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Tolko Industries in The Pas could have potential buyer

The Pas' largest employer, Tolko Industries Ltd., could have a potential new buyer. In August the mill announced it was closing Dec. 2 and laying off more than 300 people.
The Pas' largest employer, Tolko Industries Ltd., could have a potential new buyer. In August the mill announced it was closing Dec. 2 and laying off more than 300 people. The Pas Chamber

More than a month after the largest employer in The Pas, Man., announced it was shutting down, the town’s mayor said there could be hope to save the paper mill.

In August, Tolko Industries announced it would be closing its operations in December and laying off more than 300 workers.

However, the B.C.-based company has received a letter of intent from a potential buyer, according to the town’s mayor, Jim Scott.

Although many details about the company are unknown at this time, Global News had learned the it’s an international company and executives from Tolko Industries are in Winnipeg negotiating Tuesday.

READ MORE: Tolko Industries in The Pas shutting down, hundreds to be laid off

Scott said this is far from a done deal, but he’s hopeful.

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“I guess I could say that I am cautiously optimistic,” he told 680 CJOB. “Let’s see where it goes.”

Paul McKie is the representative for Unifor, the union representing the employees at Tolko in The Pas. He also said he is cautiously optimistic about the letter of intent.

“We think it’s a hopeful sign, but there are many steps to make this a reality,” he said.

READ MORE: ‘It’s just a sad day’: Vernon based Tolko shutters Merritt mill

Last week, a Tolko mill in Vernon, B.C. also announced their mill will be closing permantely effective Dec. 16.

– With files from 680 CJOB

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