MLA Tegart: NDP’s forestry mismanagement forces Merritt mill closure

Fraser Nicola MLA Jackie Tegart says the temporary closure of Aspen Planers in Merritt falls squarely on the the provincial government and the NDP’s mismanagement of the forest industry in the province.

Aspen Planers, recently announced that they temporarily ceased operations in Merritt  on April 25, citing “market realities” and the lack of a sense of urgency or any support from the B.C. government to address any of the challenges the forestry sector is facing.

“The last seven years under the NDP have been devastating for families who work in the forest industry, said Tegart in a press release. “The closure of Aspen Planers’ Merritt mill is a direct result of the NDP’s chaotic and ever-changing policies that have destroyed investor confidence and abandoned rural British Columbia.”

Aspen Planers group executive vice president Bruce Rose says there are multiple factors plaguing the industry currently including the fact that British Columbia has the highest cost forest products manufacturing in North America.

Rose added that coupled with time delays and log affordability costs, and the lack of government timber that’s put up for auction is making it very difficult to do business in the province.

Tegart concurred adding that despite repeated calls from BC United to unlock B.C.’s natural resources, B.C.’s forest industry continues to have the highest costs in North America and a lack of timely and adequate access to fibre.

“The NDP’s blatant disregard for B.C.’s natural resource sector has put into jeopardy the livelihoods of approximately 100 workers and their families and has left yet another community on edge,” Tegart wrote.

“It’s time for David Eby to show leadership and take action that will promote investment and job creation in B.C.’s forestry industry.”

The temporary closure of Aspen Planers mill in Merritt has thrown close to 100 employees out of work with no foreseeable timetable for the facility to open.

More to come…