Minister of Northern Development and Mines Michael Gravelle released the following statement Monday regarding the future of the ONTC.
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I was pleased to meet today with my advisory committee on the ONTC. Together, we took the opportunity to further explore options as we move forward with the ONTC transformation. There was very valuable discussion around the table related to the sustainability of the ONTC.
Our goal throughout this process remains unchanged; ensuring northern communities and industries benefit from viable, efficient and sustainable transportation and communications systems. At today’s Minister’s Advisory meeting, I was pleased to reaffirm my commitment to look at all options. In conjunction with this direction the ONTC Commission has revised its Memorandum of Understanding with my Ministry from a mandate for divestment to a mandate for transformation of the ONTC. This transformation may include restructuring, alternative service delivery, and divestment.
We will continue our work and thoroughly examine all options with the goal of finding a sustainable solution for the ONTC that serves the interests of Northerners. Ultimately, both our government and the Minister’s Advisory Committee, recognize the importance of a resilient, prosperous regional economy that attracts people and investments to Northern Ontario.
Certainly, I believe we all see that a modern, sustainable transportation system is vital to supporting that goal. I look forward to continuing the conversation later this week at our Northern Leaders’ Forum in Timmins, where on Friday, December 6th, community leaders from across the North will gather to talk about the implementation of the Growth Plan for Northern Ontario, and how we all can partner to achieve economic growth and prosperity in the North. I expect that when we bring these bright minds together it will bring new and important ideas to the table.
–Michael Gravelle, Minister of Northern Development and Mines
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See North Bay mayor Al McDonald's comments about the meeting via his Twitter feed @MayorAlMcDonald
