In brief
The arrival of the Irvings in Saint John has been pivotal for local employment, but residents voice concerns over the negative implications of such power.
The Irving family has established a significant presence in Saint John, New Brunswick, where they operate the largest oil refinery in Canada. Their empire extends beyond oil, with extensive paper mills and a network of railway tracks linking their many local factories to ports. As a major employer in this port city of 78,000 people, the Irvings provide valuable jobs, but critics argue that these advantages come with significant costs. Residents have shared views about environmental concerns and community impacts arising from the family's business practices, indicating a complex relationship between employment opportunities and local well-being.
