This is about providing a better framework for accountability in Manitoba: Gerrard

Winnipeg – Manitoba Liberal Leader Dr. Jon Gerrard today introduced a bill that would bring a higher level of accountably to three Manitoba Crown Corporations by ensuring that all board members are publicly interviewed by a committee of the Legislative Assembly before being appointed to the board of the Liquor Control Commission, Manitoba Lotteries Corporation or Manitoba Public Insurance Corporation (MPIC).

“This is about ensuring accountability because crown corporations belong to all Manitobans and should be accountable to all people of this province, not just to the NDP,” Dr. Gerrard said. “There are some major problems that exist, for example with MPIC, and in my view this initial screening process will help clean this up.”

Dr. Gerrard raised two specific issues in regards to MPIC, the high cost of motorcycle insurance and the need for improved safety measures when it comes to children.

According to the MPIC insurance and registration estimate the cost to insure a 2000 Harley Davidson FXRT Tour Glide is $2,117 while the cost to insure a comparable motorcycle in Saskatchewan is only $917.

“There is huge discrepancy in the cost to ensure motorcycles between Manitoba and the rest of Canada,” Dr. Gerrard said. “In a time of global warming, the government should be encouraging the use of alternative, environmentally friendly modes of transportation not discouraging them.”

Dr. Gerrard hopes that a publicly screened board of directors would be able to delve into the reason for the inflated cost of motorcycle insurance in Manitoba, and help to increase motorcycle safety and make riding more affordable.

Dr. Gerrard then referred to the International Journal of Injury Control and Safety Promotion, published on September 3, 2008 which investigated the correct usage of child restraints in Manitoba and revealed that a staggering 70 per cent of restraint systems were used improperly.

“From booster seats to helmets, these are crucial in protecting children and I will continue to push the government on mandating these important protective gears to ensure the safety of all our children,” Dr. Gerrard said. “Individuals appointed the board of MPIC should put child safety front and centre.”

According to the study, motor vehicle crashes are the biggest killer of children and child safety is one of the most important issues in today’s society.

-30-