Former Law Dean Wanted in Canada-Wide Warrant Case

A major legal case is unfolding in Canada. Moreover, it involves a former university leader. In addition, it has drawn national attention.

A Canada-wide arrest warrant has been issued for Jonathan Black-Branch. He once led the Faculty of Law at the University of Manitoba. However, he is now facing fraud allegations tied to university funds.

Canada-Wide Warrant Issued

The warrant was issued on March 30. Furthermore, it relates to fraud over $5,000.

According to the Winnipeg Police Service, the investigation is still active. However, officers say they cannot share more details right now.

In addition, officials confirm Black-Branch has left Canada. As a result, authorities are seeking him nationwide.

Alleged Misuse of University Funds

Black-Branch served as dean from 2016 to 2020. During that time, concerns grew. Moreover, a complaint triggered an internal review.

That review found over $600,000 in spending issues. For example, money was used for programs, travel, meals, and housing.

Even more, over $518,000 went to professional development. These payments included trips to major schools like Harvard and the University of Cambridge.

However, investigators said the spending did not follow proper rules.

Court Ruling and Money Recovery

Black-Branch was fired in July 2020. After that, the case moved to court.

The Court of King’s Bench of Manitoba later gave a default judgment. It ordered repayment of about $679,000 plus costs.

In addition, interest continues to grow on the total amount.

Meanwhile, the university says it is still trying to recover the money. A spokesperson said accountability remains a top priority.

As a result, collection efforts continue without delay.

Disbarment and Professional Findings

The case did not stop in Canada. Moreover, it reached the United Kingdom.

The Bar Standards Board for England and Wales disbarred Black-Branch in February. The ruling cited serious misconduct.

In addition, the tribunal said he failed to act with integrity.

Earlier, he was also disbarred in Manitoba. That decision came from the Law Society of Manitoba after a long hearing.

However, he did not attend those proceedings.

University Steps and Ongoing Probe

Meanwhile, the university says it has changed its systems. For example, it added new financial rules.

In addition, staff now take training on ethics and spending.

Even so, the case is not closed. The Winnipeg police investigation continues.

As a result, more updates may come later.

What Happens Next

Black-Branch may still request another hearing. However, that depends on legal rules and timing.

Meanwhile, authorities continue their search. Moreover, recovery of funds remains active.

For now, the case remains open across borders.

The post Former U of Manitoba Law Dean Faces Canada Warrant first appeared on Maple News Wire.

Shifting the focus to literacy in Manitoba

The Manitoba Human Rights Commission (MHRC) released a comprehensive 137-page report on Thursday highlighting that while the province has begun reforms in literacy instruction, significant gaps remain in ensuring every child can learn to read. The report identifies children with learning disabilities as facing particular hurdles in accessing what the commission frames as a “basic and essential human right.”

Current reforms and remaining deficits

In recent years, the province of Manitoba made strides—such as revising the English Language Arts curriculum and issuing a directive for universal early reading screening. However, the MHRC report notes the current approach to teaching reading lacks consistency and clarity regarding the most effective methods. The commission recommends a shift toward a “direct, explicit, systematic and cumulative approach” to reading instruction, similar to frameworks used in Ontario.

Specific issues for students with disabilities

Survey work commissioned by the MHRC in 2023 involving students, parents and school-staff revealed that benchmark assessments used in many schools are unreliable or not well suited to the task of identifying reading difficulties. The report further states that even when screening happens universally, there is often no documented path to follow-up supports for children who require additional help. Among the recommendations: bolster training for educators, address shortages of school psychologists and speech-language pathologists, and expand access to assistive reading technologies.

Voices from parents and advocacy groups

At the report’s launch event, parents and disability advocates pressed the urgency of action. One parent, Natalie Riediger, whose two children have dyslexia, said she had no choice but to withdraw them from the public education system due to insufficient supports. Meanwhile, Alicia Smith, Executive Director of Dyslexia Canada, said she hopes this report propels Manitoba’s reforms to match advances seen in other provinces. A fifth-grader, Jacob Dyck, described personal struggles of falling behind in reading and losing time to play and rest in the process.

Monitoring progress and next steps

The MHRC says it will continue to monitor implementation of the reforms and plans to issue a follow-up review in 2026-27. In the meantime, the commission calls on Manitoba’s education authorities to adopt its detailed recommendations — which span curriculum design, screening tools, educator training and support services — to give every child an equal opportunity to learn to read.

