October 3 marks a significant milestone for Premier Wab Kinew, as he celebrates his first year leading Manitoba’s provincial government. He shared the personal and political highlights that have made the past year rewarding.
One of the standout achievements for Kinew has been the province-wide gas tax holiday, a move he believes has made a real difference in the lives of everyday Manitobans. From January 1 to the end of December 2024, the gas tax was reduced to zero, giving people a bit of extra breathing room in a time of rising costs.
“It just puts money back in the pockets of the average person out there who's driving to work or using the vehicle at work, whether it's gas or diesel."
He’s heard firsthand from Manitobans how the tax break has helped ease their financial stress.
“One of the first conversations I had this year was at the rink, one of the hockey parents saying that they gassed up and took the kids, and they were able to grab a quick bite to eat with the money that they saved. That was one of the things that let me know that we were able to make a difference there.”
While the gas tax holiday has provided short-term relief, Kinew acknowledged that many families are still feeling the squeeze from inflation and high interest rates. However, he is proud that Manitoba maintained the lowest gas prices in Canada all year.
Along with the gas tax cut, he mentioned the success of a rebate program for home security systems, which helped families feel safer in their homes. The premier hinted at the possibility of a second round of this program, noting its dual benefits of boosting affordability and enhancing personal security.
On a more personal note, one of the premier’s most moving experiences this year was attending the 80th anniversary of D-Day in France.
“That was really powerful and very moving to pay tribute to our veterans, meet some of the veterans of D-Day, and to be able to attend the cemeteries. Then to come back here to Manitoba, feeling so grateful for our democracy and the freedoms that we have, that were defended and protected by those great people in previous generations.”
Gratitude was a recurring theme in Kinew’s reflection on his first year in office.
“This has been the great honor of our lives,” he said, speaking on behalf of his team. “We're one year in, and we've moved the needle on some areas, like affordability with the gas tax cut and healthcare by adding more staff, I think that is a start. We made a lot of promises in the election, and we’re going to keep delivering on those commitments, while listening to issues that are brought forward.”