April 2, 2025
Dear Geoff Dawe:
As a representative of the unions which make up the backbone of British Columbia’s forest sector, I wanted to share with you some actions we will be taking to respond to some of your long-standing requests for ways the Ministry of Forests can support you, your workers, and our communities.
As you know, British Columbia’s forest sector will be facing economic challenges over the next few years, with duty increases coupled with global uncertainty leading to unpredictable lumber markets. Further, the decline in the timber supply, brought on by fires, pine beetle, and changing social expectations as well as the closures of mills over the years will exacerbate these issues. Large, medium and small forest companies along with logging contractors and suppliers will be affected by these compounding negative impacts on their business.
I have heard from you that the scale and scope of the transition facing the forest sector, if not mitigated or managed, will have immediate impacts on the province’s rural communities and workers across British Columbia.
Given the potential economic impacts, there is a role for focused government action. Once lost, many of the firms critical to a vibrant forest sector will not return, further impacting rural and remote communities across the province. It is imperative that we act now if this is to be avoided.
To that end, I am pleased to share with you that the Timber, Range and Economics (TRE) Division will stand up a dedicated Forestry Support Bureau. This will be based on some of the operating principles of the Job Protection Commissioner, with a mandate focused on the forest sector.
With the concepts proven by the Job Protection Commissioner, the Financial Assessment and Support Services team will undertake the analysis needed to provide support for viable small- to medium-sized forestry firms that will experience financial challenges arising from U.S. trade actions. They will engage with partner ministries and Crown corporations to explore options to support B.C.-owned and operated businesses which have manufacturing capacity or contractor equipment related to forest activity.
Further, the Ministry of Forests will take on a leadership role in advising government and partner ministries on appropriate worker support, specifically in the forest sector. We will utilize Forestry Worker Supports and Community Resiliency Council advice along with the “A Better Future for B.C. Forestry” report provided at the 2024 Forestry Workers’ Summit to help guide this work.
This new direction represents a strong step forward in protecting the livelihoods and industries of the people of British Columbia. I have every confidence that together we will be able to adapt to these uncertain times with resilience and resolve.
As this work moves ahead, the Ministry of Forests will reach out to ensure it fits the needs of your workers and the communities where they live. I look forward to working with you as we build a more secure future for British Columbia.
Sincerely,
Ravi Parmar
Minister of Forests
