Nackawic Pulp Mill Workers Rally as New Brunswick Facility Faces Shutdown

Dozens of pulp mill workers, community supporters and elected officials gathered in Nackawic, New Brunswick, on Friday to support employees facing an uncertain future as the local pulp mill prepares to suspend operations at the end of October.

The rally was organized by Unifor as part of its Forestry National Day of Action, following AV Group NB Inc.'s September announcement that the mill would be temporarily idled. The facility employs 227 Unifor members whose jobs are now at risk.

Grant Charlton, president of Unifor Local 219, said uncertainty among workers was growing as the planned shutdown approached. Charlton, who has worked at the mill for 12 years, said he remained hopeful that a plan could be developed to attract an investor.

“The mill needs investment, but we continue to work with the government in search of developing a plan that can attract an investor,” he said.

Mill employee Nathaniel Foster said workers had received little information about the facility's future since the September announcement. He is preparing for the possibility of finding another job, describing the potential impact on his family as difficult.

Government Pledges Support for Workers

New Brunswick Premier Susan Holt attended the rally alongside Progressive Conservative MLA Richard Ames and Conservative MP Richard Bragdon.

Holt said her government was working with workers, employers, unions and municipalities to identify a solution. She also said officials were examining options for the site, timber resources, assets and workforce.

A career fair is scheduled to take place in the community the following week, with 20 employers expected to seek workers for available positions. Holt said her government would provide support to affected employees and their families.

Bragdon recalled the impact of the mill's 2004 closure on his father, who was working at the facility at the time. He said the experience had left a lasting impression on his family but expressed confidence that the community could recover.

Nackawic Mayor Tim Fox welcomed the turnout and support from politicians across party lines, emphasizing the need to assist workers, local businesses and others affected by the shutdown.

Forestry Sector Faces Wider Pressures

The planned idling comes amid broader concerns about New Brunswick's forestry industry, including the impact of steep U.S. tariffs on Canadian softwood lumber.

Holt has said she is monitoring the effects on the wider forestry sector as the government considers options for the mill site and the local community.