Manitoba’s three main political party leaders took part in a televised hour-long debate Thursday night and sparred over health-care, the cost of living and other issues.
With his party ahead in the polls, New Democrat Party leader Wab Kinew was the frequent target during the session. Liberal leader Dougald Lamont tried to portray his party as the true alternative to the Progressive Conservative government, while Kinew used his closing remarks to appeal to Liberal supporters to vote NDP this time.
Conservative leader Heather Stefanson accused Kinew of promising $3-billion in new spending that she said would require a sales tax increase, something Kinew said he’d never do if elected. Lamont also accused Kinew of offering false hope by promising to re-open hospital emergency rooms, despite a shortage of hospital workers including nurses.
Next Tuesday (Sept 26), all three leaders are expected to debate in Brandon in an event hosted by the Chamber of Commerce.
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On Thursday, the Conservatives pledged more money for addiction treatment spaces, and the Liberals said they would provide grants for seniors to make their homes more accessible.
The Green Party said would work to bring greenhouse gas emissions down by 9% annually to meet the federal government’s 2030 targets. There were no new policy announcements from the NDP.
Advance polls open tomorrow. General election day is October 3rd.
For more information Elections Manitoba – Home
(With files from The Canadian Press)
