The VP of Communications for Resolute Forest Products - formerly Abitibi Bowater - called last night's vote by union members to accept concessions from the company at Bowater Mersey an important development. However, Seth Kursmen gave no assurances it will be enough to keep the mill in Brooklyn in operation. In an interview with CKBW/HANK FM News, Kursmen says the companies January 1st deadline to come up with a new management/labour plan to make the plant financially viable remains in effect. "We cannot have a mill continue to be in a losing position. There are multiple pieces that need to come together in order to correct the situation. You know, our timeline remains and we all need to stay focused on the goal," Kursmen says the company will continue to work with government and other stakeholders to address the various challenges the mill is facing. He wouldn't say when negotiations on a new collective agreement will begin.
