Tseshaht First Nation signs Memorandum of Understanding with Catalyst Paper

For Immediate Release:

[Richmond, BC] – Tseshaht First Nation and Catalyst Paper, a Paper Excellence company, recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding that sets out the intentions of both parties to build a collaborative relationship together.

“This document outlines many objectives. None are more important than all of us recognizing and respecting the aboriginal rights of the Tseshaht Nation,” said Walter Tarnowsky, General Manager, Catalyst Port Alberni. “While the signing of this document marks the culmination of a lot of people’s efforts, it truly marks the beginning of a process.  We must not look at this process of reconciliation as one of simply understanding and empathizing. It must be a process of genuine change and resolution.”

“For Tseshaht it is really important, not just because of the location of the paper mill here, but the history that was once here as a village, as a community, as employment for many of our community members from decades ago until recently. We have members who work here now. It’s a totally interconnected feeling for us, it’s not just about jobs; it’s about sharing history, it’s about sharing culture. It’s about their connection to the Somass River here and how close they are. We’re excited about it,” said Wahmeesh Ken Watts, elected Chief Councillor for Tseshaht First Nation.

Paper Excellence believes reconciliation through collaboration and an open-minded approach creates enduring and meaningful connections. With that in mind, Paper Excellence focuses on building long-term high value partnerships with communities in its operating areas and where practicable to align its vision, values and corporate policies with local Indigenous Peoples.

Wahmeesh Ken Watts, elected Chief Councillor for Tseshaht First Nation (left) and Walter Tarnowsky, General Manager, Catalyst Port Alberni (right) shortly after signing a Memorandum of Understanding that sets out the intentions of both parties to build a collaborative relationship together.

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Paper Excellence, headquartered in British Columbia, is a diversified manufacturer of pulp and specialty, printing, writing, and packaging papers. The company operates seven mills and a large-scale cargo distribution centre in Canada producing and shipping over 2.8 million tonnes annually with a workforce of more than 2,800. Paper Excellence is poised to continue to grow with its strategy of operational excellence and high-quality, cost-effective products.

Media Contact: Graham Kissack, Vice President, Environment, Health & Safety and Corporate Communications | media@paperexcellence.com | Mobile: (250) 732-7991