Irving Oil makes $40-million investment in Saint John refinery
Saint John, NB – As part of its ongoing commitment to safe, reliable operations, Irving Oil will begin its annual turnaround maintenance project later this month at its Saint John refinery – Canada’s largest. This private investment of nearly $40 million is happening alongside a $100-million upgrade to the facility’s Fluid Catalytic Cracking Unit (FCCU) which began in June.
Named Operation Eastern Screech Owl, the 30-day turnaround will employ approximately 500 additional skilled workers from 60 different contracting companies, primarily from communities across New Brunswick and the broader Atlantic Canadian region. The project will involve infrastructure replacements and equipment upgrades, as well as comprehensive inspections of piping and key units.
“These investments are critical to the continued reliability of our business and the ongoing delivery of secure and dependable energy products to our customers in the markets we serve,” says Jeff Matthews, Irving Oil President & CEO. “This is also an investment in our people, our region, our tradespeople and toward a strong future for our operations.”
This influx of workers, representing 19 different trades including labourers, scaffolders, pipefitters, boilermakers and insulators, is expected to contribute to an estimated $1 million in economic spinoffs in New Brunswick. This includes spending on short-term accommodations, entertainment and recreation services, retail and other sectors. In addition, the total workforce hours on the project represent the equivalent of approximately 40 annualized jobs.
“Operation Eastern Screech Owl is a great example of the collaboration and expertise that exists within our region,” says Saint John refinery General Manager Dave MacLennan. “We are fortunate to have relationships with so many skilled workers and tradespeople locally and beyond who join our Irving Oil team and support these significant projects. We appreciate the hard work and dedication of all involved.”
About Irving Oil:
Irving Oil is a privately held international energy company. For more than 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 nine 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
[email protected]
506.654.7162