The Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak is welcoming the provincial government’s decision to launch an independent review of Manitoba’s Child and Family Services funding and governance model.

Families Minister Nahanni Fontaine announced the review earlier this week after years of calls from First Nations leadership for changes to how the system is funded.

MKO Grand Chief Garrison Settee says the current Single Envelope Funding model has not kept pace with growing needs since it was introduced in 2019.

The organization says the review should consider factors including rising numbers of children in care, increasing case complexity, inflation, staffing needs and higher operating costs.

MKO also notes that Indigenous children continue to be overrepresented in Manitoba’s child welfare system, accounting for about 91 per cent of children in care.

The external review is expected to begin later this year and take about a year to complete.

MKO says it wants First Nations leadership, CFS authorities and agencies to play a central role in the review process, with any future changes developed in partnership with Indigenous communities.

Manitoba has been ranked Canada’s top-performing province for reducing internal trade barriers, earning an A rating in the Canadian Federation of Independent Business’ 2026 Internal Trade Report Card.

The province also received a perfect score for direct-to-consumer alcohol sales, with the government saying the recognition reflects efforts to make it easier for businesses to buy and sell goods across provincial borders.

The province points to legislation passed last year that removes barriers to trade in goods and services between Manitoba and other Canadian jurisdictions.

It has also signed agreements with provinces and territories to recognize each other’s regulations and reduce transportation-related barriers, measures the government says will cut red tape, improve the movement of goods and create new opportunities for businesses to grow.

Business, Mining, Trade and Job Creation Minister Jamie Moses says the changes will help Manitoba businesses compete across Canada while supporting investment and job creation.

The CFIB report notes continued implementation will be important to ensure businesses and consumers see the full benefits of the changes.

Last year’s wildfire mitigation work left some residents wondering when remaining deadfall around neighbourhoods will be cleaned up.

Mayor Colleen Smook says more work is planned, although there’s no firm timeline yet.

She says Thompson Fire and Emergency Services secured a grant for chainsaws, brush saws and safety equipment to support FireSmart neighbourhood champions and volunteers clearing brush near vulnerable areas like Eastwood and Westwood.

Mayor Colleen Smook says cleanup efforts were delayed earlier this year, but the city still plans to continue the work.

Smook says the cleanup remains part of the city’s FireSmart efforts to reduce wildfire risk around residential neighbourhoods.

She says residents can also play a role by helping remove deadwood in approved areas.

An increase in hepatitis A cases across Manitoba has prompted the province to expand eligibility for the hepatitis A vaccine.

Health officials say the overall risk to Manitobans remains low, but they’re encouraging those who qualify to take advantage of the free vaccine.

Bruce Krentz, Health Promotion Coordinator with the Northern Health Region, explains who is now eligible to receive a free hepatitis A vaccine under the province’s expanded criteria.

People looking for more information or to book an appointment can contact the Thompson Public Health Office at 204-677-5350.

Heavy equipment operators continue to be in demand across northern Manitoba, with opportunities in mining, construction, road maintenance and community infrastructure.

UCN is now accepting applications for its next Heavy Equipment Operator certificate program.

The six-week course combines classroom instruction with hands-on training on six different pieces of equipment while also providing several industry-recognized safety certifications.

Gurdeep Jassal, Operations Coordinator of the Workforce Development Centre at UCN, says the program prepares students for a variety of careers.

The program will be offered through UCN’s Workforce Development Centre in Thompson.

Applications are being accepted until August 28, with classes set to begin September 28.

To hear more about UCN’s Heavy Equipment Operator certificate program, including the training students will receive and the careers it can lead to, tune in to Thompson Today this afternoon at 12:40 and 5:10.

A Thompson driver is facing a hefty fine after being stopped for excessive speeding on Highway 6 near Grand Rapids.

Thompson RCMP say a vehicle was clocked travelling 176 kilometres an hour in a 100 kilometre an hour zone at around 4 p.m. Tuesday on the busy highway. Police say the 28-year-old Thompson driver was issued a $1,045 speeding ticket along with a Serious Offence Notice.

RCMP are reminding motorists that there is no excuse for dangerous driving and are urging everyone to obey speed limits and help keep Manitoba’s roads safe.

The federal government is continuing to invest in Canada’s critical minerals sector, announcing the first agreement under its new $2-billion Canada Critical Minerals Accelerator.

The program is designed to speed up mining and processing projects that support Canada’s economy, national security and clean energy transition.

The announcement has relevance for northern Manitoba, where nickel remains a key industry.

Earlier this year, the Canada Growth Fund committed up to US$85 million toward the acquisition and revitalization of the Thompson Mine Complex as part of a broader investment of up to US$200 million.

The project is expected to help secure the future of one of Canada’s largest underground nickel mining operations, which employs nearly 700 people. Nickel is one of Canada’s designated critical minerals.

