January 20, 2017, Vancouver –Today Minister of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations Steve Thomson elaborated on the contractor sustainability review announced by Premier Christy Clark yesterday at the TLA’s 74th Annual Convention & Trade Show, “In It For The Long Run.”
“This is a landmark announcement for timber harvesting contractors and for the forest industry as a whole,” said David Elstone, TLA Executive Director. “Contractors are the economic backbone of BC’s rural communities. Ensuring they are on a secure business footing and earning a fair rate of return means we’ll continue to have long-term, well-paid jobs in BC’s rural communities and that benefits everyone.”
For his part, Minister Thomson is pleased the timelines are quick. “I’m really pleased we are able to respond, listen and move it forward with the urgency and the timing that the [timber harvesting contractor] associations have been advocating for.” The deadline for completing the economic analysis, which has already begun, and getting the independent facilitator in place is March 31, 2017.
“This is the most important announcement for contractors in years and demonstrates the Premier and her team—including Minister Thomson—understand and are committed to the success of the forest industry,” said Elstone. “There’s much more work to do but I know the TLA and its members are ready to do their part to get this process done in timely manner.”
The TLA (Truck Loggers Association) represents 570 independent forest contractors and their suppliers operating on the coast of British Columbia. Our membership supports thousands of workers and, along with other independent contractors, accounts for close to 90% of the trees harvested on the coast. The TLA promotes a thriving, sustainable coastal forest industry in BC.
For more information: Brenda Martin, Director of Communications, The Truck Loggers Association
Phone: 604.684.4291
Cell: 604.339.7554
Fax: 604.684.7134
Email: brenda@tla.ca
Twitter: @truckloggerBC
Website: www.tla.ca
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