PC Candidate Tory Delaurier Running to Represent Timiskaming-Cochrane in Provincial Election

By Andrew Hopkins
thekirklandlaker

PC candidate Tory Delaurier is running to represent Timiskaming-Cochrane in the upcoming provincial election.

Delaurier has dedicated over 18 years to public service as both mayor and councillor, working hard to improve his community and make a real difference.

“Over the years, I’ve seen firsthand the challenges that Northern Ontario faces—whether it’s road safety, healthcare access, or the need for good-paying jobs,” Delaurier said. “I’m running because Timiskaming-Cochrane deserves a strong voice at Queen’s Park—someone who understands our region and will fight for the investments we need. Northern Ontario is ready for growth, and I want to ensure our communities get their fair share of funding and opportunity.”

He noted that his top priorities are improving road safety, fixing the healthcare system, and creating good-paying jobs.

“Northern Ontario needs better, safer roads, which is why I have—and will continue to—advocate for expanding 2+1 highways, increasing road maintenance funding, addressing concerns about licensing and regulation, and improving snow removal to make travel safer year-round,” Delaurier stated.

He said healthcare access is also a major issue, with too many residents struggling to find a family doctor.

“I will work to recruit and retain more doctors and nurses in our communities while expanding telehealth services so that people can access care without long travel times,” he added.

Lastly, he emphasized the need to focus on growing the economy and creating jobs that allow people to stay in the North.

“By supporting key industries like mining, forestry, and agriculture, while also cutting red tape and investing in skilled trades, we can build a stronger Northern Ontario where families can thrive,” Delaurier explained.

Delaurier highlighted that one of the biggest concerns in Timiskaming-Cochrane is the shortage of doctors and healthcare professionals.

“Everyone deserves access to quality healthcare, and I will work to expand incentives to attract doctors and nurses to rural communities,” he said. “Additionally, we need to invest in new long-term care beds and home care services so that seniors can receive the care they need close to home.”

He explained that another key solution is expanding telehealth and digital health services, allowing people to consult with specialists without leaving their communities.

“Healthcare is one of my top priorities, and I will fight to ensure Northern Ontario gets its fair share of funding and resources,” Delaurier affirmed.

When asked what sets him apart from his opponents, Delaurier pointed to his proven track record of getting things done for Northern Ontario.

“As mayor, I have secured major infrastructure funding for roads, airports, and economic development projects,” he said. “I have also worked hard to bring new opportunities to my community, including playing a key role in securing a Junior A hockey team for the region.”

Throughout his time in office, he said, he has kept tax increases lower than in surrounding municipalities while still delivering critical investments.

“I don’t just talk about change—I deliver results,” Delaurier said. “I will bring that same leadership and commitment to Queen’s Park to fight for the issues that matter most to our communities.”

He emphasized that being accessible and accountable to the people he represents has always been his priority, and that won’t change if he is elected MPP.

“I will continue listening to constituents and attending community meetings to hear directly from residents and address their concerns,” he said. “My constituency office will always have an open-door policy, making it easy for people to get in touch with me and my team. I will also provide frequent updates on my work at Queen’s Park, ensuring that the people of Timiskaming-Cochrane know exactly what I’m fighting for on their behalf.”

Delaurier said that as mayor, one of the toughest decisions he had to make was balancing the budget while ensuring critical services remained funded.

“This required making tough choices and working closely with municipal leaders and community stakeholders,” he added. “I fought hard to secure funding from higher levels of government to invest in key infrastructure while keeping tax increases lower than in surrounding communities.”

He said tough decisions require strong leadership, listening to the people, and putting the needs of the community first.

“That is exactly the approach I will take as MPP,” he stated.

Delaurier believes that leadership is about finding common ground and working together for the good of the community.

“Throughout my career, I have worked with municipal leaders across party lines to secure funding and investment for key projects,” he said. “I have built strong relationships with Indigenous leaders and local businesses to foster economic growth and social progress. I don’t believe in political games—I believe in results. As MPP, I will work with anyone who is willing to stand up for Northern Ontario, no matter their political background.”

Delaurier said he will work to make life more affordable, improve access to healthcare, and create opportunities for families to succeed.

“By investing in better infrastructure, including safer roads and new schools where needed, we can ensure that our communities continue to grow,” he said. “I will fight for affordable housing initiatives so that seniors, families, and workers can stay in the region without struggling to find a place to live. I will also push for policies that support local businesses and industries so that we can create good-paying jobs and a strong economy. My focus is on delivering real, tangible improvements that will make a difference in people’s daily lives.”

Delaurier said that in five years, he envisions Timiskaming-Cochrane as a stronger, more connected community with safer highways, better healthcare access, and a thriving economy.

“I see a region where young people can find opportunities close to home instead of having to leave for work elsewhere,” he said. “I see a future where our communities are growing, supported by new investments in infrastructure, schools, and essential services. My role in shaping that future will be to fight every day at Queen’s Park to ensure that Northern Ontario gets the funding, support, and investment it needs to reach its full potential.”

As the election approaches, Delaurier said Northern Ontario is ready for real leadership and real results.

“I have a proven track record of delivering for our communities, and I am ready to take that experience to Queen’s Park,” he stated. “If elected, I will fight every day to fix our roads, improve healthcare access, and grow our economy so that families can build their future right here at home. If you want a strong voice for Timiskaming-Cochrane, I ask for your support. Together, we can build a stronger North.”