Wilkinson: Provincial funding to forestry is a ‘Band-Aid’ fix

“We need to reduce the cost of log production in this province so we’re not the highest cost producer in North America because the highest producer is always the first to shut down.”

The visit held at Shirley Bond’s office, the Prince George-Valemount MLA said it’s good to have a provincial leader on the ground meeting with the people being impacted.

“We help drive the economy of British Columbia and when the forest industry is struggling, you have to get on the ground, meet with people, and better understand those issues. That’s what Andrew’s goal has been and certainly, we’re very pleased that he makes the time and effort to be here.”

Bond did address the $28 million dollar investment that the Province announced yesterday into the forestry industry, saying it’s good but not enough.

“I’m always going to be grateful when we see money flowing to important projects that will result in job creation, and those are important things. I think you do have to recognize when the government makes those kinds of decisions. But what’s missing is an overall strategic plan.”

She says a plan that addresses the attraction of investment and raising revenue rather than taxing British Columbians.

“At the end of the day, what really matters, is an overarching plan that looks at growing the economy, creating jobs, and supporting communities that are in transition in our area of the province.”

Following his stop in Prince George, Wilkinson is headed to Quesnel and Williams Lake before returning to the Lower Mainland.

by Ethan Ready

Wilkinson: Provincial funding to forestry is a ‘Band-Aid’ fix

What's Trending