Don’t forget about softwood lumber sector, B.C. premier tells Mark Carney

Liberal Leader Mark Carney was in Victoria Monday, meeting with Premier David Eby to discuss strategies to protect B.C.’s softwood lumber industry. The meeting took place at the legislature during Carney’s visit to the province in the third week of the federal campaign.

Eby expressed his concerns about the recent news of the U.S. planning to increase the duty on softwood lumber imports from Canada. The proposed new rate of 34.45 per cent, up from 14.54 per cent, is expected to have a significant impact on the industry. Carney pledged his support for the beleaguered sector and promised to fight against the unjustified tariff.

During a news conference at Sea Cider Farm & Ciderhouse on the Saanich peninsula, Carney emphasized the importance of putting workers at the center of any government response to the increased duties. He proposed using more of B.C.’s softwood lumber for building affordable housing units in Canada, although he acknowledged that it would not fully offset the impact of reduced trade with the U.S.

Following their meeting, Eby and Carney discussed various issues, including reducing interprovincial trade barriers, expediting major infrastructure projects, and affordable housing initiatives. Eby stressed the need for a united response from the federal government to address the challenges faced by B.C.’s forestry sector.

Forests Minister Ravi Parmar criticized the federal government for its lack of support for B.C.’s softwood lumber industry, calling for more serious action to protect jobs. The issue of softwood lumber dominated question period, with the Official Opposition accusing the NDP of neglecting the sector.

Mike Egli, a log hauling company owner, expressed concerns about the potential impact of higher duties on his business, while Jeff Bromley, wood council chair for the United Steel Workers, warned of possible layoffs in the industry. Gavin McGarrigle, the western regional director for Unifor, condemned the spike in U.S. duties on softwood lumber exports and urged federal leaders to support forestry workers.

Overall, the discussions between Carney and Eby highlighted the challenges facing B.C.’s softwood lumber industry and the need for a coordinated response to protect jobs and promote sustainable growth in the sector. The ongoing trade war between Canada and the U.S. has added another layer of uncertainty for workers and businesses in the forestry industry, underscoring the importance of proactive measures and collaboration at both the provincial and federal levels.