Mr. Speaker, the people of Northwestern British Columbia have a proud tradition of hard work and self-reliance. They do not expect a lot from the government in Ottawa, other than a fair share and a Prime Minister willing to fight on their behalf.
When it comes to salmon and softwood lumber, even those modest expectations are not being met. The lumber industry has lost 150 mills and more than 30,000 jobs in just over a decade. It might lose another 15,000 jobs threatened by Donald Trump's illegal tariffs. One small mill in Moricetown that employs 60 people has a bill from Trump for almost $400,000.
When it comes to wild salmon, the picture is even more disturbing. The DFO has announced total closures on sockeye on the once abundant Skeena River. Years of neglect and cuts to funding have hurt our wild fishery.
Our communities have a plan to help out both the fishing and forestry sectors. We just need a government in Ottawa that is as hard-working and determined as the people of British Columbia's northwest.
The only question is this: will the government answer the call?