Forests Minister Ravi Parmar is voicing strong concerns over what he calls Ottawa’s “double standards” when it comes to supporting key industries across Canada. Following the federal government’s decision to invest $12 million in a northern Ontario paper mill, Parmar says it’s time that forestry workers in British Columbia receive the same respect, resources, and relief as those in Ontario and Quebec.
1. Federal Funding Sparks Frustration in B.C.
Federal Jobs Minister Patty Hajdu recently announced a $12 million contribution toward a $29 million support package aimed at keeping a paper mill in northern Ontario open.
While this move was celebrated in Ontario, it struck a nerve in British Columbia — a province still waiting for similar support despite its ongoing forestry crisis.
2. Parmar’s Appeal for Equal Treatment
Minister Ravi Parmar expressed his disappointment, saying:
“It’s unacceptable that Ottawa continues to drop the ball when it comes to British Columbia.”
He emphasized that while he doesn’t wish to pit workers against workers, the government must recognize that forestry workers in B.C. are just as vital to Canada’s economy as those in Ontario or Quebec.
3. Comparing Support Between Provinces
| Province | Federal Support (Recent) | Key Industry Supported |
|---|---|---|
| Ontario | $12M (Paper Mill Project) | Manufacturing & Forestry |
| Quebec | Several Ongoing Subsidies | Energy & Transportation |
| B.C. | $0 in direct mill support | Forestry (Softwood Lumber) |
This table highlights a concerning imbalance in federal attention and funding.
4. The Struggles of B.C.’s Forestry Industry
British Columbia’s forestry industry, once the backbone of rural communities, has been hit hard by mill closures, rising tariffs, and falling lumber prices. Workers have seen layoffs and shrinking incomes, and small towns that depend on forestry are struggling to stay alive.
5. Federal Tariffs Threaten B.C. Jobs
The U.S. softwood lumber tariffs — now reaching nearly 45% — have placed B.C. companies at a severe disadvantage. Parmar, alongside Premier David Eby, has urged the federal government to take urgent steps to negotiate fairer trade terms.
“There is no time to wait,” said Premier Eby. “This industry is on the razor’s edge of survival.”
6. The Premier’s Push for Federal Action
Earlier this year, Premier Eby joined industry leaders to request federal support for the forestry sector. Their plea has so far gone unanswered. Parmar questions why the federal government swiftly responds to issues in Ontario — such as the Stellantis auto plant — but remains silent on B.C.’s forestry challenges.
“I’m not trying to pit those workers against ours,” Parmar added, “but Ottawa’s inaction toward B.C. is simply frustrating.”
7. Ottawa’s $1.2 Billion Commitment – Still Undelivered
In August, the federal government announced $1.2 billion in support for the Canadian softwood lumber industry. However, according to Parmar, not a single dollar has reached affected workers or companies in B.C.
“Ottawa is the hold-up,” he said. “We are ready to help our companies — we just need them to move.”
8. The Need for a Softwood Lumber Deal
Parmar also criticized Ottawa’s lack of effort in negotiating a new softwood lumber agreement with the United States. He says the issue is repeatedly ignored in Canada-U.S. trade discussions, leaving B.C. exporters vulnerable and uncertain about their future.
9. Economic Impact on B.C. Families
Every delay in federal funding means more B.C. families risk losing their livelihoods. The forestry sector supports tens of thousands of jobs directly and indirectly, contributing billions to the provincial economy. Without timely intervention, small businesses and entire towns could face irreversible decline.
10. What’s Next for the Forestry Sector?
The pressure is on Ottawa to prove that all provinces matter equally in Canada’s economic landscape. As Parmar put it, B.C. forestry workers deserve the same treatment and the same urgency shown elsewhere.
The coming months will determine whether federal promises turn into action — or more frustration.