Northern Construction News staff writer
THUNDER BAY — The Northwestern Ontario Municipal Association (NOMA), representing 37 municipalities across Northwestern Ontario, welcomes today’s announcement by Prime Minister Mark Carney of new federal measures aimed at supporting and transforming Canada’s softwood lumber industry.
The federal government’s strategy includes up to $700 million in loan guarantees, $500 million for product and market diversification, prioritization of Canadian lumber in federal procurement, new investments in workforce development, and initiatives to expand international markets.
According to NOMA, the announcement “reflects a significant and timely commitment to ensuring the long-term competitiveness of the forest sector.”
“NOMA welcomes this decisive federal action to support the softwood lumber industry and the communities that depend on it,” said NOMA President Rick Dumas. “These measures recognize the vital role of forestry in Northwestern Ontario and across Canada, helping our sector adapt to ongoing trade challenges, protect local jobs, and create opportunities for both Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities.”
The Northwestern Ontario Municipal Association (NOMA) was organized in 1946, incorporated on September 18th 2001, and is made up of four components: the Kenora District Municipal Association, the Rainy River District Municipal Association, the Thunder Bay District Municipal League and the City of Thunder Bay. Other than the City of Thunder Bay, membership is attained by being a member of the district organization. The area we represent extends from the City of Kenora in the west to the Town of Hearst in the east.
Officials emphasize that federal funding is “crucial,” as communities across Northwestern Ontario rely on a “strong, sustainable and innovative” forest industry for jobs, economic growth, and municipal stability.
Industry leaders also welcomed the government’s focus on Indigenous-led forestry business development and the use of Canadian wood in major infrastructure and housing projects—steps they say will strengthen local supply chains and maximize the value of the region’s renewable resources.
Industry leaders say they “stand ready to work collaboratively to ensure the needs and perspectives of Northwestern Ontario’s forestry communities are reflected in program design and implementation.”