Paperworkers union demands action on “economic crisis” (7/03)

The Communications, Energy and Paperworkers (CEP) Union of Canada is calling for action from the province to stem what it describes as an “unfolding economic crisis”.

Ontario CEP vice-president Cec Makowski has called on Ontario Premier Ernie Eves to create a special taskforce to examine the issue of increased hydro costs, as well as the impact of softwood lumber tariffs. “There is clearly an economic crisis unfolding in Northern Ontario, one that demands immediate proactive responses,” Makowski said in a letter to the premier. “It is incumbent upon the government of Ontario to provide the leadership necessary to address the crisis.”

Makowski cited recent major job losses in the forest industry as evidence of the building crisis, including cutbacks and mill closures in Dryden by Weyerhaeuser that will result in the loss of 385 jobs. “The situation being faced in Dryden is not new or unique,” Makowski said. “In recent days and years permanent cutbacks and closures have been carried out by major forest product employers in Kenora, Iroquois Falls, Sturgeon Falls and Thunder Bay to name but a few.”