The Great Canadian Talk Show

Marty Gold carries on the tradition of investigative journalism in Winnipeg
See it at ActionLine.ca & every Wednesday & Sunday in the Winnipeg Sun!

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21 episodes
Updated Yesterday

Episodes21

Newest first

Yesterday · 1 hr
Aug 9 2026- Giesbrecht Claims Edge in Transcona Ward Race
Our series of civic election interviews continues in Episode 31 with Chris Giesbrecht, one of the four declared candidates in Transcona ward. Part 1- A 31 year old with a year of work as an assistant to the area MP, Chris Giesbrecht is well-versed in aiding residents. "Customer service is a universal language in my opinion." One of the big issues he's hearing at the doorstep is how the botched Winnipeg Transit revamp has delivered criminally minded fare-jumpers directly to the Regent Avenue residential area, with one frightened voter describing "people camping out", going through yards while making finger-gun gestures at the homeowner. He said that instead of backing bus operators who try to enforce fare payment, Transit management issue disciplinary notices to the employees, and union members told him they feel like getaway drivers as shoplifters abscond from local malls. He discusses why Council should be reviewing KPI- Key Performance Indicators - on Transit's senior management. 19.58 Part 2- Giesbrecht outlines other top-of-mind concerns that voters in Transcona are raising with him. Those included Mayor Gillingham's property tax increases, crumbling streets, and the City using accounting tricks to stall building a new East of the Red recreation centre. 31.10- Another sore point in the ward is that young families can't find affordable housing; at the same time new planned high-density developments could overpower the rural character of South Transcona and create traffic and dangerous emergency response snarls at Dugald and Lagimodiere Blvd. "UFFW reached out to me and said these new developments will be unserviced unless you build a new fire station... we have to have the supporting infrastructure." 41.57 Part 3 - Giesbrecht took note of the way the city has fumbled the Arlington Bridge contract, and is at the same time facing a borrowing crunch. "The city is broke, it needs new revenue streams, it needs to find savings where it can. I think we need to get creative and need to save some money." Hear Giesbrecht's views on bike lanes, drug and addictions policing and treatment, and the costs for taxpayers of the new Water Treatment Plant. He says his public spending focus is on "how can we do it better" and there is support for that approach- "I think there's a general sense that people want change in this election." See more about his platform at www.transconaproud.ca ***** Our recent columns in the Winnipeg Sun: Mark Carney is responsible for the flames ofantisemitism sweeping Canada Collapse of public safety may be past the tipping point, readers say ***** WE EARN YOUR SUPPORT Unlike federally subsidized big budget newsrooms that focus on approved narratives and dismiss taxpayer's concerns as irrelevant or antiquated, we speak up for YOU! Your donations ensure our civic election coverage will raise the important issues with the candidates and keep the voters informed. Please help us reach our $3000 target for September 1st by using the Donate tab or by emailing us directly.
August 3 · 1 hr 13 min
Aug 2 2026- Voices of North Logan Speak Outside NDP’s Drug Site
Last week the operators of the NDP government’s "Safe Consumption Site" (SCS) that is slated to open on August 11th at 366 Henry Avenue canceled a planned tour of the facilityfor neighborhood stakeholders. Aboriginal Health and Wellness Centre officials cited obviously fake reasons to duck the in-person scrutiny. In response, those concerned residents and business owners showed up anyways and told the media their side of the story. Marty Gold's report on the press conference was published in the Winnipeg Sun- Consumption site operators provide see-though explanation for canceling tour In Episode 30, you'll hear the press conference audio, including the presentations, the questions from the media, and a special interview with Progressive Conservative leader Obby Khan. Unlike Premier Wab Kinew, he has met with North Logan stakeholders and has listened to their well-founded concerns about the potential worsening of neighborhood safety and public disorder. Part 1- Marty provides background about the event and what led up to it, then introduces the segments with the speakers. 15.50- Joseph Fourre, press conference host. 19.17- Isidro Zapata, North Logan homeowner and community leader. 24.18- Joe Valentim, Four Seasons Auto Body owner. 31.10- Rob Firman, Tench Plumbing and Heating, who spotted a dirty used needle only feet away from the gathering. 38.44 Part 2-Marty introduces more audio from the press conference. Funeral director and mayoral candidate Mike Vogiatzakis noted, "your kids can't even play in their playgrounds anymore” because of used needles scattered in the park. 44.25- Joseph Fourre again speaks, stating "We've seen what happens, you just go to Main Street next to Red Road Lodge and Edge Gallery, and you'll see what (the SunshineHouse mobile van) consumption site has done to that little area." 51.12- The North Logan speakers fielded questions from the media. Norman Alegria, who is the liaison for the community with AHWC, added important details of the bad faith tactics of the NDP's chosen drug site operator . "The one voice that wasn't being listened to was the community members," said Fourre. 1.04.30- Obby Khan, leader of the PC Party, provided exclusive comments for the Great Canadian Talk Show audience. "This government refuses to listen to them... if their safety is a concern now, what happens when there are hundreds of drug users coming here and then being let out on the streets?" ***** Our latest columns in the Winnipeg Sun-Tribune: Public safety collapsing across Winnipeg this summer Consumption site operators provide see-though explanation for canceling tour***** How many broadcast newsrooms in Winnipeg rake in thousands of dollars in federal government subsidies? Plenty. How many of them bring the community extensive audio from community events about the Safe Consumption Site? None. When you contribute to our Season Seven funding campaign, you know that in return, you'll get Public Affairs investigations, analysis and interviews unlike any other media platform in Winnipeg. The current total is $1745. With the civic election about to swing into second gear, you can help us keep pace as we try to reach our goal of $3000 before September 1st. Please email us or use the Donate tab at our website, ActionLine .ca to assist in meeting our ongoing costs and expenses. Thank you to our supporters!
