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Fedeli, Aspin, McDonald, Ontera sale 'disappointing'

"This is disappointing news for Northern Ontario." That was the reaction of Nipissing MPP Vic Fedeli to the sale of Ontera to Bell Aliant announced today by the Federal Competition Bureau.

"This is disappointing news for Northern Ontario."

That was the reaction of Nipissing MPP Vic Fedeli to the sale of Ontera to Bell Aliant announced today by the Federal Competition Bureau.

"At first the bureau determined the transaction would likely substantially lessen competition, but then they put in their own fix. (by affixing conditions)

And Fedeli continues to ask "Why is the government putting Ontera up for sale?"

The MPP called in the Auditor-General who proved to the legislature that the sale of all divisions of the ONTC would actually cost $828m to taxpayers, rather than the $265m the government claimed it would save.

"The Ontera sale will likely cost the taxpayers between 50 and 70 milion dollars," explained Fedeli.

The legislature resumes on the 28th of October, "too late in my opinion" says Fedeli.

"I will make one final plea to the Minister of Northern Development and Mines and to the Premier. Why are you going ahead with the sale when there are no savings to be had?"

Meanwhile Nipissing Timiskaming MP Jay Aspin also expressed "disappointment."

"The bottom line on this whole thing is a fire sale of Ontera assets. What we've got here is essentially a hollowing out of Ontario Northland.

"The provincial Liberals are saying they're doing their best to support the ONTC but I'm not seeing any evidence of that.

"What disturbs me is that I'm doing my level best to create more opportunities for our region in terms of aerospace and space and here we've got the provincial Liberals just tearing things apart."

Mayor Al McDonald was also disappointed.

"Our concern if for those high-paying jobs in the community. We never give up. We'll continue to re-assess where we are, but we're very appreciative that the four divisions of the ONTC remain inn public hands."


Jeff Turl

About the Author: Jeff Turl

Jeff is a veteran of the news biz. He's spent a lengthy career in TV, radio, print and online, covering both news and sports. He enjoys free time riding motorcycles and spoiling grandchildren.
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