Highlights
- Manitoba has deposits of 29 out of 34 officially designated critical minerals.
- Lacks strategic investment and development plans.
- Columnist Kevin Klein criticizes NDP government for inaction.
- Provinces like New Brunswick actively pursue critical mineral strategies.
- The province risks economic self-reliance.
- Concerns about youth outmigration.
- Missed opportunities in a strategically important sector.
In his opinion piece for The Winnipeg Sun (opens in a new tab), columnist Kevin Klein sharply criticizes Premier Wab Kinew (opens in a new tab) and Manitoba’s NDP government for what he characterizes as a stunning neglect of the province’s vast critical minerals potential. Klein’s central argument is that while provinces like New Brunswick are rapidly mobilizing strategies to capitalize on critical mineral reserves essential to the global economy and national security, Manitoba—despite sitting on deposits of 29 out of Canada’s 34 officially designated critical minerals—is doing nothing.
According to Klein, there is no funding, strategic plan, tax incentives, or signal from the government that it recognizes the opportunity, let alone intends to pursue it.
To back his claim, Klein compares Manitoba’s inaction with New Brunswick’s proactive approach, quoting that province’s Natural Resources Minister and citing federal priorities around critical minerals. He also references Manitoba’s growing deficit, youth outmigration, and poor ranking in mining investment attractiveness, as measured by the Fraser Institute (opens in a new tab), to argue that economic self-reliance is slipping away while other provinces seize the moment. The article highlights the Tanco Mine and the broader mineral wealth of Manitoba as a squandered strategic advantage that could attract private investment, high-paying jobs, and long-term prosperity.
However, the piece focuses on hard data or specific examples of missed investment opportunities or halted projects. It assumes consensus around mining development without deeply addressing complexities like environmental regulation, Indigenous consultation, or global market volatility. Klein also veers into partisan territory, criticizing the government’s focus on social policy—such as Bill 43 on gender pronouns—as a distraction from economic priorities. This framing may alienate readers who view social progress and economic strategy as compatible rather than mutually exclusive.
Overall, Klein’s editorial is a forceful call for action on critical mineral development, fueled by economic urgency and political frustration. While the opinion is compelling and raises valid concerns, it would benefit from a more balanced consideration of the barriers and responsibilities involved in developing such a sensitive and strategic sector. As it stands, it’s a political broadside more than a policy blueprint.
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