It’s about time

Re: Police HQ report ‘outrageous’: Kinew (Oct. 21)

For over a decade, Winnipeggers have been angry and frustrated by the police headquarters debacle — angry about what Premier Wab Kinew called “people in business who (ripped off Winnipeggers) to the tune of $43.3 million” and frustrated by the inability of “the system” to fully hold those responsible accountable. It has shaken the confidence of Winnipeggers in the honesty and competence of politicians, the bureaucracy and others. This inquiry has been an important step on the road to restoring that confidence.

Thanks to Premier Kinew, who initiated the public inquiry, and inquiry commissioner Garth Smorang there is now much more transparency and there might be more accountability coming.

There are also many others to thank, including those whose work provided the information (going back to 2010) Smorang required for his review. Further kudos to Smorang for completing the inquiry within budget and with fewer hearing days than scheduled.

A shout-out to the Free Press is also in order, for devoting the resources to fully cover the inquiry, and to reporter Joyanne Pursaga and her colleagues, who attended hearings and provided excellent reportage of this lengthy and complicated process.

As a bonus and as a direct result of these combined efforts, Prosecution Services is examining whether new information has come to light that will justify commencing criminal proceedings.