Nipissing MPP Vic Fedeli wants Ontario Power Generation and Energy Minister Glenn Thibeault to come clean about the future of the corporation in North Bay.
See: Looks like Ontario Power Generation will gut North Bay Operation
The Crown corporation is apparently getting ready to transfer almost all of its 70 local employees to Timmins and Cornwall, basically idling the North Bay office and plant on Eloy Road.
The Nipissing MPP says he, "would appreciate a briefing on the current and future status of Ontario Power Generation’s operations in North Bay. As you are aware, rumours have surfaced regarding the employment status of the 70 men and women at their North Bay facility. And while I’m certain we both generally don’t comment on rumours, OPG’s failure to respond to the municipality has rightfully caused great concern in North Bay."
Fedeli points out that OPG has refused to answer the community.
"I now look to you to inform us of OPG’s plans, and for you to set the record straight. OPG and North Bay have had a 100-year plus relationship. It is owned by the people of Ontario. Its responsibility is to the people of Ontario and to the communities where it has had partnerships for more than a century. If OPG is willing to turn its back on the responsibilities it has under this relationship, what else will it ignore?
"If they won't be open about what it plans to do in North Bay, how can they be trusted to be accountable for the $13 billion OPG will spend to refurbish the Darlington facility? They must be accountable. I view their silence as a betrayal by OPG to behave as good citizens and earn the social licence they need to operate in Ontario. Your earliest comments are appreciated."
Fedeli says he doesn't know if the rumours are true, "but when you have a company that's been in town for 100 years and is not answering questions, and they have an ultimate owner, the people of Ontario and there's an ultimate boss there, the Premier... but her energy minister is my first go-to person. If OPG won't open up to the City of North Bay after being here 100 years, then Minister you have to."
Fedeli says he'll see Thibeault in the Legislature Monday and will address it with him "face to face."
Mayor Al McDonald contacted Thibeault's office over a week ago seeking an explanation, but has still not received a reply.
Efforts by BayToday to get a response from Minister Thibeault have also gone unanswered.
