Unifor has formally called on Kruger Inc. to provide clear answers regarding the future of the Corner Brook pulp and paper mill, citing growing concerns over long-term operations and employment stability at the site.
Lana Payne,
National President of UniforIn a letter dated February 19, 2026, Unifor National President Lana Payne requested an urgent meeting with Kruger’s leadership to discuss the company’s plans for the mill, which employs approximately 300 workers in Corner Brook. The mill, operated by Corner Brook Pulp and Paper Ltd., marked its 100th anniversary last September, underscoring its long-standing role in the regional economy.
Unifor represents workers across several local unions at the mill, as well as employees at Deer Lake Power. The union emphasized that the facility remains a cornerstone for both its unionized workforce and the surrounding community.
In her letter, Payne highlighted Unifor’s broader role within Canada’s forest sector, noting that the union represents more than 24,000 forestry workers nationwide. She also pointed to her participation as the sole labour representative on the federal Forestry Sector Transformation Task Force, established to support the long-term competitiveness and sustainability of the industry.
Unifor expressed concern over what it described as a lack of transparency surrounding Kruger’s intentions for the Corner Brook operation. The union is seeking clarity on the mill’s business plan, any permanent shutdown of operations or products, and the potential impact on employment levels. It is also asking whether Kruger plans to introduce new activities at the site and whether the company intends to remain primarily focused on forestry or shift toward energy production as a core activity.
Support measures for workers and the local community during any potential transition are also among the union’s key questions.
Unifor stressed that meaningful engagement with workers, the community, and the provincial government is essential. The union indicated it will continue discussions with the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador while pressing for direct talks with Kruger’s leadership to address the mill’s future.
Unifor is Canada’s largest private-sector union, representing more than 320,000 members across the country, including over 24,000 workers in the forestry sector.
Source: Unifor
