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Eddie Joyce, MHA for the District of Bay of Islands, says whatever potential
arrangements government undertakes to strengthen the operations at the
Abitibi paper mill in Stephenville should also be extended to the mill
operations at Corner Brook Pulp and Paper Limited. "There have been many
concerns raised over the past few weeks related to Abitibi’s decision to
evaluate the financial viability of their mills in Stephenville and Grand
Falls-Windsor," said Mr. Joyce. "Natural Resources Minister Ed Byrne has
stated publicly that government may be able to provide some support to help
alleviate the cost of electricity. While I fully support any initiative that
will help secure the long-term future of the Stephenville paper mill, it
cannot happen to the detriment of the mill operations in Corner Brook. Each
mill must be given the same treatment to ensure no operation is put at a
disadvantage. While Corner Brook Pulp and Paper Limited does have access to
some of its own electricity sources, they still spend millions in electrical
costs every year.
"Many of my constituents work at the paper mill in Corner Brook. As their
MHA, I will stand up to protect their jobs and their long-term future.
Should government bring forth an initiative that will help Abitibi’s
operations, the same benefits should be given to other mills in the
province. Anything less would be unfair to the other employees and
operators.
"I encourage Minister Byrne to bring forth a plan that will help all
three paper mills in the province secure a long-term and healthy future.
Pitting one mill against the other is not the solution. I would hope
government understands this circumstance and will consider all employees
before moving forward with any potential action plan."
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