July 26 · 53 min
July 25 2026- Abel Gutierrez Takes Second Run At Elmwood-EK Seat
Episode 29 continues our tradition of giving civic election candidates a chance to make their pitch and answer a few questions, with Elmwood -EK hopeful Abel Gutierrez up at bat! Part 1- He was eager to explain what he learned from his second-place finish in last fall's by-election. Hear why Abel Gutierrez was fast out of the gate this year and his ideas about how to address the "3 top issues" he's hearing at the door" - crime, transit, and value for tax dollars. That last concern is driven by a chart he published on his Facebook campaign page showing residential property assessments increased 18% in East Kildonan - highest in the city - and by 13% in Elmwood. 11.30- He says the focus of Elmwood-EK taxpayers is on getting broken roadways and sidewalks fixed, and in his campaign, "not one person has said the city is doing a bang-up job on maintaining my street, picking up my garbage, picking up my snow." In trying to unseat Emma Durand-Wood, Gutierrez believes she's fallen short thus far: "Eight months have gone by and the advocacy for East Kildonan has not come to fruition." 18.23 Part 2- With 5 candidates registered so far in the Elmwood-EK ward, competition will be fierce to garner voter support. One campaign plank Gutierrez is counting on is getting all civic employees back into the office, and implementing some productivity metrics to identify and eliminate waste inside City Hall. Another example is the Human Rights Committee, which diverts civic resources away from addressing "our backyard and being accountable for money being spent here." He's been floating the idea of expanding working hours for city road projects to positive feedback, citing the Concordia overpass repairs as a prime candidate. Instead, it's used as a "construction zone" radar trap. Gutierrez discusses finding efficiencies in infrastructure contracts- and says the cost of the NDP's Jobs Agreement is raiding taxpayer's wallets without improving the end product one iota. 30.45- Marty raises the costly curb extensions installed on Talbot Avenue that are so visually ineffective the City put a sawhorse in front so drivers will notice. Gutierrez says the neighborhood wasn't asked and got no notice - another failure of the bureaucracy to treat taxpayers with basic respect. He's not in favour of blanket road speed reductions demanded by the anti-car lobby, and cites NK Councillor Jeff Browaty getting common-sense traffic calming design on Springfield Road. 38.38 - One issue that has certainly not been resolved since the by-election has been the public disorder caused by homeless encampments and addictions. "We need to do a better job with encampments," says Gutierrez, "our streets are not a safe place for anybody experiencing homelessness." He mentions that even when housing is found, the system is failing those seeking rehabilitation - as residents have confirmed "there's drug dealers living in the transitional housing" on Cosmo Place, disrupting neighborhood safety. "I believe in the model of rehabilitation... Lots of people suffer with addiction... but at the end of the day we have to take a firm stance on what we're willing to accept and what we're not willing to accept." Gutierrez states, "Open air drug use has no place in our society. Scaring moms trying to leave a daycare with their kids because an individual is having a manic breakdown, we need to make sure we're addressing these things quickly and efficiently." ***** Our latest Winnipeg Sun columns:⁠ Gillingham Sends Homeless Advisor To Quell Osborne Village Uprising Private owners told to clean up City’s mess ***** Please support our election reporting with a donation to the Season Seven Funding Drive- currently at $1745.00 towards our target of $7000. You can utilize the Donate tab on Actionline. ca or email martygoldlive@gmail.com for more information.
July 16 · 1 hr 5 min
July 15 2026- Gilroy Talks Encampments & Drug Use Crackdown, Need For More Democratic City Hall
She's been in the news more often in the last year than at any other time of her 12 year stint on Winnipeg city council, and in Episode 28 you'll hear directly from Councillor Cindy Gilroy about the key issues heading into her re-election campaign. In Part 1, Gilroy reviews initiatives undertaken to preserve infrastructure and restore parks and trees in her Daniel McIntyre ward. 11.00- Marty Gold compares her success in saving amenities for the West End with the destruction of Happyland Pool in the St. Boniface neighborhood. "You're raising a very big challenge that all inner-city wards have ... we don't really balance it out," saying she is "always terrified of what could happen to Sherbrook Pool." 17.25 Part 2- Gilroy describes her fight to ensure Sherbrook Pool is properly staffed and that the area is made safer for users, including adding cameras and staff. She advocates hiring locals as they 'get' the community, and wants to help establish programming to train kids to become lifeguards. As to homelessness and addictions, "that is something that has impacted residents and businesses in my ward," and she explains why she supports a managed encampment that city leaders refused to consider. "I cannot understand the rationale for leaving things the way they are... You are correct marty, we would see a reduction in the (emergency) services required... I do think there is room for the province to be part of the discussion." If services were delivered there and "not in neighborhoods where it’s affecting families (it would be) much safer than wehave it now." Gilroy also believes overdose deaths would be reduced. 25.30 - Gilroy is asked about the NDP provincial government refusing to provide space on provincial property for homeless women and addicts at risk of exploitation in encampments. She called for law enforcement to arrest the perps. “They need to be in jail. If you are exploiting somebody, if you’re raping somebody, they’re not in an encampment- I want them in jail, that’s the reality… if you’re doing something so blatantly violent towards other people, you need to be in jail and kept in jail.” 31.00- In regards to the recent police blitz on open drug use, which included her ward, Gilroy supported it, stating “I have seen very blatant” outdoor drug dealing, and “my business owners are threatening to shut their doors because they feel unsafe.” Importantly, she noted that “sometimes, it was because theywere arrested” that addicts sought treatment and recovered. While Mayor Gillingham directed citizens to complain tothe Police Board after police chief Gene Bowers bowed to the demands of social service agencies to back off the crackdown, “I don’t feel as a councillor, I have a say… It’s a frustrating system in terms of what I can and can not do as an elected official.” Gilroy explains how the NDP’s “Your Way Home” strategyprevents the city from removing encampments and move people along, and a lack of coordination between departments. 37.45 Part 3 - We went into overtime to get Cindy Gilroy’s views on issues like - The Arlington Bridge controversy after former Councillor Terry Wachniak tried to blow the whistle on potential risks to the public purse -"he has concerns that are valid." - The new restrictions on valuable public input to council, including that "5 minutes is not enough" and being denied the chance to respond to dubious 'verbal reports' by the bureaucrats. - "Dealing with the 'Strong Mayor' model that is not equitable" is Gilroy's solution, as "people who are not on EPC do not have the access to information." - (At 50.40) on the city nearing its borrowing limit: "I 100% think it's dire and we need to prioritize looking at these big massive projects when there's no need" - The "unbearable" effects of the disastrous WinnipegTransit roll-out and routing buses onto narrow residential roads: "I've used the system, they aren't being whiners." **** To support our reporting- martygoldlive@gmail.com
July 7 · 43 min
July 7 2026- Top Episodes In ’26 Are Forecasting Key Election Issues
Not even Spotify's 'new and improved' analytics could stop us from the annual half-year in review listing the top episodes. Episode 27 tells you the trends revealed by the choices of our listeners! Part 1- A brief of Marty's travels meeting families and fans around Southern Manitoba hosting the cards of Canadian Wrestling's Elite - on Canada Day in West St. Paul, stormy skies threatened but stayed away from the ring until right after the show. Then, the emerging importance of our last podcast about potential Arlington Bridge liability costs. The unusual way the demolition process has unfolded, and City rules that seem to prevent whistleblowers like Terry Wachniak from sounding an on-the-record alarm, has amplified the concerns of many voters that City Hall is failing basic accountability expectations despite "following the rules" - an example of a self-inflicted election issue by the Mayor and Councillors. 