Ward Stamer

More Interior mills could close within months as B.C.’s forestry sector struggles with permitting delays and limited timber access, according to Kamloops-North Thompson MLA Ward Stamer. His warning follows a letter to Premier David Eby calling for urgent action on permitting delays, U.S. tariffs and other challenges facing the industry. …Stamer, a B.C. Conservative MLA and the Opposition critic for forestry, told Castanet he is concerned the province has yet to announce any meetings in response to the letter. He pointed to the recent closures of Domtar’s Howe Sound pulp mill and Canfor’s Northwood mill as signs the industry is struggling. …He warned that more mills, potentially including those in the Kamloops area, could close within three to four months if markets remain soft. Stamer said the government needs to streamline permitting while maintaining First Nations consultation. …”Aspen Planers is screaming for fibre in Merritt, and they’ve been shut down for a year,” Stamer said.