Despite a new wave of softwood lumber duties, the re-negotiation process for yet another softwood lumber agreement is still treading at a slow pace.
The softwood lumber industry is extremely important for Canada’s economic growth and maintaining the bilateral trade agreement between Canada and the U.S. is vital for the competitive nature of our industries.
Liberals vowed to Canadians that they would solve the softwood lumber trade dispute in a matter of 100 days. However, more than a year has passed since the deadline and the Liberals have still failed to deliver on their promise.
This leaves us to question the priorities and competence of this government. We are facing a critical time when the lack of an agreement has put thousands of Canadian jobs at risk. If the Prime Minister is serious about his commitments to averting the crisis, why has he not defended our softwood lumber industry?
The Liberals have not been transparent with Canadians about their negotiations with the U.S., and they clearly do not see the softwood lumber agreement as a priority.
Conservatives will continue to hold the Liberal government to account and push for an agreement that will stabilize the forestry sector and help protect Canadian jobs.
Randy Hoback
MP, Prince Albert