Ontario Minister of Natural Resources Mike Harris was joined by Associate Minister of Forestry and Forestry Products Kevin Holland on Friday at Domtar’s Thunder Bay Sawmill to announce a new $30 million investment in the forestry industry.
“Today, increased softwood lumber duties and the threat of tariffs are putting immense pressure on the industry,” said Minister Harris.
Harris pointed to trade uncertainty and changing markets as something that necessitates a strong and competitive Ontario forest sector.
He also put out a call to the federal government to provide its support to the industry.
“We need to work collaboratively so to strengthen this vital sector in the face of U.S. trade policy uncertainties.”
MPP for Thunder Bay-Atikokan Kevin Holland explained that the $30 million will be divided between two investments. “These investments will help strengthen our forestry sector, create jobs, and increase competitiveness in the face of U.S. trade threats,” Holland said.
$20 million will be invested in Ontario’s Forest Access Roads funding program. Holland says forest access roads are used for more than just hauling wood. “They are widely used by residents, tourism operators, utility and railway companies, and for emergency services in many Northern communities… This additional funding will help ensure this essential road network is safe and reliable for all users.”
The other $10 million will be invested in the Ontario Sawmill Chip Support Program. This money offers respite to sawmills while they find new markets for selling byproducts of the lumber industry, such as sawdust and bark shavings.
“Our government’s additional funding will protect sawmill workers, safeguard jobs, and support regional economies while helping the sector adapt, compete, and grow in a changing global market,” said Holland.
