The Manitoba government is announcing its plan to increase the minimum wage to $15 by October 2023, Premier Heather Stefanson announced today, noting government will soon begin consultations with small businesses on the effects of this change. “Our government recognizes the financial challenges many Manitobans are facing as a result of global inflationary pressures,” said Stefanson. “Today’s announcement delivers on our commitment to making life more affordable for all Manitobans. This phased-in approach will ensure small businesses remain strong and continue to grow while helping workers and their families get ahead by earning bigger paycheques. Our balanced approach to increasing the minimum wage will help workers make ends meet while also recognizing the concerns of small businesses who are struggling during this difficult time.” Earlier this spring, in recognition of exceptionally high inflation, the Manitoba government passed amendments to the Employment Standards Code to increase the minimum wage above the rate of inflation, the premier noted. Following consultations with the labour and business communities, the provincial hourly minimum wage will increase to $13.50 from $11.95 on Oct. 1, 2022. Additionally, the province intends a further increase of 65 cents on April 1, 2023, that will raise the minimum wage to $14.15 per hour. With the expected consumer price index increase for 2022, the next indexed adjustment will bring Manitoba’s minimum wage to around $15 for Oct. 1, 2023, the premier added. “This wage increase will provide much-needed support to hard-working Manitobans who have been burdened by soaring cost-of-living increases,” said Labour, Consumer Protection and Government Services Minister Reg Helwer. “Manitobans have worked tirelessly throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, and we are committed to relieving some of the financial strain.” However, an additional increase to the minimum wage could create pressure on Manitoba’s small businesses. To help reduce this risk, the Manitoba government will be consulting with the industry on support programs to help adjust to higher payroll costs. “Manitoba small businesses are the backbone of our economy and we are committed to helping them grow and thrive,” said Economic Development, Investment and Trade Minister Cliff Cullen. “As we continue to grow our economy, we want to attract more workers and high-quality investments to our province. We are committed to working with our business community to address the impacts of this wage increase and find workable solutions together.” Information on Manitoba’s minimum wage and other employment standards is available at www.gov.mb.ca/labour/standards/.

Source: BPS News Release At 2:32am, police responded to a report of a female with multiple stab wounds to her upper body.  The female indicated her neighbor was responsible for the assault and police attended the residence in the 100’ block of 4th Street.  While outside of the building, police made contact with the suspect in an upstairs suite.  The 27 year old man proceeded to throw “ninja style” throwing stars at the officers.  He then attempted to flee the scene and in doing so threw a knife at officers.  He was apprehended after a foot pursuit and arrested.  The suspect was lodged at BPS to appear in court later today.  The Brandon Police Major Crime Section continues to investigate the incident.

The City of Brandon’s Operations and Water Treatment staff have identified that the water main break that cut pressure to many residences and businesses in Brandon yesterday originated in a large pipe near the city's water treatment plant. That portion of the distribution pipe was isolated from the system and the rest of the system was pressurized, returning water service. This pipe is one of the City’s main distribution pipes and is 400 millimetres in diameter. When it failed, it affected pressure throughout the system. The pipe was installed in the 1960's and is made of concrete. Crews are preparing the site to repair the water main break as soon as possible. They are mobilizing equipment to remove water from the area today. The plan is to begin excavation of the site tomorrow once the water has been removed. The temporary boil water advisory continues to be in effect today for a portion of the city: south of the Assiniboine River, and west of 18th Street, reaching to our city limits. More information on the boil water advisory can be found here.

Source: BPS News Release At 9:08pm, police observed a 35 year old man who was wanted in the 100 block of 1st Street.  The suspect fled from police on foot.  He was contained in the area and arrested a short time later.  The suspect appeared to be under the influence of methamphetamine and fought with arresting officers.  He was also found to be in possession of meth.  He was held in custody for court in the morning.

UPDATED: Here is an update on the Water Main Break from our General Manager of Operations: City crews have located the exact location of the watermain break.  They are currently working on a solution to isolate the issue and restore pressure to much of the affected areas in the City. Updates will continue to be provided as information becomes available. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Since early this morning, the City of Brandon has been aware of a large spread issue of low water pressure throughout large portions of the city. The Operations Department is coordinating with the Water Treatment Facility to identify the source of the issue. It is suspected that a large water main break has occurred, and we are working to locate this break. More information will be provided once it becomes available.