SENATORS’ STATEMENTS — The Late Arthur L. Irving, O.C., O.N.B.

Honourable senators, I rise today to pay tribute to one of Canada’s most important entrepreneurs and business leaders who passed away on Monday, May 13.

Arthur Irving was not only proud to be a Canadian, but he also cherished his province of New Brunswick. He was the middle son of K.C. Irving, one of Canada’s most renowned citizens, who set the stage for his three sons — James, Arthur and Jack — to grow the Irving Group of Companies, becoming one of the largest family-owned companies in Canada.

I was fortunate to meet Arthur many years ago. He was a man who embraced his employees and appreciated the work they did on behalf of the company. I was a young chief officer on board one of the Irving oil tankers and witnessed Arthur coming up the gangway just to check things out, and in doing so, thanking crew workers for their hard work and support.

After becoming the CEO of Port Saint John, I would see Arthur and other members of the Irving family to discuss strategic plans for modernizing and growing the port. I appreciated the business that he and his family provided the port community, as it was among the keys to the rebirth of our port, regaining its position as one of the most important ports on the eastern seaboard of North America.

The Irving Refinery — Canada’s largest and one of the world’s most modern refineries — is the port’s largest customer and most certainly one of New Brunswick’s largest employers. Thousands of our residents throughout New Brunswick are direct employees of the companies Arthur led, and thousands of others are employed by the companies that his other family members have grown over the years.

As was noted in the Telegraph-Journal newspaper:

His public image tended to be all business all the time, but Arthur’s friends and family unanimously talk of a highly personable man who shook hands with everyone and usually remembered their names —workers, customers, and anyone he met. They also said that he did so much more, which may never be fully appreciated.

Giving back whether via funding scholarships, gardens, expanding Ducks Unlimited conservation efforts and in numerous other ways, with little, if any fanfare was simply the right thing to do to help his city, province and region.

One way or another, we have all benefited.

In addition to serving as the Chancellor of Acadia University, Arthur was awarded multiple awards and honours including the Order of New Brunswick and the Order of Canada as well as being inducted into the Canadian Business Hall of Fame.

I was privileged to attend Arthur memorial service this past Saturday, and it was clear that he was admired by people from all walks of life. Yes, a firm negotiator, but certainly a respected one. His phrase, “Thank you for the business,” was often referenced in tributes and underscored his obvious success and respect for customers. I’m fortunate to call Arthur Irving my friend and know he will be sorely missed by our community, his province and country. His wife, Sandra, and daughter, Sarah, were always by his side, and I offer our sincere condolences to the entire Irving family. Rest in peace, my friend.