Premier Brian Pallister, together with the Minister of Highways and Infrastructure, Blaine Pedersen, travelled across Westman last week on a two-day tour to see for themselves the threat of overland flooding in the Western side of the province, as well as to meet with representatives from the affected municipalities.

Of the communities the Premier visited, he joined an attentive crowd at the Boissevain Civic Centre Friday noon to meet with reps from some 25 municipalities.  MLA for Arthur-Virden, Doyle Piniuk and Honourable Cliff Cullen were also in attendance at the meeting.

Various concerns were shared at the Boissevain meeting including the recently released budget, the carbon tax, healthcare, and most pointedly, the potential for flooding in this corner of the province.

“I have a tremendous amount of respect for local government,” said Pallister, “I always have and always will.  These are the men and women who are right in the front line.  They are the people doing the best to be accountable and also partner with our government, and federal government when needed to, to assist in solving problems.  I’m a problem solver and I’m here to try to help.”

“Pro-active steps to help during this possible threat of overland flooding begin with these meetings,” the Premier said.  “We have met with over 20 of the rural Municipal Councils over the last two days and communications is really the key.”

“I want to be clear at every meeting that I appreciate and respect the work that our local governments do.  And giving us a heads up whenever there is an idea or suggestion or a need is a real critical aspect to this.”

“So it’s being of service to each other I think that’s really the key and there’s a good partnership forming.  We want to build on it and make sure we do the best we can to make the best of a challenging situation this spring and as we go forward solve some problems together too.”

Pallister said he has been working with Saskatchewan Premier, Brad Wall, on the collaborative efforts on both sides of the Manitoba-Saskatchewan border.

The Premier encouraged Westman residents and farmers that the water levels and potential for overland flooding will be closely monitored by the local and provincial government representatives.
 
“The only thing better than today in Manitoba is tomorrow in Manitoba. Manitobans have a tremendous reputation for facing up to challenges…”