British Columbia’s Minister of Forests, Ravi Parmar, has expressed serious alarm over the federal government’s continued lack of support for B.C. forestry workers. He pleads that these workers should be given as good treatment as their fellow employees of Ontario and Quebec. Parmar issued a blunt statement earlier this week, calling on Ottawa to intervene and assist. He highlighted the widening support disparity for critical sectors, such as health care and education, across provinces.
Parmar’s remarks come on the heels of a significant funding announcement by the federal government. Just a few months ago, in August, they promised $1.2 billion to shore up the Canadian softwood lumber industry. He told a national audience that he’s annoyed that distribution of this support hasn’t been fast-tracked for B.C. “It is unacceptable that Ottawa always steps up when it comes to supporting key sectors in Ontario and Quebec, but continues to drop the ball when it comes to supporting B.C. forestry,” Parmar stated.
The Minister reaffirmed the urgent need for discussions on softwood lumber. He underscored that the industry is today on the razor’s edge of survival, with many operators just treading water. He urged the federal government to prioritize the distribution of funds to ensure that B.C. forestry workers can secure their livelihoods.
In his remarks, Parmar explained that he does not intend to pit workers in one province against those in another. “Again, I feel for the workers in Brampton,” he said, suggesting that solidarity among workers should be encouraged rather than competition.
Parmar stressed that the United States’ ongoing trade war with China is a concentration point. This conflict is only adding to the pressures on B.C.’s forestry sector. As examples, he noted that Ottawa has been engaged on issues that have affected Ontario and Quebec. This responsiveness has been sorely lacking in British Columbia.
Parmar sounded alarms over the lack of funding. He further attacked Prime Minister Mark Carney’s decision to convene an emergency cabinet meeting following Stellantis’ announcement, suggesting that it reflected a failure to understand the needs of B.C. workers.
Conversations and consultation on the future of Canada’s forestry industry are well underway. Despite this disappointment, Parmar continues to look forward to federal officials realizing the need to develop support for all provinces equitably. NOHFC enhances the salaries of forestry workers British Columbians. Their contributions are no less vital and should be no less recognized.
