🔥 Expanded WCB Coverage for Firefighters
Manitoba is moving to broaden workers’ compensation coverage for firefighters diagnosed with occupational illnesses, shifting to a presumption that those illnesses are job‑related. The Brandon Professional Firefighter Paramedic Association says the change marks a major step toward stronger protections for firefighters and their families.
🛴 Candidate Calls for E‑Scooter Safety Rules
Ward 5 candidate Bhavesh Patel wants Brandon to get ahead of rising e‑scooter injuries by introducing local bylaws — including possible helmet requirements and speed limits for young riders. Patel says the city shouldn’t wait for provincial or federal action, noting close calls and collisions are already happening.
🧡 Truth and Reconciliation Week Underway
Truth and Reconciliation Week runs Sept. 28 to Oct. 4, led by the Brandon Friendship Centre. The week opened this morning with a proclamation, Survivors Flag Raising and ceremony at City Hall. A full schedule of events is available here.
👶 ECE Training Coming to Neepawa
Assiniboine College is expanding its Early Childhood Education diploma program to Neepawa beginning January 2027, allowing students to train locally. The move responds to growing childcare demand, with students eligible for tuition support and an information night set for Oct. 20.
⛽ Diesel Prices Expected to Push Food Costs Higher
Higher diesel prices could soon add pressure at the checkout, with food inflation projected to rise by roughly 0.6 percentage points within four to eight weeks. Experts say trucking surcharges are already appearing, meaning transportation costs may push grocery prices higher this fall.
🛢️ Conservatives Pitch Diesel Tax Holiday
Federal Conservatives say they want to eliminate diesel taxes through at least July 1, aiming to lower fuel costs for Canadians. Pierre Poilievre says the plan would cut pump prices while boosting Canada’s ability to refine more of its own crude oil. Please confirm political information with a trusted source.
🐄 Cattle Sector Strong but Trade Concerns Persist
Manitoba cattle producers head into the fall run with strong prices, but U.S. tariff threats and market access uncertainty remain major concerns. Industry leaders say stable cross‑border trade is critical for the province’s beef sector and rural economy.
🌬️ New Rosedale Reeve Focused on Governance
Matthew Atkinson, newly acclaimed reeve in Rosedale, says the proposed Fleury Winds turbine project motivated him to run, citing concerns over transparency and process. He says his priority now is ensuring good governance as the wind‑energy plan moves forward.
