Latest news with #MikeMoyes
Winnipeg Free Press
4 hours ago
- Business
- Winnipeg Free Press
Cabinet authorizes environment minister to dismiss appeals of mining plant's approval
The provincial cabinet has agreed to let the environment minister dismiss appeals related to the licensing of a new tailings plant at a critical minerals mine near Whiteshell Provincial Park. The July 16 order in council allows Environment and Climate Change Minister Mike Moyes to dismiss four appeals filed after the Chinese-owned Tantalum Mining Corp. of Canada Ltd. — Tanco — was issued an Environment Act licence on Aug. 27 to build and operate a new tailings reprocessing facility. A tailings plant is a specialized structure designed to safely store and manage waste materials produced during mining operations. SUPPLIED An aerial view of the Tanco Mine near Lac du Bonnet. Environmental appeals related to the construction of a new tailings plant can now be dismissed by Manitoba's Environment and Climate Change minister. The mine operates on the northwest shore of Bernic Lake, 180 kilometres northeast of Winnipeg. Mining at the property began in the 1920s, with tin. Now it produces tantalum, cesium and lithium. Tanco filed an Environment Act proposal on Nov. 9, 2023 to build a mill producing 3,000 tonnes per day. The proposal advertised in newspapers raised concerns in the area, including some from the Bird River Cottage Owners Association. The association's written submission to the province said a project 'of this magnitude' shouldn't be approved until more is known about the reprocessing operation. The cottage owners also expressed concern about increased traffic, safety, noise, impacts to environment, wildlife and water. 'Residents and cottage owners that have enjoyed the natural beauty of Bird River for the last several decades should be able to continue to do so safely, and peacefully for decades to come,' said the association, which did not respond to a request for comment Tuesday. There were 49 submissions during the public review period, and most were related to traffic, road safety and water quality — issues that were addressed during the environmental assessment and licensing process, the cabinet order issued earlier this month said. After Tanco received its Environment Act licence on Aug. 27, four appeals were submitted to the minister, the order in council said. The appeals were 'similar to those raised during the public review period and were addressed during the environmental assessment process through licensing conditions.' It authorized the minister, Moyes, to dismiss them. 'Manitoba's environmental protections are strong, which is why concerns raised by Manitobans and experts were directly addressed through licensing conditions for this project,' the minister said in a prepared statement Tuesday. Wednesdays What's next in arts, life and pop culture. 'We know Manitobans want a healthy environment for their children and our government is committed to protecting our environment for generations to come.' The way Environment Act appeals can be dismissed shows the process is 'broken,' said Eric Reder with the Wilderness Committee. Although the public review process for Environment Act licence proposals is transparent, with comments and concerns posted online, that is not the case with appeals, Reder said. Once a licence has been issued, the public is kept in the dark about appeals, with no explanation of concerns raised or any conditions imposed to ensure they're addressed, the wilderness advocate said. 'The government really has to show their work on this,' said Reder, who said he has no issues with the Tanco mine operation, other than the way the appeals were dismissed by cabinet decree. He called on the Kinew government to commit to establishing a 'robust' environmental appeals process that is transparent and accountable. Carol SandersLegislature reporter Carol Sanders is a reporter at the Free Press legislature bureau. The former general assignment reporter and copy editor joined the paper in 1997. Read more about Carol. Every piece of reporting Carol produces is reviewed by an editing team before it is posted online or published in print — part of the Free Press's tradition, since 1872, of producing reliable independent journalism. Read more about Free Press's history and mandate, and learn how our newsroom operates. Our newsroom depends on a growing audience of readers to power our journalism. If you are not a paid reader, please consider becoming a subscriber. Our newsroom depends on its audience of readers to power our journalism. Thank you for your support.
