Kenora, Ontario-based Sawmill Curtails Operations Temporarily

SEATTLE (Scrap Monster): Kenora Forest Products announced curtailment of operations for a period of two weeks effective September 23rd at its Kenora, Ontario-based sawmill. The closure is feared to affect 115 workers. The company has already initiated staggered layoffs, which will continue over the next two weeks.

The company cited prolonged weak international and domestic lumber markets and high softwood lumber duties imposed by the U.S. as the primary reasons for the curtailment. The decision was being deferred as long as possible, the company press release noted. Further, the company reaffirmed its commitment to the long-term sustainability of the mill and assured all possible help and support to the affected employees.

Meantime, Bob Nault, Liberal Candidate for the Kenora riding declared, after discussions with the company and union officials that the curtailment is only temporary. The sawmill operations will be restored once the market conditions show signs of improvement, he added.