Helena Konanz

Why is softwood lumber not a priority at U.S. trade talks? B.C. continues to feel the impact of U.S. tariffs in the forest industry. …The issues for forestry are due to a decade of waiting for a softwood lumber deal from the Liberal government. Even now, as mills close, getting forestry the attention it deserves in trade talks is a challenge. …While I understand the complexities involved in current negotiations, I’m frustrated by the government’s continued silence on lumber tariffs. This silence is drawing widespread criti-cism, notably from the Canadian Lumber Trade Alliance. Why isn’t government acting? …It’s clear to me this shutdown is a devastating blow to the entire region affecting jobs, livelihoods and families. The weight of that reality is something I take very seriously.