Unifor has publicly criticized Rayonier Advanced Materials (RYAM) for its recent decision to suspend operations at its cellulose plant in Témiscaming, Que., a move that threatens 275 jobs and has sparked calls for government intervention.
The decision, detailed in a May 7 press release from RYAM, is part of a strategy to facilitate the sale of the business, which began last fall, it said. Unifor condemned the company’s actions, which they claim disregard the well-being of the plant’s workers and the broader community.
Daniel Cloutier, Unifor’s Quebec Director, described the company’s strategy as lacking “any human consideration.” He stated, “This is a company that’s sacrificing the well-being of an entire community to prove its profitability to third parties. Treating workers as mere pawns in a financial game is both inhumane and irresponsible.”
The union also criticized the Quebec government, particularly the minister responsible for the region, Jean Boulet, for not responding to the situation. Unifor argues that the government should take a stand against a company that benefits from public funds while allegedly prioritizing its American operations at the expense of Quebec assets.
Stéphane Lefebvre, President of Unifor Local 233, expressed deep concern for the community’s future. “An entire town is in peril due to the unilateral decision of an American company. We’re also seeing a lack of response from the minister responsible for the region,” Lefebvre said. He urged for “an immediate and decisive intervention from the government to save the jobs and communities affected by this business decision.”
Unifor is demanding that RYAM reconsider its decision and maintain operations at the Témiscaming site, emphasizing the need for immediate provincial government action to address the impending job losses and community impact.