MPP Holland’s | August 2024 Newsletter

I’m excited to share my new role as Associate Minister of Forestry and Forestry Products, along with key updates and community successes across Thunder Bay – Atikokan!

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Monthly Funding Overview

Spotlight Announcement

Appointment to Associate Minister of Forestry and Forestry Products

I am honoured to be appointed as the new Associate Minister of Forestry and Forestry Products! Having extensive experience working with our local community forestry sectors, I’m excited to bring that knowledge to this new role.

The forestry industry is a cornerstone of our province’s economy and a vital part of our communities. I am committed to supporting its growth and sustainability, ensuring that it continues to provide jobs and environmental stewardship for future generations.

I would like to thank the Hon. Premier Doug Ford for this incredible opportunity, and I look forward to working closely with all stakeholders in this essential industry.

Applications are now open for the new Community Sport and Recreation Infrastructure Fund!

This $200M capital funding program will revitalize existing infrastructure and support the construction of new facilities

Learn more: https://news.ontario.ca/…/ontario-supporting…

Ontario is investing $10 million to help 350 workers prepare for in-demand careers in shipbuilding and repair.

Learn more: https://news.ontario.ca/…/ontario-investing-10-million…

Ontario Students Going Back-to-Basics with Fewer Distractions This Fall

Our government is getting back to the basics in schools, with a focus on reading, writing and math. Learning should come first with students, that’s why we’re making sure cell phones are out of sight in classrooms.

We encourage parents, teachers, and students to work together and have these conversations to remove distractions from schools.

News Release: https://news.ontario.ca/…/ontario-students-going-back…

Announcements & Investments in the Riding

Over $400,000 Investment to Help Seniors

I had the pleasure of announcing over $400,000 in funding to multiple senior centres across Thunder Bay – Atikokan!

This investment will significantly benefit our seniors by providing local senior centres with the resources needed to continue and expand their services, activities, and programs, supporting the overall health and well-being of our older adults.

A big thank you to the Rural 60 Plus Centre for hosting today’s fantastic announcement and to representatives from the North McIntyre Recreation Centre and Thunder Bay 55 Plus Centre for joining us.

See full NR here: https://kevinhollandmpp.ca/ontario-helping-seniors-in-northwestern-ontario-stay-fit-healthy-and-active/

Province Investing Nearly $17 Million to Support Workers in NWO

I had the honour of joining the Hon. Premier Doug Ford, along with Ministers David Piccini, George Pirie, and Sam Oosterhoff at Ironworkers local 759 in Thunder Bay for this exciting announcement.

Our government is proud to announce an investment of nearly $17 million to support workers in Northern Ontario. Organizations that are receiving funding to train, recruit, build or upgrade training centres for skilled trades include: Science North, Sheet Metal Workers Union Local 397, Keewayinook Okimakanak, International Association of Bridge Structural, Ornamental & Reinforcing Ironworkers Local 759, Northern Centre for Advance Technology, and Agnico Eagle Mines Limited.

This funding is essential to the growth of skilled trades in the North. It will help train over 36,000 works and connect them with prosperous opportunities in the expanding sectors like mining, construction, energy and forestry.

Learn more here: https://news.ontario.ca/…/ontario-investing-nearly-17…

Upsala’s Service Board Receives $180,000 in NOHFC Funding

I had the privilege of joining the wonderful community in Upsala to announce $180,000 in NOHFC funding to their Local Services Board!

This funding will be used to renovate the Upsala Recreation and Community Sports Centre, improving accessibility and enhancing the facility’s operations for local residents.

Thank you to everyone who came out to celebrate this great news, and a special thanks to the Upsala Community Centre for hosting this event!

See more details here: https://kevinhollandmpp.ca/ontario-enhancing-community…/

Grand Opening of Red Rock Water Pollution Control Plant

I joined the community in Red Rock to celebrate the grand opening of their Water Pollution Control Plant!

This essential facility will greatly enhance the quality of life for residents by providing reliable wastewater services and safeguarding our provincial waterways while preserving local ecosystems.

Congratulations to the Township of Red Rock! This plant is vital in maintaining a clean and healthy community and will serve as a foundation for future growth as we work together to meet housing needs in our expanding economy.

See more details here: https://www.redrocktownship.com/news-release-water-pollution-control-plant-grand-opening/

Community Spotlight

Meeting the Team at Liuna Local 607

I had the privilege to accompany Premier Doug Ford, along with Ministers David Piccini, and Sam Oosterhoff to LIUNA Local 607 to meet with their hardworking team!