Why this matters for Manitoba’s future

The ability to read fluently is foundational for academic success and lifelong participation in civic and economic life. According to the MHRC, failing to address systemic barriers in literacy disproportionately affects children with disabilities, posing risks of exclusion and inequality. Ensuring all children in Manitoba acquire reading skills aligns with human rights commitments and strengthens the province’s long-term productivity and social cohesion.

How stakeholders will respond

The province of Manitoba has acknowledged the report and indicated a willingness to work on the recommendations. Going forward, key actions will include clarifying how reading instruction is delivered, selecting validated screening tools, ensuring targeted interventions are available, and measuring outcomes. Education stakeholders — including school boards, teacher associations and parent groups — will play crucial roles in shaping how the reforms are implemented at the classroom level.

The post Manitoba urged to act on literacy gaps, rights report says first appeared on Maple News Wire.

Amid Shortage, Virden Turns to Old Water Source

The town of Virden, Manitoba, population about 3,000, is under a drinking water advisory after officials were forced to reactivate an old aquifer known to have high arsenic levels.
The advisory, issued October 19, followed an emergency switch when the town’s primary aquifer—developed in 2021—reached critically low levels earlier in the month.

Aquifer Levels Drop, Triggering Emergency Measures

On October 10, the municipality asked residents to conserve water as supply from the 2021 aquifer fell to “seriously low” levels.
With storage nearly depleted, town engineers brought two older wells back online. However, historic testing showed that this aquifer previously exceeded Health Canada’s drinking water guideline for arsenic—0.01 milligrams per litre.

Public Health Concerns and Advisory Details

Tests are ongoing to determine whether the town’s reverse osmosis and greensand filtration systems can bring arsenic levels below safety limits.
The advisory warns that long-term exposure to arsenic above the guideline may increase the risk of certain cancers.
Residents have been urged to use bottled water for drinking, cooking, and baby formula preparation. Officials also emphasized that boiling water may increase arsenic concentration, making it unsafe for consumption.

Residents Voice Frustration and Fear

Local resident Kathy Heaman said many are “frustrated and looking for answers,” noting that bottled water shelves have emptied quickly.
Another resident, Jennifer Ritchie, said she’s buying bottled water for her son, citing family cancer history.
Meanwhile, John Hipwell, whose private well ran dry after the town tapped into the 2021 aquifer, believes the municipality “ignored warnings about sustainability.” He said his property’s groundwater dropped nearly a metre in three months and eventually ran dry, costing him $40,000 to dig a new well.

Provincial Agencies Coordinate Response

A Manitoba Water Services Board spokesperson said provincial experts are working with the town to identify a safe and sustainable alternative.
For now, one pre-existing well is being used while a replacement well is drilled. Oversight comes from Environment and Climate Change Manitoba and Manitoba Health, which continue testing treated water samples before any advisory changes.

Officials stated the town’s water team is “well trained” in municipal operations but lacks expertise in groundwater and aquifer management, prompting the need for provincial guidance.

Transparency and Accountability Moving Forward

Nursery school operator Frances Lansing commended the town’s communication efforts but said she has long relied on bottled water for children in her care.
Some residents argue that earlier water restrictions could have slowed the depletion. Hipwell said the town “should have banned sprinklers and car washing months ago.”

Mayor Tina Williams was unavailable for comment but previously confirmed that the new wells “may not be a permanent fix.”

Sustainability Questions Remain

A 2020 study by W.L. Gibbons and Associates warned of limited recharge capacity in Virden’s groundwater system—an issue that appears to have materialized sooner than expected.
Experts say the town’s experience highlights a broader challenge across rural Manitoba: balancing water security with contamination risks in aging aquifer systems.

Until test results confirm the treated water meets safety standards, Virden’s precautionary advisory will remain in effect, leaving residents to rely on bottled water and uncertainty about their town’s long-term water future.

The post Virden faces arsenic warning after tapping old aquifer first appeared on Maple News Wire.

Ambitious vision for Manitoba’s economy

On Saturday, Wab Kinew, Premier of Manitoba, announced the province is advancing three large-scale “megaprojects” across the energy and infrastructure sectors, which he said could generate up to $30 billion in new economic activity — a level equal to more than a third of Manitoba’s current gross domestic product.

Project scope and status

One of the three initiatives is a planned expansion of the Port of Churchill, which would require federal funding from the Government of Canada. Kinew said the port project “has been very public”. He described the second project as having financing in progress, and the third as “almost certainly going to happen” — but declined to name either of the remaining two projects or provide further detail.

