MPP Holland’s April 2025 Newsletter

Sign up to get the latest news and events from our community delivered straight to your Inbox!

King Charles III Coronation Medal Ceremony

I had the great honour of awarding eight King Charles III Coronation Medals to outstanding community members in Thunder Bay–Atikokan who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, service, and achievement.

I’m proud to recognize the following recipients:

– Dr. Elaine Wiersma

– Bill Heibein

– Rebecca Johnson

– Tom Ratz

– Tom Hainey

– Lucy Kloosterhuis

– Cora-Lee McGuire-Cyrette

– Pastor Gary Macsemchuk

Thank you to each of you for your remarkable contributions to our communities. Your dedication continues to make Thunder Bay–Atikokan a better place for all.

See More: https://kevinhollandmpp.ca/king-charles-iii-coronation…/

44th Parliament of Ontario

Proud to be back at Queen’s Park for the 44th Parliament of Ontario.

As Associate Minister of Forestry and Forest Products, I’m ready to get back to work supporting our forestry sector, strengthening our local economy, and continuing to advocate for the people of Thunder Bay – Atikokan.

Thank you to my constituents for your continued trust. Let’s keep building a strong and prosperous Ontario—working with you for you.

Speech from the Throne

The Speech from the Throne laid out our government’s plan to unleash the full potential of our economy.

By building a stronger economy, we will be ready to stand up to challenges like President Trump’s tariffs and whatever else may come our way.

I encourage everyone to read the plan here: https://lnkd.in/gGRVhK5Y

Let’s keep working together to build a stronger, more resilient Ontario.

Passing of Pope Francis

It is with deep sorrow that we mourn the passing of His Holiness, Pope Francis.

I extend my heartfelt condolences to the Catholic community across Ontario and around the world. May he rest in peace.

Announcements & Investments in the Riding

Protecting Ontario’s Critical Minerals

I proudly accompanied The Hon. Minister Stephen Lecce as he announced our government’s plan to block hostile foreign actors from making claims in the North and exploiting our resources.

Our government is standing up for the North and protecting what’s ours and securing the future for the people of Ontario.

News Release – https://news.ontario.ca/…/protecting-ontarios-critical…

Ontario Supporting 2 Local Festivals

I had the pleasure of joining Minister Stan Cho as he announced that our government is investing $20 million to support festivals and events across Ontario.

I’m happy to share that from this funding Bayfest will receive $125,000 and Wake the Giant will receive $55,000 to support their festivals this year!

Congratulations to these organizations. This funding will help ensure a summer filled with celebration, culture, and community here in Thunder Bay!

News Release: https://kevinhollandmpp.ca/ontario-investing-20-million…/

Province provides $461,500 in OTF Funding to two local Organizations

I’m happy to share that the province has provided $461,500 in Ontario Trillium Foundation funding to support two incredible local initiatives:

North McIntyre Rec Centre – to expand their programming and services for the community

Magnus Theatre – to grow their annual Theatre for Young Audiences School Tour, bringing live theatre to more students across the region

Thank you to the North McIntyre Rec Centre for hosting this exciting announcement. This investment will make a real difference in our community by increasing access to recreation and the arts for people of all ages.

News Release: https://kevinhollandmpp.ca/ontario-supporting-community…/

Provincial Investment of $2,205,325 to Strengthen Local Transit

On behalf of Minister Prabmeet Singh Sarkaria I’m happy to announce that our government is investing $2,205,325 through the Gas Tax Program to strengthen local transit in Thunder Bay – Atikokan.

This funding will help expand routes, increase service hours, improve accessibility, and support vehicle upgrades giving people better, more reliable ways to connect with work, school, and community life.

Province Invests in Supports to Help Prevent Gender-Based Violence

Ontario is investing nearly $3 million in Thunder Bay to help prevent gender-based violence and support survivors.

This funding will strengthen local organizations like Matawa First Nations Management, Nokiiwin Tribal Council, and Thunder Bay Counselling, who do vital work in our communities.

Together, we’re building a safer, more compassionate Thunder Bay—thank you to all those involved in this important work.

News Release: https://kevinhollandmpp.ca/ontario-investing-in-new…/

Superior Shores Gaming Association

I would like to extend my congratulations to the Superior Shores Gaming Association on reaching an incredible milestone of donating a total of $10 million over the past decade to support local businesses and organizations. This past year alone, they contributed an impressive $1.8 million, making a meaningful difference in our communities.

Thank you to all involved for your continued generosity, volunteerism, and dedication to strengthening the Thunder Bay region.

Support Program for Small Businesses Impacted by U.S Tariffs

I’m pleased to share that the Thunder Bay Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with the Thunder Bay CEDC, has launched the Small Business Tariff Response Fund to support local businesses impacted by recent tariff changes.

This new program provides targeted financial assistance to help businesses manage additional costs and stay competitive.

For eligibility and application information about the Small Business Tariff Response Fund, visit: https://www.tbchamber.ca/tariff-response-app/

Community Spotlight

NOSA Dinner

Thank you once again to the Team Northern Ontario Sportsman Alliance (NOSA) for having me at their annual dinner!

