The province has tabled new legislation that would provide Red River College with its own enabling act, and ensure appropriate spending and financial oversight while supporting the College’s mandate.

“Red River College is an essential part of our plan to grow the economy and create opportunities for young people to get the skills they need to get a good job here in Manitoba,” Education and Advanced Learning Minister James Allum said today.

“The proposed new Red River College act would strengthen the College’s financial oversight and governance, so it can continue to meet the needs of students and industry, and remain an important part of Manitoba’s strong post-secondary education system.”

The standalone legislation would build on the Colleges Act by introducing important measures that will allow RRC to continue to fulfil its mandate. Key elements of the proposed legislation would include:

• New and amended provisions on board governance that would strengthen and clarify the mandate, duties and composition of RRC’s Board of Governors
• New financial provisions that would provide clear and direct language on oversight of financial matters, including borrowing, investing and internal control policies
• Expansion of the role of the Board’s audit committee that would include oversight of the development of internal control policies and procedures, including the review and evaluation of these policies
• New ministerial powers that would set fiscal accountability and transparency guidelines in consultation with the Board to ensure high-quality, sustainable programming and services

RRC Board Chair Lloyd Schreyer said he’s pleased the new legislation addresses concerns of financial oversight and governance, while also recognizing the College’s role in contributing to the College’s well-being.

“We view it as a positive step for the College, as it will strengthen our framework and be specific to our needs,” said Schreyer, noting the College has been seeking its own legislation for some time.”

“RRC has grown significantly in the past couple of decades, and this is an opportunity to review current legislation and revise to properly reflect RRC’s unique position and needs.”

The proposed legislation stems in part from a provincial review earlier this year that examined financial and human resource practices at RRC.