Thousands of people in the Nickel Belt region have had their say and formed their next municipal governments. There are some fresh faces and some who are returning to the six municipal councils that fall within the riding boundaries.
I would like to sincerely thank the candidates who have run in these elections. In a time of such political polarization, it takes great courage to run for any role; to advocate for and ensure the needs of residents are at the forefront.
Congratulations to those who were successful in their bid to be elected, including incoming mayors, councillors and school board trustees. You have an important role to play and there is important work that needs to be done.
As Northeastern Ontario moves forward with new city councils, I believe it’s time we collectively move away from divisiveness that has held back important progress in our region.
Northern Ontario has gained international attention in the mining and tourism sectors. It also possesses the ingredients necessary to further grow and also expand to other industries.
Our region’s ability to produce low-carbon minerals is one of the first things that comes to mind. This is something that the world wants and needs as it transitions away from fossil fuels. Recent enormous investments in the billions by Vale and Glencore demonstrate a willingness to invest in the region.
Second, Northeastern Ontario is internationally renowned for its ability to reclaim land while also building a strong and resilient local economy. Just this year, Greater Sudbury hosted Dr. Jane Goodall and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, as they planted the 10 millionth tree in the region. This reflects our ability to protect local ecosystems.
There are also pressing issues that lay ahead. We are still recovering from a once-in-a-generation pandemic. There is high inflation, high energy costs, a looming recession, and an ongoing climate crisis. These circumstances have negatively impacted many and have caused further stress and frustration. Most recently, to help ease those heavily burdened, we have introduced bills to offer additional funds through GST credits, assistance with rent and dental benefits for children 12 and under.
Locally, we are fortunate in the sense that we do have a strong and growing economy. Although we are faced with a skilled workers shortage, in recognizing this, our government has listened to the concerns shared and has agreed to extend the Northern and Rural Immigration Pilot program. It also further expanded it to smaller communities to help ease worker shortfalls.
As a grassroots MP, I have always and will continue to work directly with municipalities to tackle these challenges and try to remedy these serious deficiencies. I have taken this approach since being elected in 2015 and that commitment remains.
Municipalities play an important role by working with provincial and federal governments to find meaningful solutions to these big issues. When all levels of government work together, we can ensure that the most vulnerable are heard and are able to access supports.
Northern Ontario has a long history of finding meaningful and innovative solutions to the world’s most pressing issues. Whether its inflation, energy or protecting the environment, our government will always put the best interest of Canadians first.
Looking forward to collaborating with newly elected councils on both national and local issues.
Marc Serré is the Liberal MP for Nickel Belt.
