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The town of Corner Brook, N.L. exists because of the pulp and paper mill that has been in operation for 100 years.
Unifor Atlantic Regional Director Jennifer Murray joined members of Locals 64, 242, 96 , 57N, 60N from the Kruger Inc.-owned Corner Brook Pulp and Paper Ltd. mill and Deer Lake Power Local 495 to mark the centenary, tour the mill and discuss the state of forestry and the mill’s future.
“This 100-year milestone is a celebration of the generations of workers who have powered this mill, who built this community and who continue to be the heart and soul of Corner Brook,” said Murray. “It is also an important moment to reflect on how none of this would have been possible without good, family-supporting union jobs. Corner Brook Pulp and Paper is proof that union jobs are the foundation of strong communities and are worth fighting for.”
As one of the largest employers in a city of just under 20,000 people, it is common for parents and their children and even grandchildren to work side by side.
“Part of the magic when you walk into the union hall here is that it immediately feels like family—and it is!” said Murray, standing with Monty Fudge, the National Representative who services the mill locals and a fourth-generation mill worker.
One hundred years haven’t passed without their struggles and downturns, however.
The forestry sector across Canada has faced multi-layered challenges over the years from fibre access issues and shifting consumer demands, to insect infestations and wildfires.
Kruger Inc, for its part, seems intent on building the next chapter for the Corner Brook mill with its promised $700 million investment that aims to modernize every aspect of the business.
“Recent years have been tough as the members here have weathered decreasing demand for newsprint and now the uncertainty coming from the U.S. market,” said Murray.
“The Unifor members here are resilient and we are working together as a team to make sure the company’s next steps build a future that centres and celebrates the good union jobs right here in Corner Brook.”
See photos of the 100 year celebration and mill tour on the Unifor Facebook page.
