LTE: The Time for Change is Now

Sudbury East/Est-Manitoulin-Nickel Belt

Authorized by the Official Agent of Marc G. Serré./Autorisé par l’agent officiel de Marc G. Serré.

Marc G. Serré

RE-ELECT/RÉÉLISEZ

March 25, 2025

Letter to the Editor – The Time for Change is Now – A Strong Vision for Northern Ontario with Marc Serré

With the 2025 federal election being called on April 28, I reflect on the progress we’ve made and the exciting opportunities that lie ahead for Northern Ontario. Serving as your Member of Parliament for nearly 10 years has been an incredible honour, and I want to reaffirm my unwavering commitment to our communities in the new riding Sudbury East -Manitoulin - Nickel Belt (SEMNB).

Over nearly a decade of service, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing the strength and resilience that defines Northern Ontario. This spirit—one of hard work and determination—has propelled our progress. From local town halls to grassroots initiatives, we have worked tirelessly to support youth, families, seniors, and Indigenous peoples. I have listened to your concerns and taken meaningful action to address them, resulting in key improvements that we can all be proud of:

Enhanced infrastructure: We’ve worked to improve our roads, public transit, broadband and digital infrastructure, making our communities more connected and accessible. We are addressing affordable housing, funding local infrastructure upgrades, and supporting clean energy projects.

Expanded healthcare access: I have used my federal platform to champion equitable access to healthcare across our region—advocating for expanded telemedicine through improved broadband infrastructure and strengthening emergency services by ensuring reliable cellular and internet connectivity. I have supported federal mental health transfers, promoted community-based and Indigenous-led wellness programs, and pushed for virtual care access in rural areas. I have advocated for health infrastructure funding through federal programs like the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program, backed new builds and facility expansions, and worked closely with Indigenous leaders to advance culturally appropriate care. I continue to fight for long-term care investments, supporting the construction and expansion of homes and services for seniors across Northern Ontario.

Support for community programs: We’ve developed initiatives that support local businesses, help seniors thrive, foster youth development, provide Indigenous community support, support tourism and local events and help community infrastructure upgrades. I have secured funding for upgrades at the Howard Armstrong Recreation Centre in Hanmer, supported seniors through the New Horizons for Seniors Program, brought funding for Indigenous cultural programming in Wahnapitae First Nation, helped boost local tourism in Killarney, and advocated for critical infrastructure upgrades across Sudbury East—Manitoulin—Nickel Belt to support local businesses, youth development, and vibrant community life.

Support for community First Nations Reconciliation: I will continue to advocate for your priorities with First Nations – Mattagami, Atikameksheng, Anishnawbec, Wahnapitae, M’Chigeeng, Sheguiandah, Sheshegwaning, Aundeck

-Omni-Kaning, Wiikwemkoong Unceded Territory, Zhiibaahaasing, and Whitefish River.

Together, we have proven that Northern Ontario can achieve great things. Our businesses continue to thrive, our communities remain resilient, and our workers are supported. This is a testament to our collective effort and unity.

While we’ve made significant strides, work still needs to be done. The rising cost of living, an affordable housing shortage, and barriers to essential services such as healthcare continue to challenge our communities. Moreover, global trade disruptions, rising costs, and the threat of unjustified tariffs put undue strain on our businesses. We need to look forward with a bold, actionable plan for the future of our region to secure our Canadian sovereignty and way of life. This upcoming election is an important opportunity to set the course for our future. Under the leadership of Mark Carney, we will focus on:

Internal Trade & Infrastructure (Economic Policy)

Sudbury East—Manitoulin—Nickel Belt is home to many businesses, including those in agriculture, forestry, mining, and skilled trades, that often face red tape when selling goods and services across provincial borders. Eliminating internal trade barriers will help local producers—such as those in the lumber, mining, and agri-food sectors—expand their markets, reduce administrative costs, and improve competitiveness.

Affordable Housing & Urban Development

Prime Minister Mark Carney’s focus on urban densification and eliminating restrictive zoning barriers supports towns that urgently need more affordable, transit-accessible housing. His platform includes measures like removing unit caps, abolishing parking minimums, and allowing taller buildings near transit corridors. These federal incentives will help municipalities modernize zoning bylaws and encourage multi-unit developments near existing infrastructure and community services—something especially important for growing communities across Sudbury East—Manitoulin—Nickel Belt.

Connectivity

Reliable broadband is essential for education, healthcare, and small businesses. The federal government is committed to expanding high-speed internet across rural and Northern Ontario. I will continue to advocate for better digital access in underserved areas, for example, Gogama, West Nipissing, Manitoulin, North Shores, French River, East Valley, Capreol Rayside Balfour areas, St. Charles, and Killarney.

Sovereignty & Defence

Companies in Northern Ontario specializing in technology, manufacturing, or resource extraction could benefit from procurement contracts, leading to job creation and economic growth in the region. Increased defense investments often necessitate improvements in local infrastructure, such as transportation and communication networks. This can result in better emergency preparedness and response capabilities, benefiting remote communities in Northern Ontario.

Clean Energy & Climate Action

Marc Carney's administration has abolished the consumer-facing carbon tax. This change alleviates the financial burden on rural households. The government plans to introduce systems of incentives to reward Canadians for making greener choices, such as purchasing energy-efficient appliances, electric vehicles, or improving home insulation. This approach aims to encourage sustainable practices without imposing direct taxes on consumers. Mark Carney's plan includes investments in retrofitting community infrastructure to enhance energy efficiency. This initiative supports upgrades for local arenas, recreation centers, and town halls, aligning with the needs of communities in Sudbury East—Manitoulin—Nickel Belt.

Now is the time for unity—ensuring that our families, businesses, and communities are positioned for success for generations to come. With Mark Carney’s leadership, we can overcome our challenges and continue building a prosperous future for Northern Ontario.

I ask for your continued support as we work toward a more resilient, prosperous Northern Ontario under Mark Carney’s leadership. Together, we can ensure that our region remains a proud and thriving part of this great nation.

Sincerely,

Marc G. Serré, Federal Liberal Candidate

Sudbury East—Manitoulin—Nickel Belt