Tuesday, December 16, 2014 6:45 am

RICHMOND, British Columbia - Catalyst Paper has announced the decision to indefinitely curtail the No. 9 paper machine, one of three machines at its Powell River operation.

Catalyst said that this decision is fully market-related as the company is facing a lack of orders and a declining market for the paper manufactured on paper machine No. 9, which was temporarily curtailed on October 27.

"This is a difficult, but necessary decision that supports Catalyst's commitment to align mill operations and production with market demand," said Joe Nemeth, President and Chief Executive Officer. "We are committed to making the Powell River operation successful for the long term, and will be working with our employees, leadership and the unions on a plan to make improvements to secure our sustainability."

The company said it is anticipated that this change will result in the loss of 50 jobs at the Power River operations and the Surrey Distribution Centre, Catalyst's product distribution hub. The company added that it will be working with employees and the Union locals on a transition plan to mitigate the impact of this decision.