August 18, 2021

Treaty 1 Territory, Homeland of the Métis Nation, Winnipeg MB—The Manitoba NDP are demanding the new leader of the PC Party support public health and protect Manitobans by requiring all members of the PC Caucus be vaccinated. Today NDP House Leader Nahanni Fontaine wrote a letter to the Speaker to ask that all MLAs be vaccinated to participate in House proceedings.

“Manitobans expect their elected officials to lead by example,” said Manitoba NDP House Leader Nahanni Fontaine. “That’s why it’s so important that the next PC Leader reinforce the message from our trusted public health officials that getting the vaccine is the most important thing Manitobans can do to protect our communities and end the pandemic. We’re listening to Manitoba healthcare workers and school staff who are doing their part – it's time for the government to step up.”

Yesterday Ontario’s Conservative Premier Doug Ford gave a directive to his caucus to get vaccinated by the end of the week or face removal from Caucus. In Manitoba the Manitoba Teachers Society, the Manitoba NDP, and several school divisions have called for mandatory vaccines for all school staff.

There are currently two PC MLAs who have not been vaccinated. All 18 members of the Manitoba NDP Caucus are fully vaccinated.

“With our kids heading back to school and the possibility of a fourth wave around the corner, the PCs need to take a stand now to promote vaccination and support public health,” said NDP House Whip Matt Wiebe. “It’s up to the new leader to ensure that all government MLAs are fully vaccinated.”