Thursday, February 19, 2009

Lavington workers hit by indefinite layoffs -- By Jennifer Smith

Published: February 19, 2009 6:00 PM

A major lull in the lumber industry has left 147 Lavington workers questioning the future of their jobs.

Tolko Industries has announced a delay in the restart of its Lavington division, along with its High Level, Alta., operation. The plants previously announced a two-week curtailment that began Feb. 9.

Market conditions will be reviewed weekly for the earliest opportunity to restart these operations.

“We regret the impact to our employees of having to make this difficult decision, but we must take additional steps to match our production level to market demand,” said Mike Harkies, vice president and general manager, solid wood and kraft papers, in a press release.

Lumber operations in Armstrong will restart as scheduled on Monday.

After losing the Owens-Illinois glass plant last year, Coldstream council is disappointed to hear this news from Tolko.

“I’m sorry to hear that that’s the situation and hopefully it doesn’t continue too much longer,” said Coun. Doug Dirk, a Lavington resident.

Mayor Jim Garlick is confident that Tolko Industries won’t uproot its Lavington operations, like O-I did.

“I think they’re a lot stronger and committed to the region and the community,” said Garlick, who had met with Tolko officials when the initial curtailment came about.

“I can’t see them disappearing from here.”

While the situation is physically in Lavington, it affects the entire region since the mill also employs workers from Lumby and Vernon.

“It’s disappointing to the whole area,” said Dirk.

Unfortunately, the municipality can’t do much to relieve the situation.

“We’re stuck in financially tough times ourselves,” said Dirk, adding that while federal and provincial governments can run deficits, municipalities must ensure their books are balanced.

But a process is in the works to address the overall economy in Coldstream with an economic development committee.

“With Coldstream having such a small industrial base, the committee will be dealing specifically with Tolko and the Owens-Illinois property,” said Coun. Pat Cochrane.


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I have been a resident of Coldstream since 1976. I have had 15 years of experience on Council, 3 years as Mayor. As a current Councillor I am working to achieve fair water and sewer rates and to ensure that taxpayers get fair treatment. The current direction regarding water supply is unsustainable and I am doing all I can to get the most cost effective water supply possible.