April 29th, 2022
Mantha demands leadership role for Manitoulin Island on operation of MS Chi-Cheemaun
ELLIOT LAKE – Manitoulin Island must be given representation on the board of directors for the Owen Sound Transportation Company which oversees operation of the MS Chi-Cheemaun, said MPP Michael Mantha (Algoma-Manitoulin) after the Ford government left the community out.
“It is unacceptable that Manitoulin Island is not included in a leadership role for this vital transportation link to Northern Ontario” said Mantha. “How is it possible that one of two destinations for the Chi-Cheemaun is not represented on the board?”
The Chi-Cheemaun sails between Tobermory and South Baymouth on Manitoulin Island from May to October each year. It serves to connect residents of the North with southern Ontario and as a major driver of tourism for Manitoulin Island and northeastern Ontario.
“The Ford government has consistently failed to make sure that communities are properly represented in decisions made about them,” said Mantha “This is yet another example of small, rural communities being ignored by this government.”
Hon. Caroline Mulroney Minister of Transportation
25th Floor
700 Bay St.
Toronto, ON
M7A 0A2
April 28, 2022
Open Letter
Re: Appointment of Directors to the Owen Sound Transportation Company Board
Dear Minister Mulroney,
I am writing because it has come to my attention that the two vacant positions on the Owen Sound Transportation Company’s (OSTC) Board of Directors have been filled, and there is no representation from Manitoulin Island.
Minister, this is beyond unacceptable.
As you know, the operation of the Chi-Cheemaun ferry falls under the OSTC, of which you are the sole shareholder. It is your responsibility to appoint members to the board of directors and you have chosen to ignore communities on Manitoulin Island and their interest in the success of the Chi-Cheemaun.
How is it possible that one of the two ports which the Chi-Cheemaun sails from has no representation on the OTSC board?
Failing to ensure that Manitoulin Island has a leadership role in the operation of the Chi-Cheemaun is an injustice to residents of Manitoulin.
I am asking you to intervene immediately and ensure representation at the board level from Manitoulin Island. The Chi-Cheemaun is set to begin sailing next month and I sincerely hope that by then you will have rectified this unacceptable situation.
Thank you for your time in this matter and I look forward to your response.
Sincerely,
(Original signed)
Michael Mantha MPP Algoma-Manitoulin