15.30 Part 2- A rundown of the most streamed and downloaded episodes for each month of 2026 thus far. Leading the pack in 2026 so far was January's winner, Springfield Councillor Mark Miller Explains RM Split From WMR “It wasn’t misinformation – you were providing accurate information… they did not consult. I’m thankful you were on top of this from Day One... I will not vote for anything that allows the City of Winnipeg to have veto power.” - That exclusive interview demonstrated how ahead of the curve we have been on the entire subject of regional planning and the collapse of the Winnipeg Metropolitan Region. While CRTC-approved newsrooms ignored the story, we continued to dig in, and tracked the decaying orbit of the group since the uproar about the since-shelved Plan20-50. - Now that it has shrunk to only eight member municipalities from 18 - which likely increased the burden on Winnipeg taxpayers - and continues to be unable to hold proper public information sessions, the justification for the City holding a WMR membership without holding a council vote to do so will inevitably emerge as another accountability issue before October. - The leading episode for February stands at second overall in the 2026 rankings, “You Can’t Even Go Shopping Without Fearing For Your Life “Crime is running rampant in our city,” wrote West End business owner Michael Paille. “We should not have to put our staff through self-defense courses just to work in retail… Where is it safe? The city feels more like Gotham every day.“ That feeling has spread to even more neighborhoods since the snow has melted. Listeners will hear about the other four monthly leaders and an assessment of those topics- police chief Gene Bowers and his handling of public safety and homeless encampments; the impact of a Safe Consumption site on public safety turning Councillor Vivian Santos against locating the SCS in North Logan; and an interview with an early challenger to a sitting member of Mayor Gillingham's Executive Policy Committee. All our most listened-to episodes thus far have previewed key and serious subjects that will be top-of-mind for voters on October 28th. **** To contribute to the Season Seven Funding Drive, send story tips or comments,or for sponsorship inquiries and ticket requests for Marty's upcoming in-ring appearances with CWE - email Martygoldlive@gmail.com
June 25 · 37 min
June 24 2026- Wachniak Warns Of “Potentially Crippling” City Liability After Lowball Arlington Bridge Settlement
While the bureaucrats and politicians at Winnipeg City Hall may be “following the rules” in their plan to demolish the Arlington Bridge, former city councillor Terry Wachniak says multi-million dollar risks to taxpayers are being hidden from the public. Part 1- Wachniak reviews his attempts to get key questions answered at two city committee meetings, including "what's the emergency" and who is going to be left holding the bag if there's a structural failure over the CPKCR rail yard. None of the councillors on the Public Works committee were aware of a derailment damaging the bridge in 2018. "I was the unique guy in the room that actually knew what the councillors should have known and what the administration was deliberately not telling them, because have I read the engineering report." Hear about the collision that put the Arlington Bridgeout of plane and his concern about the corrective spring loaded tension failing with the south-side trestles now being removed. Wachniak maintains the bridge is stable because there's been no vibrations from vehicular traffic since its closure in 2023 - otherwise the rail yards beneath would not be operating. Instead, it's the actions undertaken by the City that are creating potential risk. 16.50 Part 2- Wachniak shares more information in Episode 26 of the structural issues, including expansion joints that seized and rusted due to bad drainage, and were then damaged by the derailment, which was never reported to Council at any time. 19.00 Marty Gold beings to review a letter that Wachniak sent the railroad, and our guest jumps in with the scoop- "What you don't know Marty and I'm sure the city councillors don't know either, is the railroad settled out of court with the City of Winnipeg." He described it as "a cash settlement that eliminates them from being responsible for the damage done to the bridge by the railroad." Wachniak tells of speaking with a councillor on the Public Works committee - who was unaware of the derailment causing damage to city property or of the settlement - who guessed the deal was in the range of $20-25 million. Listen for the actual figure- unreported to Council -that's a fraction of that. Wachniak goes on to question how the City will pay for the other 3 segments of the bridge removal when the entire budget of $17 million is being blown on the first- and easiest - phase, or how it will pay if the railyard is disrupted by the remaining bridge sections become unstable - as the charge for that runs into the millions. He cites many pieces of information not given to Council at any point before awarding a $10 million consulting contract to demolish the bridge, with no liability on the contractor, and asserts taxpayers have been sucked into "outrageously, potentially financially crippling" liability if things go wrong with the project. "Another $30-50 million won't be enough," he warns, "and it will come out of other city projects." Wachniak reveals that only one city councillor has bothered to engage him on the subject of the failure of the administration to properly advise councillors of the engineering and financial risks. ***** Read our latest columns in the Winnipeg Sun: Alert fatigue: When emergency warnings stopprotecting the public Rollins rings the alarm bell as toxic drug users overwhelm public safety Families Minister Nahanni Fontaine Struts Her “Feminist”Cred, Ignores Father’s Day ****Our Season 7 funding drive has pulled in almost 25% of our target of $7000. You can help keep Winnipeg's only public affairs podcast and our reporting in the Winnipeg Sun on track for the October civic election by making a contribution, via ActionLine.ca or by emailing martygoldlive at gmail.com. Thank you for your support!
June 16 · 47 min
June 15 2026- Botched Chop Shop Investigation Becomes Bowers' Biggest Blunder
Last year - Winnipeg Police got a search warrant for an illegal hobo shack on the riverbank in the East Exchange District seemingly operating a bicycle chop shop. Last week - Marty Gold had an exclusive interview with the lawyer of one of the accused, after the controversial case was dropped by the Crown. This week - We review a letter sent to the Winnipeg Sun by police chief Gene Bowers after the warrant was acquired- and in Episode 25 ask listeners to judge whether Bowers owes the citizens of Winnipeg an apology after the case fell apart. Part 1- A brief recap of Marty's report on Sunday about a family told they could leave by employees at an East Kildonan pool after they complained about a pair of “absolutely perfectly symmetrical” breast implants being paraded around by a topless male. Then, an explanation of how his reports about the distortion of annual crime statistics and subsequent interview with lawyer Martin Glazer about the flawed riverbank investigation were incorporated into Kevin Klein's excellent column "Winnipeg's crime statistics no longer reflect lived reality." The publisher of the Sun, Klein stated- "When administrative and legal outcomes become the filter through which crime is counted, the statistics stop reflecting what actually happened in this city. They reflect what the system managed to process and prove... The question worth asking is not whether crime is down on paper. It is whether the paper reflects the street." Every city council candidate should be required to read it and respond. 20.05 Part 2- "The article by Mr. Gold demands a response by the Winnipeg Police Service" wrote chief Bowers to the Winnipeg Sun last September, "and Inspector Helen Peters deserves an apology from its author and publisher." Bowers called the column questioning Peter's qualifications to manage the investigation and evaluate if a warrant was needed "a personal attack by a media outlet (that) does not align with the principles of ethical journalism nor does it serve the public interest." As you will hear, considering the flaws Mr. Glazer identified in both the warrant and the investigation - which failed to link the accused to either the shack or to any stolen goods as charged- the last thing Bowers should have been doing was spouting off about how journalists covered the actions of his staff. Bowers and his predecessor, Danny 'Hug-a-Thug' Smyth allowed the mayhem generated by illegal encampments to proliferate and endanger public safety. Was that "ethical"? Meanwhile, the Winnipeg Sun led the way in exposing the violence, theft, and environmental damage allowed by police and elected officials - including former mayor Brian Bowman and then Scott Gillingham - to degrade the quality of life for residents and business owners in the North End, Point Douglas, Downtown, West Broadway, Fort Rouge and West End neighborhoods. 35.55- The failure of the high-profile case has attracted the attention of legal minds across Canada- and has resulted in some good questions being raised about how Bowers and his staff could be held accountable. Listen to the potential pathways for members of the public to do so, even if Mayor Gillingham and City Councillors won't. As Kevin Klein wrote- "When major enforcement operationsfall apart in court, police leadership should explain what went wrong rather than go silent. Accountability is not a political attack. It is basic governance." ***** * The Season Seven Funding Campaign has raised $1630 thus far. Thank you to our donors! * We accept NO government subsidies- and your contributions ensure the bills are paid, the lights are on, the gas tank is full, and ensure we can continue providing the best Public Affairs coverage in Winnipeg. * To chip in or advertise on this podcast, utilize the Donate tab on ActionLine, or send us an email to find the right fit for you.
June 8 · 52 min
June 8 2026- It Takes How Many Cops To Corner A Fugitive?
