News Release

Expanded Council Helping Set Ontario Government’s Northern Agenda

April 22, 2005

Province Appoints Keewatin Resident To Northwest Region’s Northern Development Council

SUDBURY – Len Compton has been named to the Ontario government’s Northern Development Council (NDC) for the northwest region, Northern Development and Mines Minister Rick Bartolucci announced today.

“The addition of Len Compton to the Northwest NDC strengthens the region’s voice in the dialogue with our government to build a stronger and more prosperous northern economy,” Bartolucci said. “I’m delighted to welcome Mr. Compton and to thank him for stepping forward.”

Mr. Compton, of Keewatin, practised law in the District of Kenora for 35 years until his retirement at the end of 2001. For several years prior to his law career he worked as a geologist and bush pilot in Manitoba and northwestern Ontario. In addition to his legal practice, Compton was a partner in two Kenora-area businesses, served on various boards, the Kenora Chamber of Commerce and Kinsman Club, and is currently a councillor for the City of Kenora.

“It is vitally important that this government has established Northern Development Councils,” said Compton. “As a member of the northwestern council, I hope to speak for all of the Northwest. It is important, in my opinion, to think on a regional basis to support all industries presently operating in the region, and to encourage economic diversification in northwestern Ontario.”

There are now 11 members on each of the northwestern and northeastern NDCs.

In February, Bartolucci named chairs and members to three NDCs representing the five major cities, the northwest and the northeast. The chairs will report regularly to the minister, providing input on priorities such as the creation of new opportunities for northern youth, Aboriginal partnerships and building an innovative northern economy.

The province’s commitment to engaging northerners through NDCs is part of its Northern Prosperity Plan for delivering real, positive change across the North.

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Contacts:

Laura Blondeau
Minister’s Office – Sudbury
(705) 564-7454 
 
 

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