Conservative Fedeli slams Liberal Bartolucci - with two choices

NEWS RELEASE

VIC FEDELI, MPP

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Fedeli to Bartolucci: Consider both options

QUEEN’S PARK - Nipissing MPP Vic Fedeli today called on Northern Development and Mines Minister Rick Bartolucci [shown] to consider his future, including the options of retiring or resigning.
 
Fedeli told the Legislature in a Members’ Statement that Northern Ontario residents are outraged over his government’s decision to dismantle the Ontario Northland Transportation Commission.
 
Below is the text of Fedeli’s statement:
 
"Speaker, there is outrage in Northeastern Ontario over how this government is proceeding with the dismantling of the Ontario Northland Transportation Commission. 

Despite indisputable evidence presented by myself and others that this fire sale at Ontario Northland will achieve no savings, the Minister of Northern Development this month announced he’s proceeding with shut down of the Northlander passenger rail service.
 
It is obvious to Northerners the government had no plan going into this and still doesn’t. 

And there has been no effort by this Minister to consult Northerners about this. 

My colleague from Parry Sound-Muskoka and I took the time to travel 1,600 kilometres to talk to stakeholders across the North in June. 

Their message was clear – we want to be at the table. 

Tell us what you’re doing. 

The uncertainty you’re perpetuating is creating economic instability in the region. 

Their words, not ours. 

One forest products company halted their $10 million expansion due to the uncertainty created by this government.
 
Speaker, this Minister does not have the confidence of the people of Northern Ontario. 

The president of the North Bay and District Chamber of Commerce says he should resign. 

The unions that represent the men and women who work at Ontario Northland say he should retire. 

I say - why just stop with that Minister? 

I’d encourage every single member of the party opposite to consider both of those options so we can stop the decline of this great province and get on with the job of returning Ontario to prosperity."

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