Rota's FedNor bill one step closer to reality

Nipissing‐Timiskaming MP Anthony Rota
News Release

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Ottawa –The goal of establishing a permanent regional economic development agency for Northern Ontario is one step closer to reality, following a vote Wednesday evening in the House of Commons. The vote on Bill C‐309 ‐ a Private Members Bill introduced by Nipissing‐Timiskaming MP Anthony Rota ‐ passed by a count of 149 ‐ 134, meaning that it can now proceed to third reading.

“I am very pleased with the result of Wednesday night’s vote,” says Mr. Rota, “however there is still much work to be done.” Members of all three opposition parties voted in favour of the proposed legislation, while the Conservatives were the only MPs to vote against the Bill.

“Sadly, Tony Clement, Greg Rickford, and their Conservative colleagues have tried to buck this legislation every step of the way,” says Mr. Rota. “The people of Northern Ontario want to know why time and time again the Conservatives continue to turn their backs on our region.”

Like many, Mr. Rota believes that Northern Ontario is a unique region that presents specific economic challenges, but says that residents throughout area aren’t looking for government handouts.

According to Mr. Rota, “Bill C‐309 is about making sound investments in people, knowledge, modern infrastructure, and a sound and efficient financial sector in order to provide the foundation for global success. We are looking for stable funding that will allow communities throughout Northern Ontario to maintain the same standards as larger urban centres.”

At a time when every other region in this country has an economic development agency tailored to their specific needs, Mr. Rota says that there is absolutely no excuse for Northern Ontario having to make do without one of its own.

“Bill C‐309 isn’t about creating more bureaucracy. The goal is to have people on the ground, who live and work in the region, and who are best able to assist municipalities, rural communities, and not‐for‐profit organizations build and maintain a robust local economy.”

Mr. Rota goes on to say that, “The legislation I have put forward is about equality, fairness and a strong and sustainable Northern Ontario. It’s about Northern Ontarians having access to the same government services as all other Canadians.”

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