About Rural Employment Access Ontario 

Rural Employment Access Ontario is a grassroots initiative that began in Parry Sound—Muskoka following concerns about how changes to Ontario Public Service Return to Office requirements were affecting access to employment opportunities in rural communities.

While the conversation began locally, the issues extend beyond a single region. Many rural and northern communities across Ontario face similar geographic realities and share common goals: attracting skilled workers, supporting local economies and creating communities where people can build successful careers close to home.

Our focus is on the broader impacts of employment policy.

We believe access to stable Ontario Public Service careers supports more than individual employees. It also supports workforce attraction, local businesses, population growth and the long-term strength of rural communities.

Our work encourages thoughtful discussion about how employment policies affect rural Ontario and highlights the important connection between employment opportunity and rural economic development.