BC United Critic for Forests Mike Bernier in response to the announcement of curtailments at Sinclar Group Forest Products lumber operations in Fort St. James, Prince George and Vanderhoof, said on Monday that it’s been an extremely challenging year for forestry in the province and the situation is only growing more serious.

He added: “Today, we learned the devastating news that northern B.C. is facing three more forestry curtailments in the coming months, impacting hundreds of people.”

Bernier said: “David Eby and the NDP have completely abandoned the forestry sector in British Columbia and our workers, families and communities are paying the price. My heart goes out to every single person affected by these curtailments.

“It’s clear that the industry is in crisis, and government cannot continue to stand by and watch as people lose their livelihoods and communities are hollowed out.

“With the right vision, direction, and support, our forest sector could have a bright future, but instead this NDP government has chosen to manage its decline.

“It’s time for Premier David Eby and his NDP government to step up and show some leadership on forestry — before it’s too late.”