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In today's Winnipeg Sun:  
 
Manitoba will become the first province in Canada to use electronic immobilizers to protect the majority of vehicles against auto theft under federal and provincial changes that take effect Sept. 1.  
 
Attorney General Dave Chomiak announced today that, beginning in September, Manitobans who own most-at-risk (MaR) vehicles and drive primarily in Winnipeg will be required to install electronic immobilizers before they can renew their registration and insurance.  
 
The new provincial regulations will coincide with new federal requirements that require anti-theft immobilizers to be installed in all new cars, vans and light trucks including sport utility vehicles built after Sept. 1, 2007, for sale in Canada.  
 
While the Transport Canada requirement protects new vehicles from auto theft, the provincial program focuses on protecting older vehicles with aftermarket immobilizers. Chomiak pointed out that MaR vehicles accounted for more than half of thefts reported in Manitoba last year.  
 
In announcing the regulatory changes to the Highway Traffic Act, Chomiak noted auto theft figures have declined in recent months but said the province will continue to take action to protect communities.  
 
 
The regulations affect 47,000 vehicles in Winnipeg and vehicles that commute to the city regularly. These vehicles are twice as likely to be stolen as the average vehicle in Winnipeg, according to Manitoba Public Insurance claims data.  
 
Manitoba Public Insurance will allocate more than $15 million to provide vehicle owners with an immobilizer at no cost and a standard installation. The corporation will also manage the installation process that will be phased in over the year according to Manitobans' renewal dates.  
 
Manitoba Public Insurance will notify owners of most-at-risk vehicles well in advance of their renewal dates with details on arranging an installation appointment. The corporation will allow an extended grace period in the early stages of the program to accommodate exceptional situations such as the vehicle owner being posted overseas or the vehicle being used by a Manitoba student in another province.  
 
In addition to paying for the immobilizer and a standard installation, Manitoba Public Insurance will also provide five years interest-free financing for any additional costs if the vehicle has a remote starter system. It will also provide an annual $40 insurance discount.  
 
Manitoba Public Insurance (MPI) president and chief executive officer Marilyn McLaren noted the immobilizer program pays Manitobans to participate. Vehicle owners affected by the change can receive an $80 discount this year - $40 when they first install an immobilizer prior to their renewal and then $40 when their renewal is complete.  
 
To find out if your vehicle is on the MaR list go to www.mpi.mb.ca