Quebec City, Quebec, Canada, 06 January 2012 -- /PRNewswire/ -- White Birch Paper Company today announced that it has presented a global proposal to the employees of the idled Stadacona mill in Quebec City. Following a thorough analysis of the mill's cost structure, White Birch's proposal represents the final opportunity to implement the savings necessary for Stadacona to avoid permanent closure in light of significant manufacturing cost disadvantages and the ongoing deterioration of economic conditions in the newsprint industry.

"While I remain acutely aware of the pain that Stadacona's idling has already imposed on our valued employees and community, I must emphasize that the situation at the mill is extremely grave," said Christopher Brant, president, White Birch Paper Company. "Without significant reductions in salary, pension benefits, and other costs, Stadacona simply cannot survive," he said.

"In spite of the mill's dire economic situation, White Birch has made a final proposal to its unionized employees. Acceptance of this proposal is essential for the mill to resume operations and will help ensure the mill's long-term viability, while reestablishing its position as a valued employer in the Quebec community. The proposal we have submitted today represents the final opportunity to secure that outcome and I urge Stadacona's employees to give it serious consideration," Brant said.

White Birch Paper Company is a manufacturer of high-quality newsprint, directory paper, and paperboard, with mills located in Canada and the United States. It is the second largest newsprint manufacturer in North America.