Consultations on Provincial Forestry Strategy Welcome News

(Toronto, September 27, 2018) – Today, Rocco Rossi, President and CEO of the Ontario Chamber of Commerce (OCC) and Jamie Lim, President & CEO of the Ontario Forest Industries Association (OFIA) released the following statements in response to the Ontario government’s announcement that they will hold roundtables and gather online feedback to help the province lay out a strategy for promoting economic growth within the forestry sector.

“The OCC has advocated for a provincial Ontario forestry strategy that removes made-in Ontario barriers and increases reliable access to harvest volumes that will make the sector more competitive. The Ontario Government’s announcement that they will be holding consultations is an excellent first step to create a strategy that supports economic growth across the province.” – Rocco Rossi, President and CEO, OCC

“Our Crown forests belong to the people of Ontario and, as owners, we should be interested in the return on our investment. By harvesting so little – less than 0.5% annually – the benefits are so great. Ontario’s forest sector provides well-paying jobs for 172,000 people in every region of the province and generates $15.5 billion of economic activity, but, we can still do better. A Provincial forestry strategy aimed at increasing access to a renewable supply of fibre while addressing policy barriers will provide benefits to every region of Ontario.” – Jamie Lim, President & CEO, OFIA

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For more information please contact: 
Ceara Copps – Edwards
Communications Advisor
Ontario Chamber of Commerce
647-243-3562
cearacoppsedwards@occ.ca