Question Period Note: Olymel Quebec Pork Plant Closure

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About

Reference number:
00015-2023
Date received:
May 8, 2023
Organization:
Global Affairs Canada
Name of Minister:
Sidhu, Maninder (Hon.)
Title of Minister:
Minister of International Trade

Issue/Question:

April 14, Global News reported Olymel to close slaughterhouse near Quebec City, lay off 994 workers. Due to market conditions, labour shortages, inflation, and instability of export markets.

Suggested Response:

• The Government of Canada will continue supporting Canadian producers with the resources they need. Olymel has made a business decision to close some pork processing plants in Quebec.

Background:

April 14, 2023, Quebec pork producer Olymel announced it will lay off 994 workers at its Valleé‑Jonction pork slaughterhouse near Quebec City, with full closure on December 22. This follows an announcement that Olymel will close plants in Blainville and Laval Quebec. They will cut slaughter capacity by 1.5 million hogs annually, making these closures necessary. The reduction will alleviate losses in the fresh pork sector of over $400 million over the last two years.

Additional Information:

None