Province Invests in Export-Based Family Business

The province is helping one of the largest sawmills in Nova Scotia to continue to export its high-quality products throughout North America.

Economic and Rural Development and Tourism Minister Percy Paris announced today, Feb. 22, a $1.5 million repayable loan to Ledwidge Lumber of Enfield.

"The province is supporting a long-standing business that is one of the most efficient, modern and competitive in the industry," said Mr. Paris. "These efforts have enabled the company to weather a challenging slump in the housing market, while sustaining both direct and indirect jobs throughout Nova Scotia."

The loan is being made through the Industrial Expansion Fund, and will provide Ledwidge Lumber with working capital.

"The team at Ledwidge Lumber is very pleased that the government has helped us with this loan to secure a build up of raw material supply as we head into the spring season," said Ledwidge Lumber president Doug Ledwidge.

Traditionally, this is the most difficult time of year to secure a wood supply. Weather conditions usually force access roads to close for about two months, halting the delivery of logs.

Ledwidge Lumber directly employs 100 people when operating at full capacity. There are also many indirect jobs created by the third largest sawmill in Nova Scotia which has been a cornerstone of the Enfield community since 1943. The family-owned sawmill employs several generations of families in the East Hants area, including three generations of the Ledwidge family.

The Industrial Expansion Fund is one of the tools government uses to support economic development in all regions of Nova Scotia. It is key to helping industries involved in innovative research and technology while contributing to a prosperous and sustainable business climate for Nova Scotia.