The state of the province's forestry sector is grim unless the McNeil government provides a short extension for the completion of Northern Pulp's Wastewater Treatment Project.

"We are ready and willing to see this project through," said Kathy Cloutier, Director of Corporate Communications for Paper Excellence Canada. "Without a short extension, thousands of jobs throughout the province are at risk."

"We just need a little bit more time."

The proposed plan would mean untreated wastewater will no longer leave the Northern Pulp site prior to being treated and released into the Northumberland Strait.

"With the government's approval, we will begin construction on this project immediately," said Cloutier. "The successful completion of the project will help keep Nova Scotian's working, ensure the sustainability of the forestry sector, and will ensure the environment is protected."

Jeff Bishop, the executive director of Forest Nova Scotia, said even a temporary shutdown of Northern Pulp would have serious economic consequences.