The Government of New Brunswick said it was assembling a cross-department response plan following the announced temporary idling of the AV Group pulp mill in Nackawic. In a statement issued few days ago, the province described the development as difficult news for mill employees, their families, contractors, suppliers and the wider community. The government said several departments were working together to identify the support that could be made available to those affected.
The Nackawic operation is a major industrial employer in the area and an important part of New Brunswick’s forest-products supply chain. A temporary shutdown can therefore affect not only direct employment at the mill, but also harvesting, transport, maintenance and other services linked to its activities.
Provincial authorities said they would continue working with the company, workers, community representatives and other partners as the situation develops. The response is expected to involve employment and training services as well as measures aimed at supporting the local economy and forest-sector stakeholders.
The government did not present the idling as a permanent closure. Further information on the duration of the stoppage and the conditions required for a restart is expected from the company.