A statement from Winnipeg police about how they managed a pursuit and subsequent hostage taking in St. James is the main topic of Episode 24 and our Crime, Courts, and Public Safety update. Part 1- You'll hear a brief rebuttal to a critic of our last episode Nahanni Fontaine Disrespectfully Shows The Bottom Of Her Shoes To MLAs and updates to our latest columns in the Winnipeg Sun: Mark Carney is no friend of Canadian Jews Whistleblower shut out at City Hall Political spin can’t hide the bad news in WPS annualcrime report 13. 50 Part 2- On May 29, police tried to apprehend Matthew Gibson, a serial criminal in a stolen vehicle who first rammed a cop car and then busted into a St. James house. He held a father and two teens hostage as he exchanged gunshots with the police and set the house on fire. The perp was felled after the hostages were freed. On Saturday, the WPS posted a link on X to a lengthy statement describing the incident and their four hour operation to take Gibson down. "Our latest story looks at the ripple effects major emergencies can have on service delivery across Winnipeg" https://www.winnipeg.ca/police/community/news-releases/2026-06-06-what-happens-after-cameras-leave "By 2 p.m. that afternoon, the number of urgent calls waiting for response was nearly 80 per cent higher than the average Friday in May... By Sunday afternoon, 337 calls were waiting for dispatch. That is 38 per cent higher than the same weekend last year and 57 per cent higher than the three-year average." Those details raised eyebrows and called into question the decision for a "calling all cars" attendance of 38 patrol units, many of them from neighborhoods where citizens were urgently calling for help. Is the issue actually about the ripple effects of poor personnel management? Listen for the prediction of what could result in a future situation given the bodycam pilot project just announced. 31.40 Part 3- Residents of River Heights are experiencing the effects of "the new normal" in Winnipeg, where politicians and police have decided that there's an acceptable number of garage break-ins and bike thefts. We say that because if it wasn't acceptable, they'd have done something by now, especially after the area recorded the biggest increase in crime - almost 15% - according to annual WPS statistics. We recount the comments of residents who have been repeatedly victimized for years - and it's getting worse- while police brass have failed to develop a comprehensive plan to restore safety to their homes. **** The Season Seven fundraising drive has surpassed 20% of the $7000 goal. Thank you to our donors! You can show your support for the investigations, interviews and in-depth analysis we provide with a contribution using the Donate tab on ActionLine.ca, or by sending an email to evaluate the options to help keep us on the beat as we head into the 2026 civic election campaign!
May 31 · 43 min
May 31 2026- Nahanni Fontaine Disrespectfully Shows The Bottom Of Her Shoes To MLAs
The Minister of Families, Nahanni Fontaine, behaved like a petulant teenager during the budget debate and crossed a red line that must be addressed and denounced by House Speaker Tom Lindsay and all Manitoba MLAs. In Episode 23 we have the audio from the Legislature and describe her unacceptable antics. Part 1- Marty Gold reviews the content produced in the pages of the Winnipeg Sun and on the podcast in the month of May. The wide range of stories, interviews, and analysis provides the evidence that when readers and listeners support the Season 7 Funding Drive, the narratives are challenged and elected officials and bureaucrats are held accountable and are forced to respond. Please donate via this link- https://actionline.ca/2024/02/donate-2/ The latest Sun columns include- Voters may want to quiz city councillors over ward expenses Fake Public Works “emergency” shut out taxpayers from $10M contract debate Ryback ready for another run at St. James council seat And in the new Winnipeg Sun-Tribune Sunday edition- Political spin can’t hide the bad news in WPS annual crime report 22.18 Part 2- The Manitoba Conservatives compiled video clips of how NDP House leader Nahanni Fontaine interrupted PC Leader Obby Khan in the House last week, including repeatedly bellowing "Stop Talking About The Women In My Caucus" when Khan opined on the performance of her fellow cabinet members. Fontaine was trying to run interference for the likes of her BFF, Addictions Minister Bernadette Smith, and Health Minister Uzoma Asagwara. The self-styled "Squad" have two things in common - they all represent impoverished and struggling north end and inner city areas, and all three have failed in their portfolios. Just ask the kids who died in CFS care, the addicts who can't find treatment beds, and the patients who've died in ERs and on waiting lists. But as you'll hear, the thinly-veiled man-hating of Fontaine was the least of the offensive behavior from the Legislature's Queen of Mean. The reel, posted by the Tories online, included video from the just-concluded budget debate, showing the contempt Fontaine has for the very office she holds as Government House leader. While the opposition urged the Kinew NDP to amend the budget and raise the tax-free income bracket limit to bring relief to Manitoba's families, Fontaine started watching a Hollywood big budget movie while the House was in session. With her dirty high heels perched on the seat next to her. As you'll hear, this was an act of contempt towards the entire House. Flin Flon MLA Tom Lindsay is the Speaker and has already been dragged by Kinew for daring to try to curtail the inflammatory accusations like "transphobe", "racist", and "bigot" hurled by the NDP at Khan and opposition members. Lindsay is going to have to decide if he will upbraid Fontaine for her lack of decorum and force her to apologize, or be intimidated by her into silence, the way she wants to silence all criticism of the women in the NDP caucus. ****To comment on our coverage, send story tips, or inquire about ways to contribute towards the Season Seven campaign or advertise on the podcast, please email martygoldlive@gmail.com
May 25 · 50 min
May 24 26- Hear Bowers, Cyr Questioned About Drug Site Safety And Policing Plan
Last Thursday, Premier Wab Kinew told the media his promise to open a safe consumption site was going to be fulfilled next month. But based on the comments given at a panel discussion on May 12th, it's apparent the police chief and SCS "medical facility" operators at 366 Henry aren't prepared. In Episode 22, listeners will hear what top cop Gene Bowers and Monica Cyr of the Aboriginal Health and Wellness Centre said- and can decide if it stands up to scrutiny. Part 1- With the announcement an SCS is going to open before July 1st, it's important for the community to hear what was recently said by the officials responsible to mitigate safety concerns. You will first hear police chief Bowers make introductory remarks. 12.12 - Bowers is asked by panel moderator Derek Finkle of the National Post about how the WPS will deal with drug dealers near the site, referencing a now-shuttered Toronto site where a mother was murdered by a drug dealer. Police there were pressured by the "harm reduction" lobby to ease up on arresting dealers. 20.05- Marty assesses the comments of Bowers and his assurance "we act" and that people's concerns are heard - yet, there's still no policing plan the North Logan neighbourhood can evaluate. Our question: What is the plan to deal with addicts showing up early or lingering outside of business hours? We recap examples where there was no action for residents and business owners in Point Douglas, the East Exchange, and Mynarski who've been confronted with crime and disorder. 30.18 Part 2- A question was posed by Finkle for the CEO of Aborginal Health and Wellness Centre, Monica Cyr. He cited the TOSCA study that demonstrated that addicts would not travel more than a few blocks after buying drugs to go to a "safe site" to get high. How can AHWC tell the community that drug dealers will be prevented from descending on the neighbourhood? Cyr spoke of "security" being contracted that has no authority to enforce laws, and of "eyes and ears" among harm reduction allies, but didn't mention that many of them are anti-policing and lobby for drug decriminalization. Marty raises those and a few other points about the slack AHWC approach to what safety means for affected businesses and families, and probes Cyr's reliance on a 'peer group' of other drug addicts to liase with her target clientele. ****** Check out our latest columns in the Winnipeg Sun- Winnipeg encampment policy failing as tents return to river banks Voters may want to quiz city councillors over ward expenses **** Our Season Seven Funding Drive is now at $865.00- join the donors who are helping us stay on the beat by donating via https://actionline.ca/2024/02/donate-2/
May 16 · 1 hr 5 min
