The Ministers’ Dinner remains a favourite event among Manitoba Chambers of Commerce (MCC) members, selling out quickly once again this year.
This members-only event provides business and community leaders the opportunity to engage directly with cabinet ministers and senior government representatives during a networking reception and over dinner.
Dinner guests participated in candid discussions on topics ranging from economic growth and workforce challenges to infrastructure, trade and community development. Tariffs, the cost of fuel and groceries, seasonal time changes, and the opportunity surrounding the Port of Churchill were also frequently raised.
The evening began with a message on the importance of kindness and a blessing from Elder Barbara Nepinak. Dinner guests then heard from keynote speaker, Honourable Uzoma Asagwara, Deputy Premier and Minister of Health, Seniors and Long-Term Care. In their remarks, the Minister highlighted the direct relationship between reliable healthcare services and a strong local economy and spoke about the government’s efforts to recruit physicians and other healthcare professionals while expanding access to health services for Manitobans.
Attendees also recognized the significant contributions of Chris Lorenc, President and CEO of the Manitoba Heavy Construction Association, to Manitoba’s economy over more than three decades. His upcoming retirement was met with a warm standing ovation from those gathered, in recognition of his exceptional leadership, effective advocacy, influential policy work, and longstanding support of the Manitoba Chambers of Commerce.
Events like the Ministers’ and Deputy Ministers’ dinners and advocacy trips to the Manitoba Legislature and Parliament Hill underscore the importance of ongoing collaboration between government and the business community.
The Manitoba Chambers of Commerce extends its sincere thanks to all ministers, MLAs, government officials, sponsors and members who participated in this year’s dinner and contributed to another successful evening of dialogue, engagement, and connection.
