Recent job losses at sawmills around Northland was the reason a new legislation aimed at strengthening domestic wood processing should be supported, the largest private sector union in the country said.
E tū represents more than 1400 workers in wood manufacturing and processing throughout New Zealand and said it supported the intent of the Forests (Regulation of Log Traders and Forestry Advisors) Amendment Bill to improve long-term sustainability of domestic timber processing.
The bill, introduced as part of the Budget 2020, will require forestry advisers, log traders and exporters to register and work to nationally agreed practice standards towards a thriving forestry sector that benefits New Zealanders first.
It was introduced in Parliament last month by Regional Economic Development Minister Shane Jones and is at the Environment Select Committee stage at present.
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