May 15 2026- Consumption Site Panel Audio And More News
The public continues to question the effectiveness of homelessness and addictions agencies and programs- and none is under more scrutiny than the NDP's plan for a safe consumption site in North Logan. Episode 21 has a recap of the panel discussion held Tuesday night and audio of presentations made by Coun. Sherri Rollins and the federal health critic, Manitoba MP Dan Mazier. Part 1- Two columns this week provided readers of the Winnipeg Sun with details about A) the financial cliff that Siloam Mission is approaching: “When you kick out Jesus, you kick out his flock ofgivers,” a church-going reader said. “I know some of the former workers who moved on to other charitable work.” Siloam Mission went woke, now going broke B) the community-organized panel discussion about operating plans for a drug user site at 366 Henry Avenue: “The deflection I witnessed from city representatives was appalling,” said a Point Douglas homeowner. “There’s clearly a responsibility for all levels of government, andthe nuances and the intricacies were just lost on so many.” Panelists provide evidence that safe consumptionsites unsafe, ineffective 18.40 Part 2- Marty notes the demographics of the crowd, which drew concerned residents and property owners with personal experience with homeless encampments and the effects of drug addiction and crime on their community. From North and South Point Douglas, the East Exchange, North Logan, Centennial, Downtown, and Fort Rouge, they outflanked the SCS "harm reduction" supporters by an 80-20 margin. Among those watching and listening was Independent MLA Mark Wasilyw, and many PC MLAs; not there, were any representatives of Wab Kinew's NDP government that is ramming the drug use site through to fulfill his election promise. 23.50 - Aboriginal Health and Wellness Centre CEO Monica Cyr tried to reassure the public. She said new medical and treatment programs are included in the building renovations, and the SCS will operate out of a vehicle parked on the lot until next February. She later admitted there was good reason to expand the area where security patrols and clean-up had been proposed in their "Good Neighbour" policy. We explain why that tardy realization actually lost her ground with stakeholders. 28.50- Audio of Coun. Sherri Rollins (7 min.): She spoke of the inadequate public consultation process undermining the residents, funding shortfalls affecting mental health and police services, the existing danger in the district, and the sight of drugs being used all over the streets. "Winnipeg cannot be absorbing the consequences of a provincial system that has not evolved or matured." You'll hear how later in the meeting Rollins drew a negative reaction from ward stakeholders to her contention that the city had no ability to regulate public safety mitigation for the site, even though the Health Canada rules say otherwise. 40.45 Part 3- Audio of CPC MP Dan Mazier (9 min.): His eye-opening remarks included what an addict told him about why 'harm reduction' giveaways discourage seeking treatment; taking on the left-wing lingo of saying there is a way to use fentanyl and hard drugs 'safely'; "imaginary buffer zones" and how a daycare in Ottawa was forced to close due to disorder and filth; and how Health Canada uses a 'rubber stamp' - and leaves it to neighborhoods to fight for their survival. "Approving a place for people can consume drugs is the easiest thing a politician can do. It avoids the difficult serious expensive work of building real treatment and real recovery pathways. Instead it keeps people addicted, dependent and cycling through the same revolving door." Mazier predicted after this one, more sites would open, and then the radical left will demand the "BC roadmap" for safe supply and decriminalization - even though BC has reversed course. Marty provides more analysis to close the episode. ****To sponsor TGCTS podcasts and support the Season 7 Funding Drive- email martygoldlive@gmail.com
May 10 · 29 min
May 10 2026- Banner Year Expected at Assiniboia Downs
May 12th will mark the opening of the horse racing season at Assiniboia Downs, and in Episode 20 we speak with a perennial front-runner in the win column, jockey Antonio Whitehall! Part 1 has an overview of the kick-off luncheon, the notable attendees, and the remarks of the CEO of ASD, Darren Dunn. With the 69th season of live racing scheduled to open on Tuesday evening with the Don Gray Memorial, the new season is building on record-setting wagering and the best attendance in a decade in 2025, with both the excitement of the races and promotions like Family Fun Night drawing enthusiastic crowds of all ages. A key aspect of the evolution of the track has been scheduling race nights to Tuesday and Wednesday evenings, with six Mondays also on tap this year. That move eliminated the problem of competing for attendance with other sports and community events and “lake life” on the weekends, and ASD has grown their customer base substantially. Owned by the non-profit Manitoba Jockey Club since 1993, the importance of ASD to Manitoba’s economic sector includes, on the agriculture side, support for the stables with breeding and training, grooms and exercise riders, feed and equipment. In terms of staging the races and events, the facility employs hundreds of people as service personnel, chefs, cooks, security and at the betting windows. ASD also provides substantial support to local charities and causes. The revitalization of the facility has been achieved through a joint partnership with Peguis First Nation, and CEO Darren Dunn says it all reflects on how the Downs “is part of the cultural fabric of the community since 1958- and we’re very proud of that.” Their pride is also reflected in the race results as over the past 17 years, “thirteen of the annual leading trainers have been of indigenous heritage.” 9.58 Part 2- Antonio Whitehall is an engaging and personable athlete who truly loves his work and the fans of the King of Sports. Since arriving at ASD in 2016 from Barbados, he has become a dominant rider with three titles as top jockey and is in demand at other tracks. He’s been in the money (top three spots) with over 50% of his mounts and has earned $5.6 million for the horse owners. Whitehall cites his relationship with the trainers as an important factor in his success. “We get along pretty good because I’m a hard worker. I go out there every morning and work out the horse and give them honest feedback. They trust me with their horses and I’m grateful and thankful for the opportunity. It’s like I was meant to be here.” He talks with Marty Gold about his background in Barbados, his accomplishments and "dream year" in 2020, and the great owners, trainers, stablehands and staff who come together to make ASD a model venue for the athletes, owners and fans. “They come here, they feel safe here, it’s friendly, free admission… it’s a beautiful place to come out in the evening, enjoy your time, place a few bets, watch the horses go around. It’s a beautiful place to be, the atmosphere, the staff are phenomenal.” Whitehall enjoys meeting with the fans, mentioning giving kids goggles and posing for photos. “I do it for the game, for the love of the sport- and for the love of Assiniboia Downs.” The conversation takes a turn as the subject of this year's Kentucky Derby and the tremendous run down the stretch by the winning horse, Golden Tempo, is discussed. Among the highlights of the season will be the 50th running of the Golden Boy Stakes and the marquee event, the 2026 Manitoba Derby on Monday, August 3rd. With the on-site food and games, the spectacle of competition, and the potential of picking a winning ticket, there’s never been a better time to Do the Downs than this year. For more on ASD, here is today's column by Scott Taylor in the Winnipeg Sun. ***** To support our reporting of public affairs and about the community, email martygoldlive@gmail.com
May 6 · 1 hr 10 min
May 6 2026- Public Meeting To Assess Consumption Site’s 'Good Neighbour' Promises
