 

UCN will be offering a Direct Health Care support workers program in the north next month.

Northern Health Region CEO Helga Bryant explains the program is being offered in partnership with the Health Region and the Northern Manitoba Sector Council to address the vacancies in long-term care homes across the region that have been pushed to the forefront thanks to the COVID-19 pandemic.  She explains this program is a twelve day program offered as face to face learning and it will prepare the students as a direct health care support worker in their long term care facilities.  She says they’re calling it a pilot project and it involves work integrated learning so the student can move to a nine week extended orientation that will actually occur while they’re working so the students work , they’re in their employ while they’re doing this program so they’re working, they’re gaining income and they’re gaining an education.

 

The program is slated to start January 4th, and applications are due on December 14th.

 

For more details on the Direct Health Care Support Workers program, visit  ucn DOT ca.

 

There Is a Program to Make Sure Children Get a Gift.

           

The 26th annual Christmas Gift Program is underway at the Flin Flon Aboriginal Friendship Centre.  It’s designed to enable parents or guardians to give their children a gift at Christmas when circumstances prevent them from doing so.  The Centre’s Program Events Coordinator Tieryn Steele says any family in Flin Flon, Creighton, Denare Beach, Cranberry Portage and Sherridon who is in need can register now to pick up gifts for children up to 17 years old.  She explains they’re going to do everything following COVID-19 restrictions this year and it’ll be pick up only but to sign up you just have to call the Friendship Centre at 687-8852 and book an appointment with them and then you can come and pick up your gifts at that day and time.

             

Be sure to have your health card ready when you call to register.  Registrations continue to be taken until Friday with pick up dates December 14th to 18th and 21st to 23rd.

 

Businesses Will Receive Assistance as COVID-19 Numbers Remain High in Saskatchewan.

Saskatchewan Health reported this afternoon 274 new cases of COVID-19 bringing the seven day average to 264.  They also reported one death a person in their 60s from the Regina zone.

             

Of the new cases 80 were in Regina and 72 in Saskatoon with lower numbers in other zones including six in the Far North East.  Of the 10,412 reported cases 4763 are considered active, 5589 people have recovered, 143 people are in hospital with 26 in intensive care and related deaths total 60.

             

The Saskatchewan government has announced the new Strong Recovery Adaptation Rebate which will assist businesses as they adapt to their business models to address the challenges caused by the global pandemic.  It will assist businesses who have adapted to different business models with details found on their website www.saskatchewan.ca/covid19-businesses.

 

Reported Cases of COVID-19 Have Topped 19 Thousand in Manitoba.

Manitoba Chief Public Health Officer Dr. Brent Roussin reported 325 new cases of COVID-19 this afternoon with a five day test positivity rate of 13.7 percent.  He also reported 12 additional deaths including six in Winnipeg one each in Prairie Mountain and Interlake Eastern and two each in Southern and Northern Health regions which were a man in his 90s as well as a woman in her 80s who was linked to the outbreak at Acute Care Inpatient Unit of The Pas Health Complex at St. Anthony’s General Hospital.

             

Roussin announced they have made changes in statistics noting every daily bulletin has a report of active cases which is intended to reflect the number of cases actively isolating either in the community or in the hospital.  He says starting today they have made changes to improve the accuracy of that information as they have reviewed the older cases and closed a number of them to more accurately reflect those individuals who have recovered and this  allowed them to remove more than four thousand cases from active and list them as recovered.

             

Of the total 19,131 reported cases 5462 are active, 13,262 have recovered, 310 are in hospital with 39 in intensive care and related deaths total 407.

 

The Fire Department Will Be Better Equipped for Rescue Work.

At their meeting Tuesday night Flin Flon City Council approved a request for funding from the Fire Department through Fire Protection Grants.  It was noted this does not involve any city dollars as the money comes from a grant program put out by provincial protective services for Fire Departments only.

             

A grant of 50 thousand dollar will purchase a side by side with tracks, snowbulance and trailer to perform rescue or fire protection in remote areas in the district.  A grant of just over 18 thousand dollars will purchase a water rescue boat which is drastically needed for the community and surrounding areas with numerous people utilizing the lakes and waterways and a grant of just under 29 thousand dollars will purchase a turnout gear washing machine and dryer to allow for proper cleaning of all gear that is used by the department ensuring the safety of all members.