Timeline and location

These projects are to take place in Manitoba within the next five to ten years, Kinew said, with the goal of transitioning the province from a “have-not” to a “have” status. The expansion of the Port of Churchill would be located in northern Manitoba, while the energy-sector projects would be spread across the province. He made the remarks on a podcast hosted by David Herle, and later spoke to reporters from his office.

Rationale behind the push

Manitoba’s current generating capacity is about 6 100 megawatts through Manitoba Hydro. The Crown utility has warned that demand and connection requirements for new industrial operations — including data-centres and other energy-intensive facilities — could outstrip capacity within the next four years. The mega-project plan is intended to bridge that gap and stimulate economic growth.

Implications and funding challenges

To realise the port expansion and energy projects, substantial funding will be required — including federal contributions and capital investment for infrastructure and energy generation. Kinew reiterated Manitoba’s aim to wean off federal transfer payments by 2040, but offered no detailed breakdown of how the new revenue would be generated. Critics say the announcements lack concrete timelines, funding commitments and transparent plans.

Reception and next steps

Obby Khan, Leader of the Opposition Progressive Conservative Party of Manitoba, dismissed the announcement as a “big flashy” promise without backing: “No dates, no timeline and no plan,” he said in an interview. Meanwhile, Manitoba Hydro is already pursuing partnerships with Indigenous-led power companies to add 600 megawatts and seeking regulatory approval for another 500 megawatt fuel-burning plant as interim capacity measures.

The post Manitoba eyes $30B boost from three new megaprojects first appeared on Maple News Wire.

Crown Attorneys Leave Mediation Table

The Manitoba Association of Crown Attorneys (MACA) ended labour-mediation talks with the provincial government on Friday, saying the province failed to bring meaningful proposals to address mounting workload pressures. The association represents Crown prosecutors across Manitoba and has long raised alarms about burnout and resource shortages.

Dispute Rooted in Longstanding Grievance

The conflict dates back to April 2023, when MACA filed a grievance demanding the province tackle what it described as “dangerously heavy caseloads.” Prosecutors sought higher pay, additional hires, and structural reforms to the justice system. After more than two years without resolution, arbitration was set to begin this week before talks broke down.

Workload Pressures Intensify

Ben Wickstrom, MACA’s vice-president of prosecutions, said Friday that the organization decided to walk away because “continuing wasn’t going to get us anywhere acceptable.” He said prosecutors need “real resources on a very urgent basis.” The introduction of body-worn cameras, along with proposed federal Criminal Code amendments leading to harsher sentences and more contested bail hearings, has sharply increased workloads.

Government Defends Its Record

Justice Minister Matt Wiebe responded that the NDP government has already hired 35 new prosecutors and raised compensation. “We’ve made significant progress,” he said, adding he was “disappointed and surprised” by MACA’s withdrawal. Wiebe emphasized the province remains willing to negotiate, though he warned the government “is not interested in negotiating through the media.”

Disagreement Over Staffing and Pay

MACA disputes the minister’s claims, asserting the hires merely filled existing vacancies rather than adding new positions. The pay raises, Wickstrom said, resulted from a February 2024 arbitration ruling granting a five-year contract with just under 14 per cent wage increases retroactive to 2022. “There’s a real disparity between Manitoba and other provinces,” he said, pointing to recruitment challenges as prosecutors leave for Ontario and B.C.

Next Steps and Broader Impact

MACA confirmed new arbitration dates are being arranged, though the process could take up to a year. In the meantime, Manitoba’s justice system faces continued strain amid staff shortages and heavy caseloads. The association warns that without additional resources, the province risks longer court delays and further attrition among experienced prosecutors.

Why It Matters to Manitobans

The breakdown underscores a growing crisis in Manitoba’s prosecution services. As workloads rise and retention falters, the stability of the justice system hangs in the balance. Both sides say they want a fair resolution — but for now, the province’s courtroom capacity remains under pressure, and public confidence could erode if the dispute drags on.

Stay connected with Canada’s latest headlines — follow Maple News Wire on Instagram | Facebook | X | LinkedIn.

The post Manitoba Crown Attorneys End Talks, Cite Burnout Crisis first appeared on Maple News Wire.

