The NDP is warning the federal Liberals have introduced a bill that will eliminate the formal position of Minister of Federal Economic Development in Northern Ontario.

New Democrat FedNor Critic Charlie Angus says Northern Ontario voices in Ottawa are being muted.

“They’ve taken us for granted and to take away the voice of the FedNor Minister at Cabinet will diminish the ability of Northern Ontario to be heard, in terms of economic development for our region”, Angus said.

He points out the move goes further than the previous Tory government, who at least provided Northern Ontario with a dedicated Minister on the file.

Angus is also reiterating a call for FedNor to become a standalone agency.