An attempt by the operators of a planned drug user site to sway North Logan residents and property owners to support the 366 Henry Avenue project has backfired after a 10 page document was distributed. In Episode 19, we read the cover letter from Aboriginal Health and Wellness Centre CEO Monica Cyr and review the "Good Neighbour Commitment" package that's long on jargon, short on answers, and full of holes about how AHWC will ensure public safety. Part 1- A look at the previous episode with Kelly Ryback on urgent city issues and a look ahead to the next episode about Assiniboia Downs and the upcoming horse racing season. We set up this edition with a recap of Marty's latest Winnipeg Sun column - North Logan residents balk at consumption site safety pitch In the aftermath of the AHWC door-to-door handout, a Community Safety discussion is slated for Tuesday May 12 from 6-9 pm at Pampanga Hall, 349 Henry Ave. Panelists include Cyr, Fort Rouge Councillor Sherri Rollins, Winnipeg Police chief Gene Bowers, federal Opposition Health Critic Dan Mazier (MP- Riding Mountain), and Manitoba PC MLA Wayne Balcaen, who is also the former police chief in Brandon. 16.00 Part 2- You'll hear about the FAQ included in the package, the information it did and did not provide, the claims it made about the experiences of other (unnamed) cities with crime and disorder, how "trained staff" will handle safety, and the ridiculous timelines to respond to complaints. Notably, AHWC admitted the "interim service"- which will operate out of a parked vehicle on the lot until the building is renovated - will only test drugs and help addicts get high (ie "harm reduction"), and will not offer referrals to rehab and other help until the facility is opened. Missing was any mention that the federal government might not approve the application for a permanent site. 27.20- A review of the "community cohorts" named- and whether the public should have confidence in those organizations and in their involvement with a safe consumption site. Sunshine House, in particular, is under scrutiny for the way their mobile drug site van was licenced and operates when an overdose or assault occurs. Another witness has stepped forward casting doubt on the competency of their staff. Hear about a neighborhood walk planned for theNorth Logan area on Saturday at 2 pm. It will provide a ground-level view if the AHWC plan will be adequate to address concerns. Even though their outreach is deliberately narrowed, other nearby residential streets - and Chinatown - will be impacted by the SCS. 41.00 Part 3- A reading of Monica Cyr's pitch to stakeholders. Her terminology reflects an ideology that removes the personal responsibility of drug users for their plight, while failing to provide any data to verify the performance of her organization to fight addiction. 51. 44- While Cyr cites a number of the 'partners' and 'supporters' on board with her organization's consumption site plan, there's a glaring omission- the Manitoba Metis Federation. We ask why. Then, a health care professional with years of experience with addicts and in homeless shelters provided us an insider's view of the promises and claims made in the handout- and exposes the double-talk, hidden meanings and operational deficiencies of their proposal. Our source maintains the social disorder will be deflected into surrounding streets, so who is really being protected by the 8 foot fence? Which businesses will “flourish” with a drug den next door? Wait till you find out the tricks used to rig crime stats near such sites to be lowered, and who authored the study that AHWC is relying on to prove to the neighbours that such sites don't increase danger to communities. ***** Our investigative journalism relies on the financial support of listeners and readers. Season 7 has a goal of $7500- to help us stay on the beat email martygoldlive@gmail.com for more information on donations, advertising and personal appearances.
April 30 · 1 hr 5 min
April 30 2026- Ryback Tees Off On City Fumbling Golf Course Food Deal and Grant’s Old Mill Funding
April ends with controversy at City Hall - Episode 18 reviews two stories that's put the pressure on council. In one case, Salisbury House being sidelined on a longstanding contract for a pair of golf courses; in the other, inaction by the city has put a venerable community and Metis heritage site at risk of erasure. Part 1- Marty briefly touches on his attendance at the 2026 Retail Crime Prevention Conference at X-Cues Event Centre and the comments of "harm reduction" workers to the audience, and then on his most recent Winnipeg Sun columns. - You'll be seeing some public relations posts online by Sunshine House, which operate a MOPS (mobile drug use enabling) van. This week, the violence around their service locations, and the way they acquired federal drug site exemption, are under the microscope. Read why - Sisler High School in the North End has earned praise for building a powerhouse in Reach For The Top competitions, winning the Manitoba senior high championship this year. 9.40 Part 2- Kelly Ryback is one of the best friends taxpayers have when it comes to monitoring spending and best practices by City Council. He joins TGCTS to review his findings on two important files. The decision to accept a bid from American-owned Aramark to provide food and beverage services at Windsor Park and Kildonan golf courses came at the expense of longtime provider 'Sals'. Ryback says his research shows it's also coming at the expense of local golfers, with far higher pricing than the Winnipeg-owned and operated restaurant chain. The city giving only ten days notice of the change added to concerns about what was in play with the deal- such as revenue sharing or other considerations. Ryback goes through the operational aspects typically considered in such RFP bids, and the political fallout for Mayor Gillingham and other councillors. Even though many on Council have said they aren't happy that bureaucrats claim Sals didn't make the cut, they could be carrying the bag when 'Canada first' voters cast their ballots in October. 30.40 Part 3- Kelly Ryback has been involved with the historic Grant's Old Mill on west Portage Avenue for years. Hear him explain the work he and other community volunteers have done to keep it going and raise funds - and provincial government funding commitments - to maintain and improve the facility. As the city dawdled and reversed course on committing annual budget funding, the window to fix the building passed by and it's now been declared beyond repair. Winnipeg Sun: City hall failure shuts historic Winnipeg Mill Ryback says that area Councillor Shawn Dobson has only attended half of one board meeting in 2 1/2 years, and his failure to meet with advocates and support the project and help meet required deadlines risked the provincial money, and has contributed to the current crisis. Ryback says the Mayor knew about Dobson's flippant attitude and said he'd speak with the St. James councilman. Ryback and Marty discuss the background of the mill site, the legend of Cuthbert Grant starting agricultural commerce in the region, and his standing as a Metis leader. 49.52- “Is this now an election issue in St James- Assinboia?” “Yes it is.” Ryback, who was a candidate for the ward seat in 2022, gives an overview of the community affected, the role of former Premier Ed Schreyer whose administration funded the mill as a Winnipeg Centennial Project in 1974, and the role the Manitoba Metis Federation can play. However, unless the chips fall into place and includes sufficient city funding beyond the rebuild for park enhancements and other equipment, Grant's Old Mill may not be open to the public until 2031. Ryback says that’s not acceptable. **** TGCTS is Winnipeg's only Public Affairs podcast. This work and our reports in the Winnipeg Sun are made possible thanks to the financial support of listeners and readers. No federal funding is requested or accepted. To contribute, please email martygoldlive@gmail.com
April 24 · 55 min
April 23 2026- Eyewitness Saw Assault, Overdoses Outside MOPS Van On Main Street
Joseph Fourre intended to hold a press conference on Wednesday regarding a shady Health Canada drug site exemption that he wants revoked. When the founder of the Singing Red Bear Foundation got to the site, he saw disorder, violence and a woman who was assaulted get blamed by the site operators. Part 1- Episode 17 opens with a brief recap of Marty's recent columns in the Winnipeg Sun: "They’re the epitome of cancel culture. They come into theneighborhood, harass the synagogue attendees, harass senior citizens walking by, and accuse anyone who isn’t on board with being complicit in what they call genocide. That’s not free speech.” According to John Collison, the harassment also targeted innocent children." Cops escort Jew-haters to River Heights, then blame passer-by for their aggressive anger "The Winnipeg Police Service has shifted Inspector Helen Peters out of her role as liason for the facility... (and) If Aboriginal Health and Wellness officials, who will be handing out needles at their site to addicts, want to be taken seriously about dealing with dirty rigs, they need to broaden the pick-up range substantially, and self-impose a needle return rate." More changes to safe consumption site plan needed to sway opponents 7.22 Part 2- Based on a Free Press article about the Aboriginal Health and Wellness Centre claiming they would have a 'Good Neighbour' policy around the planned drug user facility at 366 Henry Avenue, Joseph Fourre decided it was time to speak out about whether the organization, and their so-called cohorts, are able to do even the minimum required to keep the public safe. Before he spoke, he went to the parking lot near Main and Logan beside a treatment centre, where Sunshine House parks a MOPS van around noon to enable addicts, 5 days a week. Sunshine House has been designated as providers of similar services for the Henry site until the building is renovated. In short order, "it was chaos." A recovering heroin addict who previously utilized a consumption site in Edmonton, Fourre describes watching a couple overdosing on the sidewalk with no urgency from the MOPS van staff to help them. Then, the woman who runs the Edge Gallery tried to shoo users getting high in the doorway- and walked over to the van to complain. "Out of nowhere" a lady came over and "smoked her" in the face, cutting her beside the left eye. According to Fourre, MOPS staff blamed the victim for "inciting" the attack, and police ignored four calls from her asking for help, with blood streaming down her face. "I was appalled," he said, confirming there are no spotters from the Health Canada-approved van to monitor the surroundings for overdoses or violent behavior. Fourre tells about addicts wanting detox treatment beds, and finding out they're on their own thanks to the NDP's fixation on supervising consumption. 