A recommendation by the Far North Electoral Boundaries Commission could result in major changes to our provincial riding.

Their preliminary report is proposing that Timmins-James Bay and Kenora-Rainy River be split from two electoral ridings into four.

If it goes through, we would see the introduction of the Kiiwetinong and Mushkegowuk ridings.

Those would essentially be the northern part of the two existing ridings, which would bring more First Nations representation to Queen’s Park.

It would also remove the “James Bay” from Timmins-James Bay and the City of Timmins would become it’s own riding.

At a glance, here’s what the four proposed ridings would be like, according to a release:

  • Kenora-Rainy River (Dryden, Fort Frances, Kenora and Rainy River)
  • Kiiwetinong (the northern portion of the current Kenora-Rainy River electoral district and Marten Falls)
  • Mushkegowuk (the northern portion of the current Timmins-James Bay electoral district and Weenusk (Peawanuck) First Nation)
  • Timmins (the City of Timmins itself)

Timmins-James Bay MPP Gilles Bisson told Rogers Radio back in May that while he learned a lot representing the James Bay coast, the split is the right thing to do.

The second round of public consultations is underway. One will be held in Timmins Wednesday night (July 12) from 7-9pm at the Senator Hotel.

Can’t make it out? You can email the Commission at info@fnebc-cdcegn.ca until this Friday.

The Commission has to submit a report to the Attorney General with final recommendations by August 1st.

Legislation to implement any changes is due before October 30th.

Filed under: Local News