NEWS RELEASE

Quota allocations pose serious risk for Manitoba sawmill

The Pas, Manitoba – This weekend’s proposed settlement of the softwood lumber dispute is not the long-term solution Tolko was seeking. Rob Layton, Tolko’s General Manager, Prairie Region Solid Wood Operations, said the proposed agreement doesn’t protect the Canadian industry from future trade action five years from now.

“While we are disappointed with the proposed agreement, our greatest concern is the allocation of quota,” says Rob. “ Specifically, unless the allocation takes into account special and unique circumstances, the five-week labour disruption we experienced earlier this year and the resulting curtailment of the third shift in the sawmill presents a serious risk to the ongoing operation of the Manitoba sawmill. The potential exists for substantial job losses and I urge all stakeholders to express their concern about the equitability of the quota allocation process.”

Rob concluded, “We believe it is imperative that the quota allocation process be equitable and that companies should not be penalized for circumstances beyond their control. We intend to do whatever we can to ensure that Tolko’s quota allocation is not based on our reduced operations since early 2003.”

For more information:
Dave Neufeld
Manitoba Woodlands Manager
Phone: 204-623-8541

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