Manitoba PCs Allege NDP Government Falling Short on Homelessness Reduction Goals
WINNIPEG – Manitoba’s Progressive Conservative MLAs are criticizing the NDP government’s efforts to address homelessness, claiming the province isn’t doing enough despite promises to end chronic homelessness by 2031. The accusations come as the NDP government defends its strategy of moving individuals from tent encampments into housing with support services.
The debate centers on the pace of progress and whether the current approach will deliver on the NDP’s commitment. Manitoba currently has approximately 700 people sleeping in tents,according to Premier Wab Kinew,but the government reports having moved over 70 individuals from encampments into housing - representing roughly a 10 per cent reduction in the visible tent population. Critics argue this falls far short of the ambitious goal to eliminate chronic homelessness within two terms.
Housing, Addictions and Homelessness Minister Bernadette Smith maintains the province is committed to its promise. “We promised Manitobans that we would end chronic homelessness in two terms,” Smith said. ”We certainly know there’s more to do and we’re committed to getting that work done.”
Premier Kinew echoed this sentiment, stating the province’s strategy is “working” and acknowledging the important work remaining. “Again, that’s nowhere near where we want to get. all of us drive by encampments and stuff and we know that there’s so much more that needs to be done. But in terms of getting off to a start, we’ve left the gates – we’ve left the harbour.”
The issue of homelessness in Manitoba has been a long-standing concern, with fluctuating numbers and complex challenges related to affordable housing, mental health, and addictions. The NDP’s commitment to ending chronic homelessness by 2031, if achieved, would represent a significant shift in the province’s approach to addressing the crisis.The PCs’ criticism signals increased scrutiny of the NDP’s progress and a potential political battle over the best path forward.