Winnipeg Free Press
5 days ago
- Business
- Winnipeg Free Press
Think big, think proud
Opinion Now that we have our elbows up, we can look below and discover the potential; discover the need. Why has Canada relied on other countries for a vast array of services and production? Let's come up with Manitoban or Canadian solutions. Think big. Let's go all in! So, to hear that our minister of environment and climate change, Mike Moyes has made 5,000 heat pumps more readily available just doesn't cut it. Actually, the Crown corporation Efficiency Manitoba already has an incentive program for heat pumps. How about 50,000 or 500,000? Think big! Also, that would benefit immensely our net-zero target. What about announcements in regard to Manitoba Hydro's future plans? Remember, Manitoba Hydro controls electricity and natural gas (which is 80 per cent methane) supplies. Again, they just don't cut it. There is no mention of any significant energy-producing projects, such as large wind farms in the works, or building solar farms in the making. How about solar panels on every home? Did you know that in the Netherlands one in three homes has solar panels? Why hasn't Manitoba Hydro been more involved in geothermal projects? Of note, Waverley West, a community in Winnipeg, was supposed to have a geothermal energy source. What we hope or should expect to hear from Finance Minister Adrien Sala are, in my view, twofold: plan for a net-zero target; and aggressively pursue renewables so the electrification of homes and buildings can take place soon, and greenhouse gas use and emissions can be eliminated. So what do we hear in reports such as Manitoba Hydro's integrated resource plan and the Manitoba Affordable Energy Plan? There is no mention of an aggressive move away from natural gas. This is very much not in keeping with the UN Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. What we hear from Manitoba Hydro is that they project no change in natural gas use by 2030. Manitoba Hydro states that to get to net-zero, the use of direct air capture (DAC), which is another way of saying carbon capture, is what they will rely on. Let's be very clear. Carbon capture and DAC are largely unproven despite a lengthy trial period time. It is the opinion of many that the mention of carbon capture or direct air capture is a form of greenwashing — 'Look, we are doing something; don' t try to regulate us.' It is also disappointing to hear nothing from Moyes or Sala about retrofitting current buildings and homes, meaning to replace natural gas systems with heat pumps, electric furnaces and electric boilers. This is the first priority of Canada's Green Buildings Strategy. Actually, the only mention of natural gas was in speaking to the question of energy supply security — what if the renewable energy supply failed? You would like to hear that the problem could be dealt with by a large increase in renewable supply and investing in battery technology, to help get through the down times. The other mention of natural gas was that it may be the case that, to meet current and future energy demands, two new energy production plants would have to be built. Unfortunately, the source of energy to run these new facilities likely is natural gas. Again, one would like to hear that our planned increase in renewables should easily meet any energy demands. Relying on renewables to be the main source of power is working very well in parts of the world and Canada. Spain now has most of its energy supply from renewables. They have massive solar farms. Texas has about one-third of its energy needs met by renewables. A recent article about Nova Scotia states they propose to build enough offshore wind turbines to produce 40 gigawatts of electricity. This is an ambitious plan and time will tell if it comes to fruition, but the Nova Scotia premier states ' the excess electricity could supply 27 per cent of Canada's total demands. I guess my point is we know that renewable energy projects are being built at national, provincial, statewide and municipal levels, so really, what's the hold-up? Think of the cost savings associated with the mitigating of climate change. Specifically, the elimination of methane. Let's think big and think proud. We can do it! Scott Blyth writes from Brandon.
Global News
18-07-2025
- General
- Global News
Manitoba to spend $2M on upgrades to Spruce Woods Provincial Park
The province says it's spending more than $2 million to spruce up Spruce Woods Provincial Park in western Manitoba. Environment and climate change minister Mike Moyes announced the upgrades Friday, and said the funding will go toward 'significant' work on two trails — including a new floating boardwalk and viewing platform, as well as the replacement of a flood-damaged bridge — plus 70 new electrical pedestals for campers and additional equipment. 'This investment represents our government's commitment to improving Spruce Woods Provincial Park in the Westman region for families to explore and enjoy,' Moyes said in a statement. Get daily National news Get the day's top news, political, economic, and current affairs headlines, delivered to your inbox once a day. Sign up for daily National newsletter Sign Up By providing your email address, you have read and agree to Global News' Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy 'With free park entry for 2025, this summer is the perfect time for Manitobans to enjoy our beautiful parks and take in all they have to offer.' A volunteer non-profit group aimed at enhancing public enjoyment at the park said it's proud to be working with the province to make needed changes. Story continues below advertisement 'These upgrades reflect our shared values of environmental stewardship and community engagement, and we look forward to the lasting positive impact they will have on Spruce Woods and the Westman region,' said Ann Stout, president of Friends of Spruce Woods Provincial Park.