               

And Mayor Cal Huntley reminds residents that because outdoor activities are not allowed under COVID code red restrictions all bunks are closed to skating but  have been flooded as this is the time of year to do it so they will be ready when the code red restrictions are lifted.

 

You Can Still Stay Safe on the Roads This Holiday Season.

Since they can’t do their free-ride-home service this year Operation Red Nose launched its “Take the Reins for Your Safety” campaign last week.

 

The organization’s Marie-Chantel Fortin explains the campaign allows it to continue to spread its message of road safety during the pandemic. She says after they made the decision that it would be better not to provide safe rides with the actual safe ride service this year they still wanted to continue doing road safety because they are a road safety campaign and normally they do provide service but they wanted to continue bringing their road safety message to the population across Canada and have their volunteers, partners, the population, everybody participate and help them propel that message in their communities.

 

Fortin says you can find festive and informative tools such as mocktail recipes, tips to prevent a friend from driving impaired and distinctive accessories for your designated driver at www.take-the-reins.com.

 

The Climbing Number of COVID Related Deaths is the Focus in Manitoba while Saskatchewan Reports Four Additional Deaths.

Manitoba Health reported 737 new cases of COVID-19 over the weekend with a five day positivity rate of 13.6 percent.  They also reported 33 additional deaths with 28 in Winnipeg with the youngest 20 and the oldest over 100, two in Southern Health and one each in Interlake Eastern, Prairie Mountain and the Northern Health Region in The Pas Hospital Acute Care.  Of the new cases 505 are in Winnipeg, 80 in Southern Health with lower numbers on other regions including 67 in Northern Health.  Of the 18,806 reported cases 9216 are active, 9195 individuals have recovered, 348 are in hospital with 43 in intensive care and total related deaths are 395.

             

Meanwhile Saskatchewan Health reported 617 new cases over the weekend.  They also reported four additional deaths with one each from the Regina and Far North zones and two from the South zone.  The highest number of new cases was in Saskatoon with 209, Regina with 111 and 72 in the North East with lower numbers in other zones including 35 in the Far North East.  Of the 10,319 reported cases 4550 are considered active, 5530 people have recovered, 135 are in hospital with 26 in intensive care and related deaths are 59. Eleven cases were found to be out of province residents and were removed from the list.

 

Active Cases of COVID-19 Have Topped Four Thousand in Saskatchewan.

Saskatchewan Health reported this afternoon 283 new cases of COVID-19.   The seven day average of daily new cases is 262. They also reported one additional death which was a resident of the South zone.  The largest numbers of new cases are in Regina with 83, Saskatoon with 50 and North Central with 47 with lower numbers in other regions including 11 in the Far North East.

             

Of the 9527 reported cases 4116 are considered active, 5356 people have recovered and 126 are in hospital with 25 in intensive care.

             

Premier Scott Moe hopes to see a drop in new cases so more people can visit long term care homes over the holiday season.

Health Care Workers Need You to Follow Public Health Orders.

Manitoba Chief Public Officer Dr. Brent Roussin reported 318 new cases of COVID-19 this afternoon with a five day test positivity rate of 13.4 percent..  He also reported nine additional deaths with four in the Winnipeg region, two each in Southern Health and Prairie Mountain and one in Interlake Eastern health region.

Of the 18,069 reported cases 9172 are considered active, 8535 people have recovered and 361 are in hospital with 55 in intensive care.

             

Chief Nursing Officer Linette Siragusa says she can’t emphasize enough the effect these numbers are having on their staff throughout the system. She explains while the overall case numbers that we’re seeing in the province are starting to stabilize somewhat the admissions to hospital and critical care continue and it’s a scary thought to think about what would happen if we don’t have the restrictions and if Manitobans weren’t doing their part so they want to thank everyone for  everything they have done so far.

             

Of the 318 new cases 200 are in the Winnipeg region and 54 in Southern Health with lower numbers in other regions including 30 in Northern Health Region.

The Salvation Army is Providing Lunches in Flin Flon.

