Party History

A Legacy of Advocacy for Northern Ontario

The Northern Ontario Party (NOP), formerly known as the Northern Ontario Heritage Party (NOHP), has been advocating for the interests of Northern Ontario since 1977. For nearly five decades, the party has championed stronger regional representation, economic development, responsible resource management, and greater local decision-making for Northern communities.

From its origins as a grassroots movement to its continued presence in provincial politics today, the party remains committed to ensuring Northern Ontario has a strong and independent voice.

Party Origins

The Beginning of a Movement

The origins of the Northern Ontario Heritage Party can be traced back to 1973 when concerns arose over a proposed provincial sales tax on heating and electricity. Community advocate Edward Dieber strongly opposed the proposal and organized a campaign that gathered over 24,000 signatures from residents across Northern Ontario.

Following this success, Dieber began researching broader issues affecting the North, including economic development, resource management, and regional representation. He travelled throughout Northern Ontario, recruiting supporters and gathering over 6,000 signatures calling for a vote on the creation of a separate province for Northern Ontario.

These efforts laid the foundation for what would eventually become the Northern Ontario Heritage Party.

The Fight for Northern Ontario

Early Advocacy Efforts

In October 1974, Edward Dieber established a public protest at Queen’s Park in Toronto to bring attention to Northern Ontario’s concerns. During this period, he met with Premier William Davis and advocated for a plebiscite on Northern Ontario’s future.

In 1975, Dieber presented a series of proposals aimed at improving economic opportunities and infrastructure throughout the North. These proposals included:

• Creation of a Northern Ontario Development Commission
• Tax incentives for manufacturing investment
• Resource revenue-sharing initiatives
• Increased processing of natural resources within Northern Ontario
• Major infrastructure investments
• Dedicated representation for mining interests
• Increased research funding for Northern universities

While the Ontario government acknowledged the concerns, none of the proposals were formally adopted.

Formation of the Northern Ontario Heritage Party

Official Registration

Following continued advocacy efforts, Edward Dieber began collecting signatures in 1976 to establish a new political party dedicated exclusively to Northern Ontario’s interests.

In October 1977, the Northern Ontario Heritage Party officially received certification after submitting more than 10,600 signatures.

Shortly thereafter, the Province of Ontario established the Ministry of Northern Development and Mines, demonstrating the growing recognition of Northern Ontario’s unique needs and priorities.

Period of Inactivity and Revival

1985 – 2010

The Northern Ontario Heritage Party remained active throughout the late 1970s and early 1980s before being deregistered in 1985.

For approximately 25 years, the party remained inactive.

In 2010, the party was revived and officially re-registered with Elections Ontario, marking the beginning of a new chapter in its history.

The revival re-established the party’s commitment to advocating for stronger representation and opportunities for Northern Ontario residents.

Rebranding to the Northern Ontario Party

A New Era

In 2016, the Northern Ontario Heritage Party officially changed its name to the Northern Ontario Party (NOP).

The rebranding reflected the party’s evolving vision while maintaining its core mission of representing the people and communities of Northern Ontario.

Today, the Northern Ontario Party continues to advocate for:

• Economic development
• Family support programs
• Infrastructure investment
• Resource revenue sharing
• Northern self-determination
• Community growth and sustainability

Electoral History

Provincial Elections

The Northern Ontario Party has participated in several provincial elections, fielding candidates across multiple ridings throughout Northern Ontario.

2018 Ontario Provincial Election

Northern Ontario Party Total Votes: 5,912
Province-Wide Vote Share: 0.10%

Party Leader: Trevor Holliday

Additional election results from 2011, 2014, 2022, and future elections may be added as the party’s historical archive continues to be updated.