Recent flooding has caused road closures and damaged infrastructure in parts of Manitoba, leaving many people wondering whether summer travel plans need to change.

While some parks, campgrounds and attractions have been affected, Travel Manitoba says there are still plenty of destinations across the province that are open and ready to welcome visitors.

Sherry Kaniuga, Communications Specialist with Travel Manitoba, says travelers don’t necessarily need to cancel their plans, but they should be prepared to adjust them if needed.
 

Kaniuga says supporting communities that are open is still important, especially as many tourism operators continue recovering from this year’s flooding.

Thompson’s business community continues to navigate rising costs and workforce shortages, but there are also encouraging signs for the future as investment and development continue across the North.

Jason Fryza, President of the Thompson Chamber of Commerce, says while challenges remain, there are plenty of reasons to be optimistic about Thompson’s future.

Fryza says making sure Northern businesses and workers can take part in future growth will help build long-term momentum for Thompson’s economy.

To hear more from Jason about Thompson’s business outlook and the opportunities ahead, tune into Thompson Today at 12:40 and 5:10.

Two people are facing charges after an RCMP Traffic Services stop on Highway 6 led to the seizure of drugs, cash and evidence linked to alleged trafficking.

Police say officers stopped a vehicle south of Grosse Isle on July 22 after learning the occupants had been travelling overnight from Thompson to Winnipeg.

More than $10,000 in cash was seized during the stop, and a subsequent search of a Winnipeg home uncovered about one kilogram of methamphetamine, roughly 700 suspected fentanyl pills, score sheets and other items.

A 23-year-old Winnipeg man is facing several charges, including possession for the purpose of trafficking, while a 24-year-old Winnipeg woman has been charged with possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000.

The Manitoba government has expanded eligibility for free hepatitis A vaccinations as the province continues to respond to an ongoing outbreak that began in 2025.

Under the updated criteria, anyone six months of age or older can receive one free dose if they live in an Indigenous community in Manitoba, regularly travel to one, or have household visitors from an Indigenous community.

Children born on or after January 1, 2010, who meet those criteria remain eligible for a second dose.

The province says hepatitis A spreads through contaminated food or water and close contact with an infected person, even if they don’t have symptoms.

Officials are reminding Manitobans that frequent handwashing with soap and water is one of the best ways to help prevent infection.

Anyone experiencing symptoms of hepatitis A is encouraged to contact their health-care provider. The updated vaccine eligibility is now in effect.

The Manitoba government is expanding its one-time Manitoba Flood Recovery Program to include more communities hit hard by heavy rainfall and flooding in June.

The program was created to help homeowners and tenants in areas where traditional Disaster Financial Assistance may not have been available because flood insurance existed for their property.

The province says the expansion follows a review of flood impacts across Manitoba.

Newly eligible communities include the City and Rural Municipality of Dauphin, Mossey River, Ethelbert, Grandview, Gilbert Plains, Lakeshore, Ste. Rose, Rossburn, Russell-Binscarth, Riding Mountain West, Prairie View and Boissevain-Morton.

Residents in those municipalities can now apply for financial assistance through the Manitoba Flood Recovery Program.

More information is available through the Manitoba government.

The Manitoba government is expanding its international trade network with the addition of new regional trade representatives in Europe and Mexico.

The province says the move is aimed at helping Manitoba businesses reach new markets, attract investment and reduce the province’s reliance on the U.S. market. 

The new representatives will work to build business relationships, identify export opportunities and support future trade missions.

The announcement builds on Manitoba’s recent decision to establish a trade representative in India as part of its long-term economic development strategy. 

Hudbay Minerals has become the inaugural top-tier sponsor of this year’s Central Canada Mineral Exploration Convention, or CCMEC.

The company is the first to support the convention’s new highest sponsorship level, known as Au79Rush, recognizing Hudbay’s long-standing mining heritage and commitment to the region.

Vale and Rodren Drilling have also signed on as sponsors at other newly created levels.

Convention organizers say the sponsorship highlights growing confidence in the event, which brings together industry leaders, Indigenous partners, governments and suppliers.

CCMEC takes place November 2nd and 3rd in Winnipeg, with organizers reporting trade show booths are already 70 per cent sold.

Construction continues on Thompson’s new Aquatic Centre, with work underway throughout the facility as crews make progress on multiple parts of the project.

The City’s architects recently visited the site to inspect construction and ensure the building is coming together as planned.

Thompson Mayor Colleen Smook says work is continuing throughout the new facility as construction moves ahead.

The City says the Aquatic Centre is now expected to be completed late next spring.

While the project is taking longer than originally planned, officials say the focus is on making sure the facility is built properly so it can serve the community for decades to come.

Gypsumville RCMP are currently investigating nine suspected arsons that occurred between May 15 and July 8, 2026.