Salvation Army Major Al Bain has announced to help alleviate some of the stress that families are experiencing during the COVID-19 red code restrictions they will be making bag lunches every Monday, Wednesday and Friday for Flin Flon and area families.  He explains they will give out bag lunches to people coming to the Church where they open the door and just pass that out to them and it’s not a lot maybe 15 to 20 and then they deliver bag lunches to families in Flin Flon and all together they make about 120 bag lunches.  He says they do that three days a week so that’s about 360 bag lunches they provide weekly.

             

Major Bain adds they hope COVID red ends so they can again open up the church for Soup Days.  If you are interested in receiving bag lunches for your family contact the Salvation Army at 204-687-7812.

Elementary Students Will See a Shorter School Day.

Flin Flon School Division Superintendent Tammy Ballantyne has sent a notice to parents and guardians regarding a change in the school day for Ruth Betts Community School and Ecole McIsaac School.  It advises them due to the rising number of cases in our community and issues around the mixing of students at recess and lunch times they have a short term response to try and combat COVID-19.

             

The Division has decided to shorten the school day for elementary schools.  In order to do this the lunch hour will be shortened to one hour and dismissal will happen at 3:15.  Bell times will be shared with parents via the schools social media pages and websites.  The buses will continue to run and pick up and drop off times will be available on their website.  The plan will take effect Monday and will run while they are in orange of the Pandemic Response Plan.

             

Ballantyne adds they have to do what they can to stop the spread so keep in mind this measure is in place for the safety of students and staff.

 

The Manitoba Government is Prioritizing Rapid Testing For Teachers.

Manitoba Premier Brian Pallister has announced their campaign to prepare for a coordinated and effective vaccination campaign will be further enhanced by the expansion of rapid testing initiatives.  He says that includes one the Songbird Hyris tests specifically for teachers.  He explains these machines will help them deliver over 45 thousand tests a month for the next year which gives them the capacity to test every teacher and every educational support staff twice a month right to the end of the school year if needed.  He says their goal is to ensure that our front line workers and all those who come into contact with them are protected and are safe and also ensure they can safely stay on the job knowing that they don’t have COVID.

             

The Premier noted they are assembling the necessary people, equipment and other resources so they can rapidly start up a large scale super site vaccine campaign as soon as the vaccine is delivered.

 

Some Medical Services in Saskatchewan May Face a Slowdown.

Saskatchewan Health reported 259 new cases of COVID-19 this afternoon.  They also reported an additional death a resident of the South Zone bringing total deaths to 54.  Of the new cases 112 are in Regina and 50 in Saskatoon with lower numbers in other zones including one in the Far North East.  Of the 9244 reported cases 4,017 are considered active, 5173 people have recovered and 128 are in hospital with 24 in intensive care.

             

Saskatchewan Health Authority CEO Scott Livingstone reported they are moving forward with the next phase of their surge plan to meet the expected demand for COVID-19 patients in the next two weeks including required service slowdowns to support the deployment of up to 600 full time equivalent staff to support the pandemic response.  He noted by working together their teams have already ensured that these changes will not result in broad based shutdown of the health care system, this is a service shutdown.  He says they are committed to making these changes temporary, time limited and as targeted as possible.

             

He adds over the coming days services will be affected at varying levels in various locations depending on local plans and needs.

A COVID Outbreak in The Pas is Over.

Manitoba Chief Public Health Officer Dr. Brent Roussin announced 367 new cases of COVID-19 this afternoon.  He also reported 12 additional deaths including five each in the Winnipeg and Southern health regions and one each in the Interlake Eastern and Northern health regions.  Of the new cases 211 were in the Winnipeg region, 57 in Southern health, 48 in Northern health and smaller numbers in other regions.  Of the 17,750 reported cases 9129 are considered active, 8268 people have recovered, 357 are in hospital with 52 in intensive care and related deaths are now at 353.

             

Public Health also reported the outbreaks declared at The Pas Homeless Shelter Oscar’s Place as well as the Victoria General Hospital unit five north and five south in Winnipeg have been declared over.

Testing is the Focus of HIV AIDS Awareness Week.

