B.C. Premier David Eby has urged the Canadian government to safeguard forestry workers in light of new tariffs imposed by the U.S. president that pose a threat to an already struggling industry. The U.S. recently imposed a 10% tariff on Canadian lumber, in addition to an existing 35% tariff. Furthermore, a 25% tariff was placed on certain Canadian wood products such as furniture, impacting communities like Grand Forks, B.C., where local mill operations are already in a precarious state.
Interfor, in early September, announced production cutbacks across all its North American operations, including in Grand Forks. However, the indefinite closure of the mill was disclosed to the community last week, affecting numerous individuals like truck driver Doug Gailey.
Eby emphasized the critical situation by requesting immediate federal funding to assist forestry workers during what he described as an “additional attack” on the industry. Despite Prime Minister Mark Carney’s pledge of $1.2 billion in support for the softwood lumber industry back in August, the funds have yet to materialize, causing concerns among industry representatives.
Eby expressed concerns about the unequal attention given to provinces like Ontario and Quebec compared to British Columbia regarding forestry issues. He stressed the need for urgent support for the forestry sector, highlighting the severity of the challenges faced by forestry companies, workers, and communities.
Additionally, New Brunswick Premier Susan Holt echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing the urgent need for action to prevent job losses and economic downturns in communities heavily reliant on the forestry sector. The future of forestry in British Columbia remains uncertain, with fears that many companies may not withstand the current challenges, impacting workers, families, and communities that rely on the industry for their livelihoods.
