Manitoba Tories Criticized for Rejecting Search for Indigenous Women’s Remains
Manitoba’s Progressive Conservatives are facing backlash after refusing to search a landfill for the remains of two Indigenous women. The controversial decision was highlighted in a full-page advertisement published in the Winnipeg Free Press, which showcased the governing Tories’ promises on various issues. The ad prominently featured the phrase Stand Firm in relation to the landfill search, while stating that health and safety concerns were the reasons behind the decision.
Former minister, Marc Miller, expressed disappointment with the Tories’ stance, labeling it as heartless and cruel. The president of the Native Women’s Association of Canada, Carol McBride, voiced outrage, suggesting that the Tories were using this sensitive issue as a campaign tool, a move that could potentially set back the progress made in reconciliation efforts.
Manitoba Justice Minister Kelvin Goertzen defended the advertisement, explaining that the public and media still had questions about the government’s refusal to conduct the search. He cited the need for the parties to address people’s concerns during the election campaign. However, NDP Leader Wab Kinew accused the Tories of using Manitobans as political props and criticized their divisive approach.
The remains of Morgan Harris and Marcedes Myran, along with partial remains of Rebecca Contois, were believed to have been dumped at the Prairie Green Landfill. A man named Jeremy Skibicki has been charged with first-degree murder in connection with their deaths, as well as the killing of an unidentified woman known as Buffalo Woman. Premier Heather Stefanson, in July, stated that the province would not support a search of the Prairie Green Landfill, referring to a federally funded study that indicated the search would be feasible but without any guarantee of success.
The study highlighted the need for specialized protection against toxic hazards and estimated that a search could take up to three years and cost approximately $184 million. The Premier’s decision has sparked protests near a city-run landfill and the Canadian Museum for Human Rights, with activists demanding a change of heart from the government.
During a televised debate, Wab Kinew pledged to conduct a search of the Prairie Green Landfill if his party is successful in the upcoming election on October 3. However, Premier Stefanson challenged him, citing concerns about potential health risks for workers.
The issue surrounding the landfill search has raised questions about the government’s commitment to reconciliation and has become a prominent topic in the election campaign. The opposing parties hold differing views on the matter, with the Tories emphasizing health and safety concerns, while the NDP vows to conduct the search if elected.
As the election draws closer, Manitobans await the outcome and the resolution of this contentious issue. The search for Indigenous women’s remains remains a deeply emotional and politically charged matter, highlighting the complexities of reconciliation efforts in Canada.
