Minister’s statement on temporary idling of Nackawic pulp mill

Several departments assembling response plan

Release

Department of Natural Resources

September 17, 2026

FREDERICTON (GNB) – The following statement was issued by Natural Resources Minister John Herron:

I am both disappointed and saddened by today’s news that AV Group plans to temporarily idle operations at its Nackawic mill at the beginning of November. Our thoughts are with the employees and families impacted by this decision.

AV Nackawic is an important cornerstone in New Brunswick’s forest industry, in the local community, and to our province’s economy.

This is a difficult day for New Brunswick, and even more so for the many men and women employed by AV Group and for the Nackawic-Millville Rural Community.

Some of my cabinet colleagues and I have met with the local community, as well as Unifor, the union representing employees at the mill. We will continue to work with all impacted parties to understand and address the long-term impacts resulting from today’s decision.

Staff in Natural Resources, Post-Secondary Education, Training and Labour, Opportunities NB and others have been working on a response plan to help support those who need it most right now. Further details will be shared in the coming days.

To the affected employees and their families, please know that your government has your back. We will be there for you, for your community, and for the greater region during this difficult time.

17-09-26

Related topics

Media Contact(s)

Alycia Bartlett, communications, Department of Natural Resources, [email protected].