Written by GORDON HOEKSTRA
Citizen staff
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Friday, 29 August 2008 |
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BCMOUNT MILLIGANTERRANE METALS
The B.C. government is providing $549,000 to the College of New Caledonia to start new programs at the Mackenzie campus to help displaced forest workers.
The community, located 175 kilometres north of Prince George, has been hard hit by a forestry downturn led by an unprecedented collapse of the U.S. housing market.
The programs will provide training in millwright and industrial mechanics, culinary arts, home support resident care, as well as college and career preparation.
"Government recognizes that communities and forest workers are facing unique challenges in this difficult time and that's why we're providing the kind of assistance that will make a real difference in people's lives," said Bell. "These workers are a vital part of their community,
and these programs will give them more employment choices closer to home."
Bell said the province is also considering starting some kind of mining training program. Mackenzie has said it hopes to diversify its economy into mining and tourism. Terrane Metals plans to build a $917-million gold and copper mine at Mount Milligan, located southwest of Mackenzie. The mine is estimated to have a life of just more than 15 years, and is expected to employ 400 people.
Bell also noted that a feasibility study has been launched to examine the potential of building a long-term care facility in Mackenzie.
The new training programs are expected to start between September and November. Eligibility and enrolment details will be available from the college soon.
"The College of New Caledonia strives to provide its students with the skills, leadership and experiences today's workforce demands," said CNC president John Bowman. "These programs will introduce skills people can use to transition into new employment and help rebuild the community."
More than 1,200 workers have lost their manufacturing jobs in the community of 4,700 as two major sawmill operations, its pulp mill and newsprint mill are all shut down.
The AbitibiBowater newsprint mill is not expected to re-open, while the Canfor and AbitibiBowater sawmills are down indefinitely. The bankrupt Pope and Talbot pulp mill has been sold to Edmonton-based Wothington properties, but its operation is uncertain as Canfor is appealing a court ruling that requires it to supply chips to the mill.
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Last Updated ( Friday, 29 August 2008 )
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