The Minister of Forestry says government is committed to addressing concerns raised about a forestry plan that could allow for clearcutting in the Port Blandford area.

Residents have long opposed the five-year forestry plan previously released by government, but two recent court challenges ruled in government’s favour.

Minister Pleaman Forsey says a working group has been formed to help address concerns raised by local residents.

He says the group is comprised of representatives of the town of Port Blandford, concerned citizens and department officials, “and they have been working to identify a plan to address those community concerns.”

He says the department is putting together its 2027-2031 plan and “will continue to work closely with the communities to address their concerns as part of that planning process.”