October 8, 2002 For Immediate Release

The Federal Government aid package for resource-dependent communities recognizes hardship inflicted by the softwood lumber dispute with the United States, but UNBC professor Greg Halseth believes that troubles in the industry are symptomatic of longer-term problems for resource development and northern communities.

"There's a bigger story here of how resource-dependent communities can shape their own future, given all of the factors that leave them at the mercy of big companies, government policies, and the global marketplace," says Dr Halseth, a Canada Research Chair in Rural and Small-Town Studies and a professor in UNBC's Geography program. "There have been mill closures on the Coast, and those have recently spread to the Interior with a shut-down in Valemount and - just today - the temporary closure announcement in Mackenzie. This has all led to a general feeling of uncertainty and helplessness."

Research conducted by Dr Halseth is focusing on single-industry resource-communities in northern BC, particularly Tumbler Ridge, Mackenzie, and the Upper Fraser River region. He can be reached by calling (250) 960-5826.

Other commentator:
Don Munton, International Studies professor, (250) 960-6644
Canada-US Relations, Canadian foreign policy, the softwood lumber dispute