24.45 Part 3- Fourre explains that Edge Gallery is about to lose funding because children coming for arts classes are not safe in the area, and the MOPS van perpetuates the danger. He reveals the approval of the Sunshine House application to be exempt from drug laws is being challenged because the public consultation was manipulated to suppress the concerns of business owners and the general public. Marty tells about his review of the paperwork. None of this inspires confidence that the Henry site will be kept safe. With the NDP only opening day beds for treatment, Fourre insists a change of direction is needed to get addicts into meaningful recovery, "a therapeutic model." As for the NDP's claim of a "mandate" to open a site, he says the pushback at the town halls proved that's untrue and reflects the end result of 60 years of NDP rule in Point Douglas. Fourre predicts that when the consumption site falls apart, AHWC "will be the ones holding the bag" and that the fact 25-30% of overdose deaths are first time users is being ignored. **** To donate towards our Season 7 costs, email martygoldlive@gmail.com
April 16 · 49 min
April 16 2026- Founder of Mr. Bones Eyeing Council Run In Mynarski
In Episode 16, you'll hear our conversation with Harold "Mr. Bones" Brazil discussing why he is looking at returning to his north end roots and vying to become a city councillor. Part 1- Listeners are brought up to date on the latest ground breaking columns from Marty in the Winnipeg Sun: NDP floats “better health care” and “lower costs” slogans to the masses Asagwara swamped by multiple disasters in health care City encampment policy failing to protect neighborhood residents 9.44 Part 2- He's "98% sure" he's going to put his name on the ballot in the October election. But first, Harold Brazil wants to gauge public opinion about the issues and public support for a political outsider taking on 16 year Mynarski representative Ross Eadie. With varied careers including starting the Mr. Bones Pizza franchise, becoming an emergency room nurse, and more recently working as a realtor, Brazil has always been an optimist, as well as a hustler. Coming from the Lord Selkirk housing projects, as a kid he collected beer bottles with his wagon to cash in. But the decline of the area troubles him: "I would not let my 9 year old walk that area now, it's not safe... people do not feel safe in Mynarski and the North End and I would like to bring back safety." He says problems with Transit, potholes, snow removal on sidewalks, and community parks are being raised by people urging him to stand for election. Also, how "we have not taken care of downtown." 26.22 Part 3- Brazil talks about the marketing successes of Mr. Bones Pizza in the 90's, and admits that their business model would be challenged nowadays by safety concerns for their delivery drivers and store staff. He also speaks about his experiences as an ER nurse. 33.40- Brazil explains that city council's failure to deal with public disorder and arson is undercutting the investment of longtime homeowners in Winnipeg neighborhoods. "The closer you get to downtown, it gets harder to sell and these houses are on the market for 30 days or more." Hear him describe how private mortgage lenders are redlining certain areas of the city, including the North End near St. John's Park. They won't finance a home purchase, "even with a 35% down payment." 40.35- Harold Brazil reflects on the fight he had in the 1990's against the Manitoba Telephone System hiking prices on small businesses- and how Peter Warren of CJOB took up the cause. The publicity helped force MTS to back down within 3 weeks. "I helped save Manitoba businesses hundreds of thousands of dollars. As a 22 year old, I went against the big corporate, and I'll do the same thing for my ward when it's time. I think they need a fresh new energy... to try to make change." He can be reached through his Facebook page- https://www.facebook.com/harold.brazil.bones **** * With a civic election coming in six months, we are asking listeners of the TGCTS Podcast and readers of our columns in the Winnipeg Sun to support this independent reporting and help us meet our operating costs. * The Season Seven Support campaign has a target of $7500 - there is no funding from government solicited or accepted! The support of the public, and not public funding, is the key to maintaining our presence in the local media market. * Every donation, whether by E-transfer, PayPal or other means, keeps us on the beat, on the road, and keeps us online making sure the hidden facts are published, important questions are asked, and answers pursued. For more information, please email martygoldlive@gmail.com
April 7 · 40 min
April 6 2026- Winnipeg Media Silent About Santos Opposing Drug Use Site
You would think that when a city councillor - who has long been identified as profoundly sympathetic to the "harm reduction" ideology and the plight of the homeless and drug addicts - announces she opposes the provincial plan to open a supervised consumption site in her ward, it would be BIG news. It's been over a week, but Winnipeg broadcasters haven't told the public yet. And that's the focus of Episode 15. Part 1- A recap of the reasons cited by Point Douglas councillor Vivian Santos for deciding the NDP's election promise of a drug user facility "meeting users where they are at" would overwhelm the North Logan neighborhood she represents, and a review of our coverage in the Winnipeg Sun and on the TGCTS podcast. We broke the news, and for some reason local newsrooms receiving large federal wage and operating subsidies didn't deem it newsworthy. 10.45- What are the chances that in a city with four television newsrooms, and a couple of radio stations still offering reporting, not one of them told the public that Coun. Santos was standing against Premier Wab Kinew, Addictions Minister Bernadette Smith, and the left-wing social agencies she usually courts? Marty Gold juxtaposes the cone of silence about the tide turning against the safe consumption site with CBC reporting on a Siloam Mission event where the media was deliberately not invited by the embattled CEO, Sonia Prevost-Derbecker. When the legacy media gets frozen out on something, that's news. When a city council chair goes nose to nose and head to head with the Minister who is also the area MLA, it isn't deemed important enough to even mention. Hear what concerned citizens can do about that. 19.55 Part 2- Odds and ends, including: - Not a single newsroom raised a red flag about Sheila North saying she'll continue to be a consultant to the Winnipeg Police Service despite being elected chief of her home reserve. She admits her job is to advocate for her stakeholders, and real journalists know that means the Police Board will have to consider whether there's a potential conflict of interest. - The lack of curiosity about North's comments lead to a discussion of the bias that local and national media have towards colleagues who move into active political careers. - Marty tells the story of when he first met Scott Oake, now headed to retirement from sports broadcasting. CBC itself couldn't get the facts accurate about Oake's start in Winnipeg, but we remember. ****** Our column last week in the Sun did what no other mediaoutlet in the entire country did- look into the radical views and opinions of Canada’s new Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Joss Reimer. Feds hiring of Joss Reimer as top doc nothing to cheer about We go where other reporters do not, challenging convenientnarratives about public officials and holding them accountable. The Season Seven Support campaign is now underway, with a target of $7500. We accept nopublic subsidies and make sure every dollar contributed by our donors is used to be YOUR VOICE! To sponsor these podcasts or to donate, please emailmartygoldlive@gmail.com
