Dallas Smith

At a time when uncertainty is dogging the forestry economy in British Columbia … everyone wants stability in the sector. That is especially true of the increasing numbers of First Nations who have made significant investments in forestry tenures and businesses. …On Vancouver Island, for example, Tlowitsis, We Wai Kai, Wei Wai Kum and K’ómoks First Nations collectively invested $35.9 million in the La-kwa sa muqw Forestry Partnership (LKSM) with Western Forest Products (WFP) in 2024. …All of this is important context as to why the First Nations partners in LKSM are frustrated and upset by the United Steelworkers, Local 1-1937 (USW) strike at the company that was instigated in June, and the union’s refusal to return to the bargaining table. There is no reason for this strike to continue. …There is only one key point causing an impasse: the USW’s objection to LKSM’s existing right to work with contractors without compulsory union certification.

Related coverage: United Steelworkers Press Release (June 10): Strike commences at LKSM Forestry LP on Vancouver Island