MPP Holland's April 2026 Newsletter
- 1 day ago
- 10 min read
Monthly Recap | April 2026
Featured News
Chief Paxton's Retirement
I would like to extend my congratulations to Chief Dave Paxton on his retirement from Thunder Bay Fire Rescue.
With more than 28 years of dedicated service, Chief Paxton has shown outstanding leadership and a strong commitment to keeping our community safe. His contributions throughout his career have made a lasting impact, and both Thunder Bay Fire Rescue and the broader community are stronger because of his service.
Thank you for your many years of service, and I wish you all the best in your well-earned retirement.
Ontario Unveils Roadmap to Protecting Ontario’s Forest Sector
I was excited to be joined by Minister Mike Harris at T3 Bayside to announce our Roadmap to Protecting Ontario’s Forest Sector.
This new strategy will defend, adapt and grow the sector, fostering innovation and good paying jobs while making us a G7 leader in producing and selling forest products.
A Plan to Protect Ontario
Our government released Ontario Budget 2026!: A Plan to Protect Ontario
Our government continues to deliver on its plan to lower costs for workers and businesses, while keeping life affordable for families through targeted investments in key public services.
Dad Joke of the Month
“Did you hear the one about the claustrophobic astronaut? He just needed a little space.”
What's New! - Announcements & Investments
Ontario Investing $2,205,325 to Support Transit in Thunder Bay - Atikokan
I'm happy to announce that the City of Thunder Bay and the Town of Atikokan will be receiving a combined total of $2,205,325 through the 2025 - 2026 Gas Tax Fund.
This investment will be used to help expand and improve local transit services across the riding.
Ontario Investing $409,000 to Support Apprenticeship Training in Thunder Bay
I was at Liuna Local 607 to announce an investment of over $409,000 to support apprenticeship training at LIUNA 607 and the Vedic Cultural Center .
This funding will expand hands-on training opportunities and help more people across our region build careers in the skilled trades.
Investments like this are key to strengthening our local workforce and ensuring we’re ready to meet growing demand.
Ontario Investing Over $1 Million to Expand Apprenticeship Training at Confederation College
I was pleased to announce that Ontario is investing over $1 million in apprenticeship training for Industrial Mechanic and Millwright programs at Confederation College, helping more people gain the hands-on skills they need for in-demand careers!
This investment will expand training opportunities in Thunder Bay, strengthening our workforce across the region, and supporting the industries that keep our communities growing.
Dilico Anishinabek Family Care Announcement
I had the pleasure of announcing $200,000 for Dilico Anishinabek Family Care through the Civil Remedies Grant Program to support important work in fighting crime and strengthening community safety in Thunder Bay.
This investment uses proceeds seized from criminal activity and reinvests them directly into programs that support prevention, help victims, and build safer communities.
At Dilico, this funding will support the KizHaay Anishinaabe Niin program, an Indigenous led, culturally grounded initiative that works with men to help prevent violence and reduce victimization through traditional teachings and supports.
IronWorkers Local 759 Announcement with Minister Piccini and Minister Dunlop
I had the great opportunity to join Minister David Piccini, Minister Jill Dunlop, and Adam MacGillivray at IronWorkers local 759 to tour their facility and see firsthand the important work being done to train the next generation of skilled trades workers.
Also, to announce an investment of over $600,000 to expand their training centre, helping create capacity to train up to 50 workers each year and strengthen the skilled workforce in Northwestern Ontario.
Thank you to Ironworkers Local 759 for the tour and for the critical role you play in building our region’s future.
Delany Arena Announcement with Minister Pirie
I was pleased to announce with Minister George Pirie that Delaney Arena is receiving $2 million through the NOHFC to support important revitalization work.
Having spent many years playing hockey in this arena growing up, it means a great deal to see this investment in a place that has meant so much to so many in our community. Investments like this help ensure these spaces remain available for families, athletes, and community events for generations to come.
Red Lake Transmission Line Announcement with Minister Lecce
I had the honour of joining Minister Stephen Lecce as he announced a $800 million project that will strengthen energy infrastructure and unlock economic growth across Northwestern Ontario.
Our government is fast-tracking the Red Lake Transmission Line, a critical 162 km project that will connect communities from Dryden to Red Lake and significantly expand electricity capacity in the region. This investment will help power new mining opportunities, support growing communities, and create over 5,800 good-paying jobs.
At the same time, the launch of the new Northern Hydro Program will secure over 1,000 MW of clean, reliable hydroelectric power to keep energy affordable and dependable for years to come.
These are the kinds of investments that ensure our region remains competitive, supports responsible resource development, and builds a stronger future for the North.
Supportive and Emergency Housing Announcement with Minister Flack
Our government is taking action to address homelessness and support vulnerable individuals in Thunder Bay.
I was pleased to join Minister Rob Flack to announce a $10.7 million investment to deliver 66 supportive housing units and 120 emergency shelter spaces in our community. These projects will provide safe, stable environments and the supports people need as they work toward long-term housing and independence.
