Premier Christy Clark issued the following statement today in response to the federal government’s announcement of $867 million over the next three years for Canada’s forestry communities, workers and companies that may be adversely affected by the ongoing softwood lumber dispute with the U.S.:

"We appreciate the leadership the Government of Canada has shown on softwood lumber. Today's announcement is a result of the work put in by Minister James Carr and the provincial forest ministers on the Federal-Provincial Softwood Lumber Task Force. It demonstrates a firm commitment to Canada's forest-dependent communities and workers, including the more than 60,000 British Columbians in more than 140 communities throughout our province.

“While we continue to work with the federal government on pursuing a negotiated settlement with the U.S., we are still in the midst of litigation. Every time these unfair allegations are tested in an impartial court, we have been successful, and we will be again. Unfortunately, this process takes time, and workers and communities may feel the impact. The $867 million will help strengthen the forest economy through expanded funding for marketing and innovation, and provide support for workers, if needed.

“As Canada’s leading producer and exporter of softwood lumber, it’s encouraging that the Government of Canada continues to work closely with the provincial government and industry.”

Learn More:  www.gov.bc.ca/softwoodlumber