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B.C. MLA voices concerns over forestry job losses, permit delays

John Rustad, the MLA for Nechako Lakes and leader of the Conservative Party of British Columbia, has expressed concerns regarding the B.C. NDP government’s handling of forestry permits, citing their adverse impact on jobs in the province.

“This B.C. NDP government’s inability to get forestry permits done is killing well paid union jobs, and independent jobs, all across British Columbia,” Rustad said in a statement emailed to Canadian Forest Industries.

Rustad highlighted the recent curtailment by Nechako Lumber, which is expected to affect up to 60 jobs in Vanderhoof. He also pointed out that numerous other forestry operations, including those in Merritt, Houston, Chetwynd, and Prince George, are grappling with uncertainty due to prolonged permit issuance.

“No British Columbian should be losing their job because of government dropping the ball,” he said. “British Columbia is built on the sweat of miners, mill workers, steelworkers, farmers, ranchers, longshore workers, truckers, factory workers — hardworking British Columbians who shower at the end of the day, rather than at the beginning.”

Rustad criticized the current government’s focus and urged a change in priorities, asserting, “It’s time for this NDP government to reverse course on its anti-worker agenda. British Columbia needs a government that uses common sense and is willing to fight for the well paid union jobs, and independent jobs, that support everyday working families in B.C.”