Irving Oil is investing $235 million into its Saint John refinery this fall. The project is called Operation Osprey. It begins in September and runs for 75 days through mid November. This marks one of the largest maintenance investments in the history of the facility.

Massive Upgrades Planned

The turnaround includes key infrastructure replacements and equipment upgrades. Crews will also execute a major revamp of the residual fluid catalytic cracking unit. This core unit converts heavy crude into fuels like gasoline and diesel. This is the first major overhaul of the unit since it opened in 2000.

Economic Boost for Saint John

Operation Osprey requires about 2,100 additional skilled workers from more than 55 contracting companies. These workers come primarily from communities across New Brunswick and Atlantic Canada. They represent 19 different trades including pipefitters, welders, and scaffolders.

This influx of workers generates more than $14 million in economic spinoffs for New Brunswick. You will see increased spending on short term accommodations, retail, and local entertainment.

Leadership Perspectives

Company leaders emphasize the importance of this project for safety and reliability.

“Our annual turnaround maintenance projects are critical to the continued reliability of our business for our customers and the energy security of the communities we serve, as well as for our teams and the tradespeople we welcome to our complex for the duration of the project,” said Dave MacLennan, vice president and general manager of the Saint John refinery.

MacLennan added that turnarounds take years of logistical planning with safety at the forefront of all operations.

Jeff Matthews, president and chief executive officer of Irving Oil, echoed this sentiment.

“This $235 million private investment in our Saint John complex is essential to maintaining the safe and reliable operation of our refinery, and to strengthening long term energy security for the regions we serve,” Matthews said.

Building on Past Investments

Operation Osprey follows the 2025 Operation Eastern Screech Owl turnaround. That $40 million project lasted 30 days and included comprehensive inspections of piping and key units. The company also recently completed a $100 million investment to modernize legacy processing equipment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Operation Osprey?

Operation Osprey is a 75 day maintenance and upgrade project at the Irving Oil refinery in Saint John.

How much is Irving Oil investing in this project?

The company is investing $235 million into the facility.

How many jobs does this turnaround create?

The project brings in 2,100 additional skilled workers from over 55 contracting companies.

When does the project take place?

The turnaround starts in September and concludes in mid November.