Manitoba's Deputy Premier says he believes there are many members of the province's Progressive Conservative caucus with the ability to take on the role of Premier.

Manitoba Premier Brian Pallister announced last week that he will not be seeking re-election and that a new leader will be in place prior to the next provincial election. Though many people suggested Kelvin Goertzen run for the seat, the Steinbach MLA has already indicated he has no such plans. And, as Deputy Premier, Goertzen says he is not able to endorse any particular candidate.

"Because I have to work with everybody at this point in continuing to see government continue to function," says Goertzen. "I think that clearly people are looking for a leader that is collaborative, that will be able to work with all Manitobans to ensure that we're getting not just out of the pandemic but then looking towards recovery."

Though the pandemic is not yet over, Goertzen says people are starting to look ahead, ensuring that we recover well and have a strong economy coming out of this.

"I will leave it for the individual leadership candidates to put forward their own platforms and what it is they want to bring," he says. "My role right now as Deputy Premier is to try to ensure that we continue the functioning of a government and I will be there to support whoever takes that office after the leadership election."

He notes to be eligible to run for the leadership position, a candidate does not need to be an MLA, but must be a party member.

Goertzen says when the new leader takes over, it will be an opportunity for that person to look at all things in motion and put their own stamp on it, including legislation.

Again, Goertzen says he will not be seeking the leadership position, noting the last 18 months have been a challenge for his family, adding that needs to be his primary focus. He also says at this stage of his career, his role should be one of helping the party through the interim period and the transition to a new leader.

"It has to be the right time, both in your own personal situation and I think it has to be right for the party as well, and where the party is at and what the expectation will be what the next leader can do and should do for the party in terms of trying to ensure that the next election is one where we maintain government," he adds.