Cree-Tech to develop mill in Chapleau area to produce value added products
Ontario government press release ...
New Mill Proposal Could Create Jobs And Investment In The Northeast
CHAPLEAU - January 30, 2007 - The Ontario government is working to strengthen the economy of northeastern Ontario by making cedar resources available for a proposed new processing facility that could create about 40 new jobs, Deputy Premier George Smitherman announced today on behalf of Natural Resources Minister David Ramsay.
“This proposed new facility would provide new jobs and bolster the local economy for Chapleau and neighbouring communities,” said Smitherman. “Our government is working to increase prosperity and opportunities for Ontarians.”
Approximately 128,000 cubic metres per year of cedar are currently under-utilized in northeastern Ontario. The allocation of this wood supply is a first key step that could result in an infusion of millions of dollars for land, buildings and equipment, as well as an ongoing contribution to the economy of northeastern Ontario through operation of new facilities.
Cree-Tech Inc. has been chosen as a successful proponent in the competition for cedar, announced in February 2006. It proposes to construct a sawmill in the community of Chapleau that, if built and operating, could create about 40 new jobs. The company plans to use its allocation of 60,000 cubic metres per year to produce a variety of value-added lumber products, such as siding, door and window components, mouldings and logs for log home construction.
“We were extremely pleased with the positive response from our call for proposals and were impressed with the tremendous effort made by the proponents,” said Ramsay. “If Cree-Tech is successful in bringing its proposal to fruition, it will provide an important boost to the local economy.”
“I am delighted that our company was successful in this process, and look forward to moving ahead with our plans,” said Wade Cachagee, president of Cree-Tech. “With this allocation of wood, we’ve taken the first step in our proposal to build a facility that would provide local employment and make value-added wood products.”
This is just the latest example of how the McGuinty government is working to create a stronger and more prosperous north. Other initiatives include:
- Making more than $1 billion available over five years in assistance to the forest industry
- Securing almost $80 million in investment based on accumulated government support of about $15.5 million through programs administered by the Forest Sector Competitiveness Secretariat
- Investments since October 2003 by the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation totalling $187 million.