The Reminder is making its archives back to 2003 available on our website. Please note that, due to technical limitations, archive articles are presented without the usual formatting.
The provincial opposition has introduced a bill that would put Manitoba Hydro under the fiscal microscope before its capital development plan proceeds. PC Hydro Critic Reg Helwer, who introduced the bill Tuesday, said the government 'is forcing Manitoba Hydro into a 10-year, $20-billion capital development plan based on uncertain and weak economic conditions.' 'This bill would allow the Public Utilities Board to conduct a comprehensive economic review of Hydro's major capital plans to ensure viability before spending the $20 billion,' he said. The bill, known as the Manitoba Hydro Ratepayers Protection Act, would appear to stand little chance of passage in the NDP-dominated legislature. The PCs say the Public Utilities Board, along with other Hydro stakeholders, has for already called for a review of Hydro's major capital development plans. 'Hydro has already raised rates on an 'emergency' basis to pay for added costs brought on by NDP political interference,' said Helwer. 'This $20-billion Hydro capital plan rests on the political assumptions of (Premier) Greg Selinger and only $7 billion of predicted import revenues. It's time to ask the right questions at Hydro.' _ Compiled from a Manitoba PC Caucus news release
