Yvonne Jones, Opposition Natural Resources Critic and MHA for the District of Cartwright-L’Anse au Clair, is encouraging the provincial government to examine potential initiatives that could help the transition and financial burden facing the 83 displaced workers affected by Kreuger’s decision to shut down one of its paper machines at its Corner Brook mill.

"Yesterday’s announcement was very unfortunate and we must do everything possible to help these 83 workers and their families," said Ms. Jones. "Similar to the situation faced by residents in the Stephenville area after the closure of their mill, government must examine whether new economic development initiatives can be implemented that would help the displaced Corner Brook workers during this period of transition. The west coast economy has been hit hard over the past couple of years with the closure of Abitibi’s paper mill in Stephenville, the closure of the Lafarge gypsum plant in Corner Brook, the closure of the fish plant in Port aux Basques, and the closure of a paper machine at Corner Brook Pulp and Paper Limited. It is obvious that any potential economic development strategies or initiatives that government has been developing must now be brought forward.

"There is obviously a global competitiveness issue taking place in our province as it relates to certain world-wide commodities. With the recent closures and downsizing in our pulp and paper, gypsum and fishing industries, there appears to be a trend developing that must be closely examined. Unless a broader plan is developed to help industries cope with the international challenges and factors being faced globally, I fear that further closures may take place. This must be closely monitored to ensure our economy is protected as best as possible.

"The premier is preparing to appoint a new cabinet and more emphasis should be placed on these resource industries. As it relates directly to the forestry and agriculture sectors, I feel it is now time to once again separate the Department of Natural Resources into two departments, Mines and Energy and Forestry and Agriculture. This will ensure that more attention and more resources are allocated to these important resource sectors during this period of market uncertainty and global competitiveness. While it may not solve all of the problems, it will certainly ensure our natural resource sector has a stronger voice at the cabinet table."