BC NDP

VICTORIA— The B.C. Liberal government refused to commit to transition funding for communities, workers and families who will be impacted by the closure of Eurocan, despite repeated questions from Skeena MLA Robin Austin in the legislature today.

“Will the Minister of Community Development commit today to put together a provincially-funded transition strategy for the Eurocan workers and for the community of Kitimat so they get the opportunity to have a fair and just transition?” Austin asked.

The Minister of Community Development refused to stand and answer the question, even though he was asked four times to commit to transition funding for northwest workers who will be impacted by the closure of Eurocan.

“The community development trust hasn’t helped many workers in the northwest,” said Austin. “First, many workers who lost their jobs with the Terrace Lumber Company were shut out of the program because they were laid off too soon, and now, workers impacted by the closure of Eurocan may not get access to the program because the B.C. Liberals refuse to match the funds committed by the federal government.”

Carole James and the New Democrats have been holding the B.C. Liberals accountable for breaking their word on the HST, and for backtracking on their election promises to protect health care, education, and other vital services.