Enhancing MRI Access in Northern Ontario

New Ontario Government Supporting Health Research and Creating Jobs

March 12, 2013 – Ministry of Northern Development and Mines

Ontario is enhancing magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) research in Thunder Bay.

With support from the province’s Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC), the Thunder Bay Regional Research Institute (TBRRI) will soon be home to a next-generation  MRI scanner.

This innovative technology, which noninvasively scans and takes pictures of the inside of the human body, will create nine jobs and help retain and attract more doctors and researchers to northern Ontario.

Investing in research is an important part of the Ontario government’s Growth Plan for Northern Ontario. A strong northern economy will help create a fair society and give the people of Ontario more opportunities for jobs and economic prosperity.

Quick Facts

• Ontario is providing $1 million to this project through the NOHFC’s Emerging Technology Program.

Quotes

“Our government continues to partner with the Thunder Bay Regional Research Institute to support important research initiatives. I am very pleased that the NOHFC could invest in this project and further help establish Thunder Bay and Northwestern Ontario as a leading centre in health care research.”

Michael Gravelle
Minister of Northern Development and Mines and Chair of the NOHFC

“This innovative research initiative in Thunder Bay is creating well-paying jobs in our community. Increasing MRI capacity in the region helps attract skilled professionals and provides long-term health benefits for all northerners.”

Bill Mauro
MPP for Thunder Bay-Atikokan

“NOHFC’s support for the Next Generation MRI project enables TBRRI to continue to innovate and advance the knowledge based economy in Northwestern Ontario. Most importantly, we can continue to improve care at Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre. We are privileged that our provincial leaders recognize the value of this research activity and advocate so effectively for it.”

Michael Wood
CEO, Thunder Bay Regional Research Institute and VP Research, Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre

Learn More

• Thunder Bay Regional Regional Research Institute
• NOHFC and its programs

Media Contacts

Maya Gorham
Minister’s Office
416-327-0655

Michel Lavoie
Communications Branch
705-564-7125

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