Province throws support behind northern Ontario forestry sector

NEWS RELEASE

MINISTRY OF NATURAL RESOURCES AND FORESTRY

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The province is standing with its forest products workers and the Northeastern Ontario communities that rely on this important sector. Ontario is taking action to support communities in light of the uncertainty created by the latest unfair actions in the softwood lumber dispute between the U.S. and Canada.

To support workers during this period, Ontario is increasing this year’s funding for the construction and maintenance of forest access roads by $20 million. This increased support will benefit resource-based businesses and communities across Northeastern Ontario, including Timmins, Thessalon and White River.

This funding will allow for continued construction and maintenance of over 7,700 km of critical local road infrastructure in Northeastern Ontario as the province continues to advocate for the interests of Ontario’s forest products workers. Continuing and expanding this road maintenance program will ensure safe and reliable transportation routes for not only the forestry sector but individuals and families in the surrounding communities.

In addition to the funding announced today, the province has named Jim Peterson as Ontario’s chief negotiator, to represent the province’s interests in the ongoing softwood lumber dispute. Mr. Peterson will play a key role in ongoing discussions with the U.S., the Government of Canada and other provincial governments.

Ontario is also calling on the federal government to establish a loan guarantee program, as well as community and individual supports for people who depend on Canadian companies that are being negatively impacted by the U.S.-Canada softwood lumber dispute. The provincial government will continue to work with the federal government and the forestry sector to protect this important part of Ontario's economy and minimize the impact of these export duties.

Protecting forestry jobs in Ontario is part of the government’s plan to grow our economy and help people in their everyday lives.

Quotes

“Ontario is standing alongside our forest sector to protect the well-paying jobs and important economic benefits that this sector provides for communities and families across Ontario. Our government listened to the sector’s concerns, and through this funding we will help support this important part of Ontario’s economy in the face of these unreasonable duties. We cannot let the unpredictability of our southern neighbour affect the jobs and well-being of people here in Ontario.” - Kathryn McGarry, minister of Natural Resources and Forestry

“Our government is committed to supporting Forest Access Roads and communities in Northeastern Ontario. The forestry sector is an economic driver across the province and this investment in my region will help to support the good jobs in the forestry sector during this trade dispute.” - Glenn Thibeault, MPP for Sudbury

“Forestry companies build and maintain access roads with many benefits for the people of Ontario. The announcement today demonstrates the Ontario government's support for strong, safe and reliable infrastructure in Northern Ontario. We will continue to work with the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry to strengthen Ontario's road network.” - Kevin Edgson, EACOM CEO

Quick facts

Since 1996, the Forestry Futures Trust has invested more than $200 million in projects to sustain Ontario’s forests.

Ontario’s forest sector contributes $15.5 billion to the economy and supports an estimated 172,000 direct and indirect jobs in 260 communities across the province.

The Provincial Forest Access Roads Funding Program provides safe, reliable transportation infrastructure for communities and crucial routes for emergency and fire response.

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