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TIMMINS, May 21, 2014 – Northern Ontario residents will hear first-hand about the provincial issues that matter to them at the Northern Leaders’ Debate, to be held on Monday, May 26 at the Valhalla Inn in Thunder Bay. The event is sponsored by the Northern Policy Institute, and organized in conjunction with the Northwestern Ontario Municipal Association (NOMA), Federation of Northern Ontario Municipalities (FONOM), Northwestern Ontario Associated Chambers of Commerce (NOACC) and the Northeastern Ontario Chambers of Commerce. Kathleen Wynne, Leader of the Ontario Liberal Party and Andrea Horwath, Leader of the New Democratic Party of Ontario, have confirmed their attendance at the debate. The panel of members of the NOMA, FONOM, NOACC and the Northeastern Ontario Chambers of Commerce -- represented by the Timmins Chamber of Commerce -- will address the two leaders with questions on provincial policy affecting northern Ontario. Due to scheduling issues, Tim Hudak, leader of the Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario is unable to attend. “The issues facing northeastern Ontario are significant, which makes this election such a crucial one for our region,” said Keitha Robson, CAO of the Timmins Chamber of Commerce. “This is why the Timmins Chamber is incredibly pleased to represent the northeastern business community at the Northern Leaders debate, where we expect a lively but important discussion on topics that matter most to the North.” The one-hour debate will begin at 12:15 p.m., and can be viewed via webcast at www.netnewsledger.com Those looking to attend in person must register in advance at a cost of $45 at http://www.noma.on.ca/article/northern-leaders-debate-1234.asp.
ADDITIONAL QUOTES: David Canfield, NOMA President: “The future of Ontario is in northern Ontario. We are looking forward to having an opportunity to learn what each party will deliver to assist our region in growth and prosperity.” Al Spacek, FONOM President: “This debate will provide an opportunity to bring forward what really matters in northern communities - from northerners themselves.” Nathan Lawrence, NOACC President: “The opportunity for growth in Northern Ontario is immense. We look forward to hearing what policies each leader would put in place to ensure the full potential is realized.”
About the Timmins Chamber of Commerce With 800 members, the Timmins Chamber of Commerce is one of the largest accredited chambers of commerce with distinction in northeastern Ontario. As the “Voice of Business in Timmins” since 1949, our advocacy and policy initiatives focus on ensuring a positive business climate in the City of Timmins.
Contact: Iain Angus, NOMA (807) 474-0926 Al Spacek, President, FONOM (705) 335-0001
Nathan Lawrence, President, NOAC (807) 624-2626 Nick Stewart Manager of Policy, Research and Communications Timmins Chamber of Commerce (705) 360-1900 policy@timminschamber.on.ca