Press Release
October 11, 2024
SAINT JOHN, NB – On September 10, Irving Oil began its annual fall turnaround project at the Saint John refinery, representing an $80-million private investment focused on the continued safe and reliable operations of Canada’s largest refinery.
The turnaround – Operation Mallard – is scheduled to take place over five weeks, employing an additional 1,200 skilled workers, the majority of which will come from communities throughout New Brunswick and the rest of Atlantic Canada. This influx into the Saint John area will generate significant direct and indirect benefits to the regional economy – totalling an estimated more than $3 million, including boosts to short-term accommodations, recreation services, restaurants, as well as retail and other sectors. In addition, the total workforce hours on this project represent the equivalent of more than 150 annualized jobs.
This investment in the company’s fall turnaround follows a $20-million private investment this past spring, where an additional 350 people supported maintenance work to several units in preparation for Operation Mallard.
“We are happy to once again welcome regional skilled workers and tradespeople to our Saint John refinery for Operation Mallard. Many have returned from previous turnaround projects, and their support is always very appreciated, as is the hard work by our Irving Oil team and the support of the community,” said Glen Kettlewell, General Manager of the Saint John refinery. “These investments in our facility – which are also investments in our people and our region – are essential to the continued safe and reliable operations of our refinery and to providing a secure supply of energy to the regions we serve.”
Operation Mallard – named after a native bird species to the Maritimes, which embodies important characteristics necessary for a successful turnaround, such as commitment and resilience – includes maintenance and upgrades planned for several areas throughout the refinery.
About Irving Oil:
Irving Oil is a family-owned and privately held international energy company. For 100 years, our commitment to doing good business has been grounded in our commitment to people – to our employees, customers, communities and partners. Founded in 1924, our mission is focused on our continued evolution to meet the changing needs of our customers. Specializing in the refining and marketing of finished energy products, we operate Canada’s largest refinery in Saint John, New Brunswick, and Ireland’s only refinery, located in the village of Whitegate. We proudly serve customers with more than 1,000 fuelling locations and a network of distribution terminals spanning Eastern Canada, New England and in Ireland, operating under the Top brand. Named one of Canada’s Top 100 Employers for eight consecutive years, we are proud of our team and our longstanding commitment to our customers and our communities. Learn more at www.irvingoil.com.
Contact information:
Katherine d’Entremont
katherine.dentremont@irvingoil.com
506.654.7162
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