February 16, 2018…

February 16, 2018

Hon. Nathalie Des Rosiers
Whitney Block 6th Floor Rm 6630
99 Wellesley St W
Toronto, ON M7A 1W3

Dear Minister,

I am writing this letter in support of the proposed extension to the Endangered Species Act (ESA) Section 55 Regulation for Forestry. Resolute Forest Products is the largest forest products producer in eastern Canada with several facilities in northwestern Ontario, including the Township of Ignace. It is one of major employers to the small community that boasts a little over 1200 residents. Resolute has always been committed to environmental sustainability which is clearly reflected in the company’s adherence to all stipulated policies, plans and regulations that govern its operations and ensure the protection of species and their habitats. Additionally, its strict observance of these regulations makes certain the potential adverse impact of Resolute’s activities to the communities in which it operates in or the overall forestry industry is minimized. Moreover, a significant part of Resolute’s mission is to actively engage and build productive relationships with all of its stakeholders, inclusive of its’ customers, employees, Aboriginal peoples, environmental organizations, business partners, governments, investors and residents of the communities in which it operates. With this in mind, Resolute is open to their interests, concerns and goals, together with working to achieve a common understanding or agreement. To this end, we are asking the government to work with Resolute and other forestry operators, communities, First Nations, Labour Unions and other stakeholders to establish a workable implementation plan for the ESA. The Township of Ignace understands the significance of preserving the region’s wildlife, minimizing the potential threat and endangerment to species of plants and animals along with making every effort to protect their habitats; we are equally concerned about the challenges the Act will impose on the viability of the forestry industry and the resulting negative impact (loss of jobs, loss of investments, business closures etc.) that will affect the livelihoods and/ or quality of life of families who are heavily dependent on the forest industry in Ontario. The Township of Ignace is in total agreement with the establishment of an independent panel that is proposed to include qualified representatives from northern communities, First Nations, forestry operators and scientists, all of whom should be equipped with capabilities to provide objective and comprehensive advice on Crown forest management. It is hoped that such advice will be innovative and sustainable, seeking to balance political, social, economic and environmental objectives that will ultimately be beneficial to species at risk, their habitats and the forestry industry as a whole. Finally, we are aware that the proposed extension is for two (2) years but in order for a truly sound decision to be made over such a complex issue, a five (5) year extension is more realistic. This would enable the government and the panel to fully assess the options available and to conceive an implementation approach or strategy that is favourable to all stakeholders involved. I will like to take this opportunity to thank you in advance for the consideration given in this matter and for realizing that the forest industry is committed to operate and make decisions in the best interest of government, the environment, its’ employees, business partners, investors and all members of the communities where its activities take place or affect.

Sincerely,

Lee Kennard, Mayor
The Corporation of the Township of Ignace

[Original Comment ID: 212561]