Local unions representing mill workers in northwestern Ontario are persistently urging both the provincial and federal governments for assistance amidst increased uncertainty in the forestry industry. Unifor, the United Steelworkers, and Ontario’s New Democratic Party (NDP) have collectively penned a letter to the governments, calling for immediate action to prevent the shutdown of the Ignace sawmill and the reopening of the Ear Falls sawmill and Terrace Bay pulp mill.
The Ignace sawmill, operated by Domtar, is the most recent mill in the area facing closure, with plans to start idling in March, potentially displacing between 19 and 25 employees. Conversely, Interfor’s Ear Falls sawmill has been non-operational since October, while AV Group’s Terrace Bay pulp mill has been on idle since January 2024. Additionally, Thunder Bay Pulp and Paper announced the discontinuation of its newsprint mill operations, impacting 150 individuals.
Describing forestry as not just an industry but a way of life in northern Ontario, the joint letter emphasizes the importance of sustaining families, supporting local economies, and supplying essential wood products for Canadian homes. The closure of the Ignace, Ear Falls, and Terrace Bay mills poses a threat not only to workers’ livelihoods but also to the future of sustainable forestry in the region.
Signed by representatives from various unions and political entities, the letter calls on the governments to establish an industrial forestry strategy to safeguard jobs, counter economic threats like tariffs, and enhance sector modernization. Additionally, it advocates for mill workers to receive an equity stake in the operations.
The provincial response from Kevin Holland’s office highlights ongoing efforts to support affected workers through resources and services, including the initiation of Rapid Re-employment and Training Services. The government has already allocated over $150 million to aid the sector and is advocating for federal funding to assist the forestry industry in addressing current challenges.
At the federal level, Employment and Social Development Canada has organized information sessions and support for impacted employees, with plans for further assistance as needed. Measures have been introduced to aid those affected by challenges in the Canadian softwood lumber industry, including career services, skills training, and enhanced employment insurance provisions.