In less than two months, the following locations have been deemed a total loss:

• May 15 at 5:09 am: Arson to an abandoned house on Main Market Road
• May 24 at 7:23 pm: Arson to an abandoned house on Townsite Road
• June 29 at 5:37 pm: Arson to a vacant building near the cottage area
• July 1 at 8:30 pm: Arson to a house trailer on New Road
• July 3 at 1:07 am: Arson to a house on Main Market Road
• July 3 at 4:00 pm: Arson to a vacant house on Lake View Road
• July 3 at 11:34 pm: Arson to a vacant house on School Road
• July 7 at 1:56 am: Arson to a vacant house on Main Market Road
• July 8 at 6:53 pm: Arson to a vacant house on Highway 6

Currently, it is unknown if these incidents are related. No suspect has been identified but a four-wheeler has been seen in the vicinity of a few of these fires.

Anyone with information is asked to call the Gypsumville RCMP at 204-659-2682, Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-8477 or submit a secure tip online at www.manitobacrimestoppers.com.

NDP candidate Jennifer Flett has been elected as the new MLA for The Pas-Kameesak following Tuesday’s provincial byelection.

Flett, a former Opaskwayak Cree Nation vice-chief and councillor, succeeds the late Amanda Lathlin, who represented the riding from 2015 until her passing earlier this year.

In a statement, Premier and NDP Leader Wab Kinew said Flett’s experience in leadership and corrections will make her an important voice in government.

Flett says she’s honoured by the support of voters and plans to focus on health care, jobs and infrastructure across the constituency.

The NDP says voters gave Flett and the party a strong mandate in the byelection.

Knowing where to find support is an important part of self-care. The Northern Health Region is reminding residents that there are free mental health resources available for people of all ages.

Bruce Krentz, Health Promotions Coordinator with the Northern Health Region, shares a few services that are available.

Krentz says residents can also find information about local mental health programs and other wellness services through the Northern Health Region website, encouraging anyone who needs support to reach out.

Self-Care Day is coming up this Friday, and the Northern Health Region says it’s a good reminder that looking after your well-being is important year-round, not just during Mental Health Month or the winter months.

Bruce Krentz, Health Promotions Coordinator with the Northern Health Region, says self-care involves several different parts of your overall health.

Krentz says taking time to care for your physical, mental, emotional, social and spiritual well-being can help you stay healthy throughout the summer.

Thompson’s mining industry could help cushion the community from some of the uncertainty surrounding international trade.

But a new report from the Canadian Federation of Independent Business says local businesses could still feel indirect impacts if investment slows or supply costs continue to rise.

Andreea Bourgeois says Thompson’s mining sector is in a stronger position than many other industries, but that doesn’t mean the community will avoid the ripple effects of economic uncertainty.
 

To hear the full interview about CFIB’s latest business report, tune into Thompson Today at 12:40 and 5:10.

Thompson families with children or teens facing a mental health crisis have access to a dedicated local resource.

The Hope North Recovery Centre for Youth provides crisis stabilization services for anyone under the age of 18 experiencing a non-emergency mental health crisis.

Iris Chan, Education and Training Coordinator with the Canadian Mental Health Association Thompson, explains what youth and families can expect when they reach out.

Hope North Recovery Centre for Youth is located at 70 Princeton Drive. Anyone experiencing an emergency should seek immediate emergency medical care, while those facing a non-emergency mental health crisis can contact the centre directly for support.

People in Thompson looking for mental health support have another place to turn without needing an appointment.

Eaglewood Treatment Centre is continuing its drop-in peer support program every other Friday, offering a welcoming space for anyone looking to connect or talk through a difficult time.

Iris Chan, Education and Training Coordinator with the Canadian Mental Health Association Thompson, says the program is designed to make support easy to access.
 

U.S. President Donald Trump has announced plans to impose new 50 per cent tariffs on a wide range of Canadian exports, with the measures set to take effect in 30 days.

The White House says the tariffs are a response to what it calls Canada’s discrimination against U.S. commerce in the automotive, dairy and alcohol sectors.

While products such as energy, potash, critical minerals and fish would be exempt, the tariffs would apply to many other Canadian goods that have previously entered the U.S. tariff-free under CUSMA.

Prime Minister Mark Carney called the move another unilateral trade action that violates the agreement, while business groups on both sides of the border are urging negotiations before the tariffs take effect.

A new report from the Canadian Federation of Independent Business says many of the jobs filled by temporary foreign workers are the same ones Canadian youth are least likely to pursue.

According to the research, young Canadians are generally less interested in overnight shifts, physically demanding work, outdoor jobs, and positions in rural or remote communities.

CFIB says those ongoing gaps leave many small businesses struggling to find workers.

The organization says Manitoba’s new Youth Work Experience Hiring Incentive will help connect students with employers, but adds it won’t replace the Temporary Foreign Worker Program, which many businesses rely on to keep operating.