SUDBURY, ON – Ontario NDP Leader Marit Stiles has named Sudbury MPP Jamie West as the party’s new Mining Critic, while he continues in his role as Critic for Labour, Training, and Skills Development.
“I’m honoured to take on this new responsibility and eager to get to work,” said West. “Growing up in Sudbury, mining is in our DNA. My family moved here for mining—my dad worked at Stobie Mine, my stepfather spent 33 years with Falconbridge/Glencore, and I spent 17 years at Vale’s Copper Cliff Smelter before entering politics. I’ve seen firsthand that the greatest asset coming out of our mines is the people who work them. No one does mining better than Ontario.”
NDP Leader Marit Stiles expressed confidence in West’s appointment, highlighting his deep connection to the industry. “Jamie truly understands what’s at stake for key sectors like mining. His invitation to visit Sudbury allowed me to see the impact and innovation firsthand. We toured Vale’s South Mine, Glencore’s Nickel Rim South, and met with workers at local suppliers like Soucie Salo Safety and Covergalls. Jamie’s leadership ensures mining remains a priority for the Ontario NDP.”
West emphasized that Ontario’s mining companies are already leaders in job creation, safety, environmental stewardship, and fostering strong partnerships with First Nations. “But they need a government that will collaborate and help build positive relationships between First Nations and the mining sector,” he added.
