MAY 12, 2026 – TIMMINS, ON – The Northwestern Ontario Municipal Association (NOMA) and the Federation of Northern Ontario Municipalities (FONOM) say the findings contained in the Ontario Auditor General’s 2026 report on Large Commercial Truck Driver Licensing reinforce many of the concerns municipalities across Northern Ontario have continued to raise regarding highway safety, commercial vehicle enforcement, and the growing pressures facing Ontario’s transportation network.
The report identified gaps in commercial driver training oversight, inconsistent testing standards, and opportunities to strengthen inspection and enforcement systems across the province. NOMA and FONOM say the report provides an important opportunity for continued collaboration between municipalities and the Province of Ontario to strengthen road safety and modernize transportation systems.
Together, the organizations are encouraging continued action and partnership in areas including enhanced commercial vehicle enforcement and inspection capacity, improved oversight and auditing of truck driver training schools, increased staffing and operating hours at weigh scales and inspection stations, strengthened driver training and licensing standards, expanded passing lanes and 2+1 highway infrastructure, and the continued twinning and modernization of Highways 11 and 17.
NOMA and FONOM noted that Northern Ontario highways play a critical role in supporting economic activity, resource development, goods movement, tourism, and access to essential services across the province and country. Both organizations reaffirmed their commitment to continuing collaborative advocacy with municipal, provincial, and federal partners to improve transportation safety, reliability, and infrastructure across Northern Ontario.
Quotes:
“The Auditor General’s report highlights many of the realities municipalities in Northwestern Ontario experience every day. As organizations representing Northern Ontario municipalities, NOMA and FONOM have been actively working with all levels of government to advance solutions that improve highway safety, strengthen enforcement, and modernize our transportation infrastructure. We appreciate the ongoing dialogue with the Province and believe this report can help continue that important work,” says Rick Dumas, President, Northwestern Ontario Municipal Association (NOMA).
“The safety and reliability of Northern Ontario’s highways are essential to our communities, economy, and supply chains. This report provides valuable recommendations that can support ongoing efforts to improve commercial driver training, enhance enforcement, and ensure our highway network continues to meet the needs of residents, businesses, and industry across the North,” says Dave Plourde, President, Federation of Northern Ontario Municipalities (FONOM).
About NOMA
The Northwestern Ontario Municipal Association (NOMA) represents 37 municipalities across Northwestern Ontario, advocating on issues that support strong, resilient, and sustainable northern communities.
About FONOM
The Federation of Northern Ontario Municipalities (FONOM) advocates on behalf of Northern Ontario municipalities and works collaboratively with all levels of government to advance the interests of northern communities and strengthen the region’s economy and infrastructure.
Media Contacts:
Dave Plourde, President, FONOM
705-335-1615 | [email protected]
Rick Dumas, President, NOMA
807-229-6842 | [email protected]