On March 23, 2012, the government of Ontario announced its decision to enter into a process of divestiture for the Ontario Northland Transportation Commission. This announcement is a complete reversal of the government's stated position, it flies in the face of the Growth Plan For Northern Ontario 2011 and it completely and utterly breaks a pledge signed by Premier McGuinty in 2002.
The government has stated they are engaging in an open, fair and transparent process, however, the announcement was made without community or any other consultations prior to or since the announcement being made.
This heavy handed, unilateral action must not be allowed. The ONTC has been a significant corporate entity in Northeastern Ontario for more than a century. The ONTC has been an economic driver and partner in economic development.
Many think of the ONTC as simply a transportation organization running passenger rail and motor coach services. Nothing could be further from the truth.
In an effort to impress upon the government the importance of the divestiture decision, the Northern Communities Working Group was formed. This group is made up of mayors from across the region, business representation and union leaders. This diverse group represents municipalities, business, industry, and labour. Each of these constituencies has a vested interest in the outcome of the ONTC process.
The USW is a member of the Northern Communities Working Group.
Please visit the website and take action to show your support for a New Deal for Ontario Northland.