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Queen Charlotte Islands choose their own people

By Jim Stirling

Certainly, the rainy, windswept islands off the northern British Columbian coast are not for everyone. The sense of isolation, the misty weather and small communities will turn some people off just as surely as the outdoor recreational opportunities excite others. "We make sure everyone who applies for a job with us understands that right up front," explains Bob Currie, employee relations supervisor for MacMillan Bloedel's Queen Charlotte Division in Juskatla.

A three-day interview with the applicant and spouse is normal, he adds. Extending an understanding of the Islands lifestyle to applicants is only part of Currie's job. MB and its supporting unions were instrumental in developing the Employee and Family Assistance Program.

It's a confidential assessment and referral service for all kinds of personal problems and concerns. "We're really proud of it. We think it does a lot of good," says Currie. Fletcher Challenge Canada Ltd., Skeena Cellulose Inc. and the Bell Pole Co. Ltd. are other regional forest companies involved in the program.

The introduction of the BC Forest Practices Code concerned some employees, reports Currie. "People were worried they might be out of a job." But, he says, the code has actually created jobs, especially in forest engineering. Currie also spearheads community relations. MB is a large employer (about 244 people) in a small town. That means being involved in everything, from constructing a soccer field to building bridges to local schools. "We're not pillagers. We live here. And we want to make ourselves more visible," says Currie.

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