The following statement was given today in the House of Assembly by the Honourable Kathy Dunderdale, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador:

Premier Provides Update on Corner Brook Visit

Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to take this opportunity to provide an update on my trip to Corner Brook this past weekend.

As I indicated in this House last week, the purpose for my visit was to be in the community of Corner Brook, to be accessible as needed, with the people of the region, during a time that can only be described as one of great anxiety. The vote that took place marked a pivotal point for the future of Corner Brook Pulp and Paper.

Much work remains to be done in the efforts towards a secure future for the mill, but an important step was taken with the Communications, Energy and Paperworkers Union (CEP) successfully reaching an agreement with Kruger. I want to acknowledge the employees’ hard work and sacrifice and commitment to the mill. The company has indicated this agreement will now allow a second vote on pension plan funding relief measures, and time to complete its assessment of the mill's viability.

I hope this time will also allow Kruger and the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers to make another attempt to reach an agreement.

The mill is one of the largest private employers in western Newfoundland and there is no doubt its loss would have enormous impacts on Corner Brook and the western region and as a result, our whole province. We all share this concern.

During my two-day visit I discussed this and other matters with people in the community and in meetings held with representatives of most of the mill's union locals, the President of the Greater Corner Brook Board of Trade, the Mayor of Corner Brook and the city council.

I reiterated our government's commitment to providing support for the mill within a defined framework once the labour and pension issues are resolved, and a long-term sustainability plan for the future of the mill is in place. Our support has been demonstrated; our commitment is firm. As Premier, I have stayed very close to what has been happening with the mill, as have the Minister of Natural Resources, the Minister of Service NL, and our Members for Humber West and Humber East. We will continue to monitor closely what happens over the coming weeks. I also wish to acknowledge the cooperation and support of the Leader of the Opposition and the Member for Bay of Islands.

I now urge the company and its employees to continue working hard to resolve the issues that remain. The future of the mill is of paramount concern for all involved and we share the goal of Corner Brook Pulp and Paper remaining as a key employer and contributor to our economy for many years to come.

2012 06 26                2:10 p.m.