British Columbia Appoints Negotiators to Seek Continued Operation of Howe Sound Pulp Mill

The provincial government has appointed two negotiators to work with Domtar in an effort to keep the Howe Sound pulp mill operating, according to MLA Randene Neill.

The move follows Domtar’s August 20 announcement that the Port Mellon mill would be indefinitely curtailed, raising concerns over the future of the facility and its workforce.

Neill said the negotiations are focused on finding a path forward that could preserve more than 350 jobs connected to the mill’s operations.

“Discussions are moving forward through the appointed negotiators to identify a path forward,” Neill said in a statement. “While there is work to do, this is an encouraging step and reflects a shared commitment to finding solutions that support workers, their families, and the community.”

The Howe Sound pulp mill is a major regional employer on British Columbia’s Sunshine Coast. The provincial government’s negotiations with Domtar could therefore have significant implications for employees and the wider community.

No further details were provided about the identities of the two negotiators or the timeline for the discussions.

The announcement comes amid continued uncertainty surrounding the mill after Domtar’s decision to indefinitely curtail operations. The facility is located in Port Mellon, near Gibsons, British Columbia.