Thank you to our community partners who are stepping up and making these projects possible.
Ontario Municipal Partnership Fund with Minister Thompson
Our government is continuing to support the services that people in Thunder Bay rely on every day.
I was happy to join Minister Lisa Thompson to announce that, through the Ontario Municipal Partnership Fund, we are investing nearly $28 million to help the city maintain critical services like roads, public transit, and emergency response.
This funding helps address the unique challenges northern communities face and ensures municipalities have the resources they need to deliver for residents.
Community Spotlight
Interview with Local Student
Thank you, Dermot, for stopping by the office to interview me for your school report. I really enjoyed our conversation and hearing about what you’re working on.
It’s always great to see young people taking the initiative to connect with their local representatives and learn more about how things work in their community. That kind of curiosity and engagement goes a long way.
Wishing you all the best with your report, and thanks again for taking the time to come by!
Upsala Luncheon
It was a pleasure to join everyone at the Upsala Luncheon. Thank you for the warm welcome and for coming together as a community, even on a snowy day.
I truly appreciated the opportunity to connect with local residents and hear from you directly.
Thank you as well to the volunteers for the delicious food and for making this event possible.
Northwestern Ontario Prospectors Association Showcase
It was great to attend the Northwestern Ontario Prospectors Association Showcase and connect with so many dedicated individuals from across our region’s mining and exploration sector.
I appreciated the opportunity to speak directly with prospectors, companies, and industry partners, and hear firsthand about the exciting work happening across Northwestern Ontario. Events like this highlight the strength of our resource sector and the people driving it forward.
Northwestern Ontario Regional Science Fair
It was interesting to see the range of displays at the Northwestern Ontario Regional Science Fair hosted by Lakehead University last week.
Thank you to the organizers for putting together a well run event. It is encouraging to see the variety of projects and the strong quality of work being developed by students in our region.
Meeting with the Town of Atikokan
Spent the day in Atikokan and had a great meeting with Mayor Ferguson and Jason!
Northwestern Ontario Sportsmen's Alliance Dinner
Had a great time at the annual Northwestern Ontario Sportsmen's Alliance dinner!
It was a pleasure catching up with many familiar faces and meeting others who are so dedicated to our region’s outdoor heritage.
Thank you to all the volunteers, sponsors, and organizers who helped make this event possible.
Ministry Events
Statement on Softwood Lumber Duties
Ontario remains firm that softwood lumber duties are unwarranted and unjustified.
In response to the U.S. Department of Commerce’s preliminary decision on softwood lumber duties, please see a statement from Ministers Mike Harris, Vic Fedeli, and I.
33rd Annual Woodlot Tour & Conference
I would like to thank the Ontario Woodlot Association for inviting me to their 33rd Annual Woodlot Tour & Conference. Thank you to the dedicated Woodlot owners, partners and stewards who work everyday to care for Ontario’s forests and ensure their sustainability for our future generations.
FP Innovations Tour
On route to representing Ontario at the Montreal Wood Convention we dropped in on Stephane Renou and FP Innovations.
Exciting to see their innovative work on forestry transportation that will help adapt and grow Ontario’s forest sector for the future.
Meeting with Ian Fullinger, President and CEO of Interfor
Interfor is one of the world’s largest forest product companies, with operations across North America- including right at home in Ontario. We discussed strategies for aligning industry and government initiatives as well as how to effectively engage all levels of government in protecting Ontario’s forest sector.
Meeting with CEO of Domtar
Happy to sit down with Domtar’s CEO and President (Canada), Luc Theriault.
Domtar is a leader in Ontario’s forest sector. We’ll continue to partner with them to address sector challenges, while working together to adapt and grow our sustainable forestry sector.
Canada Wood Group
Great discussion with the team at Canada Wood Group at the Montreal Wood Conference.
They play a key role in expanding global opportunities for Ontario wood products, helping showcase the strength and sustainability of our forestry sector. We talked about building demand in international markets while navigating ongoing trade challenges.
Oakwood Headquarters Tour
Great conversations with John and Patricia Liptak at Oakwood’s headquarters talking about all the ways we can build in Ontario- from renovations and new builds to exciting new uses for automated wood construction in our province.
GreenWaters Tour with Ministers Harris, Pirie, and Thompson
I joined Ministers Mike Harris , George Pirie , and Lisa Thompson for a visit to the GreenWaters demonstration facility at Thunder Bay Pulp and Paper.
It was great to learn how they are turning wood chips into biofuel and driving innovation in Northwestern Ontario’s forest sector!
Ontario Forest Industries Association’s 83rd Annual Convention
It was great to be with Premier Ford as we joined industry leaders at the Ontario Forest Industries Association’s 83rd Annual Convention this week.
We launched a Roadmap to Protect Ontario’s Forestry Sector, developed in collaboration with key industry partners such as the OFIA.
