Progressive Conservative MLA Chris d’Entremont says the Nova Scotia Liberals are ignoring the province’s firewood shortage and the bigger problem it represents.
The Argyle-Barrington MLA says many people can't buy the firewood they need to heat their homes and, as a result, the upcoming winter could be a difficult one for some Nova Scotians.
“This is a very real issue for those who rely on firewood to heat their homes each winter,” says d’Entremont. “The forestry industry has really taken a beating in recent years. It is the government’s responsibility to recognize an issue before it becomes a bigger problem as the colder months approach us.”
D’Entremont says the shortage is due to Crown land being mostly inaccessible.
In addition, the Tory says the issues of harvesting smaller trees, existing mill contracts, the exporting of wood and not having enough workers are also to blame.
NDP MLA Sterling Belliveau says he warned the Liberals of the shortage in May, but that little was done to look into the matter.
D’Entremont has called on the current Minister of Natural Resources Zach Churchill to approach the problem before winter starts.
With files from The Canadian Press
