Ewald Friesen

Manager, Government and Community Relations CAA Manitoba

  • Winnipeg MB

Ewald manages CAA's advocacy and community relations efforts in Manitoba.

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Spotlight

2 min

MEDIA RELEASE: Provincial Trunk Highway 34 Named the Worst Road in Manitoba

Manitobans have spoken – and the results are in. The 2025 CAA Worst Road is Provincial Trunk Highway 34 (PTH 34) in Central Plains/Pembina Valley, Manitoba. Frustrations with potholes, poor road maintenance, poor road signage and unpaved roads pushed PTH 34 to the number one spot. This marks this road’s sixth appearance on the CAA Worst Roads Top 10 list; however, this is the first time it has taken the top spot. This year also marks a historic first for the CAA Worst Roads campaign – for the first time in its 14-year history, nine out of ten roads on the top 10 list are from rural Manitoba communities. Saskatchewan Avenue, the only Winnipeg road on the list in 2025, has appeared on the CAA Worst Roads list for the last seven consecutive years. "The CAA Worst Roads campaign provides a powerful snapshot to governments on where to prioritize budgets and move up road repairs by giving Manitobans an opportunity to have their say on the difficulties they are experiencing in getting around," says Ewald Friesen, manager of government and community relations for CAA Manitoba, "We saw the proof of this when last year's winner, 18th Street in Brandon, received a swift and coordinated response from governments on the same day the results were released, with shovels in the ground by Fall.” This year’s campaign saw an almost 50 per cent increase in roads nominated, with 723 different roads across 86 municipalities. CAA research shows that 39 per cent of respondents expressed dissatisfaction with road work projects, stating that the roads don’t last long before they must be repaired again. However, 88 per cent are willing to put up with the inconvenience of construction in exchange for long-term improvements. "Manitobans take to this campaign because they are hopeful for change,” says Friesen. “CAA’s annual campaign plays a critical role in highlighting the roads that need urgent attention, providing governments with a better understanding of where Manitobans want these investments made." Half of the roads on the top 10 list are new this year. These include Provincial Road 234 in Interlake, Provincial Road 349 in Westman, Provincial Road 239 in Interlake, 26th Street in Brandon, and Provincial Trunk Highway 12 in Eastman. Manitoba's Top 10 Worst Roads for 2025 1. Provincial Trunk Highway 34, Central Plains/Pembina Valley 2. Provincial Road 234, Interlake 3. Provincial Road 307, Whiteshell 4. Provincial Road 239, Interlake 5. Provincial Road 349, Westman 6. 26th Street, Brandon 7. Provincial Trunk Highway 12, Eastman 8. Provincial Trunk Highway 26, Central Plains 9. Richmond Avenue, Brandon 10. Saskatchewan Avenue, Winnipeg "CAA Manitoba urges all levels of government to prioritize road safety through predictable, year-over-year investment and timely repairs," adds Friesen. “CAA Manitoba will continue to advocate for Manitobans to drive positive change in communities across the province." For more information and historical results, please visit: https://www.caamanitoba.com/advocacy/government-relations/worst-roads

Ewald Friesen

3 min

MEDIA RELEASE: CAA Manitoba partners with the RCMP and the Government of Manitoba to remind drivers to slow down and move over on the road

