Pine Falls workers refuse to support former employee's bid for the mill

The workers of the idled Tembec newsprint mill in Pine Falls, Manitoba have refused to support a former employee's bid to buy the mill.

On January 14th, J.P. Bradette, former Tembec sales executive, outlined his purchase plan at a meeting in Pine Falls.

Bradette is willing to offer employees significant ownership in the new company. He would create union jobs for 180 people, plus 20 staff positions. Bradette believes, if his bid is successful, the mill could be making paper by July 1.

The employees said Bradette's plans call for cuts to production costs by reducing wages and implementing layoffs. Cam Sokoloski, president of the United Steelworkers, said the proposed cuts were too deep.

Sokoloski said the union is looking to make an offer of its own with support from the nearby Sagkeeng First Nation.

Letters of intent are due by Monday.

Source:

Workers balk at bid for Pine Falls mill (CBC)