It’s always a pleasure to connect with such dedicated individuals who share a strong commitment to responsible outdoor recreation, and the values we hold dear in Northern Ontario.

Polar Bear Plunge 2025

I had a blast cheering on our local MNR crew alongside many incredible local businesses and organizations as they braved the Thunder Bay PDR Polar Bear Plunge!

It was fantastic to see so many smiling (and shivering) faces coming together to support a great cause and show off our true Northern spirit.

Huge thanks to all the volunteers that helped make this event possible and to all who were brave enough to take the plunge or came out to cheer them on!

Opening of Navigation Luncheon

Thank you to the Port of Thunder Bay for having me at their Opening of Navigation luncheon at the Sleeping Giant Brewing Co.!

This annual event marks the start of the navigation season for the port and offers a great opportunity for local officials and community partners to come together and celebrate the economic successes of our port.

I was impressed by the stats shared during the event: In 2024, the Port of Thunder Bay handled over 10 million metric tons of cargo, the highest since 1997. It’s also the top seaway outbound port in the St. Lawrence Seaway.

Sleeping Giant Brewery Event

I want to extend my thanks to all the Ministers who attended NOMA 2025 last week and joined us at the Sleeping Giant Brewing Co. event.

I’m truly grateful for the dedicated colleagues I have the privilege of working alongside as we continue our efforts to improve the lives of those in Thunder Bay–Atikokan and Ontario!

NOMA 2025

April 25th was the conclusion of NOMA 2025!

I would like to thank the organizers and volunteers of NOMA for their great efforts in making this year’s conference a success

I would also like to thank Ministers Stephen Lecce, Lisa Thompson, Stan Cho, Jill Dunlop , Todd McCarthy, Rob Flack , and George Pirie for joining us in Thunder Bay throughout the week. Your participation and engagement were greatly appreciated by all in attendance.

Meeting with Alina Cameron

I had a great meeting with Alina Cameron, where we had the opportunity to discuss priorities and the important work being done in our communities.

I appreciated her insights and strong commitment to making a positive difference. Thank you, Alina, for taking the time to connect — I look forward to future meetings!

Ministry News

King Charles III Coronation Awards

As Associate Minister of Forestry and Forest Products, I had the great honour of presenting three King Charles III Coronation Medals to individuals who have made lasting contributions to Ontario’s forestry sector.

I’m proud to recognize Ian Dunn, President of the Ontario Forest Industries Association, Dana Shaw, Vice-President of Herb Shaw and Sons, and Tom Ratz, Chief Forester at Domtar, for this well-deserved honour.

All three have served the forestry industry with the utmost professionalism, integrity, and dedication. I look forward to continuing our important work together to advance and strengthen Ontario’s forestry sector.

First-Ever Female Elected Speaker of the Ontario Legislature

I would like to extend my congratulations to my colleague MPP Donna Skelly on making history as the first-ever female elected Speaker of the Ontario Legislature. This is a significant achievement, and I have every confidence that she will bring wisdom, integrity, and a strong voice to this important role.

OFIA’s 82nd Annual Forestry Social

I had the great opportunity to speak at the Ontario Forest Industries Associations 82nd annual Forestry Social Event!

It was an honour to join industry leaders, colleagues, and stakeholders to celebrate Ontario’s sustainable forestry sector and the hard-working people who help drive our economy and steward our natural resources.

Thank you to the OFIA for hosting such a fantastic event and for your continued advocacy on behalf of Ontario’s forest industry.

Ducks Unlimited Reception at Queens Park

Had a great time at the Ducks Unlimited reception at Queen’s Park! Always inspiring to hear about the work being done to protect our wetlands and wildlife. Big thanks to Ducks Unlimited for bringing people together and leading the way in conservation.

Thunder Bay Chamber of Commerce Lunch

Had an amazing time at the Thunder Bay Chamber of Commerce lunch where I had the pleasure of hearing from OFIA President Ian Dunn! A lunch filled with amazing leaders in our sector and I look forward to working together as we advance the forestry sector for the future!

NOMA Delegation Meetings

Domtar Meeting

I had the great pleasure of accompanying Ministers George Pirie and Todd McCarthy for a meeting with Domtar.

We had meaningful discussions about the forestry sector, and the contributions Domtar makes to our regional economy and communities.

Thank you to the leadership and staff at Domtar for your continued collaboration.

Meetings with Ministers Flack, McCarthy, and Cho

I had the pleasure of accompanying Ministers Rob Flack, Todd McCarthy and Stan Cho for a series of productive delegation meetings with the City of Thunder Bay and the municipalities of Red Lake, Marathon, and Dryden as part of Day 2 of NOMA 2025.

These discussions are essential to strengthening our partnerships and ensuring Northern voices are heard as we work together to build strong, thriving communities across the region.

Thank you to all the municipal leaders and staff who took the time to share their priorities and ideas.

Provincial Initiatives

Supporting Young Entrepreneurs

Attention Ontario students between 15-29 years old!

Looking for a summer job? Apply to Ontario’s Summer Company Program to help launch your own business. Apply by May 16, 2025!

Learn more: https://www.ontario.ca/page/start-summer-company-students