The Ontario government is working to strengthen the economy of northeastern Ontario by making cedar resources available for a proposed new processing facility that could create about 40 new jobs.
“This proposed new facility would provide new jobs and bolster the local economy for Chapleau and neighbouring communities,” said Health minister George Smitherman, who made the announcement yesterday on behalf of Natural Resources minister David Ramsay.
“Our government is working to increase prosperity and opportunities for Ontarians,” he added.
Roughly 128,000 cubic metres per year of cedar currently are under-utilized in northeastern Ontario.
The allocation of this wood supply is a first key step that could result in an infusion of millions of dollars for land, buildings, and equipment, as well as an ongoing contribution to the economy of northeastern Ontario through operation of new facilities.
Cree-Tech Inc. has been chosen as a successful proponent in the competition for cedar, announced last February.
It proposes to construct a sawmill in Chapleau that, if built and operating, could create about 40 new jobs.
The company plans to use its allocation of 60,000 cubic metres per year to produce a variety of value-added lumber products, such as siding, door and window components, mouldings, and logs for log home construction.
“We were extremely pleased with the positive response from our call for proposals and were impressed with the tremendous effort made by the proponents,” said Ramsay.
“If Cree-Tech is successful in bringing its proposal to fruition, it will provide an important boost to the local economy.”
“I am delighted that our company was successful in this process, and look forward to moving ahead with our plans,” said Cree-Tech president Wade Cachagee.
“With this allocation of wood, we’ve taken the first step in our proposal to build a facility that would provide local employment and make value-added wood products.”
Fort Frances Times
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