March 30 · 41 min
March 29 2026- Vivian Santos Climbs Off Consumption Site Fence
Episode 13 looks at the details behind the announcement from Point Douglas Councillor Vivian Santos that she's turned thumbs down on Premier Wab Kinew's plan to open a drug consumption site in her ward. Part 1- A funny thing happened on the way towriting the Sunday column for the Winnipeg Sun. Somehow, City Hall failed to put the first few hours oflast week's council meeting online. That meant we couldn't follow up on our bike lobby report yet. While waiting for Speaker Devi Sharma to find out what happened, an email arrived that had been sent by Vivian Santos to stakeholders in the Point Douglas ward about the NDP's proposed safe consumption facility. First, you'll hear a ringing endorsement from a longtimejournalist and political insider about our work covering the SCS issue - and how we've asked some very significant questions and held the government to account. 14.11 Part 2- The press release by Coun. Vivian Santos was sent so late on Friday, and the lede buried so deep, none of the broadcast newsrooms recognized the big news: there's now a deep rift in the "harm reduction" movement. As we reported in the Winnipeg Sun⁠: “Minister Smith and I both represent Point Douglas, and I know she cares deeply about this community and the people we serve. While we share that commitment, do not agree with this particular path forward and, at this time, I do not support opening a permanent supervised consumption site at 366 Henry Avenue.” 16.46- Listeners will hear the press release, the cover letter Santos sent to residents and business owners after 5 pm onFriday, and the 851 word statement explaining why she now shares with theneighborhood 's fears of being overwhelmed. However, she also raised questions for Kinew about considering better consultations and a more well-rounded approach to addiction treatment. 29.43- Santos also shut the door on answeringany further questions. Hear what has gone on behind the scenes. We have details of the repeated emails from concernedresidents that have been sent to Santos, city council, Kinew, Smith, federal officials including area MP Leah Gazan, and public servants, seeking meetings to clarify their positions and ways that addictions programs can advance at less costs and with better results. **** The mandate of ActionLine.ca is to carry on the hard-nosed, ask tough questions approach pioneered on Winnipeg radio by Peter Warren. We receive NO government funding for our work holding governments, institutions and the legacy media accountable. When you contribute to our Season Seven Support campaign, those funds go to paying for web hosting, back-end and technical support, transportation and other costs that are incurred in our investigations and analysis of public affairs. To make a donation, or to advertise on our podcast, please email martygoldlive@gmail.com
March 23 · 58 min
March 22 2026- Son Says "No Justice, No Explanation" From NDP For Debbie Fewster's Death
In Episode 13, you'll hear about the case of Debbie Fewster, whose heart finally gave out while she was waiting for cardiac surgery. As her son Daniel explains, the delay occurred because the requisition was put in the wrong pile. Read our report in the Winnipeg Sun: Fewster death exposes NDP’s lack of competence, and compassion 9.50 Part 2- When a family entrusts the life of their mother to Manitoba's health care professionals, they don't expect to ever hear that "human error" caused her to die. "It's so much worse than we thought," Daniel Fewster says. As we reported last year, the family believed the issue was surgical wait times, but an internal investigation dug up the real reason. He explains how his mother, a retired Niverville health care aid, received medication to ensure she didn't take up a hospital bed, but that resulted in her being considered an "outpatient." Debbie's file was tossed into a 180-day 'surgery can wait' pile. That case management system was invented as a COVID measure and was never reviewed by the NDP. "There are fundamental breakdowns in communication between the health regions." 25.09 Part 3- “There’s no justice, there’s no explanation, it’s just, your mom died cause there was a mistake, have a good day... there's a level of pain that comes with that.” Is this death just the cost of doing business for the NDP? “It’s made me nervous. I sure hope I don’t get sick and haveto go to the hospital. Man, to be on this side of losing a loved one to a medical error like that sure doesn’t help your trust in the system.” 41.18 - Marty asks Daniel about whether this case also proves there was no review of the patient files after being placed in the 'outpatient' file to make sure those cases didn't require urgent attention. The reaction of reporters at the press conference, hosted by SecondStreet.org, was "a silent gasp, like, my gosh, this actually happened in Canada." 44.00- As Second Street president Colin Craig discovered, “Government documents show no staffhave received any disciplinary action for this tragedy.” The discussion wraps up with the lack of accountability for government institutions compared to deaths that occur within private industry; the status of Debbie's Law, and why it is still needed; and how the NDP's Bill 27 serves to protect the bureaucrats and politicians like Health Minister Uzoma Asagwara, not the patients or the public. ******* Read our report- Kinew delays consumption site rollout We have led the way in holding the Kinew government to account for fake public consultations, withholding information, and dubious harm reduction policies proposed for a drug user site. ***** The mandate of ActionLine.ca is to carry on the hard-nosed, ask tough questions approach pioneered on Winnipeg radio by Peter Warren. We receive NO government funding for our work holding governments, institutions and the legacy media accountable. When you contribute to our Season Seven Support campaign, those funds go to paying for web hosting, back-end and technical support, transportation and other costs that are incurred in our investigations and analysis of public affairs. To make a donation, or to advertise on our podcast, please email martygoldlive@gmail.com
March 18 · 25 min
March 17 2026- Dan Lett Owes Inner-City SCS Critics An Apology
Wab Kinew gulped hard after he read our three exclusive reports in the Winnipeg Sun (here, here and here) about planning documents filed with Health Canada for his promised safe consumption site, and on Monday he backed down. "I have realized that I want this thing to be done right, I don't want it to be done quickly.” Well then... what should be done about the Free Press pundit who demanded it be done quickly regardless of whether it was done right? Episode 12 Part 1 - A brief update for concerned listeners on a recent health issue that for now, won't be affecting our ongoing reporting in the Sun and on the podcast 7.00 Part 2- On December 17th, Winnipeg Free Press Dan Lett columnist complained: "At a consultation this week, (Addictions Minister Bernadette) Smith was once again bombarded with allegations that her plan for a supervised consumption site is not fully fleshed out... Allegations that “your plan is not a real plan” is a convenient line of attack." Ninety days later, on March 16th, Canadian Press reported: "The Manitoba government is walking back comments that asupervised drug consumption site could open soon, with Premier Wab Kinew saying the province is taking some time to get things right... It could take months for a networkof services to be set up, he said..." So... the critics of the SCS plan who live in Winnipeg were right, and "harm reduction" champion Dan Lett who lives in Ontario was wrong. How inconvenient. Hear why Dan Lett now owes those people an apology. Listen to a review of Lett's December column and how completely unhinged his comments now appear to be, after Kinew has echoed neighborhood stakeholder concerns about how the Aboriginal Health and Wellness Centre intended to run the drug user facility without proper oversight by Bernadette Smith. ****** Here is our latest column with an analysis of Kinew's comments about why he's stalling on opening the SCS: https://www.winnipegsun.com/opinion/columnists/fumbling-ndp-fails-in-safe-consumption-site-rollout/article_628425ac-86e0-4c7b-87d3-186c6af63960.html ***** A former Winnipeg School trustee posted: "Is Marty the only media person who has been able to shape this provincial government this much JUST by exposing the truth?" Among the list of successes: 1. Plan20-50 abandoned2. Homeless encampments finally being removed3. Safe consumption site drydocked WE ARE YOUR VOICE! Help keep our work on schedule in 2026 by contributing to the Season 7 Support Fund - with $275.00 collected towards a target of $7500. Email martygoldlive@gmail.com for information on how to make a donation.