The Manitoba government announced a public inquiry on Tuesday, February 11, 2025, into the Winnipeg Police Service (WPS) headquarters construction project, appointing Garth Smorang as commissioner. Justice Minister Matt Wiebe stated the inquiry is necessary to ensure transparency and restore public trust.
“Taxpayer dollars need to be spent transparently and Manitobans deserve to know the truth,” said Wiebe. “An inquiry into the police headquarters project will help restore public trust and confidence, and its recommendations will ensure best practices are used to prevent similar mistakes from being repeated.”
Smorang, a lawyer with nearly 40 years of experience litigating cases for both private and public sector clients, is highly respected in the legal profession, according to the minister. His experience includes appearances before administrative tribunals and courts.
The inquiry’s mandate will be to examine the circumstances surrounding the renovation of the Winnipeg Police headquarters and determine what measures are needed to rebuild public confidence in the city’s ability to manage large, publicly funded construction projects. This includes reviewing the City of Winnipeg’s past and current policies for project planning, approval, and management, as well as conflict-of-interest and disclosure obligations for elected officials and senior employees.
Wiebe noted that the City of Winnipeg purchased the former Canada Post building on Smith Street in 2009 for conversion into the new WPS headquarters. The project was completed two years behind schedule and $79 million over budget.
The commissioner will determine the timing and manner of the inquiry, including the process for gathering evidence. Smorang is required to submit a final report containing his findings and recommendations by January 1, 2027. A budget of $2 million has been allocated for the inquiry.
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