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NLIS 5
July 30, 2001
(Forest Resources and Agrifoods)

 

Minister welcomes decision on softwood lumber issue

Rick Woodford, Minister of Forest Resources and Agrifoods, said today he is extremely pleased with the decision on Friday by the United States Department of Commerce to exclude the Atlantic provinces from the U.S. countervailing duty investigation.

"This is great news for lumber producers in Atlantic Canada, including producers in this province and I would like to take this opportunity to commend the efforts of all those involved," said Mr. Woodford.

He added this decision is the result of a tremendous effort by the Atlantic provinces� lumber industry, led by the Maritime Lumber Bureau and its president Diana Blenkhorn, working in a united effort with all four provincial governments, and including support from the Government of Canada and federal Trade Minister Pierre Pettigrew.

Minister Woodford also acknowledged and commended the tireless efforts of the Newfoundland and Labrador Lumber Producers Association.

"In the end, the U.S. Department of Commerce accepted arguments recognizing the unique circumstances that exist in Atlantic Canada as they had in previous softwood lumber trade actions," said Mr. Woodford. "While there are still outstanding issues of anti-dumping and long term solutions to these recurring lumber trade issues, this decision will help ensure that our historical free trade with the U.S. continues."

Mr. Woodford said his department will continue to work in a united approach with the Maritime Lumber Bureau, the Newfoundland and Labrador Lumber Producers Association and his counterparts in other Atlantic provinces in dealing with all aspects of the softwood lumber issue.

Approximately 60 million board feet of lumber is exported to the U.S from the province annually.

Media contact: Sonia B. Glover, Communications, (709) 729-6183.

2001 07 30                    3:30 p.m.

 


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