David Wilkins, a former US ambassador to Canada, has been hired by New Brunswick to help with discussions surrounding the softwood lumber dispute.
Premier Brian Gallant says Wilkins will assist the province with discussions surrounding lobbying efforts on the softwood lumber issue, contribute overall guidance on issues that have an impact on the province and provide advice on trade opportunities with the United States.
Gallant says the softwood lumber industry creates jobs for both the US and Canada and Wilkins will help communicate that during ongoing discussions.
The hiring of Wilkins comes just weeks after President Donald Trump threatened to add duties, on average of 20 percent, on Canadian Lumber.
Wilkins served as ambassador to Canada from 2005-2009 and helped resolve an earlier dispute surrounding softwood lumber during his term.
