Northern Mayors Commend Minister Gravelle’s Investment in ONTC’s Transportation Future
Date published: Friday, April 4, 2014
The Federation of Northern Ontario Municipalities (FONOM) is supportive of Minister of Northern Development and Mines Michael Gravelle’s efforts to protect and enhance Ontario Northland’s core freight rail and passenger bus assets moving forward.
FONOM President and Kapuskasing Mayor Alan Spacek praised Minister Gravelle’s work on ONTC and his willingness to engage with stakeholders.
“FONOM has been fighting from day one to protect ONTC from divestment, and after a long and at times difficult process with the Province, we are pleased to be at this point. We think it is important for all stakeholders, including the labour unions, municipalities, key customers and users of ONTC, industry, and the Province, to continue to work together to implement this viable solution for ONTC,” said Mayor Spacek.
“While we are not happy to see Ontera being sold, we are appreciative of the Minister’s efforts to preserve core transportation infrastructure that is critical to the economic vitality of Northern municipalities,” said Timmins Mayor Tom Laughren, who is also Vice-President of FONOM. “It is our hope that the Ministry will sincerely work with Bell Aliant to enhance Ontera’s service offerings for northern communities and businesses through increased infrastructure investment.”
For More Information:
Mayor Al Spacek
President of FONOM
705-335-0001