Pulp and paper industry must be protected

To the editor:
    The Bangor Daily News’ recent article on the possible re-opening of Port Hawkesbury paper mill in Nova Scotia reminds us why it’s so important to elect lawmakers who are committed to protecting the jobs of workers here in Maine and across the country. Because of special tax breaks, government subsidies, and artificially cheap electrical bills, all courtesy of the Nova Scotia provincial government, the opening of the mill could have a big impact on the paper industry here in Maine. This is not acceptable.
    Our pulp and paper industry accounts for 4 percent of the state’s GDP, and employs thousands of middle class workers. It is a critical cornerstone of Maine’s economy and the lifeblood of many working families.
    An influx of artificially cheap, government-subsidized paper could threaten those workers at a time when we can not afford to see another shuttered mill.
    As a 35-year veteran of the lumber industry and a candidate for the Maine Senate, I understand the challenges our workers and business leaders have to face and I am prepared to meet those challenges head on.
    If elected, I will make it my mission to protect Maine jobs and to foster the aspirations of my constituents. I will do everything within my power to keep our paper mills competitive, and to ensure that their workers stay employed.
    Now more than ever, we must work tirelessly to protect, preserve and expand middle class jobs here in Maine. That is the way forward for our district, our state, and our great nation.
Dan Levesque
Ashland