NDP Call on Pallister Government to Protect Renters and Freeze Utility Shut-Offs

March 23, 2020

Treaty 1 Territory, Winnipeg, MBNDP MLAs Adrien Sala and Lisa Naylor called on the Pallister Government today to immediately provide protections for Manitoba renters and freeze all utility shut-offs in the wake of a COVID-19 pandemic.

“No family should be kicked out of their home because they can’t make rent right now or for any other reason,” said Naylor. The province must keep families and our community safe by freezing all evictions.”

“Families from all income levels are worried about paying their bills right now—from electricity and water to the internet bills that keep them connected to loved ones. The province should reduce the burden on families by deferring payments.” added Sala.

The Manitoba NDP is calling on the Pallister government to:

  • Immediately implement a freeze on all evictions, foreclosures and notices of tenancy termination and offer interest-free payment deferrals for renters for at least 6 months;
  • Direct Crown Corporations, like Manitoba Hydro and Manitoba Public Insurance, to offer programs that allow interest-free payment deferrals on utility bills for up to 6 months; and
  • Offer financial support for landlords to regularly disinfect residences and suspend non-urgent and routine maintenance work in apartment buildings.