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Following last week’s announcement that Agropur Dairy Cooperative will close its Sussex, N.B. facility in 2028, Unifor leadership met with members on May 6 to discuss the fight ahead and reaffirm the union’s commitment to supporting workers and their families through the difficult transition.
“This is devastating for workers, their families, and the entire community,” said Unifor Atlantic Regional Director Jennifer Murray. “The people who helped make this company successful deserve support, respect, and a real commitment from the employer through this closure.”
The meeting brought together members of Unifor Local 506 alongside local, regional and national union leadership to discuss next steps, pressure on the employer and on government, and the union’s ongoing efforts to protect jobs and secure strong compensation for affected workers.
“Our members are angry, worried, and looking for answers, but they should know they are not facing this alone,” said Unifor Local 506 President Stephane Lamoureux. “We are going to stand together, support one another, and fight for the respect and protections our members deserve”
The Sussex dairy facility has operated in the community since 1984 and was purchased by Agropur in 2014. Around 50 Unifor members are expected to be impacted by the closure announcement, which came without prior notice to the union.
Murray told members the union expects the employer to bargain in good faith and warned the company would be held accountable throughout the process.
“Your employer won’t get away with dragging their feet,” said Murray. “We need to make sure every opportunity is explored for you.”
Union leadership emphasized that the fight is not only about compensation, but also about protecting the broader community and pushing governments to invest in good jobs in New Brunswick.
“As your union, it’s our responsibility to have those tough conversations with government and make sure they are held accountable,” said Murray. “You, your families, and this entire community deserve real investment and real support, and we are going to keep pushing until that happens.”
Unifor has engaged with MLAs, and is continuing discussions surrounding investment and support for workers and the region.
Agropur has announced investments in other facilities, including Miramichi, where operations are expected to expand. Members questioned whether those investments would come at the expense of Sussex workers and families.
Throughout the meeting, union leaders stressed that every member matters and pledged to continue fighting to keep pressure on both the employer and government.
“It doesn’t matter if it’s 50 members or 5,000 members,” said Murray. “We are committed to fighting for you.”
Unifor will meet with Agropur Dairy Cooperative next week to continue discussions.
