Organizers of the Northern Ontario Regional Conference want to hear what the provincial leaders have to say up close and in person.
The lobby groups on Tuesday announced the organization has extended invitations to Liberal Premier Dalton McGuinty, Progressive Conservative Leader Tim Hudak and NDP Leader Andrea Horwath to participate in a live debate on Northern Ontario issues on Sept. 23 in Thunder Bay during the Northern Ontario Regional Conference.
“This debate will be an opportunity for all three provincial party leaders to discuss their vision for Northwestern Ontario and will allow conference delegates to hear first-hand how each leader plans to address the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in our region,” said Northwestern Ontario Municipal Association President Ron Nelson.
Northwestern Ontario Association of Chambers of Commerce president Andy Scibilo called it a first-of-its-kind opportunity for the region, should the leaders accept the debate offer.
“(It) provides a tremendous opportunity for the leaders to collectively showcase their understanding of the ways to move our area forward. This is a chance to address decision makers directly, and we encourage all three leaders to accept our invitation to participate,” he said.
“Our region holds enormous potential for the economic growth of the entire province of Ontario and we look forward to hearing each of them outline their plans to ensure that we take full advantage of that potential.”
Meamwhile Northwestern Ontario Devlopment Network president Ryan Reynard called it a great chance to hear what the leaders have to say.
“Our network of economic development practitioners looks forward to this occasion to hear the views of each provincial party leader regarding their plans to support and encourage the growth of our regional economy.”
Green Party Leader Mike Schreiner was not included on the invite list.
"We have invited the leaders whose parties hold seats in the legislature," said NOMA executive director Charla Robinson, reached by email on Wednesday.
The election is scheduled for Oct. 6.
