NDP United with North for Safe Highways

Residents across Northern Ontario are mobilizing to call for safe, well-maintained roads that connect communities, businesses, and families. MPPs Guy Bourgouin, John Vanthof, Lise Vaugeois and Deputy Leader Sol Mamakwa stand in solidarity with rally participants and highlight the NDP’s ongoing work advocating for Northern infrastructure.

“Our roads are lifelines, connecting us to our families, our work, and our doctors.” Said Bourgouin. “I will continue to advocate and propose legislation that can make a difference. I hope the Conservative MPPs representing Northern ridings reconsider their approach, stop voting down these common-sense solutions, or at the very least introduce legislation of their own”

"These highways connect Ontario’s economy.” Added Vanthof. “When highways are in poor condition or closed, it slows down businesses, affects workers, and limits Northern economic development. Northern communities deserve roads that support growth”

Years of underinvestment have left many Northern highways in poor condition. Private winter maintenance contractors often cut corners and too often fall short of provincial regulations. With increasing truck traffic, limited oversight of commercial licensing, and unfair pressure to beat the clock, drivers without experience are creating serious safety concerns.

“In addition to investing in training, inspections, enforcement and a higher standard of road clearing, the province needs to invest in twinning and the 2+1 system to bring the Ontario portion of the Trans-Canada Highway to the same standard as in all other provinces. This is the Trans-Canada Highway. It is both our main streets and the main artery across the country, yet it is plagued with major accidents and constant closures. Enough is enough” said MPP Vaugeois

Today’s rallies show that residents are united in demanding action from the provincial government.

“Across Kiiwetinoong and Northern Ontario, highway safety is a top concern we hear about from constituents.” Said Mamakwa. “At the rallies today, Northerners have come together to tell this Government that they do not accept this situation. Everyone deserves to go where they need to without risking their lives. The Ontario NDP stands with the people of Northern Ontario and calls on the Ontario Government to take the needed steps to make our highways safe.”