ESPANOLA, Ontario — It’s been a little over six months since Domtar indefinitely idled the pulp and paper mill in Espanola, Ontario, and put 450 jobs on the chopping block. Some feared the shutdown would depress the local economy. But so far these dreaded outcomes have not materialized. …The Unifor Action Centre is also striking an optimistic tone. …Johnathan Nadeau says a voluntary survey conducted among the 250 former mill workers represented by Unifor Local 74 suggests about 35 per cent of them are still looking for their new permanent jobs. …While the closure of the mill caused some hardship, Nadeau says he’s heard some inspiring stories from his former colleagues, including some that have taken on roles they find more fulfilling. …As for the future of the idled mill, it remains unclear. …Domtar spokesperson Louis Bouchard said “the site remains available for purchase, and we are willing to explore a potential sale”.