News release

Information Sessions Planned for Forestry Sector

Premier's Office

NOTE: A list of dates for upcoming Nova Scotia Works open houses follows the release.


Workers and business owners affected by the announced closure of Northern Pulp will have access to information that will help them make decisions about their future.

Government is working with Service Canada and Nova Scotia Works to hold open houses for those who wish to access employment programs and services, whether they are currently unemployed or are planning ahead.

People can access services like career coaching, job search assistance and training. Funding may also be available to help people find another job or get more training. They can also get information about employment insurance.

“I know this is a time of uncertainty for businesses and workers across the forestry sector,” said Premier Stephen McNeil. “We are committed to supporting them through a variety of programs and services. Government and our partners are on the ground today meeting with affected Northern Pulp employees to ensure they know about these valuable resources. We will continue to be there throughout this transition for mill workers and others affected in the sector.”

Government is also working with Regional Enterprise Networks and other community economic development partners to host information sessions for local businesses across the province. Businesses that may be impacted will hear about current opportunities in their region and activities in support of the forestry sector. They will also have an opportunity to share their ideas. Details of these sessions will be shared soon.

Quotes:

“At the Pictou County Regional Enterprise Network we know that many of our county’s businesses and organizations, in the forestry sector and beyond, will be impacted by the recent turn of events. We plan to reach out to impacted businesses in the days and weeks ahead, to ensure we understand the challenges they are facing. It is essential that local needs and voices are considered when solutions and supports are being developed across the province. We plan to work creatively and collaboratively with our local businesses, as well as the province and other key stakeholders, to ensure solutions are found that support and create opportunities for the impacted people, businesses, and the sector as a whole.”

– Sarah MacIntosh-Wiseman, CEO, Pictou County Regional Enterprise Network

Quick Facts:

  • information sessions with Northern Pulp employees were held today, Jan. 6, and led by Employment Nova Scotia, Nova Scotia Works, Nova Scotia Apprenticeship Agency and Service Canada staff
  • attendees are encouraged to register for the open houses in advance using the contact information provided

Additional Resources:

Government has launched a Forestry Sector Support website at https://www.novascotia.ca/forestry-sector-support


Dates for upcoming Nova Scotia Works open houses are:

Tuesday, Jan. 14

Thursday, Jan. 16

Monday, Jan. 20

Tuesday, Jan. 21

Thursday, Jan. 23

Times and locations will be posted on, https://www.novascotia.ca/forestry-sector-support as they are confirmed.