MP Gallant Sees the Future of the Forestry Industry In the Energy Sector

October 31, 2008

Killaloe, Ontario - Cheryl Gallant, MP Renfrew-Nipissing-Pembroke believes the future of forestry in the Ottawa Valley depends on our taking advantage of the “green” energy market. MP Gallant made that observation at the conclusion of a meeting of forestry industry stakeholders held at the municipal hall in Killaloe.

“Renfrew County has all the necessary ingredients to build a “green” industry using our expertise in the forest. We need to look no further than in our own back yard. A local “made in Renfrew County” solution is doable,” stated MP Cheryl Gallant.

At the invitation of the Forestry Committee of the County of Renfrew, MP Gallant participated with other elected officials as well as local foresters to develop a strategy to preserve local jobs.

“I thought we made a good first start. I made it clear from the point of view of a federal government MP that I intend to put forward solutions to benefit all players in the forest industry. I expect everyone to work co-operatively with me towards our common goal: preserving employment and our quality of life in Renfrew-Nipissing-Pembroke,” said Cheryl Gallant, MP.

“The first request I made was to be given a complete inventory of wood residue available. Potential customers have told me they need to know volumes and reliability of supply. In return, I was asked to assist with the regulatory burden.”

“I have been in contact with the Office of Energy Efficiency(OEE) with Natural Resources Canada. OEE is Canada’s centre for energy conservation, efficiency and alternative fuels. Its purpose is to help Canadians save dollars in energy costs for things like heating their homes, while at the same time contributing to a healthier environment. Wood pellets, which are a renewable resource, have a significant role to play in the energy mix. I want to ensure that there are no federal barriers to the development of a wood pellet industry in Renfrew-Nipissing-Pembroke. That includes making sure that wood pellet furnaces, which have been available in other countries for years, are available in Canada and qualify for ecoEnergy Retrofit grants and financial incentives.

The eco Energy Efficiency Initiative of the Federal Government, is a program to assist all Canadians  to reduce energy use in their daily lives.