Cision Canada
03-07-2025
- General
- Cision Canada
Fisheries and Oceans Canada partners with the Manitoba Government to conduct an aquatic invasive species roadside inspection blitz
WINNIPEG, MB, July 3, 2025 /CNW/ - The Government of Canada is conserving nature and biodiversity and protecting our freshwater, including by combatting aquatic invasive species (AIS), such as Zebra and Quagga Mussels. AIS pose a serious threat to Canada's freshwater ecosystems, infrastructure, and economy. These species reproduce rapidly, disrupt native habitats, damage water intake systems, and lead to costly impacts for industries and local communities. To help protect Canada's waterways from these threats, Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO), in partnership with the Manitoba Government, conducted a joint roadside inspection blitz on Highway 1 (the Trans-Canada Highway) near the Manitoba-Ontario border from June 20 to 22, 2025. The goal was to stop and inspect watercraft for AIS and to ensure the watercraft were cleaned, drained and dried before crossing the provincial border. During the three-day inspection blitz, DFO's AIS Core Program and Fishery Officers, along with Manitoba Conservation Officers, Patrol Officers, and staff from their AIS program, stopped and inspected a total of 383 vehicles transporting 436 watercraft or related equipment. Of these: 326 watercraft were compliant with clean, drain, dry requirements. 110 watercraft were not cleaned, drained, or dried and failed the AIS inspection. 38 watercraft required decontamination and drivers were provided with instructions on how to comply with prevention measures in the future. 2 watercraft had visible Zebra Mussels present. Preventing the introduction and spread of AIS is essential to safeguarding Canada's waterways. Inspecting watercraft and ensuring they are properly cleaned, drained, and dried helps prevent AIS from being introduced to, and established in, new bodies of water. A second joint roadside inspection blitz is planned for later this year. Quotes "Canada's natural heritage is part of our identity. Protecting our diverse and unique waterways from the negative impacts of aquatic invasive species is vital to preserving the health of our natural environment now, and for future generations. This joint inspection blitz with the Manitoba Government demonstrates the importance of collaboration and public awareness in preventing the spread of these harmful species in our waters." The Honourable Joanne Thompson, Minister of Fisheries "Manitobans care deeply about our beautiful lakes and rivers and being able to enjoy them today and for generations to come. As the summer season begins, we appreciate the strong collaboration with Fisheries and Oceans Canada to stop the spread of AIS and to protect waterways on both sides of the Manitoba-Ontario border. I want to remind Manitobans and visitors to play their part by cleaning, draining, and drying their watercraft and equipment." The Honourable Mike Moyes, Manitoba Environment and Climate Change Minister "Our lakes and rivers are a part of who we are in Manitoba. They're where we gather, fish, paddle, and make memories. That's why stopping the spread of aquatic invasive species is so important. I'm proud to see this kind of hands-on collaboration between the federal and provincial governments, working together to protect the water we all depend on." The Honourable Terry Duguid, Member of Parliament for Winnipeg South Quick Facts Aquatic invasive species (AIS) are freshwater or marine plants, animals, algae and micro-organisms introduced outside their natural or past distribution that have significant negative impacts on the environment, economy, society, or human health. AIS can pose a serious threat to the biodiversity of Canada's waters. After habitat loss, invasive species are the biggest threat to global biodiversity. They can grow quickly, compete with native species and alter habitats, and cost billions of dollars annually in damages to infrastructure and revenue loss in Canada. Under the Aquatic Invasive Species Regulations, it is illegal to: introduce an aquatic species into a body of water where it is not native, unless authorized by federal, provincial or territorial law possess, transport, and release Zebra Mussels in Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Alberta and British Columbia import Zebra Mussels into Canada, except within the transboundary waters of the Great Lakes in Ontario and transboundary waters of Quebec Individuals who violate legislation related to aquatic invasive species may face substantial fines under provincial legislation, as well as a maximum fine of $100,000 for a first offense under the federal Fisheries Act. Associated Links Clean, Drain, Dry and Decontaminate Aquatic Invasive Species Regulations Identify an aquatic invasive species Report an aquatic invasive species Province of Manitoba | Aquatic Invasive Species Stay Connected SOURCE Fisheries and Oceans Canada Ontario & Prairie Region
