Feedback sought on proposed all-in-one ID card for Manitobans

Manitobans are invited to share their views on a proposed all-in-one Personal Identification Card (PIC) that would combinea person's driver's licence, photo ID, health and travel card.

The PIC, a joint proposal by Manitoba Health, Healthy Living and Seniors, and Manitoba Public Insurance, could eventually eliminate the paper Manitoba Health card by placing an individual's personal health IDnumberon the back of the security enhanced, tamper-free PIC.

While there are many potential benefits"we also recognize that this proposal may affect different Manitobans in different ways," said Health Minister SharonBlady."So we need to hear from those who access and provide health services in our province before we choose a path forward."

In addition to seeking input from individuals, consultation will take place with numerous groups, including First Nations and Metis organizations and communities, Manitobans with disabilities, health care providers and the Manitoba Ombudsman.

"The ultimate goal of the PIC is to better protect Manitobans against identity theft, forgery and fraud while ensuring that private information stays confidential," said Manitoba Public Insurance President and CEO Dan Guimond.

"Another key benefit is that the proposal would make it easier for low income and homeless Manitobans to gain free access to proper identification."

You can review a discussion paper on the topic and complete an online survey by visitingthe Manitoba Public Insurance website.

MPI representatives will also be available to discuss the concept throughout September at information displays in the following shopping malls:

Winnipeg

• Portage Place, Sept.10 (10a.m. to 6 p.m.)
• Polo Park, Sept.12 (9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.)
• Kildonan Place, Sept.18 (10 a.m. to 9 p.m.)
• St. Vital, Sept.19 (9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.)

Opaskwayak Cree Nation: Otineka Mall, Sept.14 (10 a.m. to 4p.m.)

Thompson: City Centre Mall, Sept.15 (9:30 am to 3:30 p.m.)

Brandon: Shopper's Mall, Sept.16 (11 a.m. to 5 p.m.)

Steinbach: Clearspring Centre, Sept.17 (11 a.m. to 5 p.m.)

Winkler: Southland Mall, Sept.18 (11 a.m. to 5 p.m.)

Portage la Prairie: Portage la Prairie Mall, Sept.21 (11 a.m. to 5 p.m.)

Dauphin: Marketplace Mall, Sept.22 (11 a.m. to 5 p.m.)

In addition to being available online the discussion paper can be obtained by calling204-985-7000, toll-free1-800-665-2410, TTY/TTD204-985-8832.

Manitobans can also provide written comments on the personal identification card by regular post oremail: cardconsultation@mpi.mb.ca