Orange Shirt Day Walks Inspire Healing Across Manitoba

A Day of Reflection and Hope

Thousands of Manitobans donned orange shirts on Tuesday to participate in events commemorating the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. The fifth annual Orange Shirt Day Healing Walk, organized by the Southern Chiefs’ Organization (SCO), brought together Indigenous and non-Indigenous participants in Winnipeg.

Voices of Survivors

Elder Mary Bryan, originally from the Sapotaweyak Cree Nation, reflected on her journey as a day school and Sixties Scoop survivor. “I’ve been working on myself to heal, by teaching and telling my story… I’ve come a long way, but I’m still healing,” Bryan said. Walking alongside her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, she emphasized the importance of multiple generations sharing in the healing process.

Recognizing Past Harms

Orange Shirt Day was founded in 2013 by survivor Phyllis Webstad, who had her orange shirt taken away on her first day at a residential school. Sept. 30 became a provincial statutory holiday in Manitoba last year. The day honors children who were forced into residential schools, day schools, and those taken during the Sixties Scoop.

Community Engagement and Education

Grand Chief Jerry Daniels highlighted the broader significance: “It gives me hope that we’re recognizing the truth and history of Canada… and arming teachers and students with the truth of where we’ve been and hope for our future.” Attendees like Matthew Pettigrew from New Brunswick noted the slow but necessary path toward healing across generations of Indigenous families affected by residential schools.

Ceremonies and Cultural Celebrations

Events included a pipe ceremony at The Forks, followed by the Healing Walk, and concluded with a Healing Powwow at the RBC Convention Centre. Survivor Nancy Gray said the powwow was “fulfilling” and celebrated Indigenous culture, long suppressed by residential schools. Premier Wab Kinew addressed attendees, noting, “When you dance powwow, you prove that people who started the residential schools failed in their attempt to destroy Indigenous culture.”

Commemorating Assiniboia Residential School

Over 100 people gathered near the former Assiniboia Residential School site, unveiling three new plaques in multiple Indigenous languages as well as English and French. Darian McKinney, a board member of the Assiniboia Residential School Legacy Group, stressed the importance of acknowledging the intergenerational impacts of residential schools. MP Ben Carr added that knowledge about residential schools has grown significantly but emphasized the need for continued education.

A Step Toward Reconciliation

Orange Shirt Day remains a critical moment in Canada’s ongoing journey toward reconciliation. Across Manitoba, participants reflected on historical harms, celebrated cultural resilience, and underscored the shared responsibility of learning and healing for future generations.

The post Orange Shirt Day Brings Healing, Unity to Manitoba Survivors first appeared on Maple News Wire.

Province Confirms Relocation Plans

The Manitoba government says its first supervised consumption site will move to a new location following community concerns. Premier Wab Kinew confirmed on Wednesday that the province remains committed to opening the facility but will not proceed with the originally proposed site.

Concerns Over Initial Site

The project had been planned for 200 Disraeli Freeway in Winnipeg’s core, near a high school and several child-care centres. Local residents objected, arguing the placement posed safety risks and was not appropriate for a neighborhood so close to schools.

Premier Responds to Pushback

Kinew said the NDP government took community input seriously and has committed to reassessing options. He announced a new approach: any potential site will be assessed with a 250-metre buffer zone to ensure it is not too close to sensitive facilities such as schools or daycares.

Ottawa Submission Still in Place

The provincial government had already submitted its original proposal to the federal government, seeking approval for a facility where people could use drugs under supervision, with medical staff ready to respond to overdoses and provide connections to treatment. The site would be the first of its kind in Manitoba.

Delays to Opening Timeline

The province had initially aimed to open the supervised consumption site this year. However, with the location change, officials now expect delays. No new opening date has been announced.

Balancing Safety and Health

Kinew stressed that the government remains committed to harm reduction and overdose prevention. “We want a site that saves lives while also respecting the concerns of families,” he said. Manitoba continues to face rising overdose deaths, making the project a key element of its public health response.

For continuous coverage and real-time updates, keep following Maple News Wire.

The post Manitoba Seeks New Location for Drug Use Site first appeared on Maple News Wire.

The post Toxic Metals in Wildfire Smoke Raise Alarm in Manitoba first appeared on Maple News Wire.

Wildfire Reaches Leaf Rapids, Triggers Emergency Evacuation

An aggressive wildfire burning in northern Manitoba crossed a natural firebreak and entered the town of Leaf Rapids on Wednesday night, prompting the evacuation of all remaining firefighters and essential personnel.

