As most may have heard by now, Premier Eby has announced an agreement in principle between the BC NDP and Greens. …Of key significance to the forest sector, the agreement commits “to undertake a review of BC forests with First Nations, workers, unions, business and community to address concerns about sustainability, jobs, environmental protection and the future of the industry.” Such broad encompassing reviews typically take several months, if not over a year to complete and even longer before acting on recommendations. To propose such a review now is a prime example of just how forestry in British Columbia has truly become all about politics and not common sense. The two parties in their wisdom, have agreed to a review while the BC forest industry is literally in its death throes.
People, please we are in a CODE RED situation when it comes to solutions and immediate action for the survival of BC forestry. Trump’s proposed 25% tariff on Canadian goods and the US softwood lumber duties of 14.4%, which are expected to double mid-next year will bring the BC forest sector to a stop. …One of the most painful aspects of this proposed review is that it implies more uncertainty as the outcome(s) of a review are awaited. If there is one thing the BC forest sector most definitely does not need is more uncertainty, in fact, it is the absolute worst idea at this moment in time. …Putting aside my grumblings about this pending review, and in support of Minister Parmar’s “getting to work” attitude, the following ideas are suggested for the Minister to explore as solutions in anticipation of tough times ahead in 2025. …I agree with Minister Parmar on getting to work because it is immediate action that is needed now.