PRINCE GEORGE — Prince George Mayor Simon Yu has weighed in on Canfor’s decision to close Prince George Pulp and Paper.
“I was greatly saddened. My thoughts first went to the families that are going to be affected. No words can describe the economic impact that this will have on these 300 or so families.”
He adds the closure has prompted him to think of the reasons for the closure – from the pine beetle kill to climate change.
“There are multiple reasons. This is perhaps a signal that Prince George needs to transition this area, this town, from a predominately lumber/timber production area to a more diversified economy. So as mayor, I’m telling people we’re in contact with the Ministry of Economic Development to see what kind of programs we can work together on to help this transition happen.
“We will work very closely with the Lheidli T’enneh, the province, the federal government, to make sure there’s an economic program there to help diversify our economy.”
Canfor says the decision to close was made due to a lack of economic fibre. The closure is expected to go into effect in March.
Pattison Media is owned by Jim Pattison Industries, a majority shareholder in Canfor.