This is HIV AIDS Awareness Week and the local Play it Safer Network is using this week to raise awareness about testing.  The Committee’s Carrie Pockett explains HIV is a preventable virus and it stands for Human Immuno Deficiency virus and it weakens you body’s built in defense system against diseases and viruses so they just want to let people know that if they test positive for having HIV you can have a long healthy life even if you are HIV positive and you can’t tell by looking at somebody so if you have not been tested for HIV ever it might be a good idea to get an HIV test done.

             

Pockett says they have a radio quiz on CFAR and this year are using social media and a Bigfoot sign by Walmart to provide information on where you can be tested.  If you need information you can call the Committee at 204-687-8856 or the Primary Health Care Centre at 204-687-1350.

 

 

Some Manitoba Students Will Move to Remote Learning After Christmas.

 Education Minister Kelvin Goertzen reports the Manitoba government is mandating a remote learning period for some students.  He announced they will move to a period of two weeks of full remote learning for grades seven to twelve following the traditionally scheduled Christmas break with kindergarten to grade six being able to continue to attend school in the regular times they would be expected to but families who choose to keep them at home in that K to six category are able to do so.

             

Goertzen adds the affected students will return to class January 18th unless there are other public health issues that arise at that time.  He notes although transmission in schools is low evidence suggest older students have a higher incidence of contracting the virus so moving this group to remote learning will reduce the risk of transmission in the schools while minimizing the impact on kindergarten to grade six families and their parents.

COVID-19 Numbers are Still High in Saskatoon.

Saskatchewan Health reported this afternoon 238 new cases of COVID-19.  They also reported two additional deaths with one each in the North zone and the Regina zone.  Of the new cases 109 are in Saskatoon, 36 in Regina and 25 in North Central with lower numbers in other zones including 16 in the Far North East. Of the 8982 reported cases 3970 are considered active, 4959 people have recovered,132 people are in hospital with 26 in intensive care and related deaths have reach 53.

             

The seven day average of daily new cases is 274 or 22.6 cases per 100 thousand population.

 

Chief Medical Officer Dr. Saquib Shahab says people should plan on a quiet Christmas as it's too early to say if the virus spread will improve enough for holiday gatherings.

COVID-19 Is Affecting All Ages In Manitoba.

Manitoba Chief Public Health Officer Dr. Brent Roussin reported 277 new cases of COVID-19 this afternoon with a five day test positivity rate of 13.2 percent.  He also reported 14 additional deaths with nine in the Winnipeg region and five in Southern Health.  Of the 277 new cases 200 were in the Winnipeg region, 28 in Northern Health, 24 in Southern Health with smaller numbers in other regions. Chief nursing officer Linette Siragusa reported 351 people are in hospital and they are continuing to see people of all ages enter their facilities including the very young and the very old and people in between.  She adds their critical care program is at 147 percent beyond their usual capacity pre-COVID activity and there are 106 patients who are in the critical care unit and 51 of them have COVID-19.

             

Of the total 17,834 reported cases 8970 are considered active, 8072 individuals have recovered and related deaths total 342.

 

You Can Have Music While You Shop.

At their meeting last night Flin Flon City Council approved the Municipal Funding Application from the Flin Flon and District Chamber of Commerce in the amount of three thousand dollars.  It will help defray the cost of the Music on Main Street Project.  In a letter Chamber Co-Vice-Chair Dianne Russell noted she has been getting requests for sound capability on Main Street and now she says the idea can become a reality.  She explains the idea came from a conversation with her mother Dona O’Brien when they were discussing a legacy project for her dad in the community as he cared a lot about Chamber, local businesses and the community specifically Main Street so the idea of putting music on Main Street came to life from her putting in the first donation and then Hudbay and a couple of private donors and the municipalities have got behind it and they’re hoping to have something happening by the middle of December.

             

A sound system will be installed on the light standards along Main Street to broadcast music and it will also be available to broadcast emergency messages.

 

Fines Continue to be Issued for Those Not Following Public Health Orders.

