Helping Northern Ontario Prosper

Written by Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources on 07 December 2013

“Throughout my life in Northwestern Ontario, and in my time spent as minister, I have had the privilege of witnessing communities, organizations, and Aboriginal groups achieve some amazing things that have absolutely confirmed my belief in the strength and resilience that we all share as Northerners. I am thrilled that our government has brought together key ministers as well as community and Aboriginal leaders from across Northern Ontario to renew the Growth Plan’s momentum and engage in important discussions about the roles that each of us have to play in moving this plan forward.” Michael Gravelle, Minister of Northern Development and Mines

Ontario Government Working to Create a Stronger, More Diverse Northern Economy

Premier Kathleen Wynne hosted a Northern Leaders’ Forum in Timmins yesterday to discuss ways to drive job creation and economic growth in Northern Ontario communities.

The forum is brought together northern municipal, Aboriginal and community leaders and government ministers to identify opportunities to advance the objectives of the Growth Plan for Northern Ontario.

Working in partnership with northern leaders to advance the Growth Plan for Northern Ontario is part of the government’s economic plan to invest in people, build modern infrastructure and support a dynamic and innovative business climate.

“We believe that Northern Ontario has a bright future. That’s why we are focused on making smart investments and developing strong partnerships that will build on the unique strengths of Ontario’s North.” Kathleen Wynne, Premier of Ontario

“Efficient, modern infrastructure is critical to Northern Ontario’s future. I’m looking forward to discussing opportunities, priorities, and specific actions, focusing on infrastructure projects, existing and future, to help advance the Growth Plan for Northern Ontario over the next five years.” Glen Murray, Minister of Infrastructure and Minister of Transportation

“Today’s summit is an important part of our government’s ongoing work with Ontario’s northern municipalities. By continuing this dialogue we will ensure that residents of the north continue to live in thriving, prosperous communities.” Linda Jeffrey, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing

QUICK FACTS

Premier Wynne was joined by cabinet ministers from Aboriginal Affairs, Citizenship and Immigration, Economic Development, Trade and Employment, Health and Long Term Care, Infrastructure, Municipal Affairs and Housing, Natural Resources, Northern Development and Mines and Transportation.
The Growth Plan for Northern Ontario was introduced in March 2011.
To address Growth Plan priorities, the government is investing in key initiatives such as:
Supporting 22 Northern Training Partnership Fund projects for 2,400 Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people in Northern Ontario to receive job skills training.
Investing $672 million in northern infrastructure, including $513 million for northern highways in 2013-2014.
Supporting the Northwestern Ontario Broadband Expansion Initiative through a $32-million investment to expand broadband infrastructure to 26 remote northern First Nations.
Since October 2003, the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC) has helped to create or sustain more than 22,400 jobs in Northern Ontario.