Timmins MPP George Pirie says his appointment to head up a new cabinet portfolio allows him to be the voice advocating for the development of Northern Ontario.
The mines minster in the last Ford cabinet is now the Minister of Northern Economic Development and Growth.
That encompasses mining, forestry, agriculture, manufacturing and tourism, among other responsibilities.
“It’s a huge mandate that allows me to hopefully execute on the opportunity in Northern Ontario,” Pirie remarks. “I think you’ve heard me say many, many times I believe that Northern Ontario is the most valuable piece of real estate in North America, if not globally.”
As well as working closely with his replacement as mines minister, Stephen Lecce, Pirie’s responsibilities encompass forestry, agriculture, manufacturing, tourism and northern roads.
He says creation of the new ministry is an indication that “this is our time”.
“We talked about that before, but certainly since President Trump (started) talking about tariffs and such, this, I think, opens up all kinds of opportunities for development in the North.”
Pirie adds that his new job “feels like home”.
