NICKEL BELT – GREATER SUDBURY – 2022 is moving ahead optimistically. In a time where residents and businesses may still be feeling some uncertainty, governments of all levels must forge a path forwarded based on respect, unity and a keen eye for economic development.

MP Serré commends the resilience of Nickel Belt – Greater Sudbury and acknowledges the perseverance shown over the last 22 months. Speaking directly with Chambers of Commerce, community leaders, not-for-profit organizations, residents, and businesses, he shares their optimistic outlook how uniquely well positioned this riding is for post-pandemic recovery.

Nickel Belt – Greater Sudbury has resilient industries like mining, service and supply, and tourism for example that are capable of leading new development. The Federal government has provided many major historic capital investments into long-term projects in these sectors. Over $169 million for Highway 69, over $30 million for Maley Drive, $13 million for la Place des Arts and $40 million for the Mining Innovation Commercialization Accelerator (led by CEMI) to name a few.  

These investments are strongly beneficial post pandemic as funds are already in place and the groundwork for job creation already exists.  The ripple effects are sustainable and further create benefits felt directly in local economies. The Federal government recognizes the importance of infrastructure projects that create benefits for generations to come. This is why the Federal government earmarked over $14.9 billion over eight years in budget 2021-2022 to ensure these intergenerational project funding programs are available to developing communities across Canada.

However, there are still barriers to overcome. For example, the Highway 69 funding was approved in January 2019 and was announcement in May of 2019 is lagging from provincial counterparts. There is yet to be any official Request for Proposals announced which is paramount to get these projects moving; despite the fact that financial commitments are already in place. Highway safety and increased flow of goods and services to the North can’t wait any longer as it has been over 3 years.

“Although mandates are changing quickly we still have some barriers to overcome concerning the COVID-19 pandemic. This means continued support for businesses and people and ensuring we can continue building a healthy and safe future. However, we can’t lose sight of what’s next. Since 2015, I’ve seen and supported the groundwork accomplished by ambitious entrepreneurs, innovative municipal governments and community partners.

We must choose to move forward and adopting new approach models with a large focus on circular economies, long-term investments and filling skills gaps,” said Serré.

“Collaboration must not just be a political buzzword- it’s absolutely necessary. We need the voices of marginalized communities, Indigenous peoples and rural communities brought to the front.  The talent pool and possibilities are endless in Nickel Belt – Greater Sudbury. I encourage all local organizations to discover what new funding programs are open by connecting with my office and visiting the Government of Canada website to find out what they may be eligible for. We can all play a role in the reshaping and enhancement of Nickel Belt,” added Serré.

“As Member of Parliament and newly appointed Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Official Languages I look forward to the challenges and opportunities to come. Facilitating results and advocating for what matters is at the heart of my political approach. Our successes will serve as a roadmap for future prosperity in Nickel Belt – Greater Sudbury for this post pandemic recovery. Thank you to all for the care, service and stepping up as a community to get vaccinated. We owe all frontline staff and countless selfless individuals our sincere gratitude.”

Link
Infrastructure Canada Funding Programs

Contact
Kaylie Dudgeon, Special Assistant
MP Nickel Belt Marc G. Serré
[email protected] / 705-507-2416