MPI rates climb, but concerns on Nova, handling of brain injuries also raised
Posted January 7, 2025 3:50 pm.
Last Updated January 7, 2025 4:34 pm.
The cost of insurance in Manitoba is going up, but the Public Utilities Board is also calling on the Crown Corporation to examine potential shortfalls within its operation.
Concerns were outlined in a recent Public Utilities Board (PUB) decision which concluded general rates would increase 5.7 per cent, with rates for extended insurance climbing by roughly 2 per cent.
The increase means motorists will pay roughly $51 more annually for general insurance and roughly $2 more annually on the average extended passenger vehicle policy.
However, the approved rate increases were not the only thing outlined in the PUB report, as it raised concerns about “the way MPI handles traumatic brain injuries.”
It explained, while impossible to make a finding without proper investigation, information received by the PUB, “alleged, among other things, that MPI does not use current scientific knowledge, proven medical best practices, and best practicable technology [and] uses inappropriate and discredited sport medicine guidelines to address traumatic brain injuries.”
The PUB is now asking government to appoint an independent expert to prepare a report that will compare current best practices to the current practices employed by MPI.
Calls for MPI to closely monitor its cost and progress on project NOVA – aimed at streamlining and modernizing MPI services – have also been outlined by the PUB, as portions of the project have gone uncompleted, have been partially delayed or shifted to later phases, with the fourth stage yet to begin.
CityNews reached out to MPI for comment on the concerns outlined in by the PUB but a comment was not immediately received.
