The Manitoba government is set to enhance worker safety and health protections through new proposed legislation, announced Labour and Immigration Minister Malaya Marcelino. The proposed legislation, known as Bill 17, aims to strengthen protections by amending the Workplace Safety and Health Act and reinstating the Advisory Council on Workplace Safety and Health.
Minister Marcelino emphasized the importance of safe employment conditions, stating, “Our government knows the best way to grow our economy is with good, safe jobs for Manitobans.” She highlighted the government’s commitment to ensuring every worker in the province is treated with dignity and respect in a secure work environment. Marcelino criticized the previous administration for removing critical worker protections and disbanding the Advisory Council on Workplace Safety and Health, actions which, she noted, were contrary to the advice of both the labour and business communities.
The legislation seeks to restore the Advisory Council, disbanded in 2018, which is to be comprised of 13 members representing workers, employers, and technical and professional bodies. The council’s primary role will be to provide the minister with advice on occupational health and safety matters, as well as suggestions on legislative and regulatory modifications to further protect Manitoba workers.
