Forests minister weighs in on Canfor decision to open new mill in Houston

PRINCE GEORGE — Minister of Forests Bruce Ralston has released a statement regarding Canfor’s investment in Houston mill operations.

Ralston said that “forests and forestry are critical to many communities in British Columbia. Today’s announcement from Canfor, investing approximately $200 million to build a new manufacturing facility in Houston, is good news, not only for people in the community, but also for forestry workers, labour and industry throughout the province.”

The minister also stated that “Canfor has been headquartered in B.C. for 85 years, and their decision underscores their commitment to B.C. and to the people of Houston. The new facility will provide good jobs locally, and deliver high-quality, sustainably produced forest products to the world.”

Minister Ralston also stated that the forestry sector is in a state of transition and that this step represents an important step forward as well as that the news today demonstrates that this continues, and ensures that long-term jobs will remain in the region. Ralston said that the news may also also encourage “young people in B.C. to see the opportunities available to them in this vitally important industry.”