Manitoba to Launch 2026 Inquiry into Former PC Government’s Sand Mining Push

Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew revealed on Friday that his government will initiate a public inquiry in 2026 to investigate the former Progressive Conservative (PC) administration’s efforts to approve an environmental licence for the sand-mining company Sio Silica. This announcement follows a ruling by the provincial ethics commissioner that found former Premier Heather Stefanson and two of her cabinet ministers violated conflict of interest laws during the caretaker period after the 2023 election by pushing the licence approval.

Ethics commissioner Jeffrey Schnoor concluded in May that Stefanson, former deputy premier Cliff Cullen, and former cabinet minister Jeff Wharton breached conflict of interest legislation through improper lobbying on behalf of Sio Silica. Following this finding, the Manitoba Legislature imposed fines of $18,000 on Stefanson, $12,000 on Cullen, and $10,000 on Wharton, who remains the PC MLA for Red River North.

While the ethics commissioner’s report was detailed, Premier Kinew emphasized that several key questions remain unanswered, particularly regarding the motives behind the PC government’s actions. “Why did they risk so much for this project? What was the real incentive?” he asked, noting that Schnoor’s investigation could not examine financial holdings or other potential conflicts linked to the case.

The NDP government is currently developing terms of reference for the inquiry and searching for a qualified commissioner to oversee the investigation. The inquiry is expected to last two to three years, with a goal of concluding before the next provincial election scheduled for October 2027.

Kinew also signaled plans to strengthen Manitoba’s lobbying regulations, which he described as “too weak” at present. He underscored the need for transparency to ensure that Manitobans have clear insight into government dealings and that democratic processes remain robust.

This proposed inquiry into Sio Silica would mark the third major public investigation initiated by Kinew’s government. Another inquiry is underway examining the procurement and construction process of Winnipeg’s police headquarters, with public hearings set to begin in early 2026. An earlier promise to review the pandemic response has been set aside to focus on forward-looking priorities.

Not everyone supports the inquiry, however. Paul Thomas, professor emeritus at the University of Manitoba, expressed doubts about its usefulness, calling it “politically motivated.” He questioned whether the inquiry will genuinely serve the public interest or merely provide the NDP with political ammunition against its rivals. Thomas also warned of the financial cost, noting that public inquiries can cost millions of dollars — a significant concern as the province faces a projected $1.6 billion deficit.

The Progressive Conservative Party also criticized the plan. PC leader Obby Khan accused Premier Kinew of “playing political games” on a matter that has already been investigated and resolved through fines and legislative action.

Meanwhile, Sio Silica’s president, Carla Devlin, said the company intends to fully cooperate with the inquiry as it continues to pursue responsible development of Manitoba’s silica resources.

In other developments, Premier Kinew dismissed speculation about calling an early provincial election in 2026. Instead, he said the government remains focused on key priorities such as improving healthcare services, expanding the Port of Churchill, addressing the rising cost of living, and tackling homelessness.

Kinew highlighted recent legislation aimed at boosting competition in the grocery sector to help lower prices, cautioning against direct financial handouts to Manitobans, which he said risk fueling inflation. He also announced plans to double the number of individuals transitioned from homeless encampments to permanent housing in the coming year. Additionally, the government remains committed to opening a supervised consumption site in Winnipeg, despite opposition from some local residents and business owners, with a willingness to consider feedback and provide potential support to affected businesses.