Today, on CAA’s National Slow Down, Move Over Day, the Government of Manitoba, the RCMP and CAA representatives came together at the Manitoba Legislature to remind motorists about the importance of Manitoba’s Slow Down, Move Over law (SDMO), a life-saving law designed to protect emergency responders and roadside workers. “We are pleased that the Manitoba government has proclaimed May 13th as Slow Down Move Over Day to help bring awareness to the laws designed to protect emergency responders, tow operators, and highway workers who are stopped on the side of the road to save lives on Manitoba roadways,” said Ewald Friesen, manager of government relations for CAA Manitoba. Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Lisa Naylor stated, “Every day, workers risk their lives to keep our roads safe and we are asking Manitoba drivers to take one simple, life-saving action: slow down and move over.” The timing is especially important as Canada Road Safety Week begins on May 13, shining a broader spotlight on making Canadian roads safer for all. CAA has been the leading advocate in Canada to ensure that 'Slow Down, Move Over' laws include tow trucks, along with police, ambulance and fire. "Most drivers tend to slow down and move over for police cars, ambulances, and fire trucks, but this is lower for tow trucks. It's important to always remember that for many, the side of the road is someone's workplace, and everyone deserves a safe place to work. Slow Down, Move Over laws protect our roadside rescuers, and the stranded drivers we serve every day,” reinforced Friesen. CAA’s research shows that Manitobans care deeply about the safety of emergency vehicles, drivers and stranded motorists. Data also shows that 8 in ten CAA Members have heard of the Slow Down, Move Over law, and 99 per cent support it. Just over half, however, know the definition of the law, underscoring that there is still important work to do to help drivers understand exactly what the law requires a driver to do. Over 1/3 of members are not aware of specific penalties, though they do know a penalty exists and 4 in ten Manitobans aged 65 and above are unaware of any penalties. Sergeant Mark Hume, Unit Commander, North West Traffic Services, Manitoba RCMP highlighted, “Violators can be charged under Section 109.1(2) of the Highway Traffic Act ($298 fine) at a minimum. Aggravated circumstances can result in more severe charges.” The consequences of neglecting these laws can be tragic, not only for roadside workers but also for drivers and passengers. The hope is that this initiative will help remind drivers of the importance of safe driving behaviours and encourage everyone to do their part to keep Manitoba’s roads and highways safe. “Through education and awareness of ‘Slow Down, Move Over’ laws, we wish to support drivers in their crucial role in preventing incidents and fostering a culture of care and safety on Manitoba's highways,” continued Friesen. If you see an emergency vehicle or tow operator up ahead, reduce your speed and move to an open lane if it is safe to do so. If the posted speed limit is less than 80 km/h you are required to slow down to 40 km/h. If the posted speed limit is 80 km/h or higher you are required to slow down to 60 km/h. For more information about the Slow Down, Move Over law, visit: https://www.caamanitoba.com/advocacy/government-relations/slow-down The online survey was conducted by via an online quantitative survey with 916 CAA Members in Manitoba between February 3 and February 11, 2025. Based on the sample size of n=916 and with a confidence level of 95%, the margin of error for this research is +/3.24%.) 

Ewald Friesen

3 min

MEDIA RELEASE: CAA survey finds cannabis-impaired driving remains a concern in Manitoba

As 4/20 approaches, a survey conducted on behalf of CAA Manitoba reveals a trend: while most drivers in the province recognize the risks of cannabis-impaired driving, a significant number continue to drive after consuming cannabis—often in combination with other substances like alcohol or prescription medication. “Manitobans who decide to drive after consuming cannabis often underestimate the risks associated with this action,” said Ewald Friesen, manager, government relations, CAA Manitoba. “People still seem to believe that they have no alternative but to drive home or that the drive is short enough that it doesn’t matter. We are here to remind Manitobans that while cannabis use is legal and can be safely consumed, you should never do it before driving.”  Forty-seven per cent of Manitoba drivers used cannabis in 2024; 36 per cent tried cannabis this year for the first time since legalization. Despite growing awareness of the risks, 18 per cent of Manitoba drivers admit to driving after using cannabis, with the majority doing so within just three hours of consumption. Half of those surveyed are driving within three hours of consumption. The survey also revealed that 53 per cent of recent cannabis-impaired drivers reported driving shortly after consumption, with 36 per cent feeling high while behind the wheel. Alarmingly, 79 per cent expressed confidence in their driving ability while impaired, though 71 per cent expressed concern about being caught. “There is a common misconception on how cannabis affects drivers,” says Friesen, “however, it has been proven that cannabis use can impact a driver’s reaction time, judgement, coordination and decision-making.” Driving after consuming edibles has been a growing trend since last year. While smoking remains the primary mode of cannabis use, the survey highlights a growing trend of driving after consuming edibles, which can have delayed and unpredictable effects. Solid edibles (67 per cent) and joints (61 per cent) are the most used formats, and more than half of cannabis users prefer edibles over any other format. "Unlike other forms of cannabis, edibles often have delayed and unpredictable effects, which can significantly impair judgment and reaction times,” adds Friesen. “It is crucial for individuals to recognize these differences and prioritize safety, not only for themselves but for everyone sharing the road." There is a disconnect between what people believe and how they behave when it comes to cannabis and driving. Although 93 per cent of Manitoba drivers agree that cannabis-impaired driving is a serious road safety issue, many still view it as less dangerous than alcohol or prescription opioids. This disconnect between perception and behaviour underscores the need for continued education and enforcement. The penalties for impaired driving are serious and can include: Immediate 24-hour licence suspension (up to 60 days pending further testing) Three-day vehicle impoundment A $400 fine Mandatory Impaired Driver Assessment Additional administrative penalties, ignition interlock program requirements, and possible charges under the Criminal Code of Canada CAA Manitoba encourages all motorists to make safe, informed choices: Know the rules and understand how different cannabis products affect the body. Don’t drive impaired—whether by cannabis, alcohol, or any combination of substances. Plan ahead by arranging a rideshare, taxi, or designated driver, especially if planning to consume cannabis during upcoming events like 4/20. The online survey was conducted by DIG Insights from July 5 to July 18, 2024, with 504 Manitoba drivers aged 19 and older. Based on the sample size of n=504 and with a confidence level of 95%, the margin of error for this research is +/3%.) 

