Local News · Temiskaming Shores
“Don’t Treat Northern Ontario As An Afterthought”
Carrie Graham Brings South Temiskaming’s Concerns To Queen’s Park
TEMISKAMING SHORES
When Carrie Graham attended Ontario Chamber of Commerce Advocacy Day at Queen’s Park this week, she wasn’t interested in quietly blending into the background.
The Executive Director of the Temiskaming Shores & Area Chamber of Commerce said she arrived ready to advocate for Northern Ontario and make sure communities like South Temiskaming were not forgotten.
More than 150 Chamber representatives from across Ontario gathered at Queen's Park for the Ontario Chamber of Commerce Advocacy Day.
“I think southern Ontario often forgets about us. I went into the event ready to shake things up and advocate for our area.”
- Carrie Graham, Executive Director, Temiskaming Shores & Area Chamber of Commerce
Graham joined more than 150 Chamber representatives from across Ontario during the annual advocacy event, where discussions focused on issues affecting businesses and communities across the province.
But while some conversations felt meaningful, Graham admitted parts of the event also felt more performative than she had hoped.
"The event itself did feel more like a press opportunity than I had hoped," she said. "But I did not allow my voice to be quieter because of that nature of the event."
Instead, Graham said she used every opportunity possible to talk about both the challenges and strengths of Northern Ontario.
"I started most conversations asking people, 'How far north have you travelled in Ontario?'" she said. "And then I would share exactly what they are missing."
That message included everything from the region's natural beauty and culture to the economic opportunities tied to mining, manufacturing, agriculture, and skilled trades.
Chamber representatives at the Ontario Legislature.
With MPP John Vanthof Inside the Ontario Legislature at Queen's Park
Housing, Transportation, and the Workforce Gap
But she also raised concerns about transportation, housing, and workforce shortages, saying Northern Ontario communities are often treated as an afterthought despite supporting critical sectors of Ontario's economy.
"Transportation and housing were top priorities," Graham said. "Attracting skilled labour to the area. Treating Northern Ontario as a priority, rather than an afterthought."
One of the strongest examples Graham shared with provincial leaders involved local employers struggling to recruit workers because there is simply nowhere for them to live.
She said businesses are hiring qualified professionals who are excited to relocate to the region, only for the opportunity to collapse because housing cannot be found.
"Apartments can't be found, there are no rental houses available, hotels are full, and there is absolutely nowhere for the employee to live. The employment ends before it even has a chance to start."
- CARRIE GRAHAM
She also pointed to Highway 11 and transportation instability as ongoing economic concerns for the region.
"We all know how dangerous Highway 11 is," she said. "The lack of transportation options, and the insecurity of highway closures, have a massive negative impact on our economy."
Carrie Graham at the round-table discussion on mining, energy, and critical minerals — Ontario Chamber of Commerce Advocacy Day, Queen's Park.
Mining, Energy, and What Gets Left Behind
One moment during the advocacy event especially stood out to Graham — a round-table discussion around mining, energy, and critical minerals.
While many conversations focused heavily on electric vehicles and Ontario's energy grid, Graham said she felt it was important to remind decision-makers about the direct impact mining has on Northern communities themselves.
"Improperly supporting communities that support mining operations can have a devastating effect on local economies," she said. "But properly investing in infrastructure and communities can make mining operations stronger."
Despite some frustration with the political nature of the event, Graham said she left Queen's Park feeling optimistic.
"I made meaningful connections in Queen's Park and in the Ontario Chamber community," she said. "Attending events like these always fills me with pride for our area."
And while provincial legislature is now adjourned until October, Graham says she has no plans to let Northern Ontario concerns fade into the background.
Carrie Graham outside the Ontario Legislature at Queen's Park.
"Fear not. I won't let them forget about me or the needs of our area."
- CARRIE GRAHAM, Executive Director, Temiskaming Shores & Area Chamber of Commerce
