“Even those that aren’t directly connected with Bowater are deeply concerned for those that work for the company.”
The news isn’t all grim to Mayor Leefe, however.
“The upside is the mill is going to continue to operate. Other communities have not been so fortunate.”
He added it’s important to acknowledge that despite the challenging times facing the mill, the employees continue to work hard within their collective agreement and keep the place moving and efficient.
“We must hope that when the world economy improves the world demand for newsprint will increase and production will return.”
Queens MLA Vicki Conrad said the government is taking this very seriously, and realizes how the news will further impact the workers, the community and the province in general.
Like Mayor Leefe, Conrad remains optimistic about the future due in part to the efficiency of the mill.
“Because of the efficiency of the mill and the want of the company to see this mill move forward, that we are in a better position than other mills across the country.”
Conrad said Premier Darrell Dexter and other officials, including her, have met with company officials over the past few weeks to discuss how the provincial government can assist the mill.
“We are ensuring the government is able to access its role in securing and/or providing any necessary support to keep this mill viable in the future.”
The government, she said, recognizes with cooperation of not only the company, but employees, suppliers and customers, this mill can continue to be an important part of the economy of Queens Co. and the province.
Politicians still believe in Bowater mill
Region of Queens Municipality Mayor John Leefe said the news just confirms what has been known for the past couple of weeks in the community. That said, he added the community empathizes with the employees.
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