Senior’s family slams bedbug reaction

The family of a senior living in Manitoba Housing's Columbus Courts building in Winnipeg is alleging that the provincial agency has been ineffective and irresponsible in dealing with a long-standing bedbug infestation. The senior moved out after enduring two years of repeated pesticide treatments, which have failed to eradicate the pests.

His son, who is worried about the stigma surrounding bedbug infestations, claims that the bugs continue to be a persistent problem despite the treatments. The family is concerned that a new tenant moving in could bring the infestation back, leading to another round of treatments and financial hardship for the senior. Manitoba Housing has been responsible for the building since July 2024 and has conducted monthly pesticide treatments since then.

However, the provincial spokesperson for Housing Minister Bernadette Smith says that the government is committed to providing safe and dignified housing for all residents and encourages those in need to access the province's community pest-control grant program. Progressive Conservative housing critic Jeff Bereza has criticized Manitoba Housing's response, stating that the government's involvement in seniors' buildings has led to problems beyond just pest control, including issues with new tenants engaging in unsafe activities.