MPP Holland's January 2026 Newsletter
- Feb 5
- 5 min read
Updated: 19 minutes ago
Monthly Recap | January 2026
Important Updates
January has set a powerful pace for the year ahead, starting with a major win for our local skilled trades workforce. The Alstom contract has been increased by $192,000,000 by the provincial and federal governments to ensure 55% Canadian-made content, a significant milestone that supports our local industry and expertise.
This momentum continued with vital new investments across our post-secondary sector at Lakehead University and Confederation College, as well as infrastructure funding for the City of Thunder Bay and our healthcare sector. We are truly starting this year on a strong foundation.
Now that we have moved past the -40°C cold snap, it is the perfect time to get back outside and enjoy everything our region has to offer. Whether you are visiting the outdoor rinks, exploring the skating trails at Vickers Park, Sleeping Giant, and Kakabeka Park, or hitting the slopes for some skiing and snowboarding at Loch Lomond or Mount Baldy, there is plenty to do.
While this year’s Groundhog Day predicted that we won’t be seeing an early spring, we might as well make the most of the groomed snowmobile trails and enjoy the winter fun while it lasts!
- The Hon. Kevin Holland, MPP for Thunder Bay - Atikokan
Featured News
Year End Review Article
I was pleased to share a Year End Review spotlight with TBnewswatch.com.
It highlights the work accomplished over the past year and the important issues we continue to focus on in Northwestern Ontario.
What's New! - Announcements & Investments
Alstom Announcement
Alstom announces nearly $3 billion investment to increase Canadian content in new subway cars for Toronto’s Line 2, helping to support skilled trades and manufacturing jobs in Thunder Bay’s Alstom plant. It highlights efforts by the Ontario and federal governments to strengthen domestic manufacturing, protect jobs, and keep public infrastructure procurement working for local workers in Northwestern Ontario.
Preparing Students for In-Demand Jobs
The Ontario government invests $6,416,700 to upgrade learning facilities at Lakehead University and Confederation College, giving students access to modern classrooms and equipment so they can develop the skills needed for in-demand careers. The investment is part of a broader provincial effort to strengthen the workforce by preparing students for good-paying jobs after graduation and supporting the region’s economy.
Critical Water Infrastructure Investment in Thunder Bay
$9,353,125 will support critical water infrastructure work in Thunder Bay, including inspecting and rehabilitating the city’s feeder watermain to ensure reliable, safe drinking water. The funding is part of the province’s broader Municipal Housing Infrastructure Program, which helps protect public health, support housing growth, and strengthen the local economy.
Driving homegrown discovery to protect Ontario's industries
The Ontario government is investing $100,000 to help prepare students at Lakehead University for in-demand jobs by upgrading learning facilities and giving students access to modern tools and equipment that support advanced research and career-ready skills. This funding is part of a broader provincial effort to modernize classrooms and labs at colleges and universities so students are ready for good-paying careers after graduation.
Protecting Northern Ontario's Health-Care Workforce
Our government is continuing to strengthen Ontario’s health care system by expanding the Ontario Learn and Stay Grant. Two new eligible medical laboratory programs at Canadore and Confederation colleges will help train more health care workers and ensure families in Northern Ontario can access care closer to home.
Ontario Connecting 300,000 more people to primary care
As part of our government’s $2.1 billion Primary Care Action Plan, we’re building and expanding 16 new primary care teaching clinics, including at NOSM University in Thunder Bay. This investment will strengthen our health‑care system and connect 300,000 more people to primary care services.
Community Spotlight
Rural Ontario Municipal Association (ROMA) Conference
I had a great time attending the ROMA Conference this year, connecting with municipal leaders from across Ontario. It was an excellent opportunity to discuss the opportunities and priorities facing rural communities, share ideas, and explore solutions that support strong, sustainable municipalities. Thank you to everyone who took part in these important conversations.
2026 Pre- Budget Consultations
Thank you to my colleagues and the Standing Committee for productive discussions during the 2026 Pre-Budget Consultations. Input from these sessions plays an important role in building a responsible and responsive provincial budget.
Mayor's Ball
A wonderful evening of celebration and community at the Mayor’s Ball. Grateful for the opportunity to celebrate our city and thank the people who help move it forward.
Prosperity Northwest Conference
I had the opportunity to stop by the Prosperity Northwest Conference. It was great to reconnect with familiar faces and take part in meaningful conversations about Northwestern Ontario.
George Jeffrey Children's Centre 65th Anniversary
Congratulations to the George Jeffrey Children’s Centre on celebrating 65 years of caring for children and families in our community. Thank you to the dedicated staff, volunteers, and supporters, past and present, whose commitment has made a lasting difference for generations.
Nextfor / CRIBE Forum
I was pleased to speak at the Nextfor and CRIBE forum in Thunder Bay. Thank you to the organizers and participants for the thoughtful discussions on biofuels, wood energy, innovation, and strengthening Ontario’s forest sector through practical, on-the-ground solutions.
Budget Consultations with PA Cooper
I attended the 2026 Budget Consultations with PA Michelle Cooper. Thank you to everyone who took the time to participate and share their perspectives. These discussions are important as we work toward responsible planning that reflects the needs of our communities.
Goods & Co. with PA Cooper
I had the opportunity to stop by Goods & Co. Market to showcase some of our incredible local small businesses to PA Michelle Cooper. Thank you to the shop owners and staff for the warm welcome and for the important work you do to support our local economy.
Meetings
Dilico Anishinabek Family Care, Municipality of Neebing, CEDC & CRIBE
Good News Updates
Lakehead Ironworks celebrates its 50th Anniversary!
Provincial Initiatives
Powering Canada's Economy & the Ring of Fire
Ontario is standing up for Canada’s economy by unlocking the most ethical resources on earth.
Today, our government gave the green-light to accelerate and build the Greenstone Transmission Line to the gateway to the Ring of Fire.
In partnership with First Nations, we will electrify the North, support mining development and create over 7,000 good-paying jobs.
Supporting Ontario Manufacturers
We’re delivering on our plan to protect Ontario workers and build the strongest economy in the G7.
Massilly North America’s $85M investment will bring new food packaging production lines back to Ontario while using Canadian steel and supporting 278 good-paying manufacturing jobs.
Ontario Fast-tracking access to six breakthrough cancer drugs
Our government's first-in-Canada initiative is fast-tracking access to breakthrough cancer drugs and already approving access to six new life-extending cancer treatments.
For those facing a cancer diagnosis, this means faster access to the care they need.
Ontario has reduced the Health Care Connect waitlist
Our government is on track to connect every Ontario resident to primary care by 2029!
Marking one year of progress on our $2.1B Primary Care Action Plan, we have already attached over 275,000 new patients as we continue the work to close the gap.
Protecting workers and unlocking free trade within Canada
Ontario is tearing down interprovincial barriers so workers can build their futures right here at home.
Starting January 1st, certified professionals from across Canada can begin working in Ontario within 10 days — building a more united Canadian workforce and supporting a more competitive economy.