Manitoba Premier Brian Pallister reported a total of 202 warnings and 100 tickets were issued last week from November 23rd to 29th. He said a total of over 181 thousand dollars in fines were issued up from just over 126 thousand the week prior.  He stated the vast majority of Manitobans are doing what Dr. Roussin ordered, following the fundamentals and that’s important and he thanks them for doing that and he thanks you for doing that, keep up the good work but there is a small minority of people and organizations who are not doing their part and in doing so are putting their health and the health of others at risk and that’s unfortunate and the message is clear there will be consequences for those who disregard the public health orders.

             

Twenty-two 5 thousand dollar tickets went to businesses for various offences, forty-eight 1296 dollar tickets to individuals for various offences, twenty-three 298 dollar tickets for failure to wear a mask in indoor public places and seven band bylaw tickets were issued by the Manitoba First Nations Police Service.

There Are Concerns About COVID-19 Numbers in a Saskatchewan Correctional Centre.

Saskatchewan Health reported this afternoon 181 new cases of COVID-19.  They also reported four additional deaths with three in the Saskatoon zone and one in the South zone.  The new cases are located in Regina with 67, Saskatoon with 41 and lower numbers in other zones including 15 in the Far North East.

             

Of the 8745 reported cases 3819 are considered active, 4875 have recovered, 121 people are in hospital with 24 in intensive care with related deaths totaling 51.  The seven day average of daily new cases is 264 or 21.8 new cases per 100 thousand people.

             

The Ministry of Justice says that as of today 107 inmates and 23 staff at the Saskatoon Correctional Centre had tested positive for COVID-19. The Ministry of Corrections and Policing calls the outbreak deeply concerning and says all inmates at the jail will continue to be tested.

Reported Cases of COVID-19 Have Topped 17 Thousand in Manitoba.

Manitoba Chief Public Health Officer Dr. Brent Roussin reported this afternoon 282 new cases of COVID-19 with a five day test positivity rate of 13.1 percent.  He also reported 16 additional deaths including ten in the Winnipeg region, four in Southern health and two in Prairie Mountain health region.  He pointed out they’ve said it and it’s certainly true and continues to be true and always will be true that restrictions are tough, pandemics are tough and they’re asking a lot of people to avoid things that they feel are very important to them, things that are very difficult even in the short term as the situation we are in is critical, our hospitals are reaching capacity, our health care workers are overwhelmed so they are asking Manitobans to step up in the short term.

             

Of the total new cases 178 are in the Winnipeg region and 54 in Southern health with lower numbers in other regions including 22 in Northern health. The total number of confirmed cases is 17,107 with 9,066 considered active and 7713 have recovered with 338 on hospital.

The Lights Go On Around the Museum This Evening.

The Flin Flon Station Museum Committee is turning on the Christmas lights around the Museum at six this evening.  The Committees Joe Buie explains they have restored the Santa Claus with support from the Flin Flon Neighborhood Revitalization Corporation, Hudbay, private donations and a good group of volunteers as well as from Beech Electric in setting up the display and Tom Morrison in clearing the roads.  He notes this year is a little different as they’re going to dedicate this to Bunny Burke who was so instrumental in getting this started.  He says he doesn’t know how many years ago it was when they started this but they’re dedicating it to her and also to another Board member from the past as they were thinking about him Dave Fitzsimons who passed away and was another Board member of the Museum.

             

Buie adds they are looking forward to seeing it all lit up to show a bit of spirit and give a boost to the community.

Manitobans Should Plan on Receiving a Cheque in the Mail.

Crown Services Minister Jeff Wharton has announced Manitoba Public Insurance will be providing immediate financial relief to its policy holders.  MPI customers will receive a total of 69 million dollars which is about 100 dollars per policy holder.  This is in addition to the previous rebate of 110 million dollars in May of this year and the corporation’s recent request of an 8.8 percent overall rate decrease in its General Rate Application to the Public Utilities Board.  Wharton says similar to what transpired in May when they made the 110 million dollar announcement what will happen now is again it will go through the Public Utilities process, the application will go in right away and they anticipate a similar outcome to what they had back in May where the Board will authorize the rebate to Manitoba ratepayers.

             

This rebate was made possible by the combination of fewer collision claims, about 20 percent lower from mid-March to the end of October compared to the previous year and MPIs forecast of collision frequency remaining favorable into the spring.

 

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