Statement from County of Renfrew on MPP Yakabuski retirement announcement

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In June Renfrew-Nipissing-Pembroke MPP John Yakabuski (left) was honoured by Renfrew County Warden Peter Emon and County Council for his more than 20 years of dedicated service representing the riding. At that time, Warden Emon presented a certificate marking the milestone.

RELEASE DATE:

November 20, 2024

County of Renfrew wishes MPP Yakabuski well as he embarks on the next chapter

Following the announcement from Renfrew-Nipissing-Pembroke MPP John Yakabuski that he will not seek re-election when Ontarian next go to the polls, the County of Renfrew is expressing its gratitude for MPP Yakabuski's support during his two decades serving at the Provincial Legislature.

This past June, MPP Yakabuski was honoured by Renfrew County Warden Peter Emon and County Council for his more than 20 years of dedicated service representing the riding. He was joined by members of his family, current and former staff members, and former wardens who recognized his numerous achievements and contributions over the years.

During his remarks, Warden Emon highlighted some of the larger projects MPP Yakabuski has advocated for, including permanent funding for the Renfrew County Virtual Triage and Assessment Centre (RC VTAC), funding for the Community Paramedicine for Long-Term Care program pilot, updates to our Official Plan, the Renfrew County 2023 Ontario Winter Games and the expansion of Highway 17 through Renfrew County.

MPP Yakabuski was also instrumental in two successful Renfrew County Days at Queen's Park; the first of which allowed the County to highlight local businesses and industries and the second which allowed senior staff to advocate for funding for County programs and initiatives, including Mesa, increased housing, mental health and addictions supports and infrastructure improvements. He attended both days advocating alongside elected officials and staff.

"We have been fortunate he understood and could speak to those who made decisions to address our issues; issues some due to political and geographic isolation from Toronto, some because of our sparse and spread-out population, some due to our lack of or outdated infrastructure both physical and human," said Warden Emon. "In all instances he spoke long, eloquently and with authority for all of us on a great many topics."

In his statement announcing his decision not to run in the next Provincial election, MPP Yakabuski called his time in public life rewarding and gratifying but indicated it is time to move onto the next phase of life.

Warden Emon, members of County Council and staff wish MPP Yakabuski well as he continues to carry out his duties during the current term before he embarks on his retirement.

"John was very representative of our community in the Legislature and out of it. From his first day he demonstrated his ability to talk across the Legislature to those in the other parties and that is such a valuable skill. People liked him and wanted to stay in touch and work with him even if they came from opposite sides of the issues of the day," Warden Emon added.

"We wish Vicki and John a smooth transition into this next chapter," the Warden concluded.

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:

Craig Kelley Chief Administrative Officer 613-735-7288

Tina Peplinskie Media Relations Coordinator 613-735-7288