In the coastal city of Saint John, New Brunswick, the towering oil refinery stands as a significant landmark. This facility, owned by the Irving family, attracts attention with its steam rising into the often foggy skies. Nearby, massive tanks hold crude oil, and the name "Irving" is prominent, representing a family that has shaped much of the local economy.
Saint John is a small city of about 78,000 people. The Irvings have created a vast network of businesses here. They own oil refineries, paper mills, building supply stores, and even radio stations that fill the airwaves with local content. Their empire began in the 1920s with a simple gas station and has now grown into a corporation valued at approximately $10.1 billion CAD.
Despite the jobs they provide—reportedly one in ten residents in New Brunswick works for an Irving company—questions linger about the family’s impact on the community. While they are a significant economic force, the region often ranks low in family income across Canada. This paradox has led to tension between community needs and the Irvings’ business practices.
The family’s operations have not come without consequences. For instance, the residents near their refinery have faced health concerns. There was a notable incident in 2018 when a gas pipeline leak caused an explosion, injuring numerous workers and leading to evacuations. Following this, Irving quickly bought and demolished nearby homes to create a buffer zone.
A 2009 study indicated troubling health statistics in Saint John, revealing that lung cancer rates were significantly higher than the national average. Although the link between these health issues and the Irving companies is not directly established, many locals, like Lisa Crandall, express concerns about the environmental impact of the refinery. Residents frequently mention unusual cancer cases among friends and family without substantial investigations from local authorities.
Don Darling, the former mayor of Saint John, acknowledges the complexities around the Irving family. While he appreciates the jobs they bring, he highlights the city’s struggle with low taxes on their businesses, which affects social services. “Everyone should take responsibility for their community,” he says, reflecting a sentiment that resonates with many residents.
In recent years, online discussions and social media have amplified opinions about the Irvings. People express a mix of gratitude for job opportunities and frustration over environmental issues and a lack of accountability. Some wish for a diversification of businesses in Saint John, hoping that a shift away from Irving dominance could benefit the community as a whole.
Historically, the Irvings have navigated political relationships adeptly. They have secured special tax breaks and favorable laws, such as a former exemption allowing waste dumping into the Saint John River. Critics have pointed out that the level of influence they wield is unparalleled, urging transparency regarding business subsidies.
As residents like Crandall ponder the future, there’s a common wish for a healthier balance between economic activity and community wellbeing. Transitioning away from an Irving-centric economy, some believe, could pave the way for new opportunities and a better quality of life in Saint John.
For more insights on the environmental impacts of industrial operations in urban areas, you can refer to studies conducted by the Canadian Environmental Law Association.
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