Following last week’s release of Statistics Canada’s 2001 census results, Kenora-Rainy River MP Robert Nault said today the declining population trend in Northwestern Ontario is reversible.
“While this census has shown that the population of Northwestern Ontario has dropped, I believe that we are positioned for a turnaround in the region,” he said.
“It continues to be my belief that diversifying our economy in Northwestern Ontario is the key to future prosperity within the region,” he added.
Nault cited a recent series of seminars in different communities across the region including Fort Frances, entitled “Building a Diversified Economy in Your Community,” proved regional business people and municipal leaders agree there’s a need to attract new businesses throughout the area.
“In the near future, I will be meeting with Community Development Corps., First Nations, business, and municipal leaders in order to find solutions that move us forward with a clear agenda,” said Nault.
“Although the numbers are disturbing, I am confident that when northerners are put to the challenge, we will find ways in order to reverse this trend,” he added.
