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TÉMISCAMING— A Canadian coalition bringing together local managers at RYAM’s Témiscaming mill, unionized workers and First Nations is pursuing the purchase of the mill. The initiative aims to secure the future of the mill’s operations and protect the jobs that support families across the region.
“The future of our mills should not be decided far from the communities that keep them running. This initiative offers a path to Canadian ownership, with local partners who have a direct stake in the company’s long-term success. Unifor supports this effort,” said Unifor National President Lana Payne.
By bringing together people with a direct stake in the mill’s future, the coalition aims to develop a locally driven solution and explore what is needed to restart operations.
“Quebec needs its processing mills to realize the full value of its forest resources. In Témiscaming, skilled jobs, valuable expertise and an entire network of suppliers are at stake. Supporting this initiative means supporting the economic future of our regions and we need to do this together ” said Unifor Quebec Director Daniel Cloutier.
The initiative echoes a defining chapter in Témiscaming’s history. In 1973, after Canadian International Paper closed the mill the previous year, workers, former managers and community members came together to purchase and reopen it under the Tembec name. More than 50 years later, a new coalition is seeking to bring local partners together once again to secure the mill’s future.
“Our members know this mill and want to keep working here. Their experience must help shape a strong plan to restart operations, with the goal of also giving future generations the opportunity to build a future in Témiscaming. There is still work ahead, but we are ready to do our part,” said Unifor Local 233 President Stéphane Lefebvre.
The coalition’s partners will share further details on next steps as discussions progress.
About Unifor
Unifor is Canada’s largest private sector union, representing 320,000 members in every major area of the economy, including approximately 55,000 in Quebec. The union advocates for all working people and their rights, fights for equality and social justice in Canada and abroad and strives to create progressive change for a better future.