At a time of increasing pressure from U.S. tariffs and shifting global markets, our path forward is clear: Defend. Adapt. Grow.
We will continue working alongside our industry partners to strengthen Ontario’s forest sector and protect good jobs across the province.
Nextfor Annual Symposium
We wrapped up a great week in forestry at the Nextfor Annual Symposium with Centre for Research & Innovation in the Bio-Economy.
It was great to meet with industry leaders across the province, discussing how our Roadmap to Protecting Ontario’s Forest Sector is driving innovation, opening new markets, and helping keep Ontario’s forest sector competitive under growing global pressure.
Lead by Premier Ford we are taking action and working with partners like CRIBE to support innovation across Ontario as we continue to Defend Adapt and Grow the future of this sector.
NOMA 2026
NOMA Executive Board
Started off with meeting with the NOMA executive board with an update on the forestry sector!
Minister Dunlop Emergency Exercise
Happy to join my friend Minister Jill Dunlop during her emergency exercise at the NOMA 2026 conference!
Ontario Phragmites Action Program
Nice to see the folks from the Ontario Phragmites Action Program at the NOMA 2026 conference!
Westgate CVI Visit with Minister Piccini
I had a great visit at Westgate Collegiate and Vocational Institute welding class with Minister David Piccini
It was inspiring to see the programs in place in our high schools that encourages students to think about a career in the skilled trades!
Thank you to the students for having us drop in!
Confederation College Visit with Minister Piccini
Thank you to Confederation College for taking the time to give me and Minister David Piccini a tour of your skilled trades wing!
It was great to see firsthand the training and opportunities being provided to support the next generation of skilled workers in Northwestern Ontario.
Forestry Fireside Chat
Thank you to all the panelists, and to Thunder Bay CEDC for moderating the discussion. We had a strong and thoughtful conversation about the current state of the forestry sector and the path forward as we continue building for the future.
Energy and Mining Fireside Chat with Minister Lecce
Started off Day 3 of the NOMA 2026 conference with a fireside chat with Minister Stephen Lecce talking about the Energy and Mining sector!
NOMA Tradeshow Booths
Had the opportunity to spend some time walking through the tradeshow booths at NOMA Conference 2026.
It was great to connect with businesses, organizations, and community leaders from across Northwestern Ontario who are doing important work in our region. Thank you to everyone who took the time to speak with me and share what you are working on.
NOMA Speech
I was pleased to have the opportunity to speak at the NOMA 2026 conference about the opportunities to defend, adapt and grow our forest sector, the strong local initiatives underway, and the ongoing work we are doing in Thunder Bay - Atikokan and across Northwestern Ontario.
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Minister Forum
Thank you to all the municipal representatives for your questions and engagement.
Your input helps guide the work we are doing, and we remain committed to working alongside you to support strong, resilient communities across Northwestern Ontario.
Thank you to Ministers Lisa Thompson , Rob Flack, George Pirie , Jill Dunlop , Mike Harris, and Todd McCarthy for joining us for the session!
Lakehead University Visit with Minister Harris
I had the opportunity to visit Lakehead University with Minister Mike Harris and see firsthand the impressive research taking place across campus.
The innovation, technology, and talent coming from students and faculty are helping shape the future of our natural resources sector right here in Northwestern Ontario.
Provincial Initiatives
Investing in Public Transit
Our government is doubling funding for the Ontario Transit Investment Fund to help smaller and rural communities build safe and reliable transit.
This $30 million investment will support new bus services, on-demand rideshare and door-to-door transportation, connecting more people to jobs, housing and essential services.
Saving Small Businesses $1.1 Billion
Small businesses across Thunder Bay–Atikokan are the backbone of our local economy.
Through the 2026 Budget, Ontario is cutting small business taxes by $1.1 billion to help local employers reinvest, grow, and stay competitive right here in our communities.
Cutting the tax rate by 31.25%
Supporting over 375,000 businesses across Ontario
Up to $5,000 in savings each year
This means more opportunities for our local businesses to expand and continue creating jobs across the riding.
More Places to Enjoy Alcohol Responsibly at Ontario Parks
Ontario Parks are world-class tourism destinations, and we’re making them even better to attract more visitors, drive tourism and support local jobs.
You can now enjoy your favourite alcoholic drink in most areas of provincial parks, including picnic areas and beaches
Ontario Protecting Fans by Capping Ticket Resale Prices
Our government is capping resale prices!
New changes will cap ticket resale prices and strengthen consumer protections, so more families and fans have the opportunity to see their favourite band or sports team perform live.
Province Protecting and Expanding Ontario Farmland
We’re taking action to protect the province’s food supply and expand Ontario farmland.
These new changes will unlock new opportunities in northern Ontario, create jobs and drive economic growth in the region.
Ontario Connecting More Families to Fertility Supports
Our government is helping more Ontarians receive publicly funded IVF services where and when they need them.
This $100M investment will support 27 clinics to deliver 10,000 additional IVF cycles, helping more people start and grow their families.
