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Plan for a strong future in forestry urges Unifor
Oct. 17, 2017 - The forestry industry is poised for a strong future if governments and all stakeholders act now, Unifor wrote in a new policy publication.
"After painful restructuring over the last decade, we see many opportunities to rebuild and create jobs that benefit our communities and sustain the environment," said Unifor's national president Jerry Dias.
The Future of Forestry: A Workers Perspective for Successful, Sustainable and Just Forestry is a report from Unifor's Forestry Industry Council, representing Unifor's 24,000 forestry members. The full document can be accessed from unifor.org/resources
Given the challenges faced by unjustified U.S. tariffs on softwood lumber, this timely publication argues that making the right policy choices will boost the value of the forestry industry and create good jobs by taking advantage of innovative technologies, new forest management practices and increasing skills.
Following a rigorous and wide-ranging consultation among forestry workers in every region, Unifor's report highlights the opportunities and challenges facing the nation's third largest export industry.
Unifor's key forestry recommendations include:
- Pursuing fair trade and higher global standards
- Improving forest management to ensure sustainability at home and globally
- Expanding public investments in forestry
- Prioritizing reconciliation with Indigenous communities
- Partnering with stakeholders to maximize job growth and skills development
- Reinstating National Forestry Council
Unifor is Canada's largest union in the private sector, representing more than 315,000 workers in every major area of the economy. The union advocates for all working people and their rights, fights for equality and social justice in Canada and abroad, and strives to create progressive change for a better future.
October 17, 2017 By Unifor
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