B.C. Premier David Eby has urged the Canadian government to safeguard forestry workers amidst escalating tariffs imposed by the U.S. president, posing a significant threat to an already struggling industry. The U.S. recently enforced a 10 per cent tariff on Canadian lumber, in addition to an existing 35 per cent tariff, along with a 25 per cent tariff on select Canadian wood products such as furniture. This development has deeply impacted communities like Grand Forks, B.C., where local mill operations were already facing challenges.
Interfor, a major lumber producer, had previously announced production cutbacks across North America, including Grand Forks. However, the indefinite closure of the mill came as a shock to the community, affecting numerous individuals like truck driver Doug Gailey. Gailey expressed disappointment over the sudden shutdown, emphasizing the uncertainty that now looms over the community.
Interfor’s vice-president attributed the decision to reduce and halt operations to persistent market challenges and economic uncertainties aggravated by U.S. trade actions. Premier Eby, in response, demanded federal funding to support 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 aid for the softwood lumber sector back in August, the funds have yet to materialize, according to B.C. Council of Forest Industries president Kim Haakstad. The urgency for immediate support was echoed by Forestry Minister Ravi Parmar, who stressed the critical situation facing Canada’s forest sector.
Eby raised concerns about the unequal treatment of B.C. compared to provinces like Ontario and Quebec, urging federal leaders to prioritize issues affecting British Columbians, especially in the forestry sector. He underscored the need for urgent attention and support to safeguard the industry and its workers.
The forestry industry’s future remains uncertain, with Eby expressing fears over the survival of many companies in the face of these challenges. The impact is not limited to workers but extends to entire communities reliant on forestry. In Grand Forks, Gailey highlighted the subdued atmosphere as families grapple with the uncertainty of their livelihoods, emphasizing the necessity of government intervention to assist the affected individuals and sustain the local economy.