Winnipeg Free Press
24-06-2025
- Business
- Winnipeg Free Press
Province launches ‘most generous' incentives for home heating, cooling upgrades
The Manitoba government hopes to encourage homeowners to upgrade their heating and cooling systems, lauding a new incentive program as the 'most generous offer' the province has ever introduced. The affordable home-energy program will help cover the cost of installing ground-source heat pumps for eligible homeowners. Switching from electrical heating to a geothermal system could save people who qualify for the program up to $1,000 annually and reduce their energy bills by up to 30 per cent, the province said Tuesday. RUTH BONNEVILLE / FREE PRESS FILES Mike Moyes said heat pumps are among the most efficient ways to heat and cool residential homes because they use less than half the energy required of a typical electric furnace. 'We know that this a big shift from traditional heating systems and that's why we're backing this program with some of the most generous financial supports Efficiency Manitoba has ever offered,' Environment and Climate Change Minister Mike Moyes told reporters as he announced the program. Moyes said the heat pumps are among the most efficient way to heat and cool residential homes because they use less than half the energy required of a typical electric furnace. The province has set a target of converting 5,000 homes to the geothermal pumps, which will mitigate Manitoba's peak energy demands and reduce emissions, he said. 'In Manitoba, we're committed to being a net zero province by 2050 and exploring renewable and sustainable energy sources is part of that goal,' Moyes said. Ground-source heat pumps circulate a heat transfer fluid through a network of underground pipes. The fluid absorbs heat from the earth and then pumps it into the home via a fan or radiator system. The process is reversed when cooling a home, extracting the heat from inside and redistributing it underground. The system is designed to work even in cooler temperatures. The amount people enrolled in the program will save on pump installation is determined by which incentive level they qualify for. The savings tiers are based on various factors, including household income, said Colleen Kuruluk, CEO of Efficiency Manitoba. 'When designing our offers, we recognize that every household is different and the needs of Manitobans are certainly unique. This ranges from the size of the home to the number of occupants to their income and ability to invest in energy efficiency,' she said. 'Participants don't need to pay anything up front. We pay the contractor directly, and the monthly cost is conveniently added to their energy bill.' Tuesdays A weekly look at politics close to home and around the world. Some homeowners could see up to 75 per cent of the installation cost covered by the incentive program. They will be expected to repay the remaining expense via monthly payments added to their heating bills, Kuruluk said. Despite the repayment cost, most homeowners will spend less overall on their monthly energy bills, allowing them to immediately realize the savings, she said. Efficiency Manitoba expects to spend about $10 million annually on the program, although the overall budget could be higher, depending on the popularity of the program, Kuruluk said. More options are available for multi-unit residential buildings. Additional information is available on the Efficiency Manitoba website. Tyler SearleReporter Tyler Searle is a multimedia producer who writes for the Free Press's city desk. A graduate of Red River College Polytechnic's creative communications program, he wrote for the Stonewall Teulon Tribune, Selkirk Record and Express Weekly News before joining the paper in 2022. Read more about Tyler. Every piece of reporting Tyler produces is reviewed by an editing team before it is posted online or published in print — part of the Free Press's tradition, since 1872, of producing reliable independent journalism. Read more about Free Press's history and mandate, and learn how our newsroom operates. Our newsroom depends on a growing audience of readers to power our journalism. If you are not a paid reader, please consider becoming a subscriber. Our newsroom depends on its audience of readers to power our journalism. Thank you for your support.