Thank you Liuna for taking the time to meet with us and sharing about the work they’re doing to build Northern Ontario, creating more opportunities for people to find better jobs and bigger pay cheques in the skilled trades!

Tour of the Port of Thunder Bay

I would like to give a big thank you to the Port of Thunder Bay for giving me the opportunity to tour the Thunder Bay port!

It was an incredible experience to see the city from a different perspective, get up close to the cargo ships on the water, and gain insight into the port’s operations.

A shout out and thank you to Nathan from Thunder Bay Tug Services Ltd. as well, for being our captain and sharing his extensive knowledge of all things ship-related.

Science North’s Summer Science Camp

I had the pleasure of visiting one of Science North’s Summer Science Camp to tour the facilities and see firsthand how the youth were enjoying the programs offered.

It was a great to witness these programs in action, providing significant experiences that will leave a lasting impact on our youth. The inspiration and knowledge they gain from attending these camps are invaluable and truly worth celebrating!

Thank you to Science North for extending the invitation to see the great learning experiences your team is bringing to our communities.

Festivals and Events throughout August

The city was buzzing with fantastic events like the 42nd Annual Westfort Street Fair, the Murillo Fair, and the inaugural Summer Matsuri Festival, to name just a few.

Awareness, Showcase and Appreciation

Eric Staal Retirement from the NHL

I want to extend a congratulations to Eric Staal on his retirement from the NHL. Over 18 remarkable seasons, Eric has not only made a significant impact on the ice but has also been an inspiration to aspiring athletes in our community and beyond.

Thank you, Eric, for all the unforgettable moments and for being a role model for future generations. Wishing you great success in your next chapter!

Abby Dent and Women’s 8 Rowing Win Silver Medal

A huge shoutout to Abby Dent of Kenora and the entire Women’s 8 rowing team for their incredible silver medal win last week! Your hard work, dedication, and teamwork have made all of Canada proud.

I’d also like to extend my congratulations to the rest of Team Canada for their outstanding achievements at the Paris 2024 Olympics! With 9 gold, 7 silver, and 11 bronze medals, you are truly showcasing the best of Canadian talent on the world stage.

Thank you to Ministers that Visited Thunder Bay

I’d like to take a moment to thank Ministers Paul Calandra and Sam Oosterhoff for stopping by my office while they were in Thunder Bay last week to meet with the great team at the Lakehead Rural Planning Board!

I also want to thank these ministers, along with Minister David Piccini, for joining me in Thunder Bay to meet with stakeholders, celebrate the region’s accomplishments, and discuss how we can continue improving Thunder Bay – Atikokan. Together, we’re working to build a stronger future for our communities!

Ministry News

AMO 2024

It was a busy and productive time at the AMO 2024 conference in Ottawa! I had the opportunity to connect with multiple municipal leaders, discuss important topics affecting our communities, and explore ways to strengthen the collaboration between our government and municipalities.

A big thank you to everyone who took the time to meet and share their insights, your input is invaluable. Looking forward to putting these conversations into action for the benefit of Thunder Bay – Atikokan and Ontario!

Sudbury – Timmins Tour

Had a great time in Sudbury and Timmins last week with Ministers George Pirie, David Piccini, and Sam Oosterhoff! It was a pleasure meeting with so many dedicated organizations working hard to make a positive impact in our communities.

Thank you for your warm hospitality and for the insightful conversations. Looking forward to seeing the great work continue in Northern Ontario!

Meetings in Thunder Bay

Meeting with Trades Representatives from Thunder Bay

I joined Ministers David Piccini and George Pirie to connect with trades representatives in Thunder Bay to get feedback on how our government can better support hardworking trades men and women.

Thank you all for joining us for this productive breakfast and sharing your invaluable insights. Your feedback is crucial as we continue to develop policies that empower the trades sector and ensure that skilled workers have the resources and opportunities they need to thrive in Ontario.

Tour of Intercity Industrial Supply

Thank you to Intercity Industrial Supply for inviting me to meet with you and giving me a tour of your facilities. It was a pleasure to learn more about your operations and see firsthand the great work you’re doing!

Meeting with Lac des Mille Lacs First Nation

I had a great meeting this morning with Quentin Snider, Anthony Maunula, and David Mackett of Lac des Mille Lacs First Nation. Thank you for taking the time to meet with me, I look forward to having future discussions.

Meeting with NWO Innovation Centre

Thank you to Jeff and Carole from NWO Innovation Centre for the insightful tour and engaging conversation. I look forward to having future meetings on how we can support entrepreneurs in our community!