The Simpcw First Nation north of Kamloops is hoping to stop Interfor from buying Canfor’s cutting rights in the North Thompson as the plan currently stands.

Interfor is planning to buy Canfor’s tenure for $60 million.

Simpcw Chief Shelly Loring says Canfor’s cutting rights are in the heart of their territory and says they want to be involved in acquiring that asset. She says members of the First Nation met with Forest Minister Doug Donaldson last month and shared with him their interest to buy those assets.

“Unless and until Simpcw has a meaningful role in management of our forests, this transaction will not go forward,” Loring says.

“We have also had discussions with Interfor and Canfor – they were both aware of our interests – it’s unfortunate that with this knowledge, instead of working with us, they were making a deal in another room.”

Clearwater’s mayor Merlin Blackwell also has expressed concern if Canfor’s assets were to be sold to Interfor and what the impact could be locally.

Both Blackwell and Simpcw First Nation members have stated Bill 22 is an opportunity for the province to negate the transfer of Canfor’s assets to Interfor.

Canfor’s mill in Vavenby will be permanently shuttered as of next month which will leave 178 people out of work.