The Manitoba Legislature is set to vote on a proposal for fines recommended by the provincial ethics commissioner targeting former premier Heather Stefanson and two members of her Progressive Conservative cabinet. In May, ethics commissioner Jeffrey Schnoor found Stefanson, former deputy premier Cliff Cullen, and former economic development minister Jeff Wharton in violation of the province’s conflict-of-interest laws for advocating for a sand-extraction license for Sio Silica, an Alberta mining company, following their party’s loss in the October 3, 2023 election to the NDP.
Schnoor, in a detailed 100-page report, concluded that the actions of Stefanson, Cullen, and Wharton breached Manitoba’s Conflict of Interest Act and the caretaker convention, which prohibits outgoing governments from making significant decisions before the new government takes office. Although there was no evidence of personal financial gain, Schnoor determined that their actions were geared towards advancing the interests of others inappropriately.
The recommended fines are $18,000 for Stefanson, $12,000 for Cullen, and $10,000 for Wharton, who currently represents Red River North as a PC MLA. The final decision on imposing the fines rests with the legislative assembly, with a vote scheduled for Tuesday.
Recent exchanges between the PC and NDP parties have seen both sides blaming each other for delays in the fine vote. PC Leader Obby Khan accused the NDP of potential delay tactics before the summer break, while Premier Wab Kinew pointed fingers at the PCs for using procedural maneuvers upon the resumption of legislative sessions.
Partisan tensions escalated with the NDP’s attempts to portray the PCs as corrupt through repetitive statements in the legislative chamber. Education Minister Tracy Schmidt even sought to bring Stefanson to the Manitoba Legislature for discussions on the Sio Silica issue, a request promptly dismissed by Speaker Tom Lindsey.
Conversely, the PC Opposition implied that the NDP’s aim was to prolong the debate to leverage Schnoor’s findings against them. Khan acknowledged the findings and stated Wharton’s intention to personally pay the fine if imposed, emphasizing the need to move forward.
As the deadline for political maneuvering has passed, both parties are gearing up for a potentially lengthy vote extending into Tuesday evening. Government house leader for the NDP, Nahanni Fontaine, is ensuring members are well-prepared, including arrangements for meals and childcare if needed.