Ontario Supports Nipigon Diversification Efforts – #955151

News Release
Ministry of Northern Development and Mines
August 31, 2007 – 228

McGuinty Government Helps Advance Important Local Projects

SUDBURY – The Ontario government continues to support economic diversification efforts in the Nipigon area, Northern Development and Mines Minister Rick Bartolucci announced today.

“We commend the Nipigon Community Adjustment Committee for its diligent work in developing diversification strategies,” said Thunder Bay-Superior North MPP Michael Gravelle. “These projects represent important steps in ensuring a strong and resilient local economy in the future.”The Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC) will invest $45,200 to help the Nipigon Community Adjustment Committee implement several projects developed for the Land of Nipigon Community Adjustment Plan. Projects include: a feasibility study for biomass production; establishment of a wood distribution facility on the Red Rock First Nation; revitalization of Nipigon’s downtown; establishment of a regional recycling depot; and advancement of community strategic economic plans.

“Our government is working with local communities to develop strategies for strengthening economies dependant upon the forestry sector,” said Bartolucci, who also chairs the NOHFC. “By supporting these kinds of initiatives, our government is promoting prosperity throughout Northern Ontario.”

This is just one more example of how, working together, Ontarians have achieved results in support of economic development in the area. Other examples include:

• Establishing the Forest Sector Prosperity Fund, part of the $1-billion plan to help forest companies invest in their own future and the future of the communities that depend on them
• Contributing $60 million annually to the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund to support community and economic development.

These initiatives are part of the government’s Northern Prosperity Plan for building stronger northern communities. It has four pillars: Strengthening the North and its Communities; Listening to and Serving Northerners Better; Competing Globally; and Providing Opportunities for All.

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Contacts:

Laura Blondeau
Minister’s Office – Sudbury
(705) 564-7454

Michel Lavoie
MNDM/NOHFC – Sudbury
(705) 564-7125