Manitoba premier expands cabinet, names ministers of accessibility and first responders
Posted September 28, 2026 2:00 pm.
Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew has increased the size of his cabinet to focus more attention on accessibility issues and first responders.
Carla Compton, who represents the Winnipeg riding of Tuxedo, will be the new minister in charge of accessibility.
David Pankratz, the MLA for the Winnipeg riding of Waverley, will head up a portfolio focusing on helping first responders.
Kinew, in a news release Monday, said Compton, a registered nurse, will be charged with doing more to help caregivers and those living with disabilities.
He said Compton’s job will be to work across government departments to make it easier for those in the system to get the help they need.
“Minister Compton will listen to Manitobans with lived experience and workers in the sector to help shape the Manitoba government supports,” Kinew said.
Pankratz, a former firefighter, is tasked with helping first responders across the board, including firefighters, police, and paramedics.
Kinew said Pankratz will work to improve help for first responders on everything from burnout to post-traumatic stress disorder.
“First responders are on the front lines of our response to the toxic drug crisis,” Kinew said. “Our government wants to take care of the people who care for us.”
Robert Loiselle, MLA for St. Boniface, will serve as special envoy for military affairs, taking over duties previously held by Pankratz.
