January 10th, 2024, was marked by a variety of significant developments across Winnipeg and Manitoba.
From healthcare updates to weather disruptions, here’s a concise overview of the day’s major news stories.
St. Boniface Hospital to Receive New Beds Amidst Staffing Challenges
St. Boniface Hospital is set to receive 36 new acute care beds, as announced by the provincial health minister, Uzoma Asagwara.
This $13 million investment aims to alleviate the long wait times for emergency care, which have reached nearly 14 hours. The phased opening of these beds, starting late March, faces the hurdle of finding sufficient staff to operate them fully.
Investigation of International Student’s Death Shifted to Alberta
The Independent Investigation Unit of Manitoba (IIU) has transferred its probe into the police shooting of Afolabi Stephen Opaso, a 19-year-old international student, to the Alberta Serious Incident Response Team (ASIRT).
This move, intended to avoid perceived conflicts of interest, comes as Opaso was fatally shot by Winnipeg police on December 31, 2023, during a mental health crisis.
Recovery of Stolen ATV in Portage la Prairie Through Tracking Device
A stolen ATV from the Winnipeg area was recovered in a Portage la Prairie garage, thanks to an AirTag location-tracking device installed by its owner.
RCMP arrested a 43-year-old man in connection with the theft, highlighting the effective use of modern tracking technology in property recovery.
Removal of Honours for Alleged Nazi Supporter Ferdinand Eckhardt
The Manitoba government and the Winnipeg Art Gallery (WAG) are revoking recognitions awarded to Ferdinand Eckhardt.
This decision follows revelations of Eckhardt’s support for the Nazi regime in the 1930s. Premier Wab Kinew emphasized the importance of this reckoning in correcting past injustices.
Closure of Perimeter Highway Due to Winter Weather
Winnipeg’s Perimeter Highway was closed for the first time this winter due to hazardous conditions brought on by heavy snowfall.
The shutdown, announced late on January 10th, comes with warnings of fines for driving on closed roads, as the province braces for continued snow until Thursday night.
