Eugene Kostyra has had an exemplary career in public service in Manitoba, both in elected office and as a senior official. From 1973 to 1981, and again from 1988 to 2000, he worked with the Canadian Union of Public Employees holding the positions of Manitoba regional director and executive assistant to the national president. As a New Democratic member of the legislative assembly (Seven Oaks) from 1981 to 1988, he was also minister of several portfolios including industry, trade and technology, culture and recreation, and finance. After leaving office, he assisted governments in Canada and abroad with transition, democratic reform and community development including in Yugoslavia, Uganda and Serbia. From 1999 to 2006, he served as secretary to the Community and Economic Development Committee of Cabinet; the government’s lead staffer on many major economic initiatives (e.g., MTS Centre development). A key supporter of the Winnipeg Folk Festival since its inception, he is also active on many boards including CentrePort Canada, the Manitoba Liquor Control Commission and the Winnipeg Blue Bombers Football Club.
