News release

Province Will Keep NewPage Mill in Point Tupper Re-Sale Ready

Natural Resources (to July 2018)

Natural Resources Minister Charlie Parker announced today, Jan. 4, he is encouraged that the company selected by a court-appointed monitor to negotiate exclusively for the NewPage mill is committed to an ongoing sustainable operation, which will maintain hundreds of jobs in the area.

After consultations with the monitor responsible for the sale of the mill, Mr. Parker announced the province will continue to keep the mill re-sale ready through February and March during negotiations with successful bidder Pacific West Commercial Corporation.

"The premier committed to the workers, their families and the many affected communities that the province would do what it could to protect jobs and get the mill operating again," said Mr. Parker.

The province outlined a seven-point plan on Sept. 9, to keep hundreds of people working, provide specialized training and help maintain the contractor base to keep the mill an attractive asset. Today's investment will continue that plan and ensure the mill remains re-sale ready. It is expected to cost up to $5 million, but the province is recovering that cost through the sale of wood harvested as part of the seven-point plan.

"We commend all the parties that have taken part in the sales process," said Mr. Parker. "We look forward to continue working with the monitor during negotiations with exclusive bidder Pacific West Commercial Corporation."

NewPage Port Hawkesbury Corporation will appear in court Jan. 18 to request a sales process extension until March 30.

"This brings us another step closer to getting the mill back in operation to provide the employment and stability the workers and community want," said Port Hawkesbury Mayor Billy Joe MacLean.