Flames Cross Churchill River, Threaten Industrial Zone

Around 8:15 p.m., Leaf Rapids officials announced via Facebook that the wildfire—previously burning northwest of the town—had jumped the Churchill River and begun spreading through the community’s industrial sector. This alarming development led to an immediate withdrawal of firefighting crews from the area.

Multiple Fires Surround Community

According to the provincial wildfire map, the fire that breached the town limits measured over 2,500 hectares as of Tuesday. Despite being the smallest of three fires threatening Leaf Rapids, it was the first to directly impact the community. Meanwhile, a massive fire southwest of the town has grown to over 30,300 hectares, and another to the east has reached 15,500 hectares. All three remain out of control.

Smoke and Fire Drive Out First Responders

Due to thick smoke and the escalating danger, town officials confirmed that all firefighters and essential workers have been ordered to leave the area indefinitely. “Hope for the best, and if nothing else be thankful everyone got out safely,” read a portion of the town’s statement.

Community Displaced Since Early July

Leaf Rapids, home to approximately 300 residents and located about 155 kilometres northwest of Thompson, declared a state of emergency on July 7. All residents were instructed to evacuate within 24 hours. Many, like former mayor Ervin Bighetty and his family, have since been housed in Winnipeg hotels.

Displacement Continues with Uncertain Return

Bighetty shared his concerns with News, expressing uncertainty about the future of the town. “I don’t know when we’re going to go home, if we’re going to have a home to go to,” he said. However, he added that the safety of his family brings comfort amid the uncertainty.

As fires continue to burn across Manitoba’s north, provincial authorities have yet to provide a timeline for when it might be safe to return. For now, the town of Leaf Rapids remains abandoned—its future left hanging in smoke.

For continuous coverage and real-time updates, keep following Maple News Wire.

The post Firefighters Evacuate Leaf Rapids as Wildfire Enters Town first appeared on Maple News Wire.

Wildfire Smoke Disrupts Outdoor Life in Manitoba

Thick smoke from ongoing wildfires continues to blanket Manitoba, leading to widespread disruptions and the cancellation of several outdoor events across the province, including in Winnipeg, Brandon, and northern regions. Air quality warnings remain in effect as officials urge residents to stay indoors.

Women’s Bike Ride Cancelled Over Safety Concerns

The annual Fancy Women Bike Ride in Winnipeg was cancelled for the second time this year, this time due to dangerously poor air quality. The ride, which celebrates women’s freedom and mobility through cycling, had already been postponed once due to thunderstorms. Organizers, including local advocate Patty Wiens, emphasized that this is the first year Bike Winnipeg has cancelled events purely due to smoke.

“We’re making health-first decisions,” Wiens said, noting the group has introduced a new policy to cancel events if air quality is rated as high risk.

Youth Soccer Matches Moved Indoors

The Winnipeg Youth Soccer Association was also affected, relocating 12 recreational playoff games indoors midway through Saturday’s championship kickoff. Officials cited the worsening air quality index, which reached “very high risk” (10+) levels throughout the weekend, as a primary reason.

Some Events Push Forward With Precautions

Despite the smoke, the Fringe Festival in Winnipeg and the Manitoba Stampede in Morris remained open. Fringe organizers distributed masks to attendees and volunteers. One visitor, Jamie Fougere, attended with his masked family, sharing concern about the lack of widespread mask use among the crowd.

Sailing Competition Called Off in Gimli

In Gimli, the Sail West regional championships, set to run from July 17–20, were cancelled for safety reasons. The four-day event would have brought 40 competitors to the water. Event co-chair Eric Turner said the call to cancel was necessary and may lead to permanent changes in safety protocols.

“We now need a formal air quality policy,” Turner noted. “Some sports have one, some don’t. This situation makes it clear we need one.”

Smoke Lingers With No Clear Exit

Meteorologists say that nearly all of Manitoba is under air quality advisories, with the smoke lingering due to light winds and low atmospheric movement. Brad Vrolijk of Environment and Climate Change Canada explained that the smoke is simply “smearing around with the winds,” with little airflow to disperse it.

The current pattern suggests no significant change in the immediate future, raising concerns about the long-term impact on summer events, public health, and outdoor recreation across the province.

For continuous coverage and real-time updates, keep following Maple News Wire.  

The post Wildfire Smoke Forces Event Cancellations Across Manitoba first appeared on Maple News Wire.