In March 2024, Manitoba Public Insurance (MPI) reported strong financial health, with expectations of another rebate following the nearly $500 million rebated under the Progressive Conservatives in recent years. However, just five months later, MPI is facing a $130 million loss, with no rebate in sight. Instead, MPI has requested the Public Utilities Board (PUB) approve a 3% rate increase and a $10 premium hike.
This dramatic turnaround has raised concerns among Manitobans, with opposition members pointing to potential systemic failures at MPI. In December 2023, the PUB had rejected a rate increase application, opting instead for a 5% rate reduction due to MPI’s strong financial position at the time.
Since taking office, Premier Wab Kinew’s NDP government has appointed a new CEO and replaced most of the MPI board. Opposition members argue that this leadership change may have played a role in the financial decline.
In response, opposition members are calling on NDP Minister Matt Wiebe to convene a public committee meeting. They demand that MPI officials explain the drastic shift in the organization’s financial position and provide transparency to concerned Manitobans.–News Desk