Share
Unifor is calling on the Quebec and federal governments to take immediate action to prevent irreversible damage to the F.F. Soucy mill and preserve any chance of a future restart.
RIVIÈRE-DU-LOUP — Following the bankruptcy of F.F. Soucy, Unifor is urging both levels of government to intervene without delay to ensure the mill remains heated and powered, and that skilled workers are retained to safely operate and maintain critical equipment. Without swift government support, the mill’s equipment faces serious and permanent damage, eliminating any possibility of a restart.
Funds currently available through the bankruptcy trustee are no longer sufficient to cover electricity costs or maintain the presence of boiler operators on site. Due to outstanding debt, Hydro-Québec has indicated it may cut power to the facility, creating an immediate emergency. Unifor warns that continued government inaction, combined with the threat of a power shutdown, could permanently close the door on the mill’s future.
The union emphasizes that maintaining electricity and a minimal on-site workforce is essential to protect equipment, carry out required maintenance, and ensure an orderly shutdown of operations, including the proper purging of water treatment and effluent systems. Failure to do so—particularly during winter conditions—will result in extensive and costly damage, making any restart impossible.
“If the power is cut and no one remains on site, any hope of restarting the mill is lost,” said Daniel Cloutier, Quebec Director of Unifor. “There is still time to act, protect the site’s potential, and preserve good jobs in the region.”
Since the closure was announced, Unifor has been working to ensure members receive what they are owed and that their rights are fully respected. The union is also focused on preserving the facility so that a restart remains a viable option.