Ewald Friesen
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Biography

Ewald (pronounced A-vault) is the Manager of Government and Community Relations (GCR) at CAA Manitoba and brings a wide range of knowledge and experience to the role.

He has worked in politics and government for over 20 years, in four provinces and three countries. In his career he’s been a consultant, advisor, speechwriter, and strategic communications specialist in the private sector, within the political parties and on political campaigns at the federal, provincial, and municipal levels of government. His private sector roles include broadcasting, media and several consultancy agencies serving both Canadian and US markets. Ewald was a co-founder and managing partner at MediaStyle Inc. (now Em-dash), a full-service communications and political consulting firm in downtown Ottawa. He was also a speechwriter for Canada’s Truth and Reconciliation Commission closing events. His work abroad included acting as an international elections observer with the Organization of American States (OAS) overseeing elections in Peru and Ecuador.

He joins CAA Manitoba from his most recent role as a freelance speechwriter and marketing strategist for several public affairs clients across Canada including various public sector advocates, Indigenous groups, and in policy areas of health, education, and childcare.

As a lifelong learner, Ewald has a Bachelor’s Degree (Honours, Politics) from the University of Winnipeg and a Master of Arts (Political Science) from McGill University.

Ewald is based in Winnipeg and manages CAA Manitoba’s GCR team which includes doing work related to provincial and municipal government and stakeholder relations and ongoing community relations efforts to make roads safer in Manitoba.

Industry Expertise

Automotive
Legislative Office
Government Relations
Public Policy
Safety

Areas of Expertise

Congestion Management
School Zone Safety
Road Safety
Government & Community Relations
Policy Advocacy
Road User Safety

Education

University of Winnipeg

Bachelor of Arts (Honours)

Politics

2006

McGill University

Master of Arts

Political Science

2010

Media Appearances

Snowplow tracking app launched to help Manitoba drivers plan winter driving routes

CBC Manitoba  online

2024-11-29

Manitoba drivers can now plan safer winter highway travel based on which roads have been cleared after a storm, all at the click of an app.

On Friday, the province launched Track My Plow, which shows real-time updates on where snowplows are and where they have cleared roads in the past two hours.

Planning your route is one of the most effective ways to avoid the dangers of being stranded and needing a tow, CAA Manitoba's Ewald Friesen said in the release.

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Back to school — and back to school zones. Winnipeg drivers urged to watch their speed

Global Winnipeg  online

2024-09-03

Schools throughout Winnipeg are set to reopen to students, and school zones on local streets are back in effect.

Reduced speed limits around schools, dropping to 30 km/h from 50 km/h, came back as of Sunday, and drivers caught going over the limit could face a hefty ticket.

CAA Manitoba says it wants drivers to remember that the focus on school zones is all about safety.

“Parents and guardians across Manitoba have reported seeing unsafe driving behaviours in school zones, including double parking, speeding and stopping in moving traffic,” Ewald Friesen, Manager, Government and Community Relations for CAA Manitoba said in a statement.

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Majority of Manitoba drivers witness close-calls due to distracted driving: CAA poll

Winnipeg Sun  online

2024-06-27

A new study by CAA Manitoba reveals that 59 per cent of Manitoba drivers have witnessed a close-call collision or traffic violation caused by distracted driving.

“Distracted driving is the leading contributing factor in fatal motor vehicle collisions in Manitoba,” said Ewald Friesen, manager of government and community relations at CAA Manitoba. “By raising awareness of the risks of distracted driving, we hope to do our part to save lives and increase safety.”

Despite Manitoba’s ban on using hand-held devices while driving, enacted since July 2010, the survey highlights persistent issues related to distracted driving, especially due to use of technology while driving.

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