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:: Saturday, September 20, 2003 ::

Forest industry workers vote to strike By John French
The besieged coastal forest industry may soon find itself in even more trouble than it already is as frustrated unionized workers prepare for a possible strike.

Bosses are passing the buck: IWA By Glenn Baglo, Vancouver Sun
A vision statement by three forest company leaders on the future of the coast lumber industry will remain a "pipe dream" until companies commit the $1 billion needed to rebuild aging coastal sawmills, the head of the Industrial, Wood and Allied Workers of Canada said Thursday.

Change or die, Canada West Coast lumber firms told Three of the largest lumber producers on Canada's Pacific Coast warned on Wednesday the region's ailing forestry industry must undergo a major restructuring if it is to survive.

Supply pinch sends wood prices through the roof By Greg Paeth
The cost of lumber has soared in recent weeks, driven by the continuing boom in new home construction, the military's need for wood in Iraq and a wet spring and summer that hampered production. Prices are skyrocketing in this region and all over the country for plywood and other types of lumber routinely used in home construction, remodeling and hundreds of other around-the-house projects.

Coastal forest companies say industry needs overhaul The report pledged to 'achieve a collective agreement that is modern, flexible, free from restrictive work practices and one that ensures employees do well when companies do well.'

The companies, according to the report, aim to reduce labor costs to 'bring them in line with costs in other North American regions' and find savings through eliminating pay for time not worked provisions and 'more flexible work practices.'

posted 7:57 AM :